Bolted Beam to Column Connections with Access Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for connecting side plates to columns and beams in structural steel frameworks, particularly in moment-resisting buildings, face fabrication tolerance issues and require specialized bolts due to limited access, hindering the use of standard bolting techniques.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves creating openings in the columns and beams to allow for standard bolting of side plates, providing access for bolts and nuts without the need for specialized fasteners, thereby facilitating the use of standard bolts and reducing fabrication challenges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional blind bolts or welded threaded studs are used to connect side plates to HSS columns and beams, then the connection can be made, but fabrication tolerance issues arise and specialized fasteners are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension by creating openings in the HSS sections that provide access to the interior space. This dimensional change allows standard bolts to be inserted from the interior, transforming an otherwise inaccessible connection point into a accessible one, thereby enabling the use of standard fasteners without specialized tools or procedures
2Reliability
If side plates are bolted to HSS sections using conventional methods, then connections are made, but fabrication tolerance issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
By creating openings in the HSS sections, the patent provides access to the interior space where standard bolts can be inserted and tightened against the side plates. This dimensional access eliminates the tolerance accumulation problems associated with blind bolts and welded studs, allowing for more reliable connections with standard fabrication tolerances
Solution Approach 2:
The patent essentially copies the standard bolting connection detail used in open-section steel construction and applies it to HSS sections by providing interior access through openings. This allows the well-understood, tolerance-friendly standard bolt connection to be replicated in the closed-section context, improving reliability while maintaining manufacturing precision
3Ease of manufacture
If openings are created in columns and beams for bolting access, then standard bolts can be used, but the structural section is modified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the HSS section by creating openings in specific locations (typically in the flanges or webs away from the connection zone). This segmentation provides the necessary access for bolting while leaving the majority of the section intact, maintaining overall structural integrity while enabling manufacturing accessibility
Data Source
AI summary
A joint connection structure of a building framework includes a column assembly including a column and a pair of side plates attached to the column on opposite sides of the column and extending laterally outward from the column. A beam assembly includes a beam having an end portion received between the side plates. At least one of the column and the beam has an opening in an area between the side plates to provide access for bolting at least one of the side plates to one of the column and the beam. The opening is free of a fastener extending through the opening when the column assembly is attached to the beam assembly.