Cast Structural Connector Seismic Bracing Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for hollow structural sections (HSS) in seismic applications are cumbersome, expensive, and difficult to design, particularly for cyclic inelastic loading conditions, and lack the ability to develop the full strength of bracing members under seismic conditions.
Innovation Solution
A cast structural connector with a beveled end for complete joint penetration welding to HSS or W-section members, allowing for mass customization and connection to varying member sizes, enabling full axial strength development under severe seismic conditions through axial force transmission and incidental moments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional connectors are used for HSS in seismic applications, then connection simplicity is maintained, but connection cost and design complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional zones: a beveled first end for welding to the HSS, an intermediate portion for force transmission, and a second end for frame connection. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized independently, simplifying the overall design process while maintaining manufacturing ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design with its beveled first end can accommodate various HSS sizes and configurations through a standardized connection mechanism. The intermediate portion is designed to handle both axial forces and incidental moments, providing multi-functionality that reduces the need for multiple specialized connector types, thereby reducing design complexity.
2Ease of operation
If traditional connectors are used for HSS in seismic applications, then connection ease is maintained, but connection cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bevel is pre-formed on the first end of the connector during manufacturing, eliminating the need for现场 beveling or complex preparation work. This preliminary action simplifies the field installation process while the standardized design reduces material waste and labor costs, directly addressing the cost issue.
3Productivity
If traditional connectors are used for HSS in seismic applications, then connection speed is maintained, but full axial strength development is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The bevel geometry is specifically optimized at the first end contact surface to enable complete joint penetration welding. This localized quality enhancement ensures full strength development at the critical weld interface without requiring changes to the entire connector or slowing down the connection process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are designed for mass customization, then adaptability to different member sizes improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design uses a standardized beveled first end geometry that can accommodate various HSS sizes by adjusting only specific dimensional parameters of the intermediate and second ends. This parameter-based customization allows mass production through casting or forging processes while maintaining adaptability to different member configurations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The cast connector reduces connection costs, enhances load-bearing capacity, and maintains structural integrity by allowing for the full axial strength development of bracing members under seismic loads, with reduced residual stress concentrations and improved aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a first end configured to receive the brace member and be welded to the brace member; a bevel enabling complete joint penetration welding between the first end and the brace member
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2A~3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A cast structural connector connects a structural member, such as a hollow structural section (HSS) or wide flange (W) section member, to a structural frame. The connector is particularly suited for lateral bracing and includes a first end configured to receive the structural member and be welded to the structural member, a second end for connecting to the structural frame, and an intermediate portion. The first end includes bevelling allowing compatibility with structural members of varying sizes and enabling complete joint penetration welding thereby developing the full axial strength of the structural member. The intermediate portion provides for transmission of forces as the frame deforms, for example, under severe seismic conditions, and can include a flexural plastic hinge portion. The connector can be welded to the structural frame or connected by a standard fabricated end connection, such as a gusset plate. Casting manufacturing allows for mass production of the connector.