Compression Strut Ledger Connector for Veneer-Safe Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching an outer structural member to an inner structural wall of a building often load the outer veneer, potentially damaging it and allowing moisture intrusion, and fail to accommodate varying facade sizes and distances from the inner structural members.
Innovation Solution
A connection system using a compression strut with catches or stops to hold the outer member at selected distances along the strut, combined with a connector plate that engages the strut orthogonally and tension fasteners extending at an acute angle to attach to the inner structural members, minimizing load on the veneer and allowing for easy installation and retrofitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If elongated bolts or screws are run through the outer covering to attach the outer structural member to the inner structural members, then the outer structural member can be securely attached, but the outer covering is loaded and potentially damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a compression strut that attaches to the inner structural members, a connector plate that interfaces with the outer structural member, and tension fasteners that connect these elements. This segmentation allows the outer covering to remain unloaded while achieving secure attachment through the inner structural members.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression strut acts as an intermediary element between the inner structural members and the outer structural member. It transfers loads through the inner members without requiring the outer covering to carry structural loads, thus protecting the veneer while achieving secure attachment.
2Reliability
If the outer structural member is attached close to the inner structural members, then the attachment is secure, but moisture can be trapped between the outer member and the outer covering
Solution Approach 1:
A spacer element is introduced as an intermediary between the outer structural member and the outer covering. This spacer maintains a gap that allows moisture to drain and air to circulate, preventing moisture accumulation while the compression strut provides secure attachment to the inner structural members.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the attachment problem from a two-dimensional plane (direct attachment to outer covering) into three-dimensional space by using the compression strut to attach to inner members and the spacer to create depth, allowing moisture management in the newly created space.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed attachment method is used, then the installation is straightforward, but it cannot accommodate varying facade sizes and distances from inner structural members
Solution Approach 1:
The compression strut is designed with adjustable length or configurable positioning features that allow it to adapt to different distances between the outer structural member and inner structural members. This dynamic adjustability maintains installation simplicity while accommodating varying facade configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate various facade types, sizes, and configurations through the adjustable compression strut and standardized connector plate interface, eliminating the need for custom attachment methods for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection and a method of making a connection between an outer member and one or more inner structural members of a structure such as a building, the connection having a compression strut having an inner portion and an outer portion, the inner portion being supported by one of the one or more inner structural members, the outer portion being in contact with the outer member, a connector plate engaging the compression strut and the outer member and one or more tension fasteners attaching the connector plate to one or more of the one or more inner structural members.