Concealed Post Tie for Structural Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hidden connection methods for structural members often require material removal and expose fastener ends, which can be aesthetically unpleasing and difficult to install, especially in exposed building designs where hardware visibility is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A hollow, tubular connector made from cold-formed sheet metal with flattened sides and locator tabs, allowing for easy alignment and installation, and featuring obround openings with coined edges to facilitate the insertion of lateral fasteners, creating a strong and aesthetically pleasing connection that is nearly invisible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If lateral fasteners are used to secure the connector to structural members, then the connection strength is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to exposed fastener ends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the visible portions of lateral fasteners by extracting them from exposed positions and concealing them within the structural members through properly positioned bores, while the connector body remains hidden within aligned bores in both structural members, leaving only clean filled surfaces visible
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different treatment to different parts of the fastening system: the connector body is completely concealed within bores, lateral fasteners are positioned to be received entirely within structural members, and exposed bore ends are filled with material to provide a pleasing appearance, while the connection strength is maintained through proper fastener engagement
2Ease of manufacture
If material is removed from structural members to create bores and slots, then the connector can be installed, but the structural integrity and aesthetics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into separate components: the connector is a separate elongated member that fits within aligned bores, and lateral fasteners are separate elements that engage both the connector and structural members, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function while minimizing material removal
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of removing large amounts of material to create open slots or large bores, the patent inverts the approach by using smaller, precisely positioned bores that are just large enough to accommodate the connector and fasteners, thereby removing minimal material while achieving the same connection function
3Shape
If complex fastening mechanisms are used to hide the connection means, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body serves its own alignment function by being inserted into pre-drilled aligned bores in both structural members, which automatically positions it correctly. The lateral fasteners then simply need to engage the connector at the appropriate location and be received in lateral bores in the structural members, eliminating the need for complex adjustment or alignment mechanisms during installation
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 solution provides a simple, strong, and easy-to-install connection that hides the means of attachment, suitable for exposed building frames, with the ability to resist tension and shear forces while maintaining a clean appearance by using the connector as a template for bore drilling and filling exposed fastener ends.
Implementation Method 1
The elongated connector is a hollow, substantially tubular member formed from cold formed sheet metal
Data Source
AI summary
An elongated connector is provided for connecting first and second structural members, the elongated connector is received in the first and second structural members and is connected to structural members with first and second lateral fasteners with the connector and the fastener being substantially hidden from view.