Connector Bracket with Hooks for Rapid Joist Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction methods for metal-framed structures face challenges in efficient connection and alignment, particularly in mezzanine structures where components need to be quickly assembled without compromising stability.
Innovation Solution
A structural support device with a joist engagement portion and a support engagement portion, featuring hooks and stabilizing fingers, allows for secure attachment of joists to supports without welds, enabling rapid assembly and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional connection methods are used for metal-framed structures, then structural integrity can be achieved, but construction time increases and alignment issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates pre-formed hooks that extend beyond the bracket body, allowing the bracket to be temporarily attached to the support member before the joist is fully positioned. This preliminary action enables alignment adjustments to be made during installation rather than after, significantly reducing construction time and eliminating alignment issues.
2Productivity
If rapid assembly is prioritized in mezzanine structures, then construction efficiency improves, but stability and structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hooks provide temporary stabilization during assembly, holding the bracket in position before final fastening. This allows rapid assembly while maintaining stability at each stage of installation, as the hooks prevent movement until the permanent connection is established.
Solution Approach 2:
The hooks act as an intermediary mechanism between the bracket and support member, providing temporary mechanical engagement that ensures stability during the transition from transport to installed state. This intermediary feature bridges the gap between rapid assembly requirements and structural stability needs.
3Loss of substance
If components are designed for compact shipping, then transportation costs decrease, but assembly complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed as a single integrated component with the hooks formed as part of the bracket body, allowing it to be shipped compactly as one piece. The segmentation principle is applied in reverse here - by integrating rather than separating components, the bracket maintains simplicity during assembly while achieving compact shipping requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A structural support device for supporting a joist relative to a support includes a joist engagement portion configured to engage the joist and be secured directly to the joist. A support engagement portion extends from the joist engagement portion and is configured to engage the support and be secured directly to the support. At least one hook extends from one of the joist engagement portion and support engagement portion and is configured to locate and hold the structural support device on the support prior to securing the support engagement portion to the support with a fastener.