Connector End Fitting for Multi-Orientation Structural Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Older formwork and shoring systems require large inventories of components and have low assembly efficiency, leading to issues like slippage in column connections, which can be catastrophic.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of end fittings with interlock sections defined by right-triangle projections and recesses that allow for multiple stable connections and disconnections without compromising stability, including the ability to rotate and reconnect in various configurations, and the use of adjustable screw legs for length adjustment and stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If older formwork and shoring systems use large inventories of components, then they can accommodate various configurations, but assembly efficiency decreases and component loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end fitting is designed with multiple interlock sections that can connect to different orientations of structural support members, allowing a single component type to serve multiple configuration needs. The first and second interlock sections can engage with members in various orientations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized components and reducing inventory requirements while maintaining assembly efficiency.
2Ease of manufacture
If columns are connected end-to-end without proper interlocking, then assembly is simple, but slippage occurs which can be catastrophic
Solution Approach 1:
The end fitting is divided into multiple interlock sections (first interlock section and second interlock section) that can independently engage with structural support members. Each interlock section contains projections and recesses that create positive locking, preventing slippage while maintaining straightforward assembly through modular connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock sections feature asymmetric projection and recess geometries that ensure proper orientation during assembly. The projections on one end fitting must align with corresponding recesses on the mating end fitting, creating a non-reversible connection that prevents slippage while guiding straightforward assembly through inherent geometric constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If end fittings allow multiple connection configurations, then flexibility increases, but connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The end fitting incorporates multiple discrete interlock sections that can independently engage with structural support members in different orientations. Each interlock section maintains stable connection through its own projections and recesses, ensuring that flexibility in configuration does not compromise the stability of individual connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The projections and recesses are pre-configured in specific geometric relationships that ensure stable engagement before loading occurs. The interlock sections are designed with preliminary positioning features that align components correctly during assembly, ensuring stable connections are established automatically without requiring additional stabilization steps.
Data Source
AI summary
End fittings may be designed so that they connect to each other in more than two configurations. A first end fitting may be connected to an adjoining end fitting, removed, rotated ninety degrees and reconnected with the adjoining end fitting without jeopardizing stability of the position of each end fitting relative to the other. The first end fitting may be connected to the adjoining end fitting, removed, rotated an additional ninety degrees and reconnected with the adjoining end fitting without jeopardizing stability of the position of each end fitting relative to the other. The first end fitting may be connected to an adjoining end fitting, removed, rotated a yet further ninety degrees and reconnected with the adjoining end fitting without jeopardizing stability of the position of each end fitting relative to the other.