Deflection-Accommodating Fastener for Wall Track Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening arrangements for wall frames in deflection situations, particularly in multi-story buildings, lack structural integrity and efficiently utilize materials, leading to complex and environmentally unfriendly systems.
Innovation Solution
A fastening system that includes top and bottom tracks secured to surfaces with spaced studs and fasteners featuring a hold section, a head, and a deflection guide slideway for axial slidable engagement, allowing for surface deflection while optimizing material usage and enhancing structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If standard concrete screws and inserts are used to secure the track to the concrete slab, then the track can be positioned with a gap from the ceiling, but the structural integrity of the connection in shear across the wall plane is weak
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into distinct functional segments: a threaded hold section for anchoring into the concrete slab, a deflection guide slideway section for accommodating vertical movement, and a head section for securing the track. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection guide slideway is designed to be axially slidable relative to the track, allowing the fastener to dynamically accommodate vertical deflection of the concrete slab while maintaining a secure connection. This dynamic capability enables the system to handle structural movement without compromising strength.
2Reliability
If traditional fastening methods with multiple components are used, then the track can be secured to the surface, but material usage is inefficient and the system is environmentally unfriendly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions that traditionally required separate components are merged into a single integrated fastener: the anchoring function (threaded section), the deflection accommodation function (slideway section), and the track securing function (head section). This consolidation eliminates the need for separate inserts, spacers, and fasteners, reducing material waste while maintaining reliable mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The single fastener component performs multiple functions simultaneously: it anchors to the concrete slab, sets the track position at a predetermined distance, accommodates vertical deflection through sliding movement, and secures the track. This multi-functionality replaces traditional multi-component systems, reducing material usage while ensuring reliable installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the track is rigidly secured to the concrete slab without deflection accommodation, then structural connection is strong, but the system cannot handle vertical deflection of the slab
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection guide slideway acts as an intermediary element between the fixed anchoring section (threaded portion in concrete) and the track head. This intermediary component allows controlled relative movement, enabling the system to accommodate slab deflection while maintaining a strong overall connection through the anchored threaded section.
4Strength
If existing fastening arrangements are used, then installation is straightforward, but the structural strength per unit of material is low
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener utilizes changes in geometric parameters along its length to achieve different functions: the threaded section provides anchoring through thread geometry, the slideway section provides sliding capability through its cylindrical geometry, and the head section provides track securing through its flanged geometry. These parameter changes enable high structural efficiency without complicating the manufacturing process, as the fastener can be produced as a single extruded or formed component.
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 greater structural strength with reduced material usage, simplifying construction and meeting safety standards for floor and roof deflection, while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Implementation Method 1
a deflection guide slideway in axial slidable engagement with the track to account for surface deflection
Data Source
AI summary
A wall assembly (10) comprising top and bottom caps (11) and (12) which are generally U shaped channels and these are secured to a floor (13) and a concrete slab ceiling (14) which comprises in this case the underside of a concrete floor of the next level in a multi-storey building. In these arrangements the ceiling (14) has to be arranged in relation to the wall (15) for deflection of the ceiling (14), consequentially, the track (11) is spaced from the underside surface (16) by a distance of typically 20 mm and a suitable compressible spacer arrangement (17) is located between the upper surface (18) of the track (11) and the underside surface (16). The spacer arrangement (17) may be any suitable infill and one example may be a fire rated double sided adhesive layered expandable/compressible tape or foam. This tape may be applied to the upper outer surface of the channel and its other side adhesively applied to the underside of the concrete.