Diaphragm Lateral Load Coupling via C-Channel Collars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building diaphragm systems face challenges in effectively translating lateral loads without compromising structural integrity, particularly during seismic events, as they often require direct coupling to lateral load systems which can lead to failure if loads are not properly transmitted.
Innovation Solution
A diaphragm system comprising parallel edges with coupled horizontal and vertical plates, C-channels, collars, and vertical columns, where lateral loads are transmitted through a series of interfaces to a brace, allowing for efficient load transfer without direct coupling to the lateral load system, utilizing thermal break materials for insulation and fire retardant materials for enhanced performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the diaphragm is coupled directly to the lateral load system, then lateral loads can be translated, but the structural integrity may be compromised if loads are not properly transmitted
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into multiple discrete components including horizontal plates, vertical plates, C-channels, collars, and braces. Each component serves a specific function in the load transmission path, allowing for modular assembly and easier replacement while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate coupling components (horizontal plates, vertical plates, C-channels, and collars) that mediate between the diaphragm and the lateral load system. These intermediaries ensure proper load distribution and transmission, preventing direct stress concentration that could compromise structural integrity.
2Temperature
If thermal break material is added between plates and channels, then thermal isolation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Thermal break material is introduced as an intermediary layer between metal components (horizontal plates, vertical plates, C-channels). This intermediate material prevents thermal conduction pathways while maintaining the mechanical coupling function, effectively decoupling the thermal and structural functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system uses composite construction by combining metal structural components with non-metallic thermal break materials. This creates a hybrid assembly that simultaneously provides structural strength and thermal isolation properties.
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 system effectively translates lateral loads across the diaphragm and through the structural elements to the lateral load system, maintaining structural integrity and providing thermal isolation and fire resistance, thus enhancing the building's resilience to seismic activities.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal break material between the first and second pair of horizontal plates
Data Source
AI summary
An example system is disclosed that may include a diaphragm, a pair of C-channels coupled to the diaphragm, a horizontal beam having two opposite ends, a pair of collars configured to slide onto the two opposite ends of the horizontal beam, the pair of collars each including a flange around a perimeter of each of the pair of collars, the flange configured to couple to an end of each of the pair of C-channels, a pair of columns coupled to the two opposite ends of the horizontal beam, and a brace coupled to at least one column of the pair of columns and the horizontal beam. An example method is disclosed for translating a lateral load from a diaphragm to a lateral load support system.