Hold-Down Fastener Assembly for Tie-Rod Alignment and Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art hold down systems face issues such as improper alignment due to non-perpendicular installation of tie-rods, forgotten activation, and the need for tools to load springs, compromising system integrity and installation efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A fastener assembly with movable cylindrical members, a spring for tensioning, and a removable member for easy assembly without tools, along with color-coded components for proper installation, ensuring alignment and activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tie-rod is installed non-perpendicular to the bearing surface, then installation flexibility is improved, but bearing contact alignment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing surface of the hold down device is formed with a curved (concave) surface that complements the curved (convex) surface of the bridge member. This spherical/curved contact geometry allows the tie-rod to be installed at non-perpendicular angles while maintaining full bearing contact between the bridge member and hold down device, resolving the contradiction between installation flexibility and bearing alignment.
2Ease of manufacture
If the spring is preloaded from the factory, then device readiness is improved, but installer tool availability requirement worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The hold down device is segmented into modular components including the spring, lock, and cylindrical members that can be separately assembled. This segmentation allows the spring to be preloaded and locked at the factory, then the entire assembly can be installed without requiring special tools, as the preloaded spring is secured by the lock mechanism during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a lock mechanism that automatically secures the preloaded spring during assembly, eliminating the need for the installer to use special tools to load or secure the spring. The system serves itself by having the assembly process inherently lock the spring in place.
3Productivity
If the hold down device is not activated after installation, then installation time is reduced, but system functionality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism incorporates color-coded indicators that change or become visible to indicate whether the hold down device has been properly activated. This visual feedback system allows installers to quickly verify activation status without adding time to the installation process, ensuring system functionality while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes a feedback mechanism through the lock and color coding system that provides immediate visual confirmation of activation status. This feedback ensures the system is functioning properly without requiring additional installation steps or time.
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 maintains tension and alignment, prevents misalignment, and allows tool-free assembly, enhancing installation reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a spring operably attached to the first and second cylindrical members to urge the one of the first and second cylindrical members in the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A building includes a stud wall including a first bottom plate; a foundation; a tie rod operably anchored in the foundation and extending through the first bottom plate within the stud wall; a first bridge member disposed on the first bottom plate, the first bridge member having an opening through which the tie rod extends; a pair of spaced apart reinforcement studs; and the pair of spaced apart reinforcement studs including bottom ends bearing on the first bridge member.