Light-Gauge Steel Deck Framing With Fastener-Free Joist Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional deck framing systems using light gauge steel are cumbersome and time-consuming to assemble due to the need for conventional fasteners to secure joist support brackets, which complicates the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A deck framing system with light gauge steel components featuring bracket slots in the ledger that receive joist support brackets from the rear, allowing secure attachment without conventional fasteners, and joist support brackets that utilize an expanding spring force for securement, simplifying assembly and enhancing structural strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional fasteners are used to secure joist support brackets to the ledger, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket slots are pre-formed in the ledger during manufacturing, allowing joist support brackets to be directly inserted and secured without requiring on-site fastener installation. This preliminary preparation of attachment features eliminates the time-consuming fastening process while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the fasteners from the assembly process by using pre-formed bracket slots that directly receive and secure the joist support brackets. By extracting the fastening components and replacing them with integrated slot features, the system achieves both strong connections and simplified assembly.
2Strength
If conventional fasteners and complex bracket configurations are used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket slots are pre-formed in the ledger during manufacturing, allowing joist support brackets to be directly inserted and secured without requiring on-site fastener installation. This preliminary preparation of attachment features eliminates the time-consuming fastening process while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket slots are designed to self-align and self-secure the joist support brackets through their geometric configuration. The slots provide inherent guidance and retention features that allow the brackets to be properly positioned and secured through simple insertion, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or additional fastening operations.
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 facilitates easier and faster assembly of deck frames by eliminating the need for fasteners, while maintaining structural integrity and reducing material usage.
Implementation Method 1
joist support brackets that utilize an expanding spring force for securement
Data Source
AI summary
A deck framing system includes a perimeter support member that has a joist support wall and a web wall extending perpendicularly from the joist support wall and an overhang wall extending perpendicularly from the web wall. First and second joist support brackets include a joist support portion and a pair of attachment wings, where each one of the pair of attachment wings contacting the web wall of the perimeter support member. First and second joists each include a deck support wall and a lower wall. The deck support walls of the first and second joists are disposed between the overhang wall and the joist support portions, and the lower walls are disposed between the joist support portions and the joist support wall.