Log Wall Connector Spline Assembly for Settlement Accommodation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional log construction methods face challenges in maintaining a tight seal and accommodating relative movement between logs due to shrinkage, especially at corners and intersections, where complex angled notches and connections can inhibit movement, leading to gaps and compromised integrity.
Innovation Solution
A spline assembly is used, comprising a key and slide member, which is inserted between the log and post to secure the log while allowing for relative sliding movement, ensuring a tight seal and accommodating vertical settlement of logs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a key member is used to secure the log to the post, then the connection strength is improved, but the ability to accommodate relative movement is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The key member is designed with a T-shaped cross-section where the horizontal leg can slide within a corresponding recess in the post. This dynamic design allows the key to maintain a secure connection while accommodating vertical movement of the log due to shrinkage, transforming a static rigid connection into a dynamic adaptable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The key member acts as an intermediary element between the log and the post. It provides the connecting function while its sliding capability within the post recess mediates the conflict between maintaining connection strength and allowing relative movement, enabling both functions to coexist.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional angled notches are used for corner connections, then the structural integrity is improved, but the complexity of construction is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The corner connection is segmented into distinct components: a post with a recess, a key member with T-shaped cross-section, and the log itself. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler in design while collectively providing structural integrity, avoiding the need for complex angled notches in the log.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical system of angled notches cut into the log is replaced with a insertion-based system using a key member. Instead of complex angular cuts, the solution uses a straightforward recess-key insertion mechanism that achieves the same corner connection function with reduced construction complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the log is securely fixed to the post, then the wall stability is improved, but the log's ability to settle vertically is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between log and post is made dynamic through the sliding key mechanism. The key maintains horizontal connection strength for wall stability while allowing vertical sliding to accommodate log settlement, enabling the system to adapt to dimensional changes over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection parameters are designed to change: the key maintains constant horizontal engagement for stability while its vertical position within the recess can change to accommodate settlement. This parameter flexibility allows the system to maintain stability while adapting to dimensional changes.
Data Source
AI summary
A building structure comprises a post having a vertically extending longitudinal face. A plurality of horizontal logs extends from said longitudinal face and has an end face in abutment with said longitudinal face. The post having an undercut channel in said longitudinal face and extends along said post. At least one of said end faces has a recess aligned with said undercut channel, and a spline assembly extends between said post and said log to secure said log to said post. The spline assembly includes a key located in and extends between said channel and said recess and an insert in one of said undercut channel and said recess. The insert co operates with said key to facilitate relative sliding movement therebetween.