Metal Decking Clamp Using Groove-Grip Set Bolts for Quiet Retrofitting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching hangers to metal decking in building construction are noisy, cause vibrations, and require drilling through metal and concrete, which can weaken the structure and are not suitable for retrofitting without disrupting occupants.
Innovation Solution
A clamp system that attaches to the underside of corrugated metal decking without drilling, using angled threaded holes and set bolts to grip the decking's grooves, reducing noise and vibration, and allowing for easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drilling holes through metal decking and concrete to install hangers, then hangers can be securely attached to support utility loads, but the process generates noise and vibrations that disrupt building occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful drilling operation from the attachment process. Instead of drilling through metal decking and concrete, the system uses a clamp that attaches to the underside of the metal decking by engaging with the corrugation profile, completely eliminating the need for holes and the associated noise and vibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary device between the hanger and the metal decking. Rather than directly drilling into the decking, the clamp provides a mechanical interface that utilizes the existing corrugation geometry to achieve secure attachment without damaging the structure or generating harmful effects.
2Reliability
If drilling holes through metal decking and concrete, then hangers can be installed to support loads, but the drilling process weakens the concrete and metal structure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the harmful drilling operation entirely from the attachment process. The clamp attaches to the metal decking by leveraging the corrugation profile geometry, requiring no holes to be drilled through the metal or concrete, thus preserving the full structural integrity of both materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The corrugation profile of the metal decking serves its dual purpose: it provides structural strength and simultaneously serves as the attachment mechanism for the clamp. The clamp engages with the existing corrugation geometry, allowing the decking's own structure to provide the attachment points without requiring additional holes that would compromise strength.
3Reliability
If using traditional drilling and anchoring methods, then hangers can be attached to metal decking with concrete, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex multi-step drilling and anchoring process. The clamp attaches to the metal decking in a single operation by engaging with the corrugation profile, removing the need for drilling holes, inserting anchors, and securing fasteners through concrete.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching to the top surface of the metal decking through drilling and anchoring into concrete, the invention inverts the approach by attaching to the underside of the decking. The clamp engages with the corrugation profile from below, providing secure attachment without requiring access to the top surface or drilling through multiple material layers.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp and method of a clamp to a metal decking are described. The metal decking includes a bottom flange an a pair of webs each having a groove. The clamp is side to generally conform to the shape of the bottom flange and a the webs and includes at least two set bolts that engage the pair of grooves. The method includes positioning the clamp against a bottom flange of the metal decking and advancing two or more set bolts from the clamp into the grooves.