Metallic Structure Connection Node Using Rosette and Fork Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connections between metallic structure elements, such as beams and pillars, face stability issues due to lack of flexibility in assembly and require definitive fixation methods like welding or high-torque screwing, which are time-consuming and pose health risks.
Innovation Solution
A semi-rigid connecting node system comprising pre-assembled, factory-manufactured components with rosettes and C-shaped forks that allow for initial alignment and secure connection via screws, eliminating the need for on-site welding and enabling easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If welding or high-torque screwing is used to secure connections between metallic structure elements, then connection stability is improved, but assembly time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection node components (rosettes, forks, alignment features) are pre-manufactured with precise geometries and alignment features at the factory. This preliminary preparation allows the on-site assembly to be completed quickly by simply inserting and screwing components together, without requiring time-consuming welding or high-torque operations, thus resolving the contradiction between connection stability and assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The connection node is divided into separate, pre-fabricated components (rosettes, forks, alignment features) that can be manufactured independently and assembled on-site. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling rapid assembly through simple insertion and screwing operations, avoiding the need for complex on-site welding procedures
2Strength
If welding is used to secure connections between metallic structure elements, then connection strength is improved, but worker health safety deteriorates due to exposure to welding fumes and gases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the welding process (thermal/chemical system) with a mechanical screwing system. The connection node is designed with integrated screwing mechanisms that provide sufficient connection strength through mechanical fastening, eliminating the need for welding operations and the associated harmful fumes and gases, thus protecting worker health while maintaining connection strength
3Adaptability or versatility
If on-site assembly of metallic structures is performed without pre-assembly, then adaptability to site conditions is improved, but manufacturing precision and alignment quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection node components are pre-assembled and pre-aligned at the factory with high precision, ensuring accurate geometric relationships between beams and pillars. These pre-assembled units are then transported to the site as complete modules, maintaining both the adaptability to be installed at various locations and the high manufacturing precision achieved during factory production
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces pre-assembled connection nodes as intermediary units between the factory production process and the on-site construction. These nodes serve as standardized interfaces that encapsulate the precision alignment work done in the factory, allowing flexible on-site assembly while preserving high manufacturing precision through the standardized, pre-calibrated connection geometries
Data Source
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AI summary
A connecting node for metallic structures, specifically for structures based on props or pillars (1) wherewith cross beams (2) are associated, wherein said pillars (1) incorporate rosettes (3) separated by a predetermined distance, each of which having a polygonal window (31) and at least one circular hole (32); while the beams (2) include on their edges a fork (4) having a stub (41) with a polygonal configuration that projects from the lower side and has a configuration equivalent to the window (31) and at least one hole (42) in correspondence with the hole (32) of the rosettes (3); the foregoing in anticipation that a fork (4) will be fitted into a pair of rosettes (3) without possibility of sideways movement of the beam (2) and, once the structure is assembled, that it will be immobilised by means of at least one screw (6) which, passing through holes (32) and (42), establishes the definitive connection.