Nail Plate Hanger With Bendable Tabs For Truss Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional truss connector plates lack the ability to function as a hanger at the abutting end of supported trusses while maintaining structural integrity and efficient load transmission, requiring separate connectors for different structural members.
Innovation Solution
A nail prong plate connector with C-shaped, arcuate tabs that are bent out of the body and attached through bends, allowing for a broad area of attachment to one structural member while securely fastening to another, optimizing strength and material efficiency by using thinner materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate connector is used for supporting trusses, then structural integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of a connector plate and a hanger into a single integrated component. The nail plate includes integral tabs that extend from the body, allowing it to perform both connection and suspension functions simultaneously, thereby eliminating the need for separate connectors and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The nail plate is designed with multi-functionality to serve as both a connector plate for joining truss members and a hanger for supporting additional trusses. The integral tabs provide hanging capability while the main body maintains connection functionality, allowing one component to fulfill multiple structural roles
2Strength
If tabs are attached at the perimeter edge of the connector body, then attachment strength is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tabs are positioned at specific locations on the nail plate body that optimize both attachment strength and manufacturability. By strategically locating the tabs away from the absolute perimeter while maintaining effective leverage, the design achieves strong attachment without requiring extremely precise manufacturing tolerances
3Strength
If thicker connector material is used, then connection strength is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into different thickness zones, with the main body providing structural strength and the integral tabs providing attachment capability. This segmentation allows the use of thinner materials in non-critical areas while maintaining sufficient thickness for strength-critical regions, thereby reducing overall weight without compromising connection strength
Data Source
AI summary
A building connection between a first structural member and a second structural member made with a nail prong plate connector that has integral tabs. The second structural member supports the first structural member.