Open Web I-Joist with Utility Passages

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for improved methods and structures for fabricating I-joists that allow for enhanced structural properties and the integration of utilities like electrical wiring and plumbing without relying on finger joints or metal connectors.

Innovation Solution

The method involves manufacturing an I-joist by connecting chords to the web on at least one side, using a combination of wood and metal materials, and cutting the web to create openings for utility passage, with chords and flanges glued or welded together for reinforcement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional I-joists use finger joints or metal connectors to connect web and flanges, then structural assembly is simplified, but structural integrity and reliability are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes and extracts the problematic finger joints and metal connectors from the traditional I-joist construction. By eliminating these weak connection methods, the invention extracts the source of structural integrity issues while maintaining ease of manufacture through alternative connection designs that integrate the web and flanges more effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite material construction, combining different wood products (such as engineered wood panels for the web and dimensional wood for the flanges) with advanced adhesives and connection techniques. This composite approach creates a unified structural system that achieves both manufacturing ease and high structural reliability without relying on traditional metal connectors or finger joints.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If I-joists are designed with solid web construction, then structural strength is maintained, but adaptability for utility integration is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidutility integration capability

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the web construction by incorporating designed openings and cavities within the web structure. These segmented regions create dedicated pathways for utility integration (electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC) while the remaining web material maintains structural strength through optimized reinforcement patterns and strategic material placement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the web structure to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural strength, creates pathways for utility integration, and maintains structural integrity. The opening patterns and reinforcement designs enable the web to be both a structural element and a utility conduit system, achieving universality that allows flexible integration of various utilities without compromising strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If web openings are added for utility passage, then adaptability for utility integration is improved, but manufacturing precision and structural integrity are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveutility passage capabilityVSAvoidopening dimensional accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates preliminary action by pre-designing and pre-positioning opening patterns during the manufacturing process. The openings are created with precise dimensional control through computer-controlled routing or molding techniques, ensuring accurate positioning and dimensions before the I-joist is assembled. This preliminary precision ensures that utility passages are accurately formed while maintaining overall manufacturing precision and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This approach enables the creation of open web joists with adjustable sizes and integrated utility passages, maintaining structural integrity comparable to traditional I-joists while eliminating the need for metal connectors and finger joints.

Implementation Method 1

The edge 17 of the web 14 is glued in a groove of the flanges 12

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

connecting chords on at least one side of the web

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Implementation Method 3

chords and flanges glued or welded together for reinforcement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS9896844B2I-joists and method of fabrication thereof

Publication Date: 2018.02.20 LES CHANTIERS DE CHIBOUGAMAU LTEE

AI summary

An I-joist comprising a web and flanges, the web being connected on each longitudinal edge thereof to a flange, wherein the I-joist further comprises chords, the chords being connected to the web on at least one side of the web. The web may comprise openings in between the chords. The I-joist is fabricated by connecting a flange on each longitudinal edge of a web and connecting chords on at least one side of the web, the web being provided with openings.