Rolling Block Restraint Connector for Moment Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connectors that utilize single-rod linkages for structural framing members are cumbersome, require specific design for each material and size, and weaken the block shaft, limiting their versatility and strength.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a rolling block restraint (RBR) connector that uses a two-rod linkage component and transverse clamps to provide a moment resisting rigid connection, eliminating the need for apertures in block shafts and allowing for external surface force application, thus maintaining full member strength and enabling connections across various materials and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-rod linkage is used in the RBR connector, then the connection can be made with simpler components, but the block shaft is weakened due to the required aperture and obstructs lateral passage of threaded rod
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the single-rod linkage and its required aperture from the block shaft design. By extracting this problematic component, the block shaft can be made solid without holes, restoring its full structural strength and allowing lateral passage of threaded rods for clamping.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-rod linkage (one-dimensional constraint) to a two-rod linkage system (two-dimensional constraint). This dimensional change provides equivalent or superior restraint functionality without requiring apertures in the block shaft, as the two rods work together in different planes to achieve the same moment-resisting capability.
2Ease of operation
If apertures are created in block shafts for single-rod linkage, then the linkage can be installed, but the block shaft is weakened and fabrication becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for apertures in the block shaft by removing the single-rod linkage requirement. The two-rod linkage system is designed to install without penetrating the block shaft, thereby simplifying fabrication while maintaining installation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The block shaft is designed in its complete, solid form before linkage installation. The two-rod linkage is then installed using external clamping mechanisms that do not require pre-drilled holes or apertures in the block shaft, preserving manufacturing simplicity.
3Device complexity
If single-rod linkage is used, then fewer components are needed, but the connector is limited to one configuration and obstructs inside of block shaft
Solution Approach 1:
The two-rod linkage system with external clamping provides universal applicability across multiple connector configurations. The design accommodates different member sizes, shapes, and materials while maintaining moment-resisting capability, making the connector versatile for various structural applications.
Solution Approach 2:
By using two rods in different spatial dimensions rather than one rod, the system achieves greater configurational flexibility. The rods can be positioned and clamped at various locations to accommodate different structural configurations without obstructing the block shaft interior.
4Strength
If welding, bolting or gluing processes are used for rigid moment connections, then strong connections are achieved, but the process is time consuming and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal (welding), chemical (gluing), or complex mechanical (bolting) connection processes with a pure mechanical moment-resisting system. The RBR connector uses friction and geometric constraint from the two-rod linkage to create rigid connections that are both strong and rapidly installable without specialized equipment or processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows the structural members themselves to provide the connection strength through friction and geometric interlock, rather than relying on separate welding or bolting processes. The external threaded rods and clamps work with the member geometry to create the moment-resisting connection, making the members self-sufficient in achieving connection strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A rolling block restraint connector for forming a moment resisting connection at a joint intersection between a continuous column and at least a first continuous beam that intersects the continuous column is disclosed. The connector includes a first restraint assembly, a second restraint assembly, wherein the second restraint assembly is configured to be located diagonally across the joint intersection from the first restraint assembly, a first linkage that couples the first restraint assembly with the second restraint assembly, the first linkage including (i) a first saddle configured to couple with an exterior of a first end of a first tubular shaft of the first restraint assembly, and (ii) a second saddle configured to couple with an exterior of a first end of a second tubular shaft of the second restraint assembly, and a second linkage that couples the first restraint assembly with the second restraint assembly.