Rotatable Truss Connector with Detent Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing truss systems face challenges in efficiently attaching and positioning trusses at various angles due to the size and weight of equipment, particularly in event setups like concerts, where flexible and secure scaffolding is required.
Innovation Solution
A truss system with rotatable connectors, comprising a sleeve, rod, and connector end, allowing trusses to be connected at multiple angles without detachment, using a detent mechanism for rotational positioning and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed connectors are used to attach trusses, then the structure is stable and secure, but the trusses cannot be positioned at various angles and the setup process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a rotatable joint mechanism that allows the second truss to be positioned at various angles relative to the first truss. The rotatable connector includes a sleeve that rotates within a chord, enabling dynamic angle adjustment while maintaining secure attachment. This dynamic capability eliminates the need for detaching and reattaching connectors for different angles, significantly reducing setup time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rotatable connectors are added to enable angle adjustment, then versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a sleeve portion that rotates within a chord, a rod portion that connects to the truss, and a connector end that attaches to the second truss. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall assembly process, reducing complexity despite adding rotational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable connector serves multiple functions: it provides secure attachment between trusses, enables angle adjustment, and maintains structural stability. The same basic connector design can be used for various truss configurations and angles, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connectors and reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If rotatable connectors are used to allow angle adjustment, then setup flexibility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable connector design allows for parameter variations in the rotation mechanism to balance manufacturing complexity with operational flexibility. The sleeve and rod dimensions can be adjusted based on specific application requirements, enabling standardized manufacturing processes while maintaining setup flexibility across different truss configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable connector for use with a truss in accordance with the present disclosure includes a sleeve and a connector end coupled to the sleeve. The sleeve engages with the truss in a fixed orientation. The connector end rotates relative to the truss to allow attachment with another connector of an adjacent truss in a variety of orientations.