Rotational Stair Connections for Seismic Building Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stair assemblies are rigidly connected to building structures, which limits their ability to move during seismic events, high winds, or other building motions, leading to potential damage and unsafe egress.
Innovation Solution
A moveable stair system with a single-point connection device that allows for rotational, longitudinal, and directional movement between building levels, reducing damage and ensuring safe egress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If stairs are rigidly connected to building structures, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to withstand building motion (seismic events, high winds) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stair system transitions from a rigid static connection to a dynamic connection that allows controlled movement. The bearing plate and connection devices enable the stair assembly to move relative to the building structure during seismic events or high winds, while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic capability allows the stairs to accommodate building motion without disconnecting or causing damage to surrounding structures.
2Ease of manufacture
If stairs are rigidly connected to building structures, then ease of installation is improved, but damage to surrounding structure during building motion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A bearing plate is introduced as an intermediary element between the stair assembly and the building structure. This bearing plate serves as a mediator that allows relative movement while maintaining connection. The bearing plate absorbs the harmful effects of building motion, preventing direct transmission of forces that could damage the surrounding structure, while still providing a relatively simple installation process.
3Strength
If stairs are rigidly connected to building structures, then structural integrity is improved, but safety during building motion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates dynamic elements including a bearing plate and connection devices that allow controlled movement. This dynamic design maintains structural integrity through the strength of the connection components while enabling the stairs to move safely during building motion. The system ensures that the stairs remain connected and structurally sound even as they accommodate displacement from seismic events or high winds.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to stair systems and methods for allowing stair movement, including rotational movement, between building levels while maintaining the structural integrity of the stair system for safe egress passage and ingress passage. The systems and methods of the present disclosure allow for independent movement of the surrounding building walls, landings, floor slabs, and/or any other portion of the surrounding building structure or stair system. Embodiments of the present disclosure are suitable for use in both new constructions as well as in existing constructions for retrofit applications to allow for movement between levels, landings, or within stairwell structures. The present disclosure can reduce stair damage during building movement whether it is from wind, thermal, explosive, or seismic activity, and/or any other type of suitable force or experience, as the present disclosure allows for rotational movement, longitudinal movement, or a combination thereof.