S-Shaped Web Truss System for Buckling Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metal trusses, particularly those with C-shaped channel members, are prone to flexural torsional buckling and require additional bracing or thicker metal, increasing production costs, while tubular web members are expensive due to welding and rust prevention needs.
Innovation Solution
A truss design incorporating upper and lower angle assemblies with web members and bridge web members positioned within gaps, using angled interconnecting web pieces to enhance structural integrity and reduce the need for additional bracing or thicker materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If C-shaped channel members are used in metal trusses, then the truss can be manufactured with standard cold-rolled sections, but the members are prone to flexural torsional buckling requiring additional bracing or thicker metal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using standard C-shaped channel sections to custom-formed S-shaped web members with specific geometric profiles. This dimensional change in cross-sectional geometry fundamentally alters the structural behavior, moving the centroid and shear center to coincide, thereby eliminating flexural torsional buckling while maintaining manufacturability through controlled rolling processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key geometric parameters of the web members by forming them into S-shaped profiles with specific thickness distributions and curvature radii. These parameter changes optimize the moment of inertia and shear area properties, providing enhanced buckling resistance without requiring thicker metal sections or additional bracing elements
2Strength
If tubular web members are used to increase strength, then buckling resistance improves, but manufacturing cost increases due to welding and rust prevention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive welded tubular web members with cold-formed S-shaped sections that use mechanical connection methods. These S-shaped members are formed from standard steel sections through controlled rolling processes, eliminating the need for welding operations and subsequent rust-proofing treatments, thereby significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes welded joints with mechanical connection systems using bolted or riveted connections between the S-shaped web members and chord elements. This mechanical substitution eliminates the complex welding and sealing processes required for tubular members, simplifying manufacturing while providing equivalent or superior connection strength
Data Source
AI summary
A truss system includes: an upper and lower angle assembly, each having vertical legs; a plurality of interconnecting members; a plurality of web members, each web member having: an upper free end configured to attach to the upper angle assembly between adjacent vertical legs; a lower free end configured to attach to the lower angle assembly between adjacent vertical legs; and an angled interconnecting web piece disposed between the upper free end and the lower free end; and wherein both the upper and lower free ends include: a first set of bolt holes for attachment to a respective one of the upper angle assembly and lower angle assembly; and a second set of bolt holes for attachment to an end of an associated interconnecting member.