Slotted Stud Connector With Friction Bushing for Vertical Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building connectors do not effectively allow for relative vertical movement while restricting horizontal movement, which is essential for reducing stress and fracture in curtain walls under wind or seismic forces, and they are often difficult to manufacture and install.
Innovation Solution
A connecting member featuring a substantially rigid plate with elongated slots and a bushing that is coupled by friction, allowing movement when a predetermined force is exceeded, enabling vertical deflection while maintaining strength against horizontal loads, and can be easily installed by positioning the bushing within the slots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid connector is used to maintain structural strength, then horizontal load resistance is improved, but vertical deflection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system where the bushing can move vertically within the slot. The friction fit provides initial resistance that allows controlled movement when threshold forces are exceeded, enabling the connector to adapt to both rigid and flexible requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If a breakaway washer is used to allow slot movement, then vertical deflection is improved, but manufacturing and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing and slot form an integrated friction-fit system where the bushing width substantially matches the slot width. This merging of components creates a simple friction-based connection that allows vertical movement without requiring complex breakaway mechanisms or additional alignment procedures
3Strength
If a friction fit bushing is used to allow controlled movement, then vertical deflection with strength is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The design specifies that the bushing width be substantially similar to the slot width, creating a friction fit that provides controlled resistance. This parameter relationship establishes a predictable friction threshold that allows vertical movement under load while maintaining connection strength, balancing manufacturing feasibility with performance requirements
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
The solution allows for relative vertical movement to reduce stress and potential fracture in building components while maintaining strength against horizontal loads, and simplifies the installation process by using a friction-fit bushing that breaks away under specific loads, ensuring secure coupling without the need for additional alignment steps.
Implementation Method 1
said bushing slidingly engages said first edge and said second edge of said elongated slot, while being coupled to the plate by a friction fit; in that the predetermined threshold value comprises a force magnitude required to overcome frictional engagement of the bushing with the plate
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
The present subject matter relates to systems, assemblies, and methods for connecting vertical steel wall studs to a building structure. In particular, a connecting member for use in building assembly can include a substantially rigid plate having one or more elongated slots formed therein and a bushing coupled to the plate at an initial position within each of the one or more slots but movable relative to the plate within a respective one of the one or more slots upon application of a force exceeding a predetermined threshold value.