Tie Rod With Smooth Intermediate Section For Wall Settlement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reinforced frame construction methods using all-thread tie rods face challenges with installation of insulation, wiring, and plumbing due to sharp edges causing bowing and friction issues, which hinder the tie rods' ability to absorb slack during wall settlement and movement.
Innovation Solution
Designing tie rods with a majority (at least 75%) of their length as smooth, unthreaded intermediate portions and only a minority (about 25%) as threaded end portions, allowing for easier installation of building components and reducing friction, while using expanding connectors to manage slack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If all-thread tie rods are used, then the tie rods can be easily installed and connected, but the sharp edges cause bowing and friction issues that hinder slack absorption during wall settlement
Solution Approach 1:
The tie rod is designed with different surface qualities at different locations: threaded portions at the ends for secure connection, and a smooth unthreaded intermediate portion (at least 75% of total length) for reduced friction. This local differentiation allows the tie rod to both connect securely and absorb slack during wall settlement without bowing.
2Strength
If all-thread tie rods are used, then connection strength is improved, but friction and bowing prevent proper installation of insulation, wiring, and plumbing
Solution Approach 1:
The tie rod features localized threading only at the end portions where connection strength is needed, while the intermediate portion remains smooth to facilitate easy installation of insulation, wiring, and plumbing without friction or bowing issues.
3Strength
If threaded portions extend along the entire length of the tie rod, then connection capability is maximized, but friction increases and prevents straight positioning during wall movement
Solution Approach 1:
Threaded portions are confined to the end portions of the tie rod where connection capability is required, while the intermediate portion is kept smooth to minimize friction and allow the tie rod to remain straight during wall movement and settlement.
Solution Approach 2:
The tie rod is segmented into distinct functional zones: threaded end portions for connection and a smooth intermediate portion for friction reduction. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function optimally.
Data Source
AI summary
A reinforced building wall comprises a foundation; an anchor rod extending from the foundation; a first stud wall disposed above the foundation, the first stud wall including a first bottom plate and a first top place; a second stud wall disposed above the first stud wall, the second stud wall including a second bottom plate and a second top plate; the first tie rod including first and second threaded end portions, the first end portion is operably connected to the anchor rod; a second tie rod including third and fourth threaded end portions, the third end portion is operably connected to the second end portion of the first tie rod; the second tie rod including an outer end portion operably attached to the second stud wall; an intermediate portion of the first tie rod is unthreaded and comprises at least about 75% of the length of the first tie rod; and an intermediate portion of the second tie rod is unthreaded and comprises at least about 75% of the length of the second tie rod.