Stackable Column Coupler with Flat Plate Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing multi-floor steel-framed buildings face challenges in efficiently transferring column loads and floor loads between stacked columns, particularly due to alignment issues, weak links at joints, and the need for identical column sizes, which can lead to increased material requirements and complexity in welding and fastening processes.
Innovation Solution
A novel coupler system that transfers both column and floor loads from an upper column to a lower column in compression without the need for exact alignment or through-column apertures, using a flat plate that can be extended for additional support and connected via tension cables or shear panels, reducing bending moments and eliminating the need for welding to the column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If through-column apertures are used to attach couplers to columns, then the coupler can be securely fastened, but the column strength is reduced and alignment precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from the column itself by using external couplers that wrap around the column. The coupler contains the apertures and fastening mechanisms, separating the structural function (column) from the connection function (coupler). This eliminates the need to pierce the column with through-apertures, preserving both column strength and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler acts as an intermediary element between the column and the beam connectors. Instead of directly attaching beam connectors to the column through apertures, the coupler mediates this connection by providing its own aperture system and fastening mechanism. This intermediary approach protects the column from direct penetration while still enabling secure attachment.
2Device complexity
If identical column sizes are used for all floors, then column load transfer is simplified, but material usage increases and column size reduction is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by allowing different column sizes at different locations (floors) while maintaining a standardized coupler design. Each column can be optimized for its specific load requirements, with larger columns at lower floors and smaller columns at upper floors. The coupler provides consistent connection functionality across all column sizes, enabling this differentiated approach without increasing overall system complexity.
3Strength
If welding is used to attach couplers to columns, then strong connection is achieved, but construction time increases and process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the welding process with a mechanical fastening system. The coupler uses external fasteners (such as bolts, clips, or other mechanical connectors) to attach to the column, eliminating the need for welding. This substitution maintains strong connection strength while dramatically improving construction speed and reducing process complexity, as mechanical fasteners can be installed without specialized welding equipment or procedures.
4Stability of the object's composition
If column joints are made with overlapping and bracing connections, then lateral stability is improved, but joint complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into the single coupler component. The coupler simultaneously provides: (1) connection between column and beam connectors, (2) structural bracing elements for lateral stability, (3) alignment features for precise positioning, and (4) reinforcement for the joint area. By combining these functions into one integrated component rather than separate elements, the overall joint complexity is reduced while maintaining comprehensive lateral stability.
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
Enhances building rigidity and stability by evenly distributing loads across the column cross-section, reduces material requirements, and simplifies the construction process by eliminating the need for through-column apertures and welding, while allowing for varied column sizes and reduced floor thickness.
Implementation Method 1
transfers column load from an upper column to a lower column in compression
Implementation Method 2
transfers the floor load from the coupler to the lower column in compression
Implementation Method 3
incorporates shear panels or bracing for enhanced rigidity and resistance to shear forces
Data Source
AI summary
An improved stackable square tubular column assembly and method of assembly for multi-floor steel-framed buildings in which hollow columns for vertically adjacent floors are joined by a coupler having beam connectors extending outwardly therefrom so that the coupler supports the floor load in shear. The core of the assembly is the coupler having a flat plate extending through horizontal slots in opposing walls of the coupler that divides the coupler into two compartments, each compartment telescopingly receiving the end of a single floor column so that the column load of the upper column is uniformly distributed in compression over the walls of the lower column through the plate. Advantages of the various embodiments include (a) eliminating the necessity of column abutment, (b) eliminating the need for exact registration of the columns, (c) eliminating the need for through-column bolts, (d) eliminating the need for overhead welds, (e) improved tolerances for coupler-to-lower column tolerances, (f) improved resistance to bending or twisting of the coupler about the supporting column, (g) the addition of coupler-to-coupler tension cables, (h) additional support for metal decking, (i) the connection of stacked columns without through-column bolts, (j) coupler length reduction for reduced thickness composite floors without sacrificing resistance to floor load shear, (k) a continuous span for reduced thickness floors, (l) shear panels anchored to the structural steel columns, coupler and beams, and (m) the ability of the coupler to accommodate normal X-bracing and tube bracing.