Strap Connector with Variable Angle Sides for Structural Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for structural members lack efficiency and economy in securing members to fixed structures, particularly in providing a versatile, durable, and easily installable solution that can handle various sizes and materials while maintaining structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A strap assembly with variable angle lateral sides and a fastening assembly using fasteners and washers to secure the strap to a fixed structure, allowing the strap to bend and create tension for secure attachment, which can be easily assembled and disassembled without special tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing connectors are used to secure members to fixed structures, then structural attachment is achieved, but efficiency and economy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a strap assembly for wrapping and securing the member, and a separate fastening assembly with fasteners and washers for attaching the strap to the fixed structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easier manufacturing and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap assembly is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing it to wrap around members of various sizes and shapes. The strap can be adjusted and repositioned during installation, providing dynamic adaptation to different structural requirements without requiring multiple specialized connectors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing connectors are used, then structural attachment is provided, but versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is designed to be universal, with the strap assembly capable of securing various types of members (wood, metal, concrete) to different fixed structures. The fastening assembly with its washers and fasteners can accommodate multiple member types and structural configurations, providing reliable attachment across diverse applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector allows for parameter changes in terms of adjustment and configuration. The strap can be adjusted to different positions and angles, and the fastening assembly can be configured to accommodate various member dimensions and structural requirements, maintaining reliability while enhancing versatility.
3Ease of operation
If existing connectors are used, then members are secured to fixed structures, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connector into a strap assembly and a fastening assembly, the installation process is simplified. The strap can be independently positioned and wrapped around the member, then the fastening assembly is separately attached to the fixed structure. This modular approach reduces the complexity of coordinating multiple components during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows for self-service installation without requiring specialized tools or expertise. The strap assembly can be manually positioned and secured, and the fastening assembly can be attached using standard fasteners and washers, making the installation process accessible to workers with general construction skills.
4Volume of moving object
If existing connectors are used, then structural attachment is achieved, but volumetric efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design of the strap assembly and fastening assembly allows for compact storage and transportation. The components can be stored separately in a compact manner and assembled only when needed for installation, improving volumetric efficiency in storage while maintaining the reliability of the attached structure.
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 provides a durable, versatile, and cost-effective connector that securely attaches structural members to fixed structures, offering adjustable angles and easy installation, while maintaining structural integrity and being volumetrically efficient for storage and transportation.
Implementation Method 1
A predetermined force is created by the first and second fasteners and the first and second washers respectively to secure the first and second lateral sides to the fixed structure. The strap assembly when stretched comprises a tension force holding the structural members according to a design capacity.
Implementation Method 2
causing a compression force, which keeps the at least one member substantially attached and secured to the fixed structure
Implementation Method 3
The first and second lateral sides bend by the predetermined force causing strain, and stretching the strap assembly to define respective base sections
Data Source
AI summary
A member to structural member connector, having a strap assembly with first and second lateral sides, and a top side; and a fastening assembly, wherein the strap assembly secures at least one member to a fixed structure, wherein the strap assembly wraps over the at least one member and the first and second lateral sides are fixed to the fixed structure by the fastening assembly. The first lateral side has a first top edge and a first bottom end. The second lateral side has a second top edge and a second bottom end. The first lateral side has a first hole that is a first predetermined distance from the first bottom end. The second lateral side has a second hole that is a second predetermined distance from the second bottom end. The top side is in between the first and second top edges.