Stud-Track Framing System with Channel Adaptor for Load Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current framing systems for structural applications face challenges in efficient load transfer between studs and tracks due to reliance on limited shear strength of fasteners and site workmanship tolerances, leading to potential creep and assembly complexities.
Innovation Solution
A structural framing system utilizing a self-piercing rivet and adaptable components, such as an overbent track and channel-shaped adaptor, allows for efficient load transfer through direct bearing and alignment of studs within tracks, eliminating the need for external clamping mechanisms and ensuring secure, creep-free assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the stud is located in the track and fastened through the flanges using a simple site fixable method, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the load transfer efficiency deteriorates due to reliance on restricted shear strength of the fastener
Solution Approach 1:
An adapter member is introduced as an intermediary component between the stud and track. The adapter includes a first portion received within the stud and a second portion received within the track, with fasteners extending through both portions to secure the connection. This intermediary structure enables efficient load transfer through direct bearing contact while maintaining simple site fixable assembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If external clamping mechanisms are used to ensure studs are positioned in contact with the track before fastening, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter member is pre-positioned within the stud at the factory, with the first portion securely attached to the stud before site assembly. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and positioning is achieved during manufacturing rather than requiring complex external clamping mechanisms during site assembly. The pre-positioned adapter guides the stud into correct alignment with the track during installation.
3Reliability
If the framing system is assembled in a controlled environment with precise fastener positioning, then the reliability is improved, but the productivity decreases due to slower assembly process
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct components: the adapter member with its first portion for the stud and second portion for the track, and separate fasteners. This segmentation allows the adapter to be pre-assembled with the stud in a controlled environment ensuring precision, while the actual stud-to-track connection can be rapidly assembled on-site using simple fastener insertion through the adapter portions.
Data Source
AI summary
A framing system (1) comprises track frame elements (3) and stud frame elements (4) which are interconnected at joints (2). The framing system comprises connection means for interconnecting the frame elements (3, 4) on assembly. The connection means comprises an adaptor (10) for a frame element and fixing means for fixing the adaptor to the frame elements. The adaptor conforms to at least part of the profile of at least one of the frame elements. In one case the adaptor (10) is of generally channel profile comprising a web (11) and side flanges (12). The side flanges of the adaptor (10) are engagable in the end of the stud frame element (4) such that the flanges (12) of the adaptor engage with the flanges (8) of the stud frame element (4). Rivets (30) are used to fix the stud frame element (4) to the adaptor (10). Track fixing means comprising a fixing bolt (25) extending to engage with a receiver (26) which is captive in the web (11) of the adaptor (10). The cross section of the stud frame element (4) has full bearing with the track frame element (3) for efficient load transfer.