Truss Joint Geometry for Stronger Member Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing truss structures lack robust connections between truss members, which can lead to snapping or deformation under stress, compromising the structural integrity and stability of trusses in applications like roofs, floors, and bridges.
Innovation Solution
The truss design incorporates end portions with a flat base, arms, and shoulders, where the shoulders are raised and parallel to the base, providing a large contact surface for improved robustness, and manufacturing methods involve cutting and rolling steel into C-channel frames with reduced widths and heights to enhance connection strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional truss connections are used, then the structure is simpler to manufacture, but the connection strength and robustness are insufficient leading to snapping or deformation under stress
Solution Approach 1:
The end portion of the truss member is segmented into distinct functional zones: a flat base for broad contact, raised shoulders for load distribution, and arms for connection. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally, with the base providing stability, shoulders preventing stress concentration, and arms enabling secure joining, thereby solving the contradiction between connection strength and structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The connection design transitions from a simple linear joint to a three-dimensional structure with vertical shoulders rising from the flat base. This dimensional change creates multiple contact surfaces and load paths, distributing stresses across different spatial planes and significantly enhancing connection robustness without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If the end portion width is reduced to enhance connection fit, then the connection precision improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end portion geometry, including the reduced width, flat base, and shoulder configurations, is pre-formed during the initial rolling process of the truss member fabrication. This preliminary shaping ensures precise dimensions and geometric accuracy are achieved before assembly, eliminating the need for additional precision machining operations and maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving high connection precision
Data Source
AI summary
A truss, comprising: a first truss member; a second truss member; and a third truss member configured to join the first truss member to the second truss member; wherein the third truss member comprises an end portion comprising: a flat base; an arm; and a shoulder raised relative to the base between the base and the arm; wherein the shoulder is substantially parallel to the base.