Truss Stabilizer With Hinged Arms And Spring Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stabilizing and spacing roof trusses during construction are time-consuming, expensive, and lack post-construction support, as they require temporary lateral braces that need to be removed, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A truss stabilizing apparatus comprising an elongated channel member with U-shaped clamp members and a hinge mechanism, allowing for accurate spacing and temporary securing of trusses, which can be adjusted and locked into place using a spring-loaded locking pin, reducing the need for temporary supports and enhancing stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If lateral braces are used to support trusses during construction, then truss stability is improved, but labor time and cost increase due to installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temporary construction support function with the permanent spacing function into a single integrated device. The channel member with arms and clamps serves both as a temporary brace during construction and as a permanent spacing element, eliminating the need for separate lateral braces that would need to be installed and removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is designed to perform multiple functions: providing temporary stability during construction, maintaining accurate truss spacing, and serving as a permanent spacing element. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate temporary bracing systems that would otherwise need to be installed and removed.
2Manufacturing precision
If elaborate temporary support devices are used, then truss spacing accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into simple functional components: a channel member, arms with clamps, and spacing elements. This segmentation allows for easy manufacturing and assembly while achieving precise spacing through the geometric arrangement of components rather than complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses simple, inexpensive materials such as wooden channels and basic metal clamps that can be easily manufactured and discarded after use, eliminating the need for complex, expensive temporary support structures.
3Stability of the object's composition
If temporary lateral braces are used, then truss stability during construction is improved, but post-construction support is lost when braces are removed
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides support during construction and then transitions to serving as a permanent spacing element. The same structural components that provide temporary stability become the permanent spacing mechanism, ensuring continuous support functionality throughout the building lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of removing the support device after construction, the system recovers its value by transitioning from a temporary support function to a permanent spacing function. The device is not discarded but rather repurposed for its second function as a permanent spacing element.
4Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used for spacing and support, then functional effectiveness is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spacing device and support device into a single integrated unit. The channel member with attached arms and clamps provides both spacing and support functions simultaneously, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple separate devices during installation.
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 apparatus simplifies truss installation, reduces labor costs, ensures accurate spacing, and provides additional support against buckling forces, enhancing worker safety and efficiency by eliminating the need for temporary blocks and reducing material waste.
Implementation Method 1
The elongated channel member has telescopic first and second arm portions that are secured to a desired length via the spring loaded locking pin.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for spacing and stabilizing truss members is provided. The apparatus includes an elongated channel member having a middle portion, a first arm portion, and a second arm portion. The first arm portion and second arm portion extend outwardly from the middle portion. A plurality of U-shaped clamp members may be disposed along the length of the elongated channel member. At least one U-shaped clamp member can be attached to a central truss member providing a centered layout for spacing a first truss member in relation to a second truss member. A hinge member may pivotally attach the middle portion of the elongated channel member to the second arm portion, allowing the second arm portion to swing onto an additional third truss member.