U.S. patent application number 11/139711 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-30 for web stiffener.
Invention is credited to John R. Beck, John James JR. Collins.
Application Number | 20060265997 11/139711 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37461714 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060265997 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Collins; John James JR. ; et
al. |
November 30, 2006 |
Web stiffener
Abstract
A one piece web stiffener that may be easily and quickly
installed between the upper and lower flanges of a joist without
having to slide the web stiffener in from and end of the joist is
disclosed. One embodiment of the web stiffener includes a web and a
pair of protruding flanges. Opposing upper and lower corners are
provided at angles to enable the web stiffener to be inserted
between returns formed on the upper and lower flanges of the joist
and then rotated to fit relatively tightly between the upper and
lower flanges of the joist. In other embodiments, one corner is
radiused and an opposing corner is angled. Other embodiments
include radiuses on two diagonal corners or radiused ends to enable
the web stiffeners to be inserted between the upper and lower
flanges of a joist and then rotated into a final web stiffening
position wherein it can be attached to the joist web.
Inventors: |
Collins; John James JR.;
(Chagrin Falls, OH) ; Beck; John R.; (Indiana,
PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KIRKPATRICK & LOCKHART NICHOLSON GRAHAM LLP
535 SMITHFIELD STREET
PITTSBURGH
PA
15222
US
|
Family ID: |
37461714 |
Appl. No.: |
11/139711 |
Filed: |
May 27, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/837 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04C 3/07 20130101; E04B
2001/2445 20130101; E04C 2003/0473 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/733.2 |
International
Class: |
E04C 3/30 20060101
E04C003/30 |
Claims
1. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a top edge and a
bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending between
said top edge and said bottom edge; a first flange protruding
outward from said first lateral side of said web and extending
between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a first portion
of said top edge intersecting said first flange extends at a first
substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said
top edge; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral
side of said web extending between said top edge and said bottom
edge wherein a second portion of said bottom edge intersecting said
second flange extending at a second substantially acute angle
relative to a remaining portion of said bottom edge.
2. The web stiffener of claim 1 wherein said first acute angle is
substantially 20 degrees and wherein said second acute angle is
substantially 20 degrees.
3. The web stiffener of claim 1 wherein said first flange protrudes
outward from said first lateral side of said web portion at a first
flange angle and wherein said second flange protrudes from said
second lateral side of said web at a second flange angle.
4. The web stiffener of claim 3 wherein said first and second
flange angles are each substantially 90 degrees.
5. The web stiffener of claim 1 further comprising at least one
fastener hole through said web.
6. A floor structure, comprising: a support wall; a rim joist
attached to said support wall; at least one joist attached to said
rim joist, each said joist having a joist web and an upper joist
flange and a lower joist flange protruding therefrom; at least one
web stiffener oriented adjacent to said joist web of a
corresponding one of said joists, said web stiffener comprising: a
web having a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second
lateral sides extending between said top edge and said bottom edge;
a first flange protruding outward from said first lateral side of
said web and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge
wherein a first portion of said top edge intersecting said first
flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a
remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding
from said second lateral side of said web portion and extending
between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion
of said bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a
second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of
said bottom edge.
7. The floor structure of claim 6 wherein said web of said web
stiffener is attached to said joist web.
8. The floor structure of claim 7 wherein said web of said web
stiffener is attached to said joist web by at least one screw.
9. The floor structure of claim 6 wherein said web stiffener is
oriented between said upper and lower joist flanges of said
corresponding one of said joists.
10. The floor structure of claim 6 wherein said support wall
comprises: an upper track; a lower track; and a plurality of studs
extending between said upper and lower tracks and attached
thereto.
11. The floor structure of claim 10 wherein at least one said web
stiffener is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding one
of said studs.
12. A floor structure, comprising: a support wall; a first joist
having a first joist end supported on said support wall, said first
joist having a first joist web and upper and lower first joist
flanges protruding therefrom; a second joist having a second joist
end supported on said support wall adjacent to said first joist
end, said second joist having a second joist web and upper and
lower second joist flanges; at least one web stiffener oriented
adjacent to one of said first and second joist webs and being
attached thereto, said web stiffener comprising: a web having a top
edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending
between said top edge and said bottom edge; a first flange
protruding outward from said first lateral side of said web and
extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a
first portion of said top edge intersecting said first flange
extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a
remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding
from said second lateral side of said web and extending between
said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion of said
bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a second
substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said
bottom edge.
13. The floor structure of claim 12 wherein said web stiffener is
received between the upper and lower flanges of one of said first
and second joists.
14. The floor structure of claim 12 wherein said web stiffener is
received between said upper and lower first joist flanges and is
attached to said first joist web.
15. The floor structure of claim 12 wherein said support wall
comprises: an upper track; a lower track; and a plurality of studs
extending between said upper and lower tracks and attached
thereto.
16. The floor structure of claim 15 wherein at least one said web
stiffener is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding one
of said studs.
17. A floor structure, comprising: a support wall; a joist spanning
said support wall and being supported thereon, said joist having a
joist web and upper and lower joist flanges protruding therefrom;
at least one web stiffener oriented adjacent to said joist web and
being attached thereto, said web stiffener comprising: a web having
a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides
extending between said top edge and said bottom edge; a first
flange protruding outward from said first lateral side of said web
and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a
first portion of said top edge intersecting said first flange
extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a
remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding
from said second lateral side of said web portion and extending
between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion
of said bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a
second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of
said bottom edge.
18. The floor structure of claim 17 wherein said web stiffener is
substantially axially aligned with said support wall.
19. The floor structure of claim 17 wherein said web stiffener is
oriented between said upper and lower joist flanges of said
corresponding one of said joists.
20. The floor structure of claim 17 wherein said support wall
comprises: an upper track; a lower track; and a plurality of studs
extending between said upper and lower tracks and attached
thereto.
21. The floor structure of claim 20 wherein at least one said web
stiffener is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding one
of said studs.
22. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a top edge and a
bottom edge, said top edge having a non-radiused portion and a
radiused portion, said radiused portion forming an upper corner
portion of said web, said bottom edge having a non-radiused portion
and a radiused portion, said radiused portion of said lower edge
forming a lower corner portion diagonally opposite from said upper
corner portion; a first flange protruding from a side of said web
and extending from said non-radiused portion of said bottom edge to
said radiused portion of said top edge; and a second flange
protruding from another side of said web and extending from said
non-radiused portion of said top edge to said radiused portion of
said bottom edge.
23. The web stiffener of claim 22 further comprising at least one
fastener hole through said web.
24. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a top edge and a
bottom edge and a first lateral side edge that extends between said
top edge and said bottom edge wherein a portion of said first
lateral side edge is substantially perpendicular to said top edge
and another portion of said first lateral side is not substantially
perpendicular to said top edge, said web further having a second
lateral side edge extending between said top and bottom edges such
that a portion of said second lateral side edge is substantially
perpendicular to said bottom edge and another portion of said
second lateral side is not substantially perpendicular to said
bottom edge; a first flange protruding outward from a portion of
said first lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to
said bottom edge of said web; and a second flange protruding
outward from a portion of said second lateral side edge that is
substantially perpendicular to said top edge of said web.
25. The web stiffener of claim 24 wherein said portion of said
first lateral side that is not substantially perpendicular to said
top edge extends in a first radius from said first flange to said
top edge and wherein said portion of said second lateral side that
is not substantially perpendicular to said bottom edge extends in a
second radius from said second flange to said bottom edge of said
web.
26. The web stiffener of claim 24 wherein one of said first lateral
side that is not substantially perpendicular to said top edge and
said second lateral side that is not substantially perpendicular to
said bottom edge is radiused.
27. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having first and second
lateral side edges and a top edge extending in a radius between
said first and second lateral sides and a bottom edge extending in
a radius between said first and second lateral sides.; a first
flange protruding from said first lateral side; and a second flange
protruding from said second lateral side.
28. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a first edge and a
second edge and a pair of lateral side edges wherein one said side
edge extends between said first edge and said second edge such that
a portion of said side edge is substantially perpendicular to said
second edge and another portion of said side edge is not
substantially perpendicular to said first edge, and wherein another
said side edge extends between said first and second edges and a
portion of said another side edge is substantially perpendicular to
said first edge and another portion of said another side edge is
not substantially perpendicular to said second edge; a first flange
protruding outward from a portion of said first lateral side edge
that is substantially perpendicular to said second edge of said
web; and a second flange protruding outward from said portion of
said second lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular
to said first edge and wherein said another portion of said another
side edge extends in a radius from said second flange to said
second edge of said web.
29. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a first lateral side
edge and a second lateral side edge and top and bottom edges
extending between said first and second lateral side edges wherein
said top edge has a non-radiused top edge portion disposed between
a first radiused top edge portion and a second radiused top edge
portion and wherein said bottom edge has a non-radiused portion
disposed between a first radiused bottom edge portion and a second
radiused bottom edge portion; a first flange protruding from said
first lateral side edge; and a second flange protruding from said
second lateral side edge.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates to building construction components
and, more particularly, to devices for stiffening the webs of metal
joists to provide reinforcement and prevent crippling of the joist
web.
[0003] 2. Description of the Invention Background
[0004] Traditionally, the material of choice for new residential
and commercial building framing construction has been wood.
However, over the years, the rising costs of lumber and labor
required to install wood framing components have placed the dream
of owning a newly constructed home out of the economic reach of
many families. Likewise such increasing costs have contributed to
the slowing of the development and advancement of urban renewal
plans in many cities. Other problems such as the susceptibility to
fire and insect damage, rotting, etc. are commonly associated with
wood building products.
[0005] In view of the foregoing problems and shortcomings of wood
construction, steel is rapidly gaining acceptance among
homebuilders and homeowners alike due to its cost effectiveness,
dimensional stability, noncombustibility, insect resistance,
durability, high strength-to-weight ratio and recycleability. These
advantages have long been recognized by the commercial construction
industry wherein steel has been the material of choice for several
decades.
[0006] Regardless of whether a building comprises a multistory
commercial structure or a single story residence, the floor of a
structure is commonly formed from a series of support members that
span the distance between support structures or support walls.
These support members are known in the industry as floor joists and
commonly have a web portion and an upper flange and a lower flange.
Short "returns" or bends are provided on the ends of the upper and
lower flanges. Such floors are generally constructed with steel
joists having depths that range from 8 to 14 inches (203 to 356 mm)
with a steel thickness from 43 mil to 97 mil (1.1 to 2.5 mm).
[0007] The ends of the joists are coupled to C-shaped tracks
referred to as rim joists that are either supported on a wall or
other structure by one of their flanges or have their webs attached
to the wall or structure. The joists are commonly attached to the
joist rims by conventional L-shaped clips or by tabs that are
integrally formed in the web of the rim joist. Web stiffeners
(sometimes also called bearing stiffeners or transverse stiffeners)
are used to strengthen the web of the joist member by increasing
its web crippling strength and preventing the joist from crumpling
due to applied loads.
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a prior web stiffener 10 that has a web
portion 12 and two outwardly protruding flange portions 14. FIG. 2
illustrates the use of one conventional web stiffener 10 in
connection with a conventional rim joist 20 and a conventional
joist 30. In practice, it is usually desirable for the web
stiffener 10 to extend across the depth of the web 32 of the joist
30. Such stiffeners 10 can be installed on either side of the web
32 of the joist 30 (either on the outside of the joist web 32--FIG.
1 or on the inside of the joist web 32--FIG. 3). When installed on
the inside (between the lower flange 34 and the upper flange 36 of
the joist 30), the web stiffener 10 is installed by sliding it in
from the end of the joist 30. Such installation method can be
cumbersome and time consuming. Moreover, the web stiffener 10 must
be properly sized relative to the joist 30 to enable it to be
installed between the joist flanges 34, 36. Consequently, such
one-piece web stiffeners 10 are often installed on the outside of
the joist 30 (FIG. 3). Such installation method is not always
available and the web stiffener 10 lends no support to the upper
flange 36 of the joist 30.
[0009] In an effort to address such installation shortcomings when
installing one-piece web stiffeners on the inside of the joist, two
piece web stiffeners were developed. FIG. 4 illustrates a prior
two-piece web stiffener 40. When using such web stiffener 40, the
stiffener 40 is inserted into position between the flanges 24 and
26 of the joist 20 and then one piece 42 of the stiffener is moved
relative to the other piece 44 of the stiffener 40 until at least
piece 42 abuts the lower flange 24 and the other piece 44 abuts the
upper flange 26. Screws 38 are then installed through slots 46 in
the pieces 42, 44 to retain the pieces 42, 44 in position. Such
two-piece embodiment, while effective, is more difficult to
manufacture and requires extra screws to install.
[0010] Thus, as can be appreciated from the forgoing discussion,
there is a need for a simple one-piece web stiffener that can be
easily and quickly installed on the inside of a floor joist between
the upper and lower flanges, after the joist has already been
installed, which eliminates the traditional requirement of
pre-installed stiffeners.
SUMMARY
[0011] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
there is provided a web stiffener that comprises a substantially
C-shaped member that has a web portion. In one embodiment, the web
portion has a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second
lateral sides that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge.
A first flange protrudes outward from the first lateral side of the
web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A
first portion of the top edge that intersects the first flange
extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a
remaining portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from
the second lateral side of the web portion and extends between the
top edge and the bottom edge. A second portion of the bottom edge
that intersects the second flange extends at a second substantially
acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the bottom edge.
[0012] Another embodiment of the subject invention comprises a
support wall and a rim joist that is attached to the support wall.
At least one joist is attached to the rim joist. Each joist has a
joist web and upper and lower joist flanges protruding therefrom.
At least one web stiffener is oriented adjacent to the joist web of
a corresponding joist. The web stiffener comprises a web portion
that has a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral
sides that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first
flange protrudes outward from the first lateral side of the web
portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A
first portion of the top edge that intersects the first flange
extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a
remaining portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from
the second lateral side of the web portion and extends between the
top edge and the bottom edge. A second portion of the bottom edge
that intersects the second flange extends at a second substantially
acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the bottom edge.
[0013] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a
floor structure that includes a support wall and a first joist that
has a first joist end that is supported on the support wall. The
first joist has a first joist web and upper and lower first joist
flanges protruding therefrom. A second joist that has a second
joist end is also supported on the support wall adjacent to the
first joist end. The second joist has a second joist web and upper
and lower second joist flanges. At least one web stiffener is
oriented adjacent to one of the first and second joist webs and is
attached thereto. The web stiffener comprises a web portion that
has a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides
extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first flange
protrudes outward from the first lateral side of the web portion
and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first
portion of the top edge that intersects the first flange extends at
a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion
of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from the second lateral
side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the
bottom edge. A second portion of the bottom edge that intersects
the second flange extends at a second substantially acute angle
relative to a remaining portion of the bottom edge.
[0014] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web
stiffener that has a web. The web has a top edge and a bottom edge.
The top edge has a non-radiused portion and a radiused portion
wherein the radiused portion forms an upper corner portion of the
web. The bottom edge has a non-radiused portion and a radiused
portion wherein the radiused portion of the lower edge forms a
lower corner portion that is diagonally opposite to the upper
corner portion. A first flange protrudes from a side of the web and
extends from the non-radiused portion of the bottom edge to the
radiused portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from
another side of the web and extends from the non-radiused portion
of the top edge to the radiused portion of the bottom edge.
[0015] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web
stiffener that has a web. The web has a top edge and a bottom edge
and a first lateral side edge that extends between the top edge and
the bottom edge. A portion of the first lateral side edge is
substantially perpendicular to the top edge and another portion of
the first lateral side is not substantially perpendicular to the
top edge. The web further has a second lateral side edge that
extends between the top and bottom edges such that a portion of the
second lateral side edge is substantially perpendicular to the
bottom edge and another portion of the second lateral side is not
substantially perpendicular to the bottom edge. A first flange
protrudes outward from a portion of the first lateral side edge
that is substantially perpendicular to the bottom edge of the web.
A second flange protrudes outward from a portion of the second
lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the top
edge of the web.
[0016] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web
stiffener that has a web. The web has first and second lateral side
edges and a top edge that extends in a radius between the first and
second lateral sides and a bottom edge that extends in a radius
between the first and second lateral sides. A first flange
protrudes from the first lateral side and a second flange protrudes
from the second lateral side.
[0017] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web
stiffener that has a web having a first edge and a second edge and
a pair of lateral side edges. One side edge extends between the
first edge and the second edge such that a portion of the side edge
is substantially perpendicular to the second edge and another
portion of the side edge is not substantially perpendicular to the
first edge. Another side edge extends between the first and second
edges and a portion of the another side edge is substantially
perpendicular to the first edge and another portion of the another
side edge is not substantially perpendicular to the second edge. A
first flange protrudes outward from a portion of the first lateral
side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the second edge of
the web. A second flange protrudes outward from the portion of the
second lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the
first edge and wherein another portion of the other side edge
extends in a radius from the second flange to the second edge of
the web.
[0018] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web
stiffener that includes a web. The web has a first lateral side
edge and a second lateral side edge and top and bottom edges that
extend between the first and second lateral side edges. The top
edge has a non-radiused top edge portion disposed between a first
radiused top edge portion and a second radiused top edge portion.
The bottom edge has a non-radiused portion disposed between a first
radiused bottom edge portion and a second radiused bottom edge
portion. A first flange protrudes from the first lateral side edge
and a second flange protrudes from the second lateral side
edge.
[0019] Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a
method for reinforcing a joist that has a web and an upper and a
lower flange protruding from the web. In one embodiment, the method
includes inserting a web stiffener that has a web and a top edge
and a bottom edge and a pair of flanges that protrude from the web
between the flanges of the joist such that the web of the web
stiffener is adjacent to the web of the joist. The method also
includes rotating the web stiffener such that at least a portion of
the top edge of the web stiffener is closely adjacent to or in
abutting contact with the upper flange of the joist and at least a
portion of the bottom edge of the web stiffener is closely adjacent
to or in abutting contact with the lower flange of the joist. The
method also includes fastening the web of the web stiffener to the
web of the joist.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] In the accompanying Figures, there are shown present
embodiments of the invention wherein like reference numerals are
employed to designate like parts and wherein:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior one-piece web
stiffener;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a conventional
joist attached to a portion of a conventional rim joist and
utilizing a prior web stiffener attached to an inside surface of
the joist web;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a conventional
joist attached to a portion of a conventional rim joist and
utilizing a prior web stiffener attached to an outside surface of
the joist web;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a prior two-piece web
stiffener;
[0025] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a web stiffener embodiment
of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a partial elevational view illustrating an initial
position of a web stiffener embodiment of the present invention
prior to be inserted between the upper and lower returns of a
joist;
[0027] FIG. 7 is an end view of the web stiffener as positioned in
FIG. 6 relative to the joist and prior to insertion between the
upper and lower flanges of the joist;
[0028] FIG. 8 is another partial elevational view of the joist and
rim joist assembly with the web stiffener installed in its final
position;
[0029] FIG. 9 is an end view of the joist and rim joist assembly
and web stiffener of FIG. 8;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the assemblies of
FIGS. 8 and 9;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a web
stiffener of the present invention used to reinforce the web of a
joist that spans a wall assembly;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a web
stiffener of the present invention used to reinforce the web of a
joist that overlaps and is attached to a second joist to form a
continuous joist assembly that spans a wall assembly;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener
embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a top view of the web stiffener of FIG. 13;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener
embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a top view of the web stiffener of FIG. 15;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener
embodiment of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a top view of the web stiffener of FIG. 17;
and
[0039] FIG. 19 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0040] Referring now to the drawings for the purposes of
illustrating the present embodiments of the invention only and not
for the purposes of limiting the same, FIG. 5 illustrates one
embodiment of a web stiffener 100 of the present invention that is
particularly well-suited for use in connection with a joist
arrangement 200 of the type depicted in FIGS. 6-10. As can be seen
in FIGS. 6-10, the joist arrangement 200 includes a rim joist 210
that has a web 212 and an upper flange 214 and a lower flange 216.
The lower flange 216 may be supported on and attached to a top
track 222 of a wall assembly 220. See FIGS. 6, 8 and 10. The reader
will appreciate that rim joist 210 may be supported on and/or
otherwise attached to a variety of different walls and support
structures without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present invention.
[0041] An end of a conventional floor joist 230 is supported
between the upper and lower flanges 214, 216 of the rim joist 210
and is attached thereto by L-shaped clip angles or tabs that are
integrally formed in the web. The floor joist 230 has a web portion
232 and an upper flange 234 and a lower flange 236. The floor joist
230 is sized such that the end thereof may fit between the upper
and lower flanges of the rim joist 210. An upper return portion 238
is formed on the end of the upper flange 234 and a lower return 240
is formed on the end of the lower flange 236.
[0042] As can be seen in FIG. 5, the web stiffener 100 of this
embodiment is substantially C-shaped and has a web portion 102 that
has a top edge 104, a bottom edge 106, a first lateral side edge
108, and a second lateral side edge 110. In one embodiment, for
example, the web stiffener 100 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97
mil) 50 ksi, G60 galvanized steel. A first flange 112 protrudes
outwardly from the first lateral side 108 at a first flange angle
and a second flange 114 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral
side 110 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first
flange 112 is substantially parallel with the second flange 114 and
the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety
degrees.
[0043] The first flange 112 protrudes outward from the first
lateral side 108 of the web portion 102 and extends between the top
edge 104 of the web portion 102 and the bottom edge 106 of the web
portion. To facilitate easy insertion of the web stiffener 100
between the upper and lower flanges 234, 236 of the joist 230, a
first portion 120 of the top edge 104 that intersects the first
flange 112 extends at a first substantially acute angle "A"
relative to a remaining portion 122 of the top edge 104. The first
portion may extend from a point "B" that is centrally located along
the top edge 104. Likewise, a second portion 130 of the bottom edge
106 that intersects the second flange 114 extends at a second
substantially acute angle "C" relative to a remaining portion 132
of the bottom edge 106. The second portion may extend from a point
"D" that is centrally located along the bottom edge 106. In one
embodiment, the first acute angle "A" and the second acute angle
"B" are each approximately 20 degrees. However, other angle
arrangements could be employed.
[0044] Also in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the first flange
112 and the second flange 114 protrude from the web portion 102 a
distance "E". In one embodiment, distance "E" may be approximately
1.25 inches. The distance "H" is sized such that the when the web
stiffener 100 is positioned as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, the portion
122 of the top edge 104 is closely adjacent to (for example, within
approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) or abuts the bottom surface of the
top flange 234 of the joist 230 and the portion 132 of the bottom
edge 106 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately
1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) or abuts the upper surface of the bottom flange
236 of the joist 230. The width "W" could conceivably be a variety
of different lengths. See FIG. 5. The chart provided below provides
examples of web stiffener loads for different sizes of joists and
stiffeners that have a width "W" of 3.5 inches and 6 inches.
TABLE-US-00001 Joist Size Gage 3.5'' Web Stiffener 6'' Web
Stiffener (In.) (mils) Fy (ksi) Cond. 1 Cond. 2 Cond. 3 Cond. 1
Cond. 2 Cond. 3 8 16 (43) 33 5.3 5.8 5.6 5.9 6.4 6.2 16 (54) 33 5.4
6.1 5.9 6.0 6.8 6.5 50 5.6 6.6 6.3 6.2 7.3 6.9 14 (68) 33 5.6 6.7
6.3 6.2 7.4 7.0 50 5.8 7.5 6.9 6.4 8.3 7.6 12 (97) 33 6.0 8.4 7.5
6.7 9.3 8.3 50 6.5 10.1 8.7 7.2 11.1 9.6 10 16 (54) 33 5.4 6.0 5.9
6.0 6.7 6.5 50 5.5 6.4 6.2 6.1 7.1 6.8 14 (68) 33 5.6 6.6 6.3 6.1
7.3 6.9 50 5.7 7.3 6.8 6.3 8.1 7.5 12 (97) 33 6.0 8.2 7.4 6.6 9.1
6.2 50 6.4 9.8 8.5 7.1 10.8 9.4 12 16 (54) 33 5.4 5.9 5.8 6.0 6.6
6.4 50 5.5 6.3 6.1 6.0 7.0 6.8 14 (68) 33 5.5 6.5 6.2 6.1 7.2 6.9
50 5.7 7.1 6.7 6.3 7.9 7.4 12 (97) 33 5.9 8.0 7.3 6.5 8.9 8.1 50
6.3 9.5 8.4 6.9 10.5 9.3 14 14 (68) 33 5.5 6.4 6.1 6.1 7.0 6.8 50
5.6 6.9 6.6 6.2 7.0 7.3 12 (97) 33 5.8 7.9 7.2 6.5 6.7 8.0 50 6.2
9.2 6.3 6.8 10.2 9.1 Notes: 1) 3.5'' web stiffeners can be used
with bearing widths of 3.5''-5.5''. 6'' web stiffeners can be used
with bearing widths 6'' and greater. 2) Attach the web stiffener to
the joist web with at least (3) #10-16 screws. Drive screws through
the top, bottom, and middle pre-punched holes. 3) Web stiffeners
are 12 gage (97 mil), 50 ksi with 1.25'' flanges.
[0045] To facilitate attachment of the web stiffener 100 to the web
232 of the joist 230, one or more fastener holes 150 are provided
through the web portion 102. Appropriately sized fasteners 152 such
as no. 10-16 screws may be inserted through the fastener holes 150
to affix the stiffener 100 to the joist web 232. In one embodiment,
the lowermost hole 150 may be approximately 1.0 inch from the
bottom edge 106 (distance "F"). The uppermost hole 150 may also be
approximately 1.0 inch from the top edge 104. The holes 150 may be
equally spaced across the height "H" of the web 102. For example,
for an embodiment that has a height "H" of 14 inches, a total of
seven holes 150 that are 5/32 inches in diameter and spaced at 2.0
inches on center may be employed. The lower most hole 150 may be
1.0 inch from the bottom edge 104 and the uppermost hole 150 maybe
1.0 inch from the upper edge 106.
[0046] FIGS. 6-10 illustrate one method for quickly and easily
installing the web stiffener 100 without having to slide it in from
a free end of the joist 230. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the web
stiffener 100 is initially rotated such that the upper edge portion
120 is parallel with the lower edge of the upper flange 238 of
joist 230 and the lower edge portion 130 is parallel with the upper
edge of the lower flange portion 240 of the joist 230 such that the
web stiffener 100 may be inserted between the upper and lower
flanges 238, 240 in the direction represented by arrows "G" (FIGS.
7). After the web stiffener 100 has been inserted between the upper
flange 238 and lower flange 240 and the web 102 is adjacent to the
web 232 of the joist 230, it is rotated (arrow "I" in FIG. 6) to
the position illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9. When in the position
illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, there may be a small amount of space
or "play" between the web stiffener 100 and the upper flange 234
and lower flange 236 of the joist 230. For example, in one
embodiment, there may be approximately 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) of "play"
between the web stiffener 100 and the upper flange 234 and the
lower flange 236. However, other amounts of play could be provided.
Installation screws 152 or other suitable fasteners may then be
installed through the holes 150 to affix the web stiffener 100 to
the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative embodiments, the web
stiffener 100 may be welded to the joist 230 or attached with other
fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive, etc.
[0047] FIG. 11 illustrates the use of a web stiffener 100 to
reinforce the web 232 of a joist 230 that spans a wall assembly 220
that comprises a plurality of metal wall studs 224 that are
attached to an upper track 222 and a bottom track (not shown). As
can be seen in that Figure, the web stiffener 100 is substantially
axially aligned with the underlying stud 224 such that the load
from the stud 224 is axially transferred to the web stiffener 100.
The web stiffener 100 may be installed and attached to the web 232
of the joist 230 in the manner described above.
[0048] FIG. 12 illustrates the use of a web stiffener 100 to
reinforce the ends of two overlapping joists 230 that span a wall
assembly 220 that comprises a plurality of metal wall studs 224
that are attached to an upper track 222 and a bottom track (not
shown). As can be seen in that Figure, the web stiffener 100 is
substantially aligned with the underlying stud 224 such that the
load from the stud 224 is axially transferred to the web stiffener
100. The web stiffener 100 may be installed and attached to the web
232 of one of the joists 230 in the manner described above.
[0049] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate another web stiffener embodiment
of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the web
stiffener 300 of this embodiment has a web portion 302 that has a
top edge 310, a bottom edge 320, a first lateral side edge 330, and
a second lateral side edge 340. In one embodiment, for example, the
web stiffener 300 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50 ksi,
G60 galvanized steel. The top edge 310 of this embodiment has a
radiused portion 312 and a non-radiused portion 314. The radiused
portion 312 forms an upper corner portion generally designated as
316. Likewise, the bottom edge 320 has a radiused portion 322 and a
non-radiused portion 324. The radiused portion 322 forms a lower
corner portion, generally designated as 326, that is diagonally
opposite from the upper corner portion 316 as shown in FIG. 13. In
one embodiment, the radiused portions 312, 322 may each have a
radius "R" of approximately 1.75 inches from the central axis of
the web 302. However, other radiuses "R" and other arcuate edges
may be employed. The length of edge portions 314, 324, may be
approximately W/2.
[0050] In this embodiment, a first flange 350 protrudes outwardly
from the first lateral side edge 330 at a first flange angle and a
second flange 360 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side
edge 340 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first
flange 350 is substantially parallel with the second flange 360 and
the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety
degrees.
[0051] The first flange 350 protrudes outward from the first
lateral side edge 330 of the web portion 302 and extends from the
non-radiused portion 324 of the bottom edge 320 to the radiused
portion 312 of the top edge 310. Likewise, the second flange 360
protrudes outward from the second lateral side edge 340 of the web
portion 302 and extends from the non-radiused portion 314 of the
top edge 310 to the radiused portion 322 of the bottom edge
320.
[0052] Also in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, the
first flange 350 and the second flange 360 protrude from the web
portion 302 a distance "E". In one embodiment, distance "E" may be
approximately 1.25 inches. The web stiffener 300 is installed in
the manner described above with respect to web stiffener 100. That
is, the web stiffener 300 is oriented in a position to enable it to
be inserted between the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and
the lower flange 236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After
the web stiffener 300 has been inserted into position between the
upper flange 234 and the lower flange 236 such that the web 302 is
adjacent to the web 232 of the joist, it is rotated such that the
portion 314 of the top edge 310 is closely adjacent (for example,
within approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the
lower surface of the upper flange 234 and the portion 324 of the
bottom edge 320 is closely adjacent to (for example, within
approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm )) or such that it abuts the upper
surface of the lower flange 236. Distance "H" is sized such that
the web stiffener 300 may be inserted between the upper flange 234
and 236 of the joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described
position. The width "W" could conceivably be a variety of different
lengths. For example, 3.5'', 6.0'', etc. See FIG. 14.
[0053] After the stiffener 300 has been rotated into position,
installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may
then be installed through the holes 380 in the web 302 to affix the
web stiffener 300 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative
embodiments, the web stiffener 300 may be welded to the joist 230
or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive,
etc.
[0054] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another web stiffener embodiment
of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 15, the web
stiffener 400 of this embodiment has a web portion 402 that has a
first edge 410, a second edge 420, a first lateral side edge 430,
and a second lateral side edge 440. In one embodiment, for example,
the web stiffener 400 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50
ksi, G60 galvanized steel. The first edge 410 of this embodiment
has a radiused portion 412 and a non-radiused portion 414. The
radiused portion 412 forms a first corner portion generally
designated as 416. In one embodiment, the radiused portion 412 may
have a radius "R" of approximately 1.75 inches. However, other
radiuses "R" and other arcuate edges may be employed. Edge portion
414 may have a length of W/2.
[0055] In this embodiment, a first flange 450 protrudes outwardly
from the first lateral side edge 430 at a first flange angle and a
second flange 460 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side
edge 440 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first
flange 450 is substantially parallel with the second flange 460 and
the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety
degrees. Other flange angles could be employed.
[0056] The second edge 420 has a straight portion 422 and an angled
portion 424. The angled portion 424 extends at a substantially
acute angle "C" relative to the straight portion 422 of the second
edge 420. The angled portion 424 may extend from a point "D" that
is centrally located along the second edge 420. In one embodiment,
the angle "C" is approximately 20 degrees. However, other angle
arrangements could be employed.
[0057] The first flange 450 protrudes outward from the first
lateral side edge 430 of the web portion 402 and extends from the
radiused portion 412 of the first edge 410 to the straight portion
422 of the second edge 420. The second flange 460 protrudes from
the second lateral side edge 440 of the web portion 402 and extends
from the non-radiused portion 414 of the first edge 410 to the
angled portion 424 of the second edge 420. Also in the embodiment
depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16, the first flange 450 and the second
flange 460 protrude from the web portion 402 a distance "E". In one
embodiment, distance "E" may be approximately 1.25 inches.
[0058] The web stiffener 400 is installed in the manner described
above with respect to web stiffener 100. That is, the web stiffener
400 is oriented in a position to enable it to be inserted between
the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and the lower flange
236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After the web
stiffener 400 has been inserted into position between the upper
flange 234 and the lower flange 236, it is rotated such that the
portion 414 of the top edge 410 is closely adjacent (for example,
within approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the
lower surface of the upper flange 234 and the portion 324 of the
bottom edge 422 is closely adjacent to (for example, within
approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the upper
surface of the lower flange 236. Distance "H" is sized such that
the web stiffener 400 may be inserted between the upper flange 234
and 236 of the joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described
position. The width "W" could conceivably be a variety of different
lengths. For example, W may be 3.5'', 6.0'', etc. See FIG. 16.
[0059] After the stiffener 400 has been rotated into position,
installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may
then be installed through the holes 480 in the web 402 to affix the
web stiffener 400 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative
embodiments, the web stiffener 400 may be welded to the joist 230
or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive,
etc.
[0060] FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate yet another web stiffener
embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 17, the
web stiffener 500 of this embodiment has a web portion 502 that has
an upper edge 510, a lower edge 520, a first lateral side edge 530,
and a second lateral side edge 540. In one embodiment, for example,
the web stiffener 500 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50
ksi, G60 galvanized steel. The upper edge 510 and lower edge 520
are radiused as shown. In one embodiment, the radius "R" may be
approximately W/2.
[0061] In this embodiment, a first flange 550 protrudes outwardly
from the first lateral side edge 530 at a first flange angle and a
second flange 560 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side
edge 540 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first
flange 550 is substantially parallel with the second flange 560 and
the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety
degrees. Other flange angles could be employed. The first flange
450 protrudes outward from the first lateral side edge 530 of the
web portion 502 and extends between the upper radiused end 510 and
the lower radiused end 520. The second flange 460 protrudes from
the second lateral side edge 540 of the web portion 502 and extends
between upper end 410 and the lower end 420.
[0062] Also in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 17 and 18, the
first flange 550 and the second flange 560 protrude from the web
portion 502 a distance "E". In one embodiment, distance "E" may be
approximately 1.25 inches. The distance "H" is sized such that the
when the web stiffener is installed as described above, it is
closely adjacent to or in abutting contact with the bottom surface
of the top flange 234 of the joist 230 and the upper surface of the
bottom flange 236 of the joist 230. The width "W" could conceivably
be a variety of different lengths.
[0063] The web stiffener 500 is installed in the manner described
above with respect to web stiffener 100. That is, the web stiffener
500 is oriented in a position to enable it to be inserted between
the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and the lower flange
236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After the web
stiffener 500 has been inserted into position between the upper
flange 234 and the lower flange 236, it is rotated such that a
portion of the top edge 510 is closely adjacent (for example,
within approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the
lower surface of the upper flange 234 and a portion of the bottom
edge 520 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately
1/8 inch (3.2 mm )) or such that it abuts the upper surface of the
lower flange 236. Distance "H" is sized such that the web stiffener
500 may be inserted between the upper flange 234 and 236 of the
joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described position.
[0064] After the stiffener 500 has been rotated into position,
installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may
then be installed through the holes 588 in the web 502 to affix the
web stiffener 500 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative
embodiments, the web stiffener 500 may be welded to the joist 230
or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive,
etc.
[0065] FIG. 19 depicts another web stiffener embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, the web stiffener 600 is
essentially identical in construction as web stiffener 500
described above. However, in this embodiment, a non-radiused top
edge portion 580 is formed on the top edge 510 as shown. Thus, in
this embodiment, the top edge 510 has a non-radiused top portion
580 that is centrally disposed between a first radiused top edge
portion 582 and a second radiused top edge portion 584. Radiused
top edge portion 582 extends from the first lateral side edge 530
to the non-radiused top portion 580 and the radiused top edge
portion 584 extends from the second lateral side edge 540 to the
non-radiused top edge portion 580. Also in this embodiment, a
non-radiused bottom edge portion 590 may be formed on the bottom
edge 520. Thus, the bottom edge 520 has a non-radiused bottom
portion 590 that is centrally disposed between a first radiused
bottom edge portion 592 and a second radiused bottom edge portion
594. The first radiused bottom edge portion 592 extends from the
first lateral side edge 530 to the non-radiused bottom edge portion
590 and the second radiused bottom edge portion 594 extends from
the second lateral side edge 540 to the non-radiused bottom edge
portion 590 as shown. In one embodiment wherein, for example "W" is
approximately 3.5 inches, the upper non-radiused portion 580 may
have a length "L" of approximately 1.25 inches. The lower
non-radiused portion 590 may have a similar length. This embodiment
may be installed in the manner described above.
[0066] In particular, the web stiffener 600 is oriented in a
position to enable it to be inserted between the upper flange 234
(and upper return 238) and the lower flange 236 (and lower return
240) of the joist 230. After the web stiffener 600 has been
inserted into position between the upper flange 234 and the lower
flange 236, it is rotated such that the portion 580 of the top edge
510 is closely adjacent (for example, within approximately 1/8 inch
(3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the lower surface of the upper
flange 234 and the portion 590 of the bottom edge 520 is closely
adjacent to (for example, within approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm))
or such that it abuts the upper surface of the lower flange 236.
Distance "H" is sized such that the web stiffener 600 may be
inserted between the upper flange 234 and 236 of the joist 230 and
then rotated to the above-described position.
[0067] After the stiffener 600 has been rotated into position,
installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may
then be installed through the holes 588 in the web 502 to affix the
web stiffener 600 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative
embodiments, the web stiffener 600 may be welded to the joist 230
or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive,
etc.
[0068] The various web stiffener embodiments of the present
invention may be used to prevent joist web crippling, while serving
to pass loads from above to walls or bearings below. The unique
design of the web stiffeners of the present invention allows the
web stiffeners to be easily rotated in place between the flanges
while providing a minimal amount of play therebetween without
having to slide the web stiffener in from a free end of the joist
and without having to use a two piece web stiffener.
[0069] The invention which is intended to be protected is not to be
construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. The
embodiments are therefore to be regarded as illustrative rather
than restrictive. Variations and changes may be made by others
without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such equivalents,
variations and changes which fall within the spirit and scope of
the present invention as defined in the claims be embraced
thereby.
* * * * *