U.S. patent application number 11/352390 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-16 for construction framing system and method.
Invention is credited to Yoichi Homma, Hiroyuki Kikuiri.
Application Number | 20070186503 11/352390 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38366875 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070186503 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Homma; Yoichi ; et
al. |
August 16, 2007 |
Construction framing system and method
Abstract
The framing fastener is made up of a configuration of plates
used to attach any number of posts and beams to each other or to a
base material. The framing fastener may include a substantially
flat first plate with at least one hole extending there through and
a substantially flat second plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof. The first and second plates are attached together such
that the first and second plates are substantially coplanar or
substantially perpendicular. The first plate of the framing
fastener is attached to a post by means of one or more fastening
rods. Then a beam is attached to the second plate of the framing
fastener by means of one or more fastening rods, one of which rests
in the hook.
Inventors: |
Homma; Yoichi; (Ladera
Ranch, CA) ; Kikuiri; Hiroyuki; (Irvine, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MORGAN, LEWIS & BOCKIUS, LLP.
2 PALO ALTO SQUARE, 3000 EL CAMINO REAL
PALO ALTO
CA
94306
US
|
Family ID: |
38366875 |
Appl. No.: |
11/352390 |
Filed: |
February 10, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/655.1 ;
52/653.1; 52/712 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04B 2001/268 20130101;
E04B 2001/2636 20130101; E04B 1/2604 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/655.1 ;
52/653.1; 52/712 |
International
Class: |
E04H 12/00 20060101
E04H012/00; E04B 1/38 20060101 E04B001/38 |
Claims
1. A framing fastener comprising: a substantially flat first plate
with at least one hole extending there through; and a substantially
flat second plate with a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein
said first and second plates are attached to one another such that
said first and second plates are either substantially coplanar or
substantially perpendicular to one another.
2. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said at least one hole
is disposed near an edge of said first plate remote from said
hook.
3. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said at least one hole
is disposed remote from a junction between said first plate and
said second plate.
4. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said first plate
includes at least two holes extending there through.
5. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said first plate
includes four holes extending there through.
6. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said second plate
includes at least one hole extending there through.
7. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said first plate and
said second plate are welded to one another.
8. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said first plate and
said second plate are manufactured as an integral unit.
9. The framing fastener of claim 8 wherein said first plate and
said second plate are stamped or laser cut.
10. A framing fastener comprising: a first plate having opposing
substantially flat sides with at least one hole extending there
through; and a second plate having opposing substantially flat
sides and a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein said first and
second plates are attached to one another such that said first
plate's substantially flat sides and said second plate's
substantially flat sides are either substantially coplanar or
substantially perpendicular to one another.
11. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said at least one
hole is disposed near an edge of said first plate remote from said
hook.
12. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said at least one
hole is disposed remote from a junction between said first plate
and said second plate.
13. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said first plate
includes at least two holes extending there through.
14. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said first plate
includes four holes extending there through.
15. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said second plate
includes at least one hole extending there through.
16. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said first plate and
said second plate are welded to one another.
17. The framing fastener of claim 10, wherein said first plate and
said second plate are manufactured as an integral unit.
18. The framing fastener of claim 17 wherein said first plate and
said second plate are stamped or laser cut.
19. A framing fastener comprising: a substantially flat first plate
with at least one hole extending there through; and a substantially
flat second plate with a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein
said first and second plates are attached to one another such that
said second plate is substantially perpendicular to said first
plate.
20. A framing fastener comprising: a substantially flat first plate
with at least one hole extending there through; and a substantially
flat second plate with a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein
said first and second plates are attached to one another such that
said first and second plates are substantially coplanar.
21. The framing fastener of claim 20, further comprising a
substantially flat third plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said third plate is substantially perpendicular to
said first plate.
22. The framing fastener of claim 21, further comprising a
substantially flat fourth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially coplanar with
said first plate and substantially perpendicular to said third
plate.
23. The framing fastener of claim 21, further comprising a
substantially flat fourth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially perpendicular
to said first plate and substantially coplanar with said third
plate.
24. The framing fastener of claim 22, further comprising a
substantially flat fifth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said fifth plate is substantially perpendicular to
said first plate, and substantially coplanar with said third
plate.
25. The framing fastener of claim 24, further comprising a
substantially flat sixth plate with at least one hole extending
there through, wherein said sixth plate is substantially coplanar
with said first plate and substantially perpendicular to said third
plate.
26. The framing fastener of claim 20, further comprising a
substantially flat third plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said third plate is substantially coplanar with
said first plate.
27. The framing fastener of claim 20, further comprising a
substantially flat third plate with at least one hole extending
there through, wherein said third plate is substantially coplanar
with said first plate.
28. The framing fastener of claim 27, further comprising a
substantially flat fourth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially coplanar with
said first plate.
29. The framing fastener of claim 27, further comprising a
substantially flat fourth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially perpendicular
to said first plate.
30. The framing fastener of claim 27, further comprising a
substantially flat fifth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said fifth plate is substantially perpendicular to
said first plate and substantially coplanar with said fourth
plate.
31. A framing fastener comprising: a first plate having opposing
substantially flat sides with at least one hole extending there
through; and a second plate having opposing substantially flat
sides and a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein said first and
second plates are attached to one another such that said first
plate's substantially flat sides and said second plate's
substantially flat sides are substantially perpendicular to one
another.
32. A framing fastener comprising: a first plate having opposing
substantially flat sides with at least one hole extending there
through; and a second plate having opposing substantially flat
sides and a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein said first and
second plates are attached to one another such that said first
plate's substantially flat sides and said second plate's
substantially flat sides are substantially coplanar to one
another.
33. The framing fastener of claim 32, further comprising a third
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said third plate is substantially
perpendicular to said first plate.
34. The framing fastener of claim 32, further comprising a fourth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially
coplanar with said first plate and substantially perpendicular to
said third plate.
35. The framing fastener of claim 32, further comprising a fourth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially
perpendicular to said first plate and substantially coplanar with
said third plate.
36. The framing fastener of claim 33, further comprising a fifth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said fifth plate is substantially
perpendicular to said first plate, and substantially coplanar with
said third plate.
37. The framing fastener of claim 36, further comprising a sixth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides with at least one
hole extending there through, wherein said sixth plate is
substantially coplanar with said first plate and substantially
perpendicular to said third plate.
38. The framing fastener of claim 32, further comprising a third
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said third plate is substantially
coplanar with said first plate.
39. The framing fastener of claim 32, further comprising a third
plate having opposing substantially flat sides with at least one
hole extending there through, wherein said third plate is
substantially coplanar with said first plate.
40. The framing fastener of claim 39, further comprising a fourth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially
coplanar with said first plate.
41. The framing fastener of claim 39, further comprising a fourth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said fourth plate is substantially
perpendicular to said first plate.
42. The framing fastener of claim 39, further comprising a fifth
plate having opposing substantially flat sides and a hook formed at
one edge thereof, wherein said fifth plate is substantially
perpendicular to said first plate and substantially coplanar with
said fourth plate.
43. The framing fastener comprising: a substantially flat first
plate with at least one hole extending there through; and at least
one other plate selected from a group consisting of: a
substantially flat second plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said first and second plates are attached to one
another such that said first and second plates are substantially
coplanar with one another; a substantially flat third plate with a
hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein said first and third
plates are attached to one another such that said first and third
plates are substantially perpendicular to one another a
substantially flat fourth plate with a hook formed at one edge
thereof, wherein said first and fourth plates are attached to one
another such that said first and fourth plates are substantially
perpendicular to one another; a substantially flat fifth plate with
a hook formed at one edge thereof, wherein said first and fifth
plates are attached to one another such that said first and fifth
plates are substantially coplanar with one another; a substantially
flat sixth plate with at least one hole extending there through,
wherein said first and sixth plates are attached to one another
such that said first and sixth plates are substantially coplanar
with one another.
44. A framing system comprising: a post having opposing first and
second post ends, wherein a post slot is formed at the second post
end that extends into said post towards said first post end, and
wherein at least one post hole is defined through said post in a
direction substantially perpendicular to said post slot; a beam
having opposing first and second beam ends, wherein a beam slot is
formed at the second beam end that extends into said beam towards
said first beam end, and wherein at least one beam hole is defined
through said beam in a direction substantially perpendicular to
said beam slot; a framing fastener comprising: a substantially flat
first plate with at least one framing hole extending there through,
said framing hole having a diameter larger than a diameter of said
post hole, where said first plate is configured to be received
within said first slot; and a substantially flat second plate that
forms a hook at one edge thereof, where said second plate is
configured to be received within the second slot, and said first
and second plates are attached to one another such that said first
and second plates are either substantially coplanar or
substantially perpendicular to one another.
45. The framing system of claim 44 further comprising a second slot
formed in the second post end such that it is substantially
perpendicular to said post slot.
46. The framing system of claim 44, further comprising at least
first and second pins configured to be friction fit in the holes in
the post and beam, such that when assembled the first plate is held
in the first slot by the first pin and the second plate is held in
the second slot by the second pin.
47. The framing system of claim 44 further comprising beam and post
made from standard lumber.
48. The framing system of claim 44 further comprising a beam and
post made from a material selected from the group consisting of
laminated strand lumber; solid wood; laminated veneer lumber;
parallel strand lumber; glue-laminated lumber; and combinations
thereof.
49. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein the first and second
plates form an L-shape with one another.
50. The framing fastener of claim 1 further being sized to receive
4.times.4 and 4.times.6 posts and beams;
51. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein an edge of said second
plate opposite said hook forms a right angle with an edge of said
first plate.
52. The framing fastener of claim 1, wherein said hook is formed in
said second plate near a corner of said second plate.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to a system and
method for constructing buildings and, in particular, to a system
and method for constructing buildings using framing fasteners.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0002] Most current systems and methods for the construction of
wooden framed buildings or structures require that skilled framers
or carpenters measure, cut, and join lengths of lumber or timber
for framing walls, roofs, etc. These lengths of lumber are
generally used to form the structural framework of the building and
include posts, beams, studs, headers, sills, rafters, etc. The
various components of the structural framework are generally joined
to one another using nails, screws, or glue. Once the structural
framework has been completed, the remainder of the structure or
building is assembled, including adding dry-wall, etc.
[0003] Traditional wooden framing systems, however, suffer from a
number of drawbacks. For example, such framing systems are highly
complicated, often requiring a plethora of components, including
different sizes of lumber, such as 2''.times.4'' or 4''.times.4''
beams and posts, different brackets, bolts, nails and screws, etc.
Such framing systems also typically require many skilled
construction workers who are capable of reading building plans,
measuring, cutting, laying-out, and joining the various components
of the building or structure together. These drawbacks lead to
increased construction costs and long construction times.
[0004] In light of the above described high costs, skilled labor
requirements, and long construction times, many attempts have been
made to increase the efficiency of the construction process by
using pre-fabricated components. Such pre-fabricated components can
be made offsite and in advance and then later assembled onsite by
less skilled laborers in less time. However, such pre-fabricated
components typically require many different types of brackets or
connectors to couple the various pre-fabricated components
together. Furthermore, these brackets or connectors often require
many different types of nails, screws, or bolts to fasten the
brackets or connectors to the pre-fabricated components. Still
further, the manufacturing and purchase costs of complicated
prefabricated components is high. In addition, the complexity of
assembly using many different types of brackets or connectors again
requires skilled labor.
[0005] In light of the above, it would be highly desirable to
provide a framing system that allows structures or buildings to be
assembled quickly, inexpensively, and easily. Moreover, such a
framing system should have few variations in lumber and brackets
and connectors to construct a large variety of structures.
Furthermore it would be desirable to provide a framing system that
requires fewer construction workers having a lower skill level who
can assemble a structure with a small set of brackets or connectors
in a shorter amount of time and for a lower cost.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to the invention there is provided a framing
fastener including at least a first and second plate attached to
one another such that the second plate is substantially
perpendicular or substantially parallel to the first plate. The
first plate has opposing substantially flat sides with at least one
hole extending there through. The second plate has opposing
substantially flat sides with a hook formed near an edge thereof.
The first plate may contain more than one hole through which one or
more fastening rods are inserted. The second plate may contain no
holes or multiple holes. At least one fastening rod is positioned
such that it rests in the second plate's hook. If the second plate
contains one or more holes further fastening rods are inserted
through the corresponding holes.
[0007] The framing fastener may contain more than two plates. The
plates contained in the framing fastener may be similar to the
second plate, such that they have hooks, at any location
surrounding the first plate. For example, the fastener may contain
four such plates where two plates extend on either side of the
first plate parallel to the first plate and two other plates extend
on either side of the first plate perpendicular to the first plate.
A plate similar to the first plate may also extend above the first
plate, i.e., coaxial and coplanar with the first plate.
Alternatively, the first plate may be replaced with an anchor used
to secure the framing fastener to a base material.
[0008] A framing system makes use of the above described framing
fastener to secure any number of posts and beams to each other or
to a base material. This is achieved by attaching posts and beams
to the framing fastener by means of fastening rods. A post which
contains a post slot for receiving the first plate of the framing
fastener and a post hole which extends through the post
perpendicular to the post slot is provided. Likewise a beam which
contains a beam slot for receiving the second plate of the framing
fastener and a beam hole that extends through the beam
perpendicular to the beam slot is provided. The first plate is
placed in the post slot and secured with one or more fastening rods
running through the post hole(s) and hole(s) of the first plate of
the framing fastener. A fastening rod is placed through the beam
holes. The beam is then lifted over the second plate such that the
second plate is received within the beam slot and secured when the
fastening rod slides into the hook on the second plate of the
framing fastener. If more holes exist in the beam and the second
plate, further fastening rods are inserted through these
corresponding holes to further secure the beam to the framing
fastener. A beam may be secured to two posts on either end of the
beam simultaneously.
[0009] Accordingly, the above described framing fastener, framing
system and method for constructing buildings or structures requires
a small set of framing fasteners, fastening rods, beams, and posts.
A standard type of beam, post, and fastening rod can be used at
each junction. Only the framing fastener configuration will change
depending on its use. One advantage of using a small set of
components is that one can easily and inexpensively construct a
building or structure using unskilled labor in a short amount of
time.
[0010] For a better understanding of the nature and objects of the
invention reference should be made to the following detailed
description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings
described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a framing system, according
to an embodiment of the invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the framing system shown in
FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a framing fastener, according
to an embodiment of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of another framing fastener,
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0015] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of yet another framing fastener,
according to yet another embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one other framing fastener,
according to one other embodiment of the invention;
[0017] FIGS. 7A and 7B are isometric views of other framing
fasteners, according to other embodiments of the invention;
[0018] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of yet another framing fastener,
according yet another embodiment of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of still another framing
fastener, according to still another embodiment of the
invention;
[0020] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of yet another framing
fastener, according to yet another embodiment of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of another framing fastener,
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 12A is a side cross-sectional view of a framing system,
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 12B is front cross-sectional view of the framing system
shown in FIG. 12A;
[0024] FIG. 13A is a side cross-sectional view of yet another
framing system, according to yet another embodiment of the
invention; and
[0025] FIG. 13B is a front cross-sectional view of the framing
system shown in FIG. 13A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] The following describes a framing system used to construct,
assemble, or build a building or structure that includes posts and
beams held together by framing fasteners and fastening rods. The
posts and the beams serve the purpose of supporting the walls,
ceilings, and floors of a building or other structure. The posts
generally provide vertical support elements of the structure, and
the beams generally provide horizontal support elements of the
structure. Any combination of posts and beams can be used to
construct a building or structure having one or more floors. The
framing system may generally be used to attach: one post to one
beam; one post to a base material; two opposing beams to a post;
two beams disposed at right angles to one another to a post; three
beams, where two are opposite each other and the third is
substantially perpendicular to the other two, to a post; four
beams, each being at right angles to a neighboring beam, to a post;
a beam or beams extending from a post at right angles; a beam or
beams extending from the post at obtuse or acute angles; or a first
post attached to a second post.
Details of the Framing System Will Now be Described.
[0027] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a framing system 100
according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded
view of the framing system shown in FIG. 1 and shows some elements
not visible and not labeled in FIG. 1. For ease of reference, the
framing system 100 described below in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2
shows a partial view of a single post 102 and a partial view of a
single beam 104. However, as will become evident from the
description of the remainder of the figures, the framing system may
be used to couple multiple beams and multiple posts.
[0028] The basic elements of the framing system 100 described below
may be used to couple beams and posts to one another to assemble a
building or structure having one or more floors. In general, this
building or structure has vertical posts and horizontal beams.
However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that any structure,
such as building having sloped or curved walls, may also be
constructed using the framing system 100 described below. Please
note that the use of the term vertical refers to an axis that is
parallel to a gravity vector, and the term horizontal refers to an
axis perpendicular to the gravity vector.
[0029] The framing system 100 includes a post 102, a beam 104, a
framing fastener 106, and fastening rods 108. Once assembled, the
post 102 supports the beam 104 using the framing fastener 106 and
fastening rods 108.
[0030] The heights, widths, and lengths of the post 102 (H.sub.P,
W.sub.P, L.sub.P) and beam 104 (H.sub.B, W.sub.B, L.sub.B) may be
any suitable dimensions dictated by engineering statics
calculations and building codes. In addition, the post 102 and beam
104 may be made out of any suitable material such as wood, particle
board, pressboard, metal, or plastic. In some embodiments, the post
and beam are made from laminated veneer lumber (LVL), laminated
strand lumber (LSL), glue-laminated lumber (GLULAM), parallel
strand lumber (PSL), or composite lumber, which exhibit little
warpage winding or shrinkage. To reduce costs and simplify
manufacturing and construction, standard lumber may be used. For
example, the post 102 and beam 104 may be the standard dimensioned
lumber, such as 2''.times.4'' or 4''.times.4'', commonly used in
wooden frame construction in the United States.
[0031] In one embodiment the posts 102 and beams 104 have the same
dimensions and contain the identical slots and holes (described
below) such that each can be used interchangeably with the other.
In other embodiments the posts 102 and beams 104 may be
manufactured with different dimensions, slots and holes to one
another. Furthermore, some specialized applications may require
posts 102 or beams 104 with different configurations.
[0032] The post 102 defines a slot 116 (not shown in FIG. 1) at one
or both of its opposing ends 112 and 114. Similarly, the beam 104
defines a slot 128 at one or both of its opposing ends 125 and 126.
The slots 116 and 128 may extend completely across the end of the
post or beam, or the slots 116 and 128 may extend only far enough
to receive the framing fastener 106. The post 102 may also include
one or more holes 118 extending through the post near its end(s)
such that the holes 118 from each side of the slot 116 are aligned.
Similarly, the beam 104 may include one or more holes 130 near its
end(s) such that the holes 130 at each side of the slot 128 are
aligned. The slot 116 defined in the post (or post slot) and the
slot 128 defined in the beam (or beam slot) are typically formed by
cutting the post and beam with a saw, such as a circular saw or the
like, that cuts entirely through the end of the post 102 or beam
104, as shown. Alternatively, as mentioned above, the slots 116 and
128 may also be cut just large enough to receive the framing
fastener 106. The post holes 118 and beam holes 130 are typically
made by drilling entirely through the ends of the post 102 or beam
104 perpendicular to the slots 116 and 128. The holes 118 and 130
are located such that they are aligned with the framing fastener
holes 120 and/or the framing fastener hook 110 (described below).
The post and bean may include as few or as many post holes 118 and
beam holes 130 as required; however, most embodiments require
multiple post holes 118 and at least one beam hole 130.
[0033] In its simplest form, the framing fastener 106 includes a
first plate 122 and a second plate 124. Each of the first and
second plates has substantially flat opposing sides separated by a
predetermined thickness of the plates. In this embodiment, the
first plate 122 is disposed co-planar with, and at a right angle
(A) to, the second plate. The first plate 122 defines at least one
hole 120 there through that extends from one flat side of the plate
122 to the other. In some embodiments, the second plate 124 also
defines one or more holes 121 there through, although such holes
121 are not required in all embodiments.
[0034] The second plate 124 further defines a framing fastener hook
110 that is formed near one edge of the plate. In some embodiments,
the framing fastener hook 110 defines a recess with substantially
sloping hook side walls 132 that join at a seat 134. Once
assembled, the seat 134 supports a fastening rod 108 that extends
through the beam hole 130 located near an end 126 of the beam
104.
[0035] The framing fastener 106 can be made of any material capable
of withstanding the compressive and tensile forces necessary to
support the structure, and may, for example, be a metal, plastic,
or a composite material. In some embodiments the framing fastener
106 may be made of, covered or treated with a non-corrosive
material, such as a galvanized or anodized metal or aluminum.
However, it should be appreciated by one skilled in the art that
the material and dimensions of the framing fastener may be varied
based on the weight and size of the post 102 and beam 104, the
weight being carried by the framing fastener 106 (e.g., one or more
floors), the type of post 102 and beam 104 used (e.g. metal or
wood), or the like.
[0036] In embodiments of the framing fastener 106 where the plates
are arranged substantially coplanar to each other (see FIG. 3), the
framing fastener 106 may be manufactured by stamping all the plates
as an integral unit. In other embodiments, the plates are cut to
shape by a laser, water jet, plasma, or die cutting process, or are
formed in molds, as an integral unit. In the embodiments where the
plates are disposed substantially perpendicular to each other (see
FIG. 7), the plates may be cut to size, such as by stamping or
laser cutting, and subsequently welded or otherwise bonded
together. Alternatively, the plates may be cast as a single
unit.
[0037] The fastening rods 108 are configured to couple the framing
fastener 106 to a corresponding post 102 or beam 104. In some
embodiments, the fastening rod 108 is a nail, screw, bolt, or drift
pin. FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment in which the fastening rods
108 are a bolt having a smooth shaft with threads formed at one end
thereof and a head at the other. A nut is then used to secure the
bolt to the beam 104 or post 102.
[0038] Alternatively, a drift pin may be used. A drift pin is a pin
held in place by friction. It is configured with a smooth surface
diameter that is similar to the diameter of the hole into which it
is inserted. One end of the drift pin is covered with knurling,
bumps, or ridges extending out from the smooth surface. When the
drift pin is hammered into a hole the knurling, bumps, or ridges
either deform or they deform the interior surface of the hole,
thereby forming a frictional lock with the surface of the hole to
secure the drift pin in the hole.
[0039] Each fastening rod 108 is made of any material capable of
withstanding the compressive and tensile forces necessary to
support the structure such as metal, plastic, or a composite
material. In some embodiments the fastening rod 108 may be made of
or covered with a non-corrosive material such as a galvanized or
anodized metal or aluminum.
[0040] In use, a structure is assembled by using the beams 104,
posts 102, framing fasteners 106, and fastening rods 108 described
above. The posts 102 and beams 104 are used to support walls,
floors, ceilings, roofs, and other framing elements of a structure.
A description of the assembly of the framing system follows.
[0041] Initially, a first plate 122 of the framing fastener 106 is
inserted into a slot 116 in the post 102. The framing fastener 106
is secured to the post 102 by inserting one or more fastening rods
108 through the holes 118 in the post 102 and through the holes 120
in the first plate 122. This may be performed by hammering a drift
pin into a hole 118 in the post 102, by inserting a bolt into a
hole 118 and threading a nut 136 onto the end of the bolt, or by
any other suitable fastening method. Other fastening rod(s) 108 may
also be secured to the post 102.
[0042] A fastening rod 138 is then inserted through the holes 130
in the beam 104 and secured in place any suitable method. The beam
104 is then lifted over the framing fastener 106 and lowered such
that the fastening rod 138 secured to the beam 104 contacts the
sloping walls 132 of the framing fastener hook 110 and is guided
into the seat 134 of the fastener hook 110. This allows the beam
104 to be supported by the framing fastener 106, which in turn is
held in position by the fastening rods 108 securing the framing
fastener 106 to the post 102.
[0043] It should be appreciated that while the above description
only describes one side of the beam, the opposing end of the beam
may also be supported by a similar framing fastener coupled to
another post. In other words, the beam 104 may be lifted into place
and supported by opposing posts and framing fasteners at each end
of the beam 104. It should be appreciated that fastening rod 138
may be the same as fastening rod 108.
[0044] After the beam 104 is lowered into place, additional
fastening rods 142 may be inserted into additional holes 131 in the
beam and the additional holes 121 in the second plate 140 of the
framing fastener 106. These additional fastening rods 142 are
secured in place, as described above, to securely couple the beam
104 to the framing fastener 106. It should be appreciated that
fastening rod 142 may be the same as fastening rod 108.
[0045] As will be described below in relation to FIGS. 4 to 11,
depending on the configuration of the framing fastener 106, more
beams 104 may be hung on the framing fastener 106 in a similar
manner to that described above until the desired number of beams
104 extend from the framing fastener 106. In the embodiment
described in relation to FIG. 4 below, following the securing of
all of the beams 104, another post 102 may be secured to the top of
the framing fastener 106 by means of one or more fastening rods
108. However, for ease of assembly, the top post 102 may be secured
to the framing fastener 106 before the beams 104 are hung. The
general steps of securing the posts 102 to the framing fastener 106
and hanging the beams 104 on the framing fastener 106 are repeated
until the structure is fully assembled.
[0046] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the framing fastener 300,
which is the same as that shown and described in relation to FIGS.
1 and 2. As described above the framing fastener 300 includes a
first plate 302 defining at least one hole 306 therein and a second
plate 304 defining a framing fastener hook 308 with sloping hook
sidewalls 310 that join at a seat 312. In this embodiment the first
plate 302 and the second plate 304 are substantially coplanar to
each other.
[0047] In some embodiments, the first plate 302 defines one hole
306, while in other embodiments the first plate 302 defines two or
more holes 306. Similarly, the second plate 304 may define one or
more holes 314. FIG. 3 shows an embodiment in which the first plate
302 defines four holes 306 and the second plate 304 defines one
hole 314.
[0048] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of another framing fastener 400,
according to another embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 4 the
framing fastener 400 includes three plates 402, 404, 416. The first
plate 402 is substantially the same as the first plate 302 shown in
FIG. 3. The second plate 404 is substantially the same as the
second plate 304 shown in FIG. 3. The third plate 416 is
substantially the same as the first plate 302 in FIG. 3 but is
attached above the first plate 402, i.e., substantially coplanar
and coaxial with the first plate 402. This third plate 416 allows
an additional post to be coupled to the framing fastener 400
directly above and collinear with the first post (102 of FIG. 1).
In some embodiments the third plate 416 defines one or more holes
406 there through, as with the first plate 302 described in FIG. 3.
All of the plates 402, 404, 416 in FIG. 4 are substantially
coplanar to each other. The additional post may be coupled to the
third plate in a similar manner to the coupling of the post (e.g.,
102 of FIG. 1) to the first plate (e.g., 122 of FIG. 1) as
described in relation to FIG. 1.
[0049] Another embodiment not explicitly shown contains a first
plate 402 and a third plate 416 attached above the first plate 402
but with no second plate 404. This embodiment may be used to join
two posts to one another without any beams extending from the
fastener. This type of fastener might be used, for example, to
increase the length of a post.
[0050] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of yet another framing fastener
500 according to yet another embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 5
the framing fastener 500 includes three plate 502, 504, 514. The
first plate 502 is substantially the same as the first plate 302
shown in FIG. 3. The second plate 504 is substantially the same as
the second plates 304 shown in FIG. 3. The third plate 514 is
attached to the opposite side of the first plate 502 and is
substantially the same as, but mirrors, the second plate 504. In
some embodiments the third plate 514 defines no holes 506 or one or
more holes 506 just like the second plate 304 shown in FIG. 3. All
the plates are substantially coplanar to each other. This
embodiment allows an additional beam to be coupled to the third
plate 514 in a similar manner to the coupling of the beam (e.g.,
104 of FIG. 1) to the second plate (e.g., 140 of FIG. 1), i.e., two
opposing beams are coupled to a top of a post to form a T-shaped
structure, as described in relation to FIG. 1.
[0051] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one other framing fastener
600, according to one other embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 6
the framing fastener 600 includes four plates 602, 604, 614, 616.
The first plate 602 is substantially the same as the first plate
302 shown in FIG. 3. The second plate 604 is substantially the same
as the second plate 304 shown in FIG. 3. The third plate 614 is
substantially the same as the third plate 514 shown in FIG. 5. The
fourth plate 616 is attached above the first plate 602 and is
substantially similar to the third plate 416 shown in FIG. 4. In
some embodiments the fourth plate 616 contains one or more holes
606 just like the first plate 302 plate shown in FIG. 3. All the
plates are substantially coplanar to each other. This embodiment
allows two opposing beams and a post to be coupled to a supporting
post to form a plus-sign shaped structure.
[0052] FIG. 7A is an isometric view of another framing fastener 700
according to another embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 7A the
framing fastener 700 includes a wedge shaped anchor 718 and three
plates 704, 716, 714. The first plate 704 attaches to one side of
the anchor 718 and is substantially the same as the second plate
604 shown in FIG. 6. The second plate 716 is attached directly
above the anchor 718 and is substantially the same as the fourth
plate 616 shown in FIG. 6. The third plate 714 is attached to the
opposite side of the anchor 718 and is substantially the same as
the fourth plate 616 shown in FIG. 6. All the plates are
substantially coplanar to each other.
[0053] The anchor 718 is used instead of a plate as described in
any of the previous or following embodiments of the framing
fastener 700. The anchor 718 is used to secure the framing fastener
700 in a suitable base material, such as concrete. The anchor 718
may be of any shape such that it secures the framing fastener 700
to the base material. It could be a substantially flat wedge-shaped
(as shown), or a deformed rod or plate, as shown by reference
numeral 720 in FIG. 7B. FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a configuration
of the framing fastener 700 that could be used to support two side
floor beams and a post.
[0054] When an anchor 718 is used in assembling the ground floor of
a building or structure an anchoring step is added to the assembly
process. In other words, initially, the anchor 718 is secured into
the base material such as a concrete foundation. In some
embodiments, a post (e.g., 102 in FIG. 1) is secured to the framing
fastener 700 by the same method as described above. Finally the
beam(s) (e.g., 104 in FIG. 1) are attached to the framing fastener
700 by the same method as described above. In other embodiments the
first floor is assembled by another means that does not include an
anchor 718.
[0055] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of yet another framing fastener
800. In FIG. 8 the framing fastener 800 includes three plates 802,
804, 818. The first plate 802 is substantially the same as the
first plate 302 shown in FIG. 3. The second plate 804 is
substantially the same as the second plate 304 shown in FIG. 3. The
third plate 818 is attached to one side of the first plate 802
substantially perpendicular to the first plate 802. The third plate
818 is substantially the same as the first plate 802 in
configuration. The number of holes 806 in each plate may vary as
described in previous embodiments.
[0056] Another embodiment not explicitly shown contains a first
plate 802 and a third plate 818 attached substantially
perpendicular to the first plate 802 but without a second plate
804. This embodiment might be used to attach a post (e.g., 102 in
FIG. 1) to a beam (e.g., 104 in FIG. 1) in the same fashion as
described in FIG. 1.
[0057] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of still another framing
fastener 900. In FIG. 9 the framing fastener 900 includes four
plates 902, 904, 916, 918. The first plate 902 is substantially the
same as the first plate 802 described in FIG. 8. The second plate
904 is substantially the same as the second 804 plate described in
FIG. 8. The third plate 918 is substantially the same as the third
plate 818 described in FIG. 8. The fourth plate 916 is attached
above the first plate 902 and is substantially the same as the
fourth plate 616 described in FIG. 6. The number of holes 906 in
each plate may vary as described in previous embodiments.
[0058] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of yet another framing fastener
1000. In FIG. 10 the framing fastener 1000 includes five plates
1002, 1004, 1014, 1016, 1018. The first plate 1002 is substantially
the same as the first plate 802 described in FIG. 8. The second
plate 1004 is substantially the same as the second 804 plate
described in FIG. 8. The third plate 1016 is substantially the same
as the fourth plate 916 described in FIG. 9. The fourth plate 1014
is substantially the same as the third plate 614 described in FIG.
6. The fifth plate 1018 is substantially the same as the third
plate 818 described in FIG. 8. The number of holes in each plate
may vary as described in previous embodiments.
[0059] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of another framing fastener
1100. In FIG. 11 the framing fastener 1100 includes six plates 112,
1104, 1114, 1116, 1118, 1120. The first plate 1102 is substantially
the same as the first plate 1002 described in FIG. 10. The second
plate 1104 is substantially the same as the second plate 1004 plate
described in FIG. 10. The third plate 1116 is substantially the
same as the third plate 1016 described in FIG. 10. The fourth plate
1114 is substantially the same as the fourth plate 1014 described
in FIG. 10. The fifth plate 1118 is substantially the same as the
fifth plate 1018 described in FIG. 10. The sixth plate 1120 is
attached to the other side of the first plate 1102 substantially
perpendicular to the first plate 1102 opposite and a mirror image
of the fifth plate 1118. The number of holes 1106 in each plate may
vary as described in previous embodiments.
[0060] FIG. 12A is a side cross-sectional view of a framing system
1200, and FIG. 12B is a front cross-sectional view of the same
framing system 1200. The fastener 1206 is the same as the fastener
700 shown in FIG. 7. The framing system 1200 includes a base
material 1204, an anchor 1212, a post 1202, a framing fastener
1206, and fastening rods 1208. This framing system 1200 is used to
secure a framing structure to a foundation or base material.
Typically this is done by setting the anchor 1212 into a suitable
base material 1204, such as concrete, and allowing the base
material to set or harden.
[0061] The post 1202 is attached above the base material 1204 on
the first plate 1218 by means of fastening rods 1208 that extend
through holes in the post 1202 and the first plate 1218 of the
framing fastener 1206. In some embodiments only one fastening rod
1208 may be used to secure the post 1202 to the framing fastener
1206. However, more than one fastening rod 1208 prevents rotation
of the post 1202 about the fastener 1206. This embodiment uses four
fastening rods 1208.
[0062] The first plate 1218, second plate 1214, and the third plate
1216 are used to secure beams on either side of the post 1202 by
means of fastening rods 1208 sliding into the framing fastener hook
1210. For ease of description, the beams are not shown in FIG. 12B.
It should be appreciated that the second plate 1214 and the third
plate 1216 are optional.
[0063] FIG. 13A is a side cross-sectional view of another framing
system 1300, and FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional side view of the
framing system 1300 shown in FIG. 13A. The fastener 1306 is the
same as that shown in FIG. 6. The framing system 1300 includes two
posts 1302, two beams 1304, a framing fastener 1306, and fastening
rods 1308. This framing system 1300 is used to secure beams 1304
and posts 1302 together to support walls, ceilings, and floors of a
structure. Another embodiment could include one or two more beams
extending substantially perpendicular to the beams shown in FIG.
13A.
[0064] A lower post 1302 is attached to the first plate 1312 by
means of fastening rods 1308 that extend through holes in the post
1302 and the first plate 1312 of the framing fastener 1306. An
upper post 1302 is attached above the beams 1304 on the second
plate 1318 by means of fastening rods 1308 that extend through
holes in the post 1302 and the second plate 1318 of the framing
fastener 1306. In some embodiments only one fastening rod 1308 is
used to secure each post 1302 to the framing fastener 1306. In
other embodiments two or more fastening rods 1308 may be used. This
embodiment uses four fastening rods 1308 in each post 1302 of which
two fastening rods 1308 are visible for each post 1302 from this
view.
[0065] Each beam 1304 is attached to a plate on the framing
fastener 1306 by means of a fastening rod 1308 positioned into a
framing fastener hook 1310. In FIG. 13A the end of one of the beams
1304 and one fastening rod 1308 are shown. Other embodiments may
include one or more holes 1308 in the beams 1304 and framing
fastener 1306 through which more fastening rods 1308 may be
driven.
[0066] Each beam 1304 is attached to a plate on the framing
fastener 1306 by means of a fastening rod 1308 slid into a framing
fastener hook 1310. Other embodiments may include one or more holes
1308 in the beams 1304 and framing fastener 1306 through which more
fastening rods 1308 may be driven. FIG. 13B shows an embodiment
using one fastening rod 1308 to support each beam 1304.
[0067] Accordingly, the above described system and method for
constructing buildings or structures requires a small set of
framing fasteners (see FIGS. 4-11 below), fastening rods, beams,
and posts. A standard type of beam, post, and fastening rod can be
used at each junction. Only the framing fastener configuration will
change depending on its use (i.e. whether it is supporting a wall
junction, an external corner junction, and internal corner
junction, etc.). The advantage of using a small set of components
is that one can easily and inexpensively construct a building or
structure. Furthermore, the method of construction using this small
set of components does not require skilled labor, which further
reduces construction costs. Also, the construction time is lower as
compared to traditional construction techniques.
[0068] While the foregoing description and drawings represent the
preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be
understood that various additions, modifications and substitutions
may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present invention as defined in the accompanying claims. In
particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the
present invention may be embodied in other specific forms,
structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements,
materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or
essential characteristics thereof. The presently disclosed
embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as
illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being
indicated by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing
description.
* * * * *