U.S. patent application number 12/140365 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-01 for architectural connectors for modular framing systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to KieranTimberlake Associates, LLP. Invention is credited to Edward Paul Boa, Vassil Alexandrov Draganov, Stephen James Kieran, Jon Eric Morrison, Hans Rainer Porschitz, Marilia Beatriz Martelli Rodrigues, James Timberlake.
Application Number | 20090000235 12/140365 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40158789 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090000235 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kieran; Stephen James ; et
al. |
January 1, 2009 |
ARCHITECTURAL CONNECTORS FOR MODULAR FRAMING SYSTEMS
Abstract
Connectors for modular framing systems having T-shaped slots are
disclosed. The connectors connect framing members to each other or
connect floor panels to framing members. Architectural structures
and modular framing systems containing the connectors are also
disclosed.
Inventors: |
Kieran; Stephen James;
(Moylan, PA) ; Rodrigues; Marilia Beatriz Martelli;
(Philadelphia, PA) ; Morrison; Jon Eric;
(Downingtown, PA) ; Draganov; Vassil Alexandrov;
(Chevy Chase, MD) ; Boa; Edward Paul; (Alstead,
NH) ; Porschitz; Hans Rainer; (Alstead, NH) ;
Timberlake; James; (Philadelphia, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CAESAR, RIVISE, BERNSTEIN,;COHEN & POKOTILOW, LTD.
11TH FLOOR, SEVEN PENN CENTER, 1635 MARKET STREET
PHILADELPHIA
PA
19103-2212
US
|
Assignee: |
KieranTimberlake Associates,
LLP
Philadelphia
PA
|
Family ID: |
40158789 |
Appl. No.: |
12/140365 |
Filed: |
June 17, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60944852 |
Jun 19, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/656.9 ;
52/36.5; 52/710 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04B 1/24 20130101; E04B
2001/2496 20130101; E04B 2001/2415 20130101; E04B 2001/2451
20130101; E04B 2001/2475 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/656.9 ;
52/710; 52/36.5 |
International
Class: |
E04C 2/38 20060101
E04C002/38; E04B 1/38 20060101 E04B001/38; E04B 2/58 20060101
E04B002/58 |
Claims
1. A connector for joining a framing member of a modular framing
system to an architectural element, the framing member having at
least one T-shaped slot extending lengthwise along at least one
surface of the framing member, said connector comprising: a first
leg comprising: (a) a first proximal face adapted to contact a
surface of the framing member and span across at least one T-shaped
slot of the framing member, and (b) a first distal face opposite
the first proximal face; a plurality of first holes through the
first leg, wherein the first holes are adapted to receive bolts
also received by at least one T-shaped slot of the framing member;
at least one first projection on the first proximal face of the
first leg, wherein the at least one first projection is adapted to
be received by the framing member, provided that the first leg is
adapted to be reversibly attached to the framing member by the
bolts and the at least one first projection; a second leg attached
to the first leg at an angle from 1 to 179 degrees; and second
holes through the second leg and adapted to receive bolts for
reversibly attaching the connector to the architectural
element.
2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first leg is adapted to
span across at least two parallel T-shaped slots of one surface the
framing member.
3. The connector of claim 1, further comprising nuts and bolts
adapted to reversibly join to form fasteners having a T-shaped
terminus sized to fit within the at least one T-shaped slot.
4. The connector of claim 1, wherein the angle is 89-91
degrees.
5. The connector of claim 1, wherein the architectural element is
an additional framing member.
6. The connector of claim 5, wherein the second leg comprises: a
second proximal face adapted to contact a surface of the additional
framing member and span across at least one T-shaped slot of the
additional framing member; at least one second projection on the
second proximal face of the second leg, wherein the at least one
second projection is adapted to be received by the additional
framing member; and a second distal face opposite the second
proximal face, wherein: (a) the second holes are adapted to receive
bolts also received by at least one T-shaped slot of the additional
framing member, and (b) the second leg is adapted to be reversibly
attached to the additional framing member by the bolts and the at
least one second projection retained by the additional framing
member.
7. The connector of claim 6, wherein the first leg is adapted to
span across at least two parallel T-shaped slots of one surface of
the framing member and the second leg is adapted to span across at
least two parallel T-shaped slots of one surface of the additional
framing member.
8. The connector of claim 6, wherein a first width of the first
proximal face is equivalent to a width of the surface of the
framing member, and a second width of the second proximal face is
equivalent to a width of the surface of the additional framing
member.
9. The connector of claim 6, further comprising a gusset joined
between the distal faces of the first and second legs.
10. The connector of claim 9, further comprising a clevis attached
to the gusset, a turnbuckle attached to the clevis and a threaded
rod attached to the turnbuckle.
11. The connector of claim 1, wherein the architectural element is
flooring.
12. The connector of claim 11, wherein the second leg comprises a
load bearing face adapted to contact the flooring.
13. The connector of claim 11, wherein a first width of the first
proximal face is equivalent to a width of the surface of the
framing member.
14. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first leg and the second
leg are formed from a single mass of at least one metal, or the
first leg and the second leg are formed from more than one mass of
at least one metal.
15. The connector of claim 1, comprising a metallic core coated
with a non-metallic coating.
16. The connector of claim 15, wherein the metallic core comprises
steel and the non-metallic coating comprises an epoxy.
17. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first holes are adapted
to receive no bolts from T-shaped slots that receive at least one
projection.
18. A connector for joining two framing members of a modular
framing system, each framing member having at least one T-shaped
slot extending lengthwise along at least one surface of each
framing member, said connector comprising: a first leg comprising:
(a) a first proximal face adapted to contact a first surface of a
first framing member and span across at least two parallel T-shaped
slots of the first framing member, and (b) a first distal face
opposite the first proximal face; a plurality of first holes
through the first leg, wherein the first holes are adapted to
receive bolts also received by at least two T-shaped slots of the
first framing member; at least one first projection on the first
proximal face of the first leg, wherein the at least one first
projection is adapted to be received by at least one opening in the
first framing member, provided that the first leg is adapted to be
reversibly attached to the first framing member by the bolts and
the at least one first projection; a second leg joined to the first
leg at an angle of 89-91 degrees, and comprising: (a) a second
proximal face adapted to contact a second surface of a second
framing member and span across at least two parallel T-shaped slots
of the second framing member, and (b) a second distal face opposite
the second proximal face; a plurality of second holes through the
second leg, wherein the second holes are adapted to receive bolts
also received by at least two T-shaped slots of the second framing
member; and at least one second projection on the second proximal
face of the second leg, wherein the at least one second projection
is adapted to be received by at least one opening in the second
framing member, provided that the second leg is adapted to be
reversibly attached to the second framing member by the bolts and
the at least one second projection.
19. The connector of claim 18, further comprising nuts and bolts
adapted to reversibly join to form fasteners having a T-shaped
terminus sized to fit within the T-shaped slots.
20. The connector of claim 18, adapted to withstand a vertical
force of at least 6 kips and a horizontal force of at least 3
kips.
21. The connector of claim 18, further comprising a gusset joined
between the first distal face of the first leg and the second
distal face of the second leg.
22. The connector of claim 21, further comprising a clevis attached
to the gusset, a turnbuckle attached to the clevis and a threaded
rod attached to the turnbuckle.
23. The connector of claim 22, adapted to withstand a vertical
force of at least 8.5 kips, a horizontal force of at least 8.5 kips
and a diagonal force of at least 10 kips.
24. A connector for joining a framing member of a modular framing
system to a floor, the framing member having T-shaped slots
extending lengthwise along at least one surface of the framing
member, said connector comprising: a first leg comprising: (a) a
proximal face adapted to contact a surface of the framing member
and span across at least two parallel T-shaped slots of the framing
member, and (b) a distal face opposite the proximal face; a
plurality of first holes through the first leg and aligned with at
least two T-shaped slots of the framing member, such that the first
holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at least two
T-shaped slots of the framing member; at least one first projection
on the proximal face of the first leg, and adapted to be received
within at least one T-shaped slot of the framing member; a second
leg joined to the first leg; and second holes through the second
leg and adapted to receive fasteners for reversibly fastening the
second leg to the floor.
25. The connector of claim 24, adapted to withstand a vertical
force of at least 4.5 kips and a horizontal force of at least 0.5
kips.
26. A connector for joining two framing members of a modular
framing system, each framing member having at least one T-shaped
slot extending lengthwise along at least one surface of each
framing member, said connector comprising: a proximal face adapted
to contact a surface of a first framing member and span across at
least one T-shaped slot of the first framing member; a distal face
opposite the proximal face; a plurality of first holes through the
connector, wherein the first holes are adapted to receive first
bolts also received by at least one T-shaped slot of the first
framing member; at least one projection on the proximal face and
adapted to be received by the first framing member; and a plurality
of second holes through the connector, wherein the second holes are
adapted to receive second bolts also received by an end of a second
framing member such that the first framing member is reversibly
attached to the second framing member.
27. A connector for joining a diagonal compression brace to two
framing members of a modular framing system, each framing member
having at least one T-shaped slot extending lengthwise along at
least one surface of each framing member, said connector
comprising: a first wing comprising: (a) a first proximal face
adapted to contact a first surface of a first framing member and
span across at least two parallel T-shaped slots of the first
framing member, and (b) a first distal face opposite the first
proximal face; a plurality of first holes through the first wing,
wherein the first holes are adapted to receive bolts also received
by at least two T-shaped slots of the first framing member; at
least one first projection on the first proximal face of the first
wing, wherein the at least one first projection is adapted to be
received by at least one opening in the first framing member,
provided that the first wing is adapted to be reversibly attached
to the first framing member by the bolts and the at least one first
projection; a base joined to the first wing at a first angle; a
second wing joined to the base at a second angle, and comprising:
(a) a second proximal face adapted to contact a second surface of a
second framing member and span across at least two parallel
T-shaped slots of the second framing member, and (b) a second
distal face opposite the second proximal face; a plurality of
second holes through the second wing, wherein the second holes are
adapted to receive bolts also received by at least two T-shaped
slots of the second framing member; at least one second projection
on the second proximal face of the second wing, wherein the at
least one second projection is adapted to be received by at least
one opening in the second framing member, provided that the second
wing is adapted to be reversibly attached to the second framing
member by the bolts and the at least one second projection; and a
diagonal compression brace bolt adapted to pass through a hole in
the base and reversibly attach a diagonal compression brace to the
base.
28. An architectural structure comprising: a foundation at least
partially embedded in soil; a frame reversibly attached to the
foundation and comprising framing members reversibly held together
by first connectors; floors reversibly attached to the frame by
second connectors; walls reversibly attached to at least one of the
frame and the floors; and a roof reversible attached to the frame,
wherein the architectural structure is adapted to withstand winds
of up to 100 mph and the first and second connectors are connectors
in accordance with claim 1.
29. The architectural structure of claim 28, wherein the
architectural structure is located outdoors.
30. The architectural structure of claim 28, wherein the frame is
free of bracing and binding devices other than the framing members
and the first and second connectors.
31. The architectural structure of claim 28, wherein the
architectural structure is a multiple story residence.
32. The architectural structure of claim 28, further comprising a
column to beam connector and a diagonal compression brace
connector.
33. In a modular framing system comprising framing members having
at least one T-shaped slot extending lengthwise along at least one
surface thereof and connectors joining the framing members to each
other, the improvement wherein the connectors comprise at least one
connector according to claim 1.
34. The modular framing system of claim 33, further comprising a
column to beam connector and a diagonal compression brace
connector.
35. In a modular framing system comprising framing members having
at least one T-shaped slot extending lengthwise along at least one
surface thereof and connectors joining the framing members to each
other, the improvement wherein the connectors comprise: a first leg
comprising: (a) a first proximal face contacting a first surface of
a first framing member and spanning across at least two parallel
T-shaped slots of the first framing member, and (b) a first distal
face opposite the first proximal face; a plurality of first holes
through the first leg, wherein the first holes receive bolts also
received by at least two T-shaped slots of the first framing
member; at least one first projection on the first proximal face of
the first leg, wherein the at least one first projection is
received by at least one opening in the first framing member,
provided that the first leg is reversibly attached to the first
framing member by the bolts and the at least one first projection;
a second leg joined to the first leg at an angle of 89-91 degrees,
and comprising: (a) a second proximal face contacting a second
surface of a second framing member and spanning across at least two
parallel T-shaped slots of the second framing member, and (b) a
second distal face opposite the second proximal face; a plurality
of second holes through the second leg, wherein the second holes
receive bolts also received by at least two T-shaped slots of the
second framing member; and at least one second projection on the
second proximal face of the second leg, wherein the at least one
second projection is received by at least one opening in the second
framing member, provided that the second leg is reversibly attached
to the second framing member by the bolts and the at least one
second projection.
36. The modular framing system of claim 35, wherein a first width
of the first proximal face is equivalent to a first width of the
first surface of the first framing member, and a second width of
the second proximal face is equivalent to a second width of the
second surface of the second framing member.
37. The modular framing system of claim 35, further comprising a
gusset joined between the distal faces of the first and second
legs.
38. The modular framing system of claim 37, further comprising a
clevis attached to the gusset, a turnbuckle attached to the clevis
and a threaded rod attached to the turnbuckle.
39. The modular framing system of claim 35, wherein the connectors
comprise a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
40. The modular framing system of claim 39, wherein the metallic
core comprises steel and the non-metallic coating comprises an
epoxy.
41. The modular framing system of claim 35, further comprising a
column to beam connector and a diagonal compression brace
connector.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of Invention
[0002] This invention relates to connectors for framing members of
modular framing systems.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Modular framing systems are used to provide structures with
metal frames without the need for welding. Such systems include
framing members having T-shaped slots running lengthwise along
their faces. The slots are adapted to receive connectors that can
be oriented to cooperate with the interior surfaces of the slots
for positioning and locking, often without mechanical modification
of the framing member. Modular framing systems can be obtained from
a variety of suppliers, including Bosch Rexroth Corp. of Buchanan,
Mich. Bosch Rexroth's current line of products is described in a
catalog entitled "Aluminum Structural Framing System," Version 4.0
(2005), and summarized in the catalog's Introduction and Pictorial
Table of Contents.
[0005] Framing members of a wide variety are available. Bosch
Rexroth alone is a supplier of the following types of connectors:
gussets, foundation brackets, inside-to-outside gussets,
inside-to-inside gussets, corner connectors, connection screws,
bolt connectors, end-to-end connectors, angle connectors, joining
legs and more. In addition, many different connectors for modular
framing systems are described in the patent literature.
[0006] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,901,612 to Canin discloses a
connector having a flat leg mounted for sliding motion in the
T-shaped slot of a first framing member, a screw mounted for
rotation on the leg to project perpendicularly therefrom and a flat
lug integral with the first leg as an extension thereof bent over
the screw. The screw is threaded into a tapped bore opening into
the flat end face of a second framing member while the flat lug is
inserted into a correspondingly shaped groove of the second framing
member to prevent relative rotation of the two framing members.
This patent teaches the removal of material from one of the framing
members at the joint to provide a trench for access to the
connector, which weakens the framing member.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 4,073,113 to Oudot et al. discloses connectors
having a body and a cap which has opposite end portions directed
towards the body with respect to a central portion, the cap in a
first position being insertable into a cavity of a framing member
and being rotatable after insertion from said first position to a
second position in which said end portions lie behind said flanges
of the framing member. The connector further comprises means to
urge together the body and the cap when the cap is in the second
position so as to clamp said flanges, and the body and the cap
being so shaped, as to deform at least one of said flanges during
the clamping thereby securing the connector to the framing member
in a manner inhibiting slippage.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,490,064 to Ducharme teaches a connector
comprising a longitudinally serrated cylindrical portion, an
enlarged head, and a groove circumferentially formed around the
cylindrical portion intermediate the ends thereof. This connector
suffers from the disadvantage that the head of the connector must
be inserted into the slot at the end of a framing member and slid
longitudinally to a desired position.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,481,177 to Wood discloses a connector for
positioning a pair of structural framing members perpendicular to
one another. The connector includes a pair of guides, each guide
being shaped and sized to fit within a T-slot of one of the framing
members for positioning. A strut diagonally connects the pair of
guides, holding the guides in fixed positions relative to one
another, usually mutually perpendicular.
[0010] U.S. Published Patent App. No. 2003/0152422 (Popovski)
discloses a connector in which a T-headed bolt member is biased to
assume a configuration in which it is ready for insertion into or
removal from a T-shaped slot of a frame member and in which, by use
of an activator in movement of the T-shaped bolt member to a locked
position, the bolt member is automatically rotated to assume a
position in which the head of T-shaped bolt engages shoulders of a
T-shaped slot in the frame member.
[0011] U.S. Published Patent App. No. 2005/0076605 (Giaconi)
discloses a method for making a self-supporting framework structure
using a modular framing system including a quickly releasable
connecting and locking device for joining the extruded sections of
the structure and the supporting boards applied to them.
[0012] Despite the foregoing developments, there is still room for
improvement of connectors for modular framing systems.
[0013] All references cited herein are incorporated herein by
reference in their entireties.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention comprises a
connector for joining a framing member of a modular framing system
to an architectural element, the framing member having at least one
T-shaped slot extending lengthwise along at least one surface of
the framing member, said connector comprising:
[0015] a first leg comprising: (a) a first proximal face adapted to
contact a surface of the framing member and span across at least
one T-shaped slot of the framing member, and (b) a first distal
face opposite the first proximal face;
[0016] a plurality of first holes through the first leg, wherein
the first holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at
least one T-shaped slot of the framing member;
[0017] at least one first projection on the first proximal face of
the first leg, wherein the at least one first projection is adapted
to be received by the framing member, provided that the first leg
is adapted to be reversibly attached to the framing member by the
bolts and the at least one first projection;
[0018] a second leg attached to the first leg at an angle from 1 to
179 degrees; and
[0019] second holes through the second leg and adapted to receive
bolts for reversibly attaching the connector to the architectural
element.
[0020] A second aspect of the invention comprises a connector for
joining two framing members of a modular framing system, each
framing member having at least one T-shaped slot extending
lengthwise along at least one surface of each framing member, said
connector comprising:
[0021] a first leg comprising: (a) a first proximal face adapted to
contact a first surface of a first framing member and span across
at least two parallel T-shaped slots of the first framing member,
and (b) a first distal face opposite the first proximal face;
[0022] a plurality of first holes through the first leg, wherein
the first holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at
least two T-shaped slots of the first framing member;
[0023] at least one first projection on the first proximal face of
the first leg, wherein the at least one first projection is adapted
to be received by at least one opening in the first framing member,
provided that the first leg is adapted to be reversibly attached to
the first framing member by the bolts and the at least one first
projection;
[0024] a second leg joined to the first leg at an angle of 89-91
degrees, and comprising: (a) a second proximal face adapted to
contact a second surface of a second framing member and span across
at least two parallel T-shaped slots of the second framing member,
and (b) a second distal face opposite the second proximal face;
[0025] a plurality of second holes through the second leg, wherein
the second holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at
least two T-shaped slots of the second framing member; and
[0026] at least one second projection on the second proximal face
of the second leg, wherein the at least one second projection is
adapted to be received by at least one opening in the second
framing member, provided that the second leg is adapted to be
reversibly attached to the second framing member by the bolts and
the at least one second projection.
[0027] A third aspect of the invention comprises a connector for
joining a framing member of a modular framing system to a floor,
the framing member having T-shaped slots extending lengthwise along
at least one surface of the framing member, said connector
comprising:
[0028] a first leg comprising: (a) a proximal face adapted to
contact a surface of the framing member and span across at least
two parallel T-shaped slots of the framing member, and (b) a distal
face opposite the proximal face;
[0029] a plurality of first holes through the first leg and aligned
with at least two T-shaped slots of the framing member, such that
the first holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at
least two T-shaped slots of the framing member;
[0030] at least one first projection on the proximal face of the
first leg, and adapted to be received within at least one T-shaped
slot of the framing member;
[0031] a second leg joined to the first leg; and
[0032] second holes through the second leg and adapted to receive
fasteners for reversibly fastening the second leg to the floor.
[0033] A fourth aspect of the invention comprises an architectural
structure comprising:
[0034] a foundation at least partially embedded in soil;
[0035] a frame reversibly attached to the foundation and comprising
framing members reversibly held together by first connectors;
[0036] floors reversibly attached to the frame by second
connectors;
[0037] walls reversibly attached to at least one of the frame and
the floors; and
[0038] a roof reversible attached to the frame,
[0039] wherein the architectural structure is adapted to withstand
winds of up to 100 mph and the first and second connectors are
connectors in accordance with the invention.
[0040] A fifth aspect of the invention comprises a modular framing
system comprising connectors comprising:
[0041] a first leg comprising: (a) a first proximal face contacting
a first surface of a first framing member and spanning across at
least two parallel T-shaped slots of the first framing member, and
(b) a first distal face opposite the first proximal face;
[0042] a plurality of first holes through the first leg, wherein
the first holes receive bolts also received by at least two
T-shaped slots of the first framing member;
[0043] at least one first projection on the first proximal face of
the first leg, wherein the at least one first projection is
received by at least one opening in the first framing member,
provided that the first leg is reversibly attached to the first
framing member by the bolts and the at least one first
projection;
[0044] a second leg joined to the first leg at an angle of 89-91
degrees, and comprising: (a) a second proximal face contacting a
second surface of a second framing member and spanning across at
least two parallel T-shaped slots of the second framing member, and
(b) a second distal face opposite the second proximal face;
[0045] a plurality of second holes through the second leg, wherein
the second holes receive bolts also received by at least two
T-shaped slots of the second framing member; and
[0046] at least one second projection on the second proximal face
of the second leg, wherein the at least one second projection is
received by at least one opening in the second framing member,
provided that the second leg is reversibly attached to the second
framing member by the bolts and the at least one second
projection.
[0047] A sixth aspect of the invention comprises a connector for
joining two framing members of a modular framing system, each
framing member having at least one T-shaped slot extending
lengthwise along at least one surface of each framing member, said
connector comprising:
[0048] a proximal face adapted to contact a surface of a first
framing member and span across at least one T-shaped slot of the
first framing member;
[0049] a distal face opposite the proximal face;
[0050] a plurality of first holes through the connector, wherein
the first holes are adapted to receive first bolts also received by
at least one T-shaped slot of the first framing member;
[0051] at least one projection on the proximal face and adapted to
be received by the first framing member; and
[0052] a plurality of second holes through the connector, wherein
the second holes are adapted to receive second bolts also received
by an end of a second framing member such that the first framing
member is reversibly attached to the second framing member.
[0053] A seventh aspect of the invention comprises a connector for
joining a diagonal compression brace to two framing members of a
modular framing system, each framing member having at least one
T-shaped slot extending lengthwise along at least one surface of
each framing member, said connector comprising:
[0054] a first wing comprising: (a) a first proximal face adapted
to contact a first surface of a first framing member and span
across at least two parallel T-shaped slots of the first framing
member, and (b) a first distal face opposite the first proximal
face;
[0055] a plurality of first holes through the first wing, wherein
the first holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at
least two T-shaped slots of the first framing member;
[0056] at least one first projection on the first proximal face of
the first wing, wherein the at least one first projection is
adapted to be received by at least one opening in the first framing
member, provided that the first wing is adapted to be reversibly
attached to the first framing member by the bolts and the at least
one first projection;
[0057] a base joined to the first wing at a first angle;
[0058] a second wing joined to the base at a second angle, and
comprising: (a) a second proximal face adapted to contact a second
surface of a second framing member and span across at least two
parallel T-shaped slots of the second framing member, and (b) a
second distal face opposite the second proximal face;
[0059] a plurality of second holes through the second wing, wherein
the second holes are adapted to receive bolts also received by at
least two T-shaped slots of the second framing member;
[0060] at least one second projection on the second proximal face
of the second wing, wherein the at least one second projection is
adapted to be received by at least one opening in the second
framing member, provided that the second wing is adapted to be
reversibly attached to the second framing member by the bolts and
the at least one second projection; and
[0061] a diagonal compression brace bolt adapted to pass through a
hole in the base and reversibly attach a diagonal compression brace
to the base.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0062] The invention will be described in conjunction with the
following drawings in which like reference numerals designate like
elements and wherein:
[0063] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a moment
connector of the invention joining a beam to a column;
[0064] FIG. 2 is rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
1;
[0065] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a corner
connector of the invention joining a beam to a column;
[0066] FIG. 4 is rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
3;
[0067] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a floor
hanger of the invention mounted on a framing member;
[0068] FIG. 6 is rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
5;
[0069] FIG. 7 is a partial view of an embodiment of an
architectural structure of the invention with a portion of the
construction cut away to show embodiments of the inventive
connectors and an embodiment of a modular framing system of the
invention;
[0070] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a column to
beam connector of the invention;
[0071] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 8
joining a column to a beam;
[0072] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a diagonal
compression brace connector of the invention; and
[0073] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 10
joining a diagonal compression brace to a column-beam joint.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0074] In general, prior art connectors for modular framing members
were not designed for the type, magnitude or duration of loads
required for use in buildings. The load carrying capacity of
certain conventional connectors depends on friction, which depends
on how tight the T-bolts are screwed into the framing members.
Vibration or structural movement may diminish the friction bond of
T-bolts over time. Therefore, there has been too much uncertainty
in conventional modular framing systems for use as a building
structure.
[0075] The connectors of the invention in conjunction with modular
framing members provide frames capable of resisting building code
defined loads (lateral: wind and seismic; and gravity: dead, live,
snow) with safety factors, as required for construction of a
multiple story (e.g., 2, 3, 4 or more story) residential structure.
The load carrying capacity of the inventive connectors is based in
part on shear transfer through projections (e.g., shear pins or
shear blocks) inserted into the slots of the framing members and/or
holes in the framing members, whereby the connectors provide
calculable capacity, redundancy and duration for the joints that
are consistent with use for a building structure.
[0076] Several different embodiments of the inventive connectors
have been developed to connect modular framing members to each
other, and/or to connect modular framing members to other
architectural elements. These include the moment connector, the
corner connector, the floor hanger, the column to beam connector
and the diagonal compression brace connector.
[0077] Moment Connector
[0078] Moment connectors are designed to reversibly connect modular
framing members to each other. Referring to FIG. 1, moment
connector 10 connects beam 12 to column 14. Each of beam 12 and
column 14 is a modular framing member having T-shaped slots 16
running longitudinally along surfaces thereof.
[0079] As shown in FIG. 2, moment connector 10 is preferably
fabricated from a metal angle to which are attached shear pins 18
and through which are holes 20 for T-shaped fasteners 22 comprising
bolts 24 and T-shaped nuts 26. A proximal face of first leg 11
contacts the surface of column 14 and spans across slots 16. A
proximal face of second leg 13 contacts the surface of beam 12 and
spans across slots 16. It is preferred that each leg of the
connector spans across at least one or at least two of the parallel
slots on the surface of an opposing structural member.
[0080] The width of moment connector 10 preferably matches the
width of at least one of beam 12 and column 14, as shown in FIG. 1.
Structural loads are transmitted through moment connector 10 from
beam 12 to column 14 by T-shaped fasteners 22 and shear pins 18
which are preferably drilled and pressed into moment connector 10.
T-shaped fasteners 22 engage T-shaped slots 16 in the modular
framing members, using T-shaped nuts 26 to provide a distributed
friction bond between moment connector 10 and the modular framing
members. Pins 18 are inserted into pre-drilled holes (not shown) in
beam 12 and column 14 to provide a shear attachment by which
gravity and lateral loads are transferred from beam 12 to column
14.
[0081] Similar configurations with different numbers and sizes of
shear pins 18 and T-shaped fasteners 22 may be designed for lesser
or greater load conditions.
[0082] Moment connector 10 comprises at least one durable material.
Suitable materials include but are not limited to metals and metal
alloys, such as, e.g., stainless steel, iron, or the like. Moment
connector 10 is an angle comprising two legs formed from a single
mass of material (e.g., by folding a single plate of at least one
metal to form two legs joined at an angle), or two legs formed from
more than one mass of material (e.g., two legs bonded together to
form an angle). Single mass embodiments can be formed by methods
including but not limited to molding the metal connector in final
form or molding a precursor of the metal connector, and modifying
the precursor to provide the metal connector in final form.
Multiple mass embodiments can be formed by methods including but
not limited to welding or otherwise binding together two leg pieces
to form an angle.
[0083] When moment connector 10 comprises metal, it is preferred to
provide a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
Suitable non-metallic coatings include but are not limited to
electrical insulating materials, thermal insulating materials,
flame retardant materials, corrosion resistant materials and the
like. The most preferred coatings are durable polymers such as an
epoxy. Epoxy coatings prevent corrosion and prevent contact between
dissimilar metals.
[0084] The thickness, length and angle of the legs of the steel
angle may vary depending upon structural requirements for the
joint. For example, in an embodiment of a two-story residential
structure of the invention, each moment connector leg is 0.375''
thick, 5'' long and 3.25'' wide. In certain embodiments, moment
connector legs have a thickness of 0.1-1'' or 0.25-0.75'' or
0.375-0.5'', a length of 1-10'' or 2.5-7.5'' or 4-6'', and a width
of 1-8'' or 2-5''.
[0085] The angle of the legs relative to each other (i.e., between
the distal faces of the legs) is from 1-179.degree., preferably
about 90.degree. (i.e., 89-91.degree.), and more preferably
90.degree., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0086] The size and shape of each of bolts 24, T-shaped nuts 26,
and shear pins 18 may vary depending upon structural requirements
for the joint comprising moment connector 10.
[0087] The term "bolt" as used herein refers to headed fasteners
having external threads suitable for receiving a threaded nut, and
is intended to encompass such fasteners regardless of whether they
are identified as bolts or screws. Bolts in accordance with the
invention can be tapered but are preferably untapered. Bolt size
and composition are dictated by the structural requirements for the
joint. Preferred bolts have a diameter of 5 to 15 mm or 8 mm or 10
mm, and a length of 10 to 50 mm or 20 mm or 30 mm. Bolts comprise
at least one durable material, such as metals and metal alloys,
with stainless steel being most preferred.
[0088] T-shaped nuts 26 are sized to fit within the T-shaped slots
16, and are preferably fabricated of the same materials as the
bolts, with stainless steel being the most preferred material.
[0089] Shear pins 18 are preferably fabricated of the same material
as bolts 24. In preferred embodiments, shear pins 18 have a
diameter of 3/4'' and a length of 1'', with stainless steel being
the most preferred material.
[0090] Moment connectors are preferably used in conjunction with
diagonally braced corner connectors at column to beam joints where
diagonal bracing is not required. Moment connectors are preferably
adapted to withstand a vertical force of at least 6 kips
(kilopounds of force) and a horizontal force of at least 3 kips
when installed.
[0091] Corner Connector
[0092] Corner connectors are designed to reversibly connect modular
framing members to each other to form corners of the building
frame. Referring to FIG. 3, corner connector 28 connects beam 12 to
column 14. Each of beam 12 and column 14 is a modular framing
member having T-shaped slots 16 running longitudinally along
surfaces thereof.
[0093] Elements common to corner connector 28 and moment connector
10 include legs 11 and 13, shear pins 18, and holes 20 for T-shaped
fasteners 22 comprising bolts 24 and T-shaped nuts 26. See FIGS. 3
and 4. In addition, corner connector 28 includes gusset 30 between
the distal faces of the legs of the connector, turnbuckle 32
rotatably fixed to aperture 34 of gusset 30 by grooved pin 36 and
clip 38 of clevis 40, and threaded rod 42 screwed into turnbuckle
32.
[0094] Corner connector 28 is preferably fabricated from a metal
angle. The width of corner connector 28 preferably matches the
width of at least one of beam 12 and column 14, as shown in FIG. 3.
Structural loads are transmitted from corner connector 28 to beam
12 and column 14 by T-shaped fasteners 22 and shear pins 18 which
are preferably drilled and pressed into corner connector 28.
T-shaped fasteners 22 engage T-shaped slots 16 in the modular
framing members, using T-shaped nuts 26 to provide a distributed
friction bond between corner connector 28 and the modular framing
members. Pins 18 are inserted into pre-drilled holes (not shown) in
beam 12 and column 14 to provide a shear attachment by which
gravity and lateral loads are transferred from beam 12 to column
14.
[0095] Similar configurations with different numbers and sizes of
shear pins 18 and T-shaped fasteners 22 may be designed for lesser
or greater load conditions. It is preferred that each leg of the
connector spans across at least one or at least two of the parallel
slots on the surface of an opposing structural member.
[0096] Corner connector 28 comprises at least one durable material.
Suitable materials include but are not limited to metals and metal
alloys, such as, e.g., stainless steel, iron, or the like. Corner
connector 28 is an angle comprising two legs formed from a single
mass of material (e.g., by folding a single plate of at least one
metal to form two legs joined at an angle), or two legs formed from
more than one mass of material (e.g., two legs bonded together to
form an angle). Single mass embodiments can be formed by methods
including but not limited to molding the metal connector in final
form or molding a precursor of the metal connector, and modifying
the precursor to provide the metal connector in final form.
Multiple mass embodiments can be formed by methods including but
not limited to welding or otherwise binding together two leg pieces
to form an angle.
[0097] When corner connector 28 comprises metal, it is preferred to
provide a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
Suitable non-metallic coatings include but are not limited to
electrical insulating materials, thermal insulating materials,
flame retardant materials, corrosion resistant materials and the
like. The most preferred coatings are durable polymers such as an
epoxy. Epoxy coatings prevent corrosion and prevent contact between
dissimilar metals.
[0098] The thickness, length and angle of the legs of the steel
angle may vary depending upon structural requirements for the
joint. For example, in an embodiment of a two-story residential
structure of the invention, each moment connector leg is 0.375''
thick, 8'' long and 3.25'' wide. In certain embodiments, corner
connector legs have a thickness of 0.1-1'' or 0.25-0.75'' or
0.375-0.5'', a length of 1-15'' or 2-10'' or 7-9'', and a width of
1-8'' or 2-5''. The angle of the legs relative to each other (i.e.,
between the distal faces of the legs) is from 1-179.degree.,
preferably about 90.degree. (i.e., 89-91.degree.), and more
preferably 90.degree., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.
[0099] The size and shape of each of bolts 24, T-shaped nuts 26,
and shear pins 18 may vary depending upon structural requirements
for the joint comprising corner connector 28.
[0100] Bolt size and composition are dictated by the structural
requirements for the joint. Preferred bolts have a diameter of 5 to
15 mm or 8 mm or 10 mm, and a length of 10 to 50 mm or 20 mm or 30
mm. Bolts comprise at least one durable material, such as metals
and metal alloys, with stainless steel being most preferred.
[0101] T-shaped nuts 26 are sized to fit within the T-shaped slots
16, and are preferably fabricated of the same materials as the
bolts, with stainless steel being the most preferred material.
[0102] Shear pins 18 are preferably fabricated of the same material
as bolts 24. In preferred embodiments, shear pins 18 have a
diameter of 3/4'' and a length of 1'', with stainless steel being
the most preferred material.
[0103] The diagonal bracing of the corner connector comprises
turnbuckle 32 rotatably fixed to aperture 34 of gusset 30 by
grooved pin 36 and clip 38 of clevis 40, and threaded rod 42
screwed into turnbuckle 32. These components preferably comprise
stainless steel, but can also comprise other durable materials such
as metals and metal alloys.
[0104] When corner connector 28 comprises metal, it is preferred to
provide a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
Suitable non-metallic coatings include but are not limited to
electrical insulating materials, thermal insulating materials,
flame retardant materials, corrosion resistant materials and the
like. The most preferred coatings are durable polymers such as an
epoxy. Epoxy coatings prevent corrosion and prevent contact between
dissimilar metals.
[0105] Diagonally braced corner connectors increase the allowable
vertical and lateral load capacity of the modular framing systems
compared to previously available connectors.
[0106] The corner connectors shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 provide
structural capacity adequate to meet the requirements of a
three-story free-standing residential structure. Similar
configurations with different numbers and sizes of shear pins and
T-shaped fasteners may be designed for lesser or greater load
conditions.
[0107] Corner connectors are preferably adapted to withstand a
vertical force of at least 8.5 kips, a horizontal force of at least
8.5 kips and a diagonal force of at least 10 kips, when
installed.
[0108] Floor Hangers
[0109] FIG. 5 shows a connector in accordance with a third aspect
of the invention, wherein floor hanger 44 is adapted to connect
framing member 46 to another object (not shown). Floor hanger 44 is
particularly suitable for supporting and attaching prefabricated
wood stress skin floor panels (see FIG. 7) to framing member
46.
[0110] Floor hanger 44 is an angle comprising first leg 48 joined
to second leg 50, countersunk bolts 52, T-shaped nuts 54, holes 56
through first leg 48 for receiving bolts 52, holes 58 through
second leg 50 for receiving additional fasteners (e.g., screw
fasteners, not shown) and shear blocks 60. It is preferred that
first leg 48 spans across at least one or at least two of the
parallel slots on the surface of framing member 46.
[0111] Floor hanger 44 can be formed from a single mass of material
(e.g., by folding a single plate of at least one metal to form two
legs joined at an angle), or two legs formed from more than one
mass of material (e.g., two legs bonded together to form an angle).
Single mass embodiments can be formed by methods including but not
limited to molding the metal connector in final form or molding a
precursor of the metal connector, and modifying the precursor to
provide the metal connector in final form. Multiple mass
embodiments can be formed by methods including but not limited to
welding or otherwise binding together two leg pieces to form an
angle.
[0112] When floor hanger 44 comprises metal, it is preferred to
provide a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
Suitable non-metallic coatings include but are not limited to
electrical insulating materials, thermal insulating materials,
flame retardant materials, corrosion resistant materials and the
like. The most preferred coatings are durable polymers such as an
epoxy. Epoxy coatings prevent corrosion and prevent contact between
dissimilar metals.
[0113] The thickness, length and angle of legs 48 and 50 may vary
depending upon structural requirements for the joint. For example,
in an embodiment of a two-story residential structure of the
invention, first leg 48 is 0.375'' thick, 9.625'' long and 6''
wide, and second leg 50 is 0.375'' thick, 2'' long and 6'' wide. In
certain embodiments, first leg 48 has a thickness of 0.1-1'' or
0.25-0.75'' or 0.375-0.5'', a length of 1-12'' or 8-10'', and a
width of 1-10'' or 4-8'', and second leg 50 has a thickness of
0.1-1'' or 0.25-0.75'' or 0.375-0.5'', a length of 0.5-5'' or
1-3'', and a width of 1-10'' or 4-8''.
[0114] In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6, first leg 48 is
a long vertical leg attached to framing member 46, and second leg
50 is a short horizontal leg whose load-bearing face is adapted to
be attached to a floor panel. The length of the vertical leg (first
leg 48) is determined by the thickness of the floor panel. The
short horizontal leg (second leg 50), which supports the floor
panel, is deep enough to permit attachment to the bottom of the
floor panel with threaded fasteners.
[0115] The angle of the legs relative to each other is from
1-179.degree., preferably about 90.degree. (i.e., 89-91.degree.),
and more preferably 90.degree., as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0116] The size and shape of each of bolts 52, T-shaped nuts 54,
and shear blocks 60 may vary depending upon structural requirements
for the joint comprising floor hanger 44.
[0117] Bolt size and composition are dictated by the structural
requirements for the joint. Preferred bolts have a diameter of 5 to
15 mm or 8 mm or 10 mm, and a length of 10 to 50 mm or 20 mm or 30
mm. Preferred bolts for hangers are countersunk, so that the bolt
heads do not protrude beyond the face of the hangers. Bolts
comprise at least one durable material, such as metals and metal
alloys, with stainless steel being most preferred.
[0118] T-shaped nuts 26 are sized to fit within the T-shaped slots
16, and are preferably fabricated of the same materials as the
bolts, with stainless steel being the most preferred material.
[0119] Shear blocks 60 are preferably fabricated of the same
material as bolts 24. In a preferred embodiment, shear blocks 60
comprise rectangular stainless steel bars having a length of
0.375'', a width of 0.5'' and a thickness of 0.375'', and are
welded into a 0.125'' groove in the proximal face of first leg
48.
[0120] Floor hanger is attached to the side of framing member 46 by
countersunk bolts 52. For connection to a shallow beam, the
countersunk fasteners attach to T-block nuts 54, which engage
T-shaped slots 16 of framing member 46. For connection to deeper
I-beams, the countersunk fasteners are through bolts inserted into
pre-drilled holes in the web of the beam. Shear blocks 60 are
inserted into slot 62 in framing member 46 to increase the shear
load capacity of floor hanger 44. Prefabricated floor panels are
preferably sized to fit snuggly within the building frame,
supported by four floor hangers per panel.
[0121] The connector shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 is sized for a 105/8''
deep.times.4' wide floor panel spanning 16 feet. Similar
configurations with different width and number countersunk
connectors may be designed for other floor panel
configurations.
[0122] Preferably, the floor hanger is adapted to withstand a
vertical force of at least 4.5 kips and a horizontal force of at
least 0.5 kips when installed.
[0123] Column to Beam Connector
[0124] Column to beam (CTB) connectors are designed to reversibly
connect columns to beams. Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, CTB connector
70 connects beam 12 to column 14. Each of beam 12 and column 14 is
a modular framing member having T-shaped slots 16 running
longitudinally along surfaces thereof.
[0125] CTB connector 70 is preferably fabricated from a metal plate
to which are attached shear pins 18 and through which are holes 20
for T-shaped fasteners 22 comprising bolts 24 and T-shaped nuts 26.
A proximal face of CTB connector 70 contacts the surface of column
14 and spans across slots 16. A distal face of CTB connector 70
contacts an end of beam 12.
[0126] CTB connector 70 preferably has a width matching a width of
beam 12 and a height exceeding a height of beam 12, such that there
is ready access to T-shaped fasteners 22 above and below beam 12.
CTB connector 70 is reversibly fastened to beam 12 by countersunk
bolts 72 passed through holes 74.
[0127] Structural loads are transmitted through CTB connector 70
from beam 12 to column 14 by T-shaped fasteners 22 and shear pins
18 which are preferably drilled and pressed into CTB connector 70.
T-shaped fasteners 22 engage T-shaped slots 16 in the modular
framing members, using T-shaped nuts 26 to provide a distributed
friction bond between CTB connector 70 and the modular framing
members. Pins 18 are inserted into pre-drilled holes 71 in column
14 to provide a shear attachment by which gravity and lateral loads
are transferred from beam 12 to column 14.
[0128] Similar configurations with different numbers and sizes of
shear pins 18 and T-shaped fasteners 22 may be designed for lesser
or greater load conditions.
[0129] CTB connector 70 comprises at least one durable material.
Suitable materials include but are not limited to metals and metal
alloys, such as, e.g., stainless steel, iron, or the like.
[0130] When CTB connector 70 comprises metal, it is preferred to
provide a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
Suitable non-metallic coatings include but are not limited to
electrical insulating materials, thermal insulating materials,
flame retardant materials, corrosion resistant materials and the
like. The most preferred coatings are durable polymers such as an
epoxy. Epoxy coatings prevent corrosion and prevent contact between
dissimilar metals.
[0131] The dimensions of CTB connector 70 may vary depending upon
structural requirements for the joint. For example, in an
embodiment of a four-story residential structure of the invention,
the CTB connector is 0.5'' thick, 10.625'' long and 3.5'' wide. In
certain embodiments, the CTB connector has a thickness of
0.25-0.75'', a length of 6-16'', and a width of 2-6''.
[0132] The size and shape of each of bolts 24, T-shaped nuts 26,
and shear pins 18 may vary depending upon structural requirements
for the joint comprising CTB connector 70.
[0133] T-shaped nuts 26 are sized to fit within the T-shaped slots
16, and are preferably fabricated of the same materials as the
bolts, with stainless steel being the most preferred material.
[0134] Shear pins 18 are preferably fabricated of the same material
as bolts 24. In preferred embodiments, shear pins 18 have a
diameter of 3/4'' and a length of 1'', with stainless steel being
the most preferred material.
[0135] CTB connectors are preferably used in conjunction with
diagonal compression brace connectors at column to beam joints
where diagonal bracing is required, such as in buildings having 2
or 3 or 4 or 5 floors.
[0136] Diagonal Compression Brace Connector
[0137] Diagonal compression brace (DCB) connectors are designed to
reversibly connect diagonal compression braces to modular framing
members of the building frame. DCB connector 80 comprises base 82
positioned between two wings 84, shear pins 18, and holes 20 for
T-shaped fasteners 22 comprising bolts 24 and T-shaped nuts 26. See
FIGS. 10 and 11. In addition, DCB connector 82 includes DCB bolt 86
and DCB bolt receiving hole 88 through base 82. DCB connector 80
connects diagonal compression brace 90 to beam 12 and column
14.
[0138] The width of DCB connector 80 preferably matches the width
of beam 12, as shown in FIG. 11. Structural loads are transmitted
from DCB connector 80 to other modular framing members by T-shaped
fasteners 22 and shear pins 18 which are preferably drilled and
pressed into DCB connector 80. T-shaped fasteners 22 engage
T-shaped slots 16 in the modular framing members, using T-shaped
nuts 26 to provide a distributed friction bond between DCB
connector 80 and the modular framing members. Pins 18 are inserted
into pre-drilled holes (not shown) in beam 12 and column 14 to
provide a shear attachment by which gravity and lateral loads are
transferred from beam 12 to column 14.
[0139] Similar configurations with different numbers and sizes of
shear pins 18 and T-shaped fasteners 22 may be designed for lesser
or greater load conditions. It is preferred that each wing 84 of
DCB connector 80 spans across at least one or at least two of the
parallel slots on the surface of an opposing structural member.
[0140] DCB connector 80 comprises at least one durable material.
Suitable materials include but are not limited to metals and metal
alloys, such as, e.g., stainless steel, iron, or the like. Base 82
and wings 84 of DCB connector 80 can be fabricated from a single
mass of material, or from more than one mass of material. Single
mass embodiments can be formed by methods including but not limited
to folding a metal plate to provide the wings and base, molding the
metal connector in final form or molding a precursor of the metal
connector, and modifying the precursor to provide the metal
connector in final form. Multiple mass embodiments can be formed by
methods including but not limited to welding or otherwise binding
together two wing pieces and a base.
[0141] When DCB connector 80 comprises metal, it is preferred to
provide a metallic core coated with a non-metallic coating.
Suitable non-metallic coatings include but are not limited to
electrical insulating materials, thermal insulating materials,
flame retardant materials, corrosion resistant materials and the
like. The most preferred coatings are durable polymers such as an
epoxy. Epoxy coatings prevent corrosion and prevent contact between
dissimilar metals.
[0142] The thickness, length and angles of the DCB connector 80 may
vary depending upon structural requirements for the joint. For
example, in an embodiment of a four-story residential structure of
the invention, the DCB connector is 0.5'' thick, 13.25'' long and
3.5'' wide. In certain embodiments, the DCB connector has a
thickness of 0.25-1'', a length of 6-24'', and a width of
2-6''.
[0143] The angle of each wing 84 relative to base 82 is
1-179.degree., or 20-160.degree., or about 135.degree. (i.e.,
134-136.degree.), as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. The angle of one
wing relative to the base can be the same as, or different from,
the angle of the other wing to the base.
[0144] The size and shape of each of bolts 24, T-shaped nuts 26,
and shear pins 18 may vary depending upon structural requirements
for the joint comprising DCB connector 80.
[0145] Bolt size and composition are dictated by the structural
requirements for the joint. Preferred bolts have a diameter of 5 to
15 mm or 8 mm or 10 mm, and a length of 10 to 50 mm or 20 mm or 30
mm. Bolts comprise at least one durable material, such as metals
and metal alloys, with stainless steel being most preferred.
[0146] The size and composition of DCB bolt 86 is also dictated by
the structural requirements for the joint. Preferred DCB bolts have
a diameter of 8 to 18 mm, and a length of 75 mm or 200 mm. DCB
bolts comprise at least one durable material, such as metals and
metal alloys, with stainless steel being most preferred. DCB bolt
86 reversibly fastens DCB connector 80 to diagonal compression
brace 90.
[0147] T-shaped nuts 26 are sized to fit within the T-shaped slots
16, and are preferably fabricated of the same materials as the
bolts, with stainless steel being the most preferred material.
[0148] Shear pins 18 are preferably fabricated of the same material
as bolts 24. In preferred embodiments, shear pins 18 have a
diameter of 3/4'' and a length of 1'', with stainless steel being
the most preferred material.
[0149] Diagonal compression brace 90 is preferably a modular
framing member having T-shaped slots 16 running longitudinally
along surfaces thereof.
[0150] DCB connector 80 is preferably adapted to withstand a
vertical force of at least 8.5 kips, a horizontal force of at least
8.5 kips and a diagonal force of at least 10 kips, when
installed.
[0151] Modular Framing Systems and Architectural Structures
[0152] In addition to the connectors, the invention encompasses
modular framing systems including the connectors and framing
members having T-shaped slots, and architectural structures
containing the modular framing systems.
[0153] Referring to FIG. 7, architectural structure 100 is a
multiple story residential structure comprising frame 102 mounted
on a foundation (i.e., wood piles 104 and wood beams 106) which is
preferably at least partially embedded in soil. Frame 102 comprises
framing members 108, moment connectors 10 and corner connectors 28.
Floor panels 110 are fastened to frame 102 by floor hangers 44. A
floor panel of the second floor is removed to show floor hangers
44. Roof panels 112 are fastened to frame 102 with standard angle
brackets (not shown). Wall panels 114, incorporating operable
windows 116, are fastened to the sides of floor panels 110 and roof
panels 112. Bifold doors 118 and retractable sun shades 120 allow
opening an entire wall of the structure to view and air if opaque
wall construction is not desired.
[0154] Frames and architectural structures are not limited to the
embodiments shown in FIG. 7. For example, while FIG. 7 shows a
foundation system comprised of wood piles 104 and wood beams 106,
the invention encompasses other types of foundations systems, such
as but not limited to slab-on-grade foundations, spread footing
foundations, etc. Roof panel 112 in FIG. 7 illustrates a flat roof
condition, but the invention also encompasses pitched roofs of
varying degrees. Wall panel 114 in FIG. 7 illustrates a parapet
condition at the roof and vertically oriented panels, but the
invention also encompasses roof overhangs and horizontally oriented
wall panels. Bifold doors 118 in FIG. 7 illustrate a fully glazed
wall which may be completely opened for ventilation, but other
types of fixed or operable glazing may be substituted.
[0155] It is preferred that the framing system and more preferably
the architectural structure including the framing system can be
disassembled and reused. In such preferred embodiments of the
invention: (a) frame 102 is reversibly attached to the foundation
and comprises framing members 108 reversibly held together by
moment connectors 10 and corner connectors 28; (b) floor hangers 44
are reversibly attached to the floor panels 110 and to framing
members 108; (c) wall panels 114 reversibly attach to at least one
of frame 102 and floor panels 110; and (d) roof panel 112
reversibly attaches to frame 102. Preferably, frame 102 is free of
bracing and binding devices other than moment connectors 10, corner
connectors 28 and floor hangers 44.
[0156] Even though the architectural structure is preferably
adapted for relatively simple assembly and disassembly, it is still
sufficiently durable to meet or exceed applicable building code
standards of the International Building Code (IBC). For example,
certain embodiments of the architectural structure of the invention
are adapted to withstand winds of up to 75 mph, and preferably up
to 100 mph (as measured in accordance with the IBC).
[0157] Although it is preferred that the modular framing system be
used for architectural structures located outdoors, it is also
within the scope of the invention to use the inventive framing
system of the invention to build multileveled structures indoors.
Such structures will typically subdivide space within a larger
sheltering structure, such as a warehouse, a stadium, a convention
center, or the like.
[0158] While the invention has been described in detail and with
reference to specific examples thereof, it will be apparent to one
skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be
made therein without departing from the spirit and scope
thereof.
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