U.S. patent application number 15/893164 was filed with the patent office on 2018-08-23 for adjustable moment frame.
The applicant listed for this patent is Collins Builders, Inc.. Invention is credited to Robert J.L. Collins.
Application Number | 20180238042 15/893164 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63166436 |
Filed Date | 2018-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180238042 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Collins; Robert J.L. |
August 23, 2018 |
ADJUSTABLE MOMENT FRAME
Abstract
An adjustable moment frame, comprising: base columns, each
comprising a plurality of column attachment points; beams, each
comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; and connectors,
each comprising a plurality of connector attachment points. The
beam attachment points are configured to align with the column
attachment points, such that the frame is adjustable between at
least two different beam/column configurations. The beam attachment
points are configured to align with the connector attachment
points, such that the frame is adjustable between at least two
different beam/connector configurations.
Inventors: |
Collins; Robert J.L.;
(Huntington Beach, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Collins Builders, Inc. |
Huntington Beach |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
63166436 |
Appl. No.: |
15/893164 |
Filed: |
February 9, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62460204 |
Feb 17, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04B 1/2403 20130101;
E04B 2001/2469 20130101; E04B 2001/2418 20130101; E04B 2001/2451
20130101; E04B 2001/2457 20130101; E04G 23/0218 20130101; E04B
2001/2439 20130101; E04G 23/04 20130101; E04B 2001/2415 20130101;
E02D 27/01 20130101; E04B 2001/2487 20130101; E04B 2103/06
20130101; E04B 2001/2463 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04B 1/24 20060101
E04B001/24; E04G 23/04 20060101 E04G023/04; E04G 23/02 20060101
E04G023/02 |
Claims
1. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: one or more base
columns, each comprising a plurality of base column attachment
points; one or more beams, each comprising a plurality of beam
attachment points; and one or more connectors, each comprising a
plurality of connector attachment points; wherein said plurality of
beam attachment points are configured to align with said plurality
of column attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame
is adjustable between at least two different beam/column
configurations; wherein said plurality of beam attachment points
are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment
points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable
between at least two different beam/connector configurations.
wherein said one or more beams are configured to be coupled to said
one or more connectors; and wherein said one or more beams are
configured to be coupled to said one or more base columns.
2. The adjustable moment frame of claim 1, wherein said one or more
beams comprise one substantially horizontal beam and two
substantially vertical beams, a first substantially vertical beam
and a second substantially vertical beam; wherein said one or more
connectors are two corner connectors, a first connector and a
second connector; wherein said one or more base columns are two
base columns; wherein said two corner connectors are coupled to
opposite ends of said substantially horizontal beam; wherein said
first substantially vertical beam is coupled to said first
connector; wherein said second substantially vertical beam is
coupled to said second connector; wherein said first connector is
coupled to said first base column; wherein said second connector is
coupled to said second base column; wherein said two base columns
are coupled to a surface of a structure, such that said adjustable
moment frame provides support to said structure.
3. The adjustable moment frame of claim 2, further comprising a
plurality of fasteners; wherein said plurality of fasteners are
configured to couple said substantially horizontal beam to said two
corner connectors; and wherein said plurality of fasteners are
configured to couple said two substantially vertical beams to said
two corner connectors.
4. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said one or more
of said plurality of fasteners are removed and said adjustable
moment frame is adjusted or disassembled.
5. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said plurality
of fasteners comprise: a plurality of nuts, bolts, and washers.
6. The adjustable moment frame of claim 5, wherein said plurality
of column attachment points, said plurality of beam attachment
points; and said plurality of connector attachment points are
holes.
7. The adjustable moment frame of claim 6, wherein said adjustable
moment frame is assembled on site at said structure.
8. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said structure
being supported by said adjustable moment frame has been damaged
and is in danger of collapse.
9. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said two base
columns are substantially vertical.
10. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: at least two base
columns, each comprising a plurality of base column attachment
points; at least one substantially horizontal beam comprising two
opposite ends, a first end and a second end, wherein said first and
second ends each comprise a plurality of horizontal beam attachment
points; at least two substantially vertical beams; wherein each of
said at least two substantially vertical beams comprises two
opposite ends, a first end and a second end, wherein said first and
second ends each comprise a plurality of vertical beam attachment
points at least two connectors, each comprising at least two ends,
a first end and a second send, wherein said first and second ends
each comprise a plurality of connector attachment points; a
plurality of fasteners; wherein said plurality of horizontal beam
attachment points of said first end of said at least one
substantially horizontal beam are configured to align with said
plurality of connector attachment points of said first end of a
first of said at least two connectors in at least two different
configurations, such that a length of said adjustable moment frame
is adjustable between said at least two different configurations;
wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners
engages with said aligned attachment points of said first end of
said at least one substantially horizontal beam and of said first
end of said first of said at least two connectors, such that said
at least one substantially horizontal beam and said first of said
at least two connectors are coupled together; wherein said
plurality of horizontal beam attachment points of said second end
of said at least one substantially horizontal beam are configured
to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of said
first end of a second of said at least two connectors in at least
two different configurations, such that said length of said
adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two
different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said
plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points
of said second end of said at least one substantially horizontal
beam and of said first end of said second of said at least two
connectors, such that said at least one substantially horizontal
beam and said second of said at least two connectors are coupled
together; wherein said plurality of vertical beam attachment points
of said first end of a first of said at least two substantially
vertical beams are configured to align with said plurality of
connector attachment points of said second end of said first of
said at least two connectors in at least two different
configurations, such that a height of said adjustable moment frame
is adjustable between said at least two different configurations;
wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners
engages with said aligned attachment points of said first end of
said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams and of
said second end of said first of said at least two connectors, such
that said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams
and said first of said at least two connectors are coupled
together; wherein said plurality of vertical beam attachment points
of said first end of a second of said at least two substantially
vertical beams are configured to align with said plurality of
connector attachment points of said second end of said second of
said at least two connectors in at least two different
configurations, such that said height of said adjustable moment
frame is adjustable between said at least two different
configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of
fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said first
end of said second of said at least two substantially vertical
beams and of said second end of said second of said at least two
connectors, such that said second of said at least two
substantially vertical beams and said second of said at least two
connectors are coupled together; wherein said plurality of vertical
beam attachment points of said second end of said first of said at
least two substantially vertical beams are configured to align with
said plurality of connector attachment points of a first of said at
least two base columns in at least two different configurations,
such that said height of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable
between said at least two different configurations; wherein at
least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said
aligned attachment points of said second end of said first of said
at least two substantially vertical beams and of said first of said
at least two base columns, such that said first of said at least
two substantially vertical beams and said first of said at least
two base columns are coupled together; wherein said plurality of
vertical beam attachment points of said second end of said second
of said at least two substantially vertical beams are configured to
align with said plurality of connector attachment points of a
second of said at least two base columns in at least two different
configurations, such that said height of said adjustable moment
frame is adjustable between said at least two different
configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of
fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said
second end of said second of said at least two substantially
vertical beams and of said second of said at least two base
columns, such that said second of said at least two substantially
vertical beams and said second of said at least two base columns
are coupled together.
11. The adjustable moment frame of claim 10, wherein when said at
least one substantially horizonal beam, said at least two
connectors, said at least two substantially vertical beams, and
said at least two base columns are connected, said adjustable
moment frame is created that supports a structure.
12. The adjustable moment frame of claim 11, wherein said at least
two base columns are coupled to a surface of said structure, such
that said adjustable moment frame provides support to said
structure.
13. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said one or
more of said plurality of fasteners are removed and said adjustable
moment frame is adjusted or disassembled.
14. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said plurality
of fasteners comprise: a plurality of nuts, bolts, and washers.
15. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said plurality
of column attachment points, said plurality of beam attachment
points; and said plurality of connector attachment points are
holes.
16. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said
adjustable moment frame is assembled on site at said structure.
17. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said structure
being supported by said adjustable moment frame has been damaged
and is in danger of collapse.
18. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said two base
columns are substantially vertical.
19. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: two base columns, each
comprising a plurality of base column attachment points; a
substantially horizontal beam, comprising a plurality of beam
attachment points; and two substantially vertical beams, each
comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; two connectors,
each comprising a plurality of connector attachment points; and a
plurality of fasteners; wherein said plurality of fasteners are
configured to couple said two base columns, said substantially
horizontal beam, said two substantially vertical beams, and said
two connectors in at least two different configurations to form
said adjustable moment frame. wherein said plurality of beam
attachment points are configured to align with said plurality of
column attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is
adjustable between at least two different beam/column
configurations; and wherein said plurality of beam attachment
points are configured to align with said plurality of connector
attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is
adjustable between at least two different beam/connector
configurations; wherein said two base columns are coupled to a
surface of a structure, such that said adjustable moment frame
provides support to said structure.
20. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: four or more beams,
each comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; and four or
more connectors, each comprising a plurality of connector
attachment points; wherein said plurality of beam attachment points
are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment
points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable
between at least two different beam/connector configurations.
wherein said four or more beams are configured to be coupled to
said four or more connectors; wherein said four or more beams
comprise at least one top substantially horizontal beam, at least
one bottom substantially horizontal beam, and at least two
substantially vertical beams; wherein said four or more connectors
are at least two top connectors and at least two bottom connectors;
wherein said at least two bottom connectors function as base
columns; wherein said two top connectors are coupled to opposite
ends of said top substantially horizontal beam; wherein said at
least two substantially vertical beams are coupled to said at least
two top connectors; wherein said at least two substantially
vertical beams are also coupled to said at least two bottom
connectors; wherein said two bottom connectors are coupled to
opposite ends of said bottom substantially horizontal beam; wherein
said two bottom connectors and said bottom substantially horizontal
beams are encased in concrete, such that said adjustable moment
frame provides support to said structure.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/460,204,
filed Feb. 17, 2017, entitled "ADJUSTABLE MOMENT FRAME", by
inventor Robert J. L. Collins, the contents of which are expressly
incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in their
entirety.
FIELD OF USE
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of
support frames. More specifically, the present disclosure generally
relates to a device for supporting an existing structure, usually a
soft story structure that is in a weakened condition and might
collapse.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Moment frames or moment-resisting frames are generally
rectilinear assemblage of beams and columns, with the beams rigidly
connected to the columns. The purpose of a moment frame is to
resist lateral forces, typically caused by earth-quakes or high
storm winds. The resistance to lateral forces is provided by rigid
frame action, i.e. the development of bending moment and shear
force in the frame joints, beams, and columns. Preferably, a moment
frame is unable to be moved laterally without the beams or columns
bending.
[0004] Moment-resisting frames in construction have been used since
the late 1800's and led to the rise of tall buildings throughout
the world. Importantly, these frames are cut to specification and
are riveted or welded in a manner that is not adjustable.
[0005] After an earthquake, soft story buildings (building without
steel frame constructions) often sustain damage, but are not
destroyed. These damaged buildings may later collapse, which can
cause further damage and injury. Before the device of the present
disclosure, these soft story buildings, either before or after an
earthquake, can be seismically retrofitted with supports that may
prevent the collapse of the building. Examples of the support may
be a moment column or a moment frame (columns and beams). Most
moment frames include two vertical members (columns) that are
connected by a horizontal member (beam), and the three members form
a rigid and strong frame for whatever portion of the building they
support. Before the device of the present disclosure, moment frames
were not adjustable. If the frame arrives at the site and is too
large, it has to be cut down or a smaller frame must be ordered. If
the frame arrives at the site and it is too small, a larger frame
must be ordered.
[0006] Accordingly, what is needed a new moment frame that is
adjustable.
SUMMARY
[0007] To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to
minimize other limitations that will become apparent upon reading
and understanding the present specification, the present
specification discloses an adjustable moment frame.
[0008] One embodiment may be an adjustable moment frame,
comprising: one or more base columns; one or more substantially
vertical beams; one or more connectors; and at least one
substantially horizontal beam. The connectors, columns, and beams
may be fastened together with one or more fasteners on site and the
parts may fit together in various configurations to allow the frame
created to be adjustable in length and height.
[0009] Although the preferred use for the adjustable moment frame
of the present disclosure is for soft story buildings, other
structures might benefit from being retrofitted or supported by the
adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure. Additionally,
although the frame of the present disclosure may be most useful in
retrofitting structures that have sustained damage and are in
danger of collapse. The frame of the present disclosure may be used
in new construction, retrofitting undamaged buildings, or for
adding an industrial design flair to existing spaces.
[0010] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure
eliminates the need for exact size frame ordering and manufacturing
due to the ability to be adjusted in the field at the building
site. This significantly reduces the cost of manufacture as one
adjustable moment frame set can be used at a variety of projects
and in a variety of different-sized structures.
[0011] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be
installed in buildings with imperfections due to out-of-level
beams, ceilings, slabs, floors and vertically out-of-plumb walls,
columns and posts. The adjustability allows for the adjustable
moment frame to compensate for these imperfections and provide
superior support.
[0012] The adjustable moment frame may be assembled using nuts,
bolts, and washers at the building site. All that is needed is to
ship the disassembled parts of the frame. Because the parts are
separable, they are much easier to transport. The adjustable moment
frame may be transported via a light duty commercial vehicle, such
as a pickup truck. It may be off loaded by hand without the
necessity of using a fork lift. Moment frames other than the frames
of the present disclosure, are typically shipped in one very large
piece and require large trucks and forklifts to transport and
load/unload.
[0013] Although the adjustable moment frame of the present
disclosure may be welded once put together, it does not have to be
welded and may eliminate the need for field welding, on site
regulatory inspections, building evacuations (due to welding fumes
and hazards), and a fire prevention observer during the
welding.
[0014] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may
travel through and around confined areas, such as, building
openings, hallways, windows, and doors. This is because it may be
transported in disassembled pieces.
[0015] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may
substantially eliminate the need for ordering and manufacturing
exact sizes of moment frames, because the frame of the present
disclosure is adjustable and may be fitted to buildings, rooms, and
structures of various heights and lengths.
[0016] These, as well as other components, steps, features,
objects, benefits, and advantages, will now become clear from a
review of the following detailed description of illustrative
embodiments, and of the claim.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The drawings are of illustrative embodiments. They do not
illustrate all embodiments. Other embodiments may be used in
addition or instead. Details which may be apparent or unnecessary
may be omitted to save space or for more effective illustration.
Some embodiments may be practiced with additional components or
steps and/or without all of the components or steps which are
illustrated. When the same numeral appears in different drawings,
it refers to the same or like components or steps.
[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
an adjustable moment frame.
[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
[0020] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
[0021] FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
[0023] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
[0024] FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0025] FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0026] FIG. 5D illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of an adjustable moment frame.
[0028] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
[0029] FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
[0030] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0031] FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0032] FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame.
[0033] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of an adjustable moment frame.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0034] Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and
described, it is to be understood that the methods and systems are
not limited to specific methods, specific components, or to
particular implementations. It is also to be understood that the
terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular
embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.
[0035] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed
herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about"
another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another
embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the
other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as
approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be
understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It
will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges
are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and
independently of the other endpoint.
[0036] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently
described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the
description includes instances where said event or circumstance
occurs and instances where it does not.
[0037] Throughout the description and claims of this specification,
the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as
"comprising" and "comprises," means "including but not limited to,"
and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components,
integers or steps. "Exemplary" means "an example of" and is not
intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal
embodiment. "Such as" is not used in a restrictive sense, but for
explanatory purposes.
[0038] Disclosed are components that may be used to perform the
disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are
disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations,
subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are
disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual
and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be
explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and
described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all
embodiments of this application including, but not limited to,
steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of
additional steps that may be performed it is understood that each
of these additional steps may be performed with any specific
embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed
methods.
[0039] The present methods and systems may be understood more
readily by reference to the following detailed description of
preferred embodiments and the examples included therein and to the
Figures and their previous and following description.
[0040] In the following description, certain terminology is used to
describe certain features of one or more embodiments. For purposes
of the specification, unless otherwise specified, the term
"substantially" refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or
degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure,
item, or result. For example, in one embodiment, an object that is
"substantially" located within a housing would mean that the object
is either completely within a housing or nearly completely within a
housing. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute
completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context.
However, generally speaking, the nearness of completion will be so
as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total
completion were obtained. The use of "substantially" is also
equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to
the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic,
property, state, structure, item, or result.
[0041] As used herein, the terms "approximately" and "about"
generally refer to a deviance of within 5% of the indicated number
or range of numbers. In one embodiment, the term "approximately"
and "about", may refer to a deviance of between 0.001-10% from the
indicated number or range of numbers.
[0042] Various embodiments are now described with reference to the
drawings. In the following description, for purposes of
explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments. It may
be evident, however, that the various embodiments may be practiced
without these specific details. In other instances, well-known
structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to
facilitate describing these embodiments.
[0043] Various embodiments presented in terms of systems may
comprise a number of components, modules, and the like. It is to be
understood and appreciated that the various systems may include
additional components, modules, etc. and/or may not include all of
the components, modules, etc. discussed in connection with the
figures. A combination of these approaches may also be used.
[0044] The pieces, portions, or parts of the adjustable moment
frame may be made from high strength steel and are interconnected
via connectors, such as high strength bolts or rivets. The joints
and side pieces may removeably interconnect in many ways, such as
channel guided or hollow structural section (HSS) tube. The bolts
may be combined with nuts and washers to secure the parts
together.
[0045] Although the Figures show embodiments designed for single or
double story structure, the adjustable moment frame of the present
disclosure may be used for multistory structures and multiple
sections. Although only T and corner connectors are shown, it
should be understood that other connection configurations may be
used, including diagonal and pyramidal. The term "connector", as
used herein, refers to a structure that connects a vertical column
with a horizontal, substantially horizontal, or diagonal beam, or
that connects two of the following: horizontal beam, substantially
horizontal beam, and a diagonal beam. A connector may also connect
two or more beams to a column. The term "beam", as used herein,
refers to a vertical, substantially vertical, horizontal, diagonal,
or substantially horizontal length of rigid material. The term
"column" or "base column", as used herein, refers to a vertical or
substantially vertical length of rigid material that connects to a
vertical or substantially vertical beam and a surface. The
adjustable moment frame may use multiple connectors to the beams,
posts, columns in any direction, including six (6) directions or
more.
[0046] Although the word adjustable is used to describe how the
pieces of the adjustable moment frame fit together, the frame may
also be described as extendable, expandable, telescopes,
telescopic, telescoping, expandable, lengthening, on-site
adjustable, etc.
[0047] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be
an adjustable, extendable, expandable, telescopic, or telescoping
moment frame. The adjustable moment frame may comprise parts called
pieces, portions, connectors, connections, sections, bases, plates,
posts, columns, beams, fasteners, bolts, attachment points,
washers, nuts, wood, platings, or coatings.
[0048] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be
a structural steel frame that is fabricated in pieces and assembled
on the site of usage, and then attached to an existing building to
strengthen the building. The adjustable moment frame of the present
disclosure may help protect a building from collapse and or heavy
damages caused from a seismic event. The adjustable moment frame of
the present disclosure parts may have multiple connection points
allowing the frame to adapt to various heights and widths of a
structure allowing the frame to be field fitted to a variety of
building/room/frame sizes.
[0049] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be
adjusted in the field to various building dimensions making it
easily adaptable to an existing building's frame, and to strengthen
the structure, thereby preventing heavy damage and or collapse from
a past, current, or future seismic event. The variety of connection
points that may be manufactured into the adjustable moment frame's
parts allow the adjustable moment frame to adjust to various widths
and heights.
[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
an adjustable moment frame. As shown in FIG. 1, the adjustable
moment frame 100 may comprise one or more substantially horizontal
beams 110, 120, one or more substantially vertical beams 130, 131,
132, one or more connectors 140, 141, 142, and one or more base
columns 150, 151, 152. As shown, each of the beams, connectors, and
columns may have two or more attachment points 190 on the end
portions.
[0051] These attachment points 190, as shown in FIG. 1 may be
holes, such that when the end portion of a beam overlaps with the
end portion of a column or a connector, the holes may overlap,
which allows a bolt 192 or rivet to be inserted through, which
attaches the two parts together. The attachment points 190 may be
numerous, sixteen (16) are shown, but there may be more, or less,
than 16. Each hole may be about three (3'') inches apart, so that
the strength of the material is not compromised by the holes and
the spaced-out holes allow the beam and column or connector to be
adjustably connected. The length 196, 197 or height 195 of the
frame is longer or higher if the more distal holes are overlapped
and bolted. The length 196, 197 or height 195 of the frame is
shorter if the more proximal holes are overlapped and bolted.
[0052] FIG. 1 shows that the most proximal of the holes are
overlapped and bolted. The two parts may then be moved apart, one
set of holes at a time, such that the frame gets longer or taller.
If the sets of holes are approximately 3 inches apart, then the
frame can be expanded or contracted, 3 inches at a time. If each
beam, connector and column has 16 holes, and 8 fasteners are used,
then there are 8 different configurations per coupling, each 3
inches further apart or closer together. Because each beam is
connected to two different connectors or columns, this may allow
for 16 different configurations for each beam. This may allow the
adjustable moment frame to vary in length or height up to 4 feet.
Thus, if the smallest height is 8 feet, the tallest height is 12
feet, and the height may be adjusted to six different intervening
heights between 8 feet and 12 feet. This makes the adjustable
moment frame extremely flexible in fitting the structure that it
will support, without requiring the frame be created to an exact
specification or cut at the site. This flexibility and
standardization of parts, reduces costs and raises efficiencies for
both manufacturing and implementation.
[0053] In some embodiments, after the beams are bolted to the
connectors and columns, the parts may be welded, such that frame is
permanently set and extra strength is provided. If no welding is
used, then the frame may be unbolted and removed to be used on a
different project or it may be adjusted to fit the structure
better.
[0054] FIG. 1 shows that there may be corner connectors 140, 142
and T-connector 141. Although other types of connectors may be
used, these two are the most common shapes and allow the connectors
to connect the substantially vertical beams to the substantially
horizontal beams.
[0055] The base columns 150, 151, 152, which are shown as bolted to
the substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, may be bolted to
the surface 160, 161, 162. The surface may be concrete foundation
block as shown, or some other reinforced base, floor, or surface.
The base columns 150, 151, 152, may be bolted to the surface with
fasteners, such as bolts and nuts, four fasteners as shown. The
base columns 150, 151, 152, may sit on a layer of non-shrink grout.
The bolts may include or be combined with nuts and washers to
secure the parts together.
[0056] The variability of the length and width of the frame 100 is
determined by how many attachment points the substantially
horizontal beams 110, 120, substantially vertical beams 130, 131,
132, connectors 140, 141, 142, and base columns 150, 151, 152,
have. The more attachment points there are that are spaced
longitudinally at the ends of the parts, the more variability there
is in the height 195 and length 196, 197. The frame 100 shown is an
exemplar that may adjust between 8-10 feet in height 195, 14-16
feet in length 196, and 8-10 feet in length 197.
[0057] Although FIG. 1 shows fasteners 192 and holes 190, the
attachment points may be other mechanisms, such as, but not limited
to, pins, dowels, rivets, ultrasonic welding, nails, screws, and
the like. The substantially horizontal beams 110, 120,
substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, connectors 140, 141,
142, and base columns 150, 151, 152, bolts and nuts, or some other
type of fastener 192 may be made from steel, carbon steels,
maraging steel, stainless steel, tool steel, inconel, tungsten,
titanium, and chromium, or other strong metals that provide the
strength and rigidity needed to be a moment frame that prevents
structures from collapsing. The fasteners 192 are preferably strong
and at least an 1/2'' in diameter and preferably ever two parts are
connected by at least eight (8) fasteners 192, as shown. More or
less fasteners 192 may be used, depending on the overlap of the
holes and how much frame strength is needed to reinforce or support
the structure. If bolts are the fasteners, the bolts may include or
be combined with nuts and washers.
[0058] In one embodiment, the top part of the frame 100 is
assembled by determining how long the frame 100 needs to be,
connecting the one or more substantially horizontal beams 110, 120,
to one or more of the connectors 140, 141, 142, wherein the
attachment points of the beams and connectors are selected based on
the desired length of the frame 100. The needed height of the frame
is then determined and the connectors that are used may be then
connected to one or more of the substantially vertical beams 130,
131, 132, by the fasteners, at the attachment points, such that the
desired height is achievable. The base columns 150, 151, 152 may
then be connected to the substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132
and the surface 160, 161, 162. Because the height and length of the
frame 100 is adjustable, the frames made from the parts of the
adjustable moment frames may be adapted to fit a very wide variety
structure sizes. Moreover, the frame may be made from as few as one
substantially horizontal beam, two corner connectors, two
substantially vertical connectors, and two base columns. The
T-connector provides the ability to have the length be even more
flexible and can essentially allow for numerous connections and an
endless length. Because the frame may be assembled at the structure
or site, the various parts of the adjustable moment frame may be
shipped in small batches, which means a heavy truck, crane, and or
forklift are not necessary for transporting and moving the
frame.
[0059] When the beams connect with the connectors, multiple
beam/connector configurations may be formed. When the beams connect
with the base columns, multiple beam/column configurations may be
formed. The configurations are based on the changeable alignment of
the holes of the beams, columns, and connectors.
[0060] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 2 shows
that the beam 200 may be a wide flange beam, sometimes referred to
an I-beam. The beam 200 may have two ends or end portions 206, 207,
which may have a plurality of attachment points or, as shown, holes
205, 208. The holes may be parallel 205 or offset 208. The holes
may be spaced apart at any distance, such as approximately 3''
apart. As shown in FIG. 2, there may be sixteen (16) holes, but
there may be more or less. The more holes that are overlapped and
bolted together the stronger the connection is. As shown in FIG. 1,
each part may be connected by eight bolts/nuts. If the distal holes
(those closest to the ends of the beam 200) of holes 205, 208 are
used, then the frame is longer or higher. If the proximal holes
(those closest to the middle of the beam 200) of holes 205, 208 are
used, then the frame is smaller or shorter.
[0061] FIG. 2 also shows that the beam 200 may have a nailer 210
that may be used to better engage with a side or top of the
structure being supported. The nailer 210 may be wood, plastic, or
similar type of material that is connected to beam 200.
[0062] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. As
shown in FIG. 3A the T-connector 300 may interconnect two or three
beams at ends 310, 315, 320. The ends 310, 315, 320 may engage a
flat side of the beams, such as beam 200, and the attachment points
may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected
together.
[0063] FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of
a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
As shown in FIG. 3B the corner connector 350 may interconnect two
substantially perpendicular beams at ends 360, 370. The ends 360,
370 may engage the flat side of the beams, such as beam 200, and
the attachment points may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or
otherwise connected together.
[0064] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a
base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 4
shows that base column 400 may be configured to attach to a
substantial horizontal surface and may be substantially
perpendicular to that surface, such that the base column 400 is
substantially vertical in use. Base column 400 may comprise side
supports 405, surface attachment portion 420, and attachment
portions 410.
[0065] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 5A
shows that the beam may be a different shape, specifically a
C-channel shape. The C-channel beam 502 is configured to matingly
engage--C-channel to C-channel--with the connectors 505, 508 shown
in FIGS. 5B and 5C.
[0066] FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame. FIG. 5B shows that the top portion of corner channel 504 may
have a C-channel and the bottom portion 502 may have a wide flange.
This wide flange may matingly engage with the wide flange 512 of
base column 510.
[0067] FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
FIG. 5C shows that T-connector 508 may comprise a C-channel 506 on
the top, wide flange 509, and welding line 507.
[0068] FIG. 5D illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
FIG. 5D shows that the base column 510 may have a flat base 513 to
connect vertically from a substantially horizontal surface and may
have a wide flange 512.
[0069] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 6 shows an adjustable moment
frame 600, which may comprise one or more substantially horizontal
beams 610, 620, one or more substantially vertical beams 630, 631,
632, one or more connectors 640, 641, 642, and one or more base
columns 650, 651, 652. The base columns 650, 651, 652, which are
shown as bolted to the substantially vertical beams 630, 631, 632,
may be bolted to the surface 660, 661, 662. The surface may be
concrete foundation block as shown, or some other reinforced base,
floor, or surface. The base columns 650, 651, 652, may be bolted to
the surface with bolts and nuts, four bolt and nut combinations are
shown. The base columns 650, 651, 652, may be on a layer of
non-shrink grout and may be substantially vertical and
perpendicular to the surface. The base columns may be bolted to the
surface, as exampled by bolt 678.
[0070] FIG. 6 shows that the parts may have attachment points,
which are shown by example holes 690. The substantially horizontal
beams 610, 620, one or more substantially vertical beams 630, 631,
632, one or more connectors 640, 641, 642, and one or more base
columns 650, 651, 652, as shown, may be hollow structural section
(HSS) tubes of various diameters that are configured to telescope
within each other, such that the holes align in different
configurations. This allows the frame's height and length to be
adjusted to be shorter, taller, longer or smaller.
[0071] FIG. 6 shows that when the end portion of a beam overlaps
with the end portion of a column or a connector, the holes may
telescopically overlap, which may allow a bolt 692 or rivet to be
inserted through, which attaches the two parts together. The
attachment points 690 may be numerous, sixteen (16) (in eight (8)
sets) are shown, but there may be more or less than 16. Each hole
may be about three (3'') inches apart, so that the strength of the
material is not compromised by the holes and the spaced-out holes
allow the beam and column or connector to be adjustably connected.
FIG. 6 shows that the beams have a smaller diameter than the
connectors and columns, and they fit within the hollow space of the
connectors and columns. In other embodiments the beams may have a
greater diameter and the columns and connectors may slide within
the beams.
[0072] FIG. 6 shows that the frame 600 may have a lateral beam
hanger 698. This allows the frame to extend support in a depth
dimension. The adjustable moment frames of the present disclosure
may be integral in all three dimensions, height, length, and depth.
Alternatively, two frames may be set up in parallel and lateral
beam hangers may be used to provide cross support to the space
between the parallel frames.
[0073] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 7A
shows that the beam 700 may be a hollow structural section. The
beam 700 may have two ends or end portions 710, 720, which may have
a plurality of attachment points or, as shown, holes 711, 721. The
holes may be parallel, as shown, or may be offset, as shown in FIG.
2. The holes may be spaced apart at any distance, such as
approximately 3'' apart. As shown in FIG. 7, there may be sixteen
(16) holes, but there may be more or less holes. The more holes
that are overlapped and bolted together the stronger the connection
may be. As shown in FIG. 6, each part may be connected by eight
fasteners. If the distal holes (those closest to the ends of the
beam 700) of holes 711, 721 are used, then the frame is longer or
higher. If the proximal holes (those closest to the middle of the
beam 700) of holes 710, 720 are used, then the frame is smaller or
shorter.
[0074] FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 7B
shows that the beam 750 may be a hollow structural section. The
beam 750 may have two ends or end portions 760, 770, which may have
a plurality of attachment points or, as shown, holes 761, 771. The
holes may be parallel, as shown, or may be offset, as shown in FIG.
2. The holes may be spaced apart at any distance, such as
approximately 3'' apart. As shown in FIG. 7, there may be sixteen
(16) holes, but there may be more or less holes. The more holes
that are overlapped and bolted together the stronger the connection
may be. As shown in FIG. 6, each part may be connected by eight
fasteners. If the distal holes (those closest to the ends of the
beam 750) of holes 761, 771 are used, then the frame is longer or
higher. If the proximal holes (those closest to the middle of the
beam 750) of holes 761, 771 are used, then the frame is smaller or
shorter. FIG. 7B also shows that the beam 750 may have a nailer 751
that may be used to better engage with a side or top of the
structure being supported. The nailer 751 may be wood, plastic, or
similar type of material that is connected to beam 750. The beam
750 may be used in a substantially vertical or a substantially
horizontal manner, depending on for what it is needed.
[0075] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment
frame. The beams 700, 750 may be configured to matingly and
telescopically engage with the connectors 800, 850, 869. As shown
in FIG. 8A the corner connector 800 may interconnect two
substantially perpendicular beams at ends 805, 810. The ends 805,
810 may telescopically engage over or into the beams, such as beams
700, 750, and the attachment points 806, 811, 711, 721, 761, 771
may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected
together. FIG. 8A shows that, because the connectors and beams may
be hollow structural sections, which are stronger than an I beam or
a c-channel beam, less attachment points 806, 811, which is 8 or 10
holes respectively. As shown in FIG. 6, all 8 or 10 holes may be
used to bolt together the beams with the connectors. Thus, in this
embodiment, it is the beams, with their 16 attachment points that
provide all of the adjustability in length and height. The corner
connector 800 may have a weld seam 815 at the miter joint. An HSS
bar cannot be bent or cut into a corner, it may be miter cut and
welded.
[0076] FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
As shown in FIG. 8B the T-connector 850 may interconnect two to
three beams at ends 855, 858, 860. The ends 855, 858, 860 may
telescopically engage over or into the beams, such as beams 700,
750, and the attachment points 856, 857, 861, 711, 721, 761, 771
may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected
together. FIG. 8B shows that, because the connectors and beams may
be hollow structural sections, which are stronger than an I beam or
a c-channel beam, less attachment points 856, 857, 861, which are 8
or 10 holes respectively. As shown in FIG. 6, all 8 or 10 holes may
be used to bolt together the beams with the connectors. Thus, in
this embodiment, it is the beams, with their 16 attachment points
that provide all of the adjustability in length and height. The
T-connector 850 may have weld seams 852 at the miter joints. An HSS
bar cannot be bent or cut into a corner, so the parts of the
T-connector may be miter cut and welded.
[0077] FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.
FIG. 8C shows that base column 869 have a base plate 880, which may
be welded 875 to the vertical portion, and may be configured to
attach to a substantial horizontal surface via bolts and nuts 890.
The base column 869 may be substantially perpendicular to the
horizontal surface, such that the base column 869 is substantially
vertical in use. Base column 869 may comprise 10 attachment
portions 870, which are configured to align with the attachment
portions of the beams, such that the two parts are adjustably
connectable through fasteners, such as bolts/nuts and/or
rivets.
[0078] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment
of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 6 shows an adjustable moment
frame 900, which may comprise one or more substantially horizontal
beams 912, 916, 924, 930, one or more substantially vertical beams
920, 928, 934, one or more connectors 910, 914, 918, and one or
more connectors 922, 926, 932, which also function as base
columns.
[0079] FIG. 9 shows that the adjustable moment frame 900, may
comprise one or more lateral beam hangers 902, and the base
columns/connectors 922, 926, 932 and substantially horizontal beams
924, 930 may be put together and then encased in concrete 950, such
that the connectors 922, 926, 932 function as base columns. Because
the base columns are not bolted to the concrete 950, but are
instead encased in concrete, this is a very strong configuration.
As shown in FIG. 9, the beams 912, 916, 924, 930, 920, 928, 934,
connectors 910, 914, 918, and one or more base column/connectors
922, 926, 932, each comprise a plurality of attachment points 911,
960, 961, which are configured to allow the connectors to
adjustably connect with the beams. FIG. 9 shows that the beams 912,
916, 924, 930, 920, 928, 934 may have sixteen (16) sets holes for
the attachment points. FIG. 9 shows that the connectors may have
five (5) sets of holes, which overlap five sets of the sixteen sets
of holes, such that one or more fasteners, such a bolt or rivet,
may pass through the overlapped holes. FIG. 9 shows that parts may
be hollow structural section (HSS) tubes of various diameters that
are configured to telescope within each other, such that the holes
align in different configurations. This allows the frame's height
and length to be adjusted to be shorter, taller, longer or smaller.
The beams, columns, connectors may also be other configurations,
such as C-channel or I-beam. The connectors and beams that are
encased in concrete may be bottom connectors and beams.
[0080] The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may
comprise: a base connector, one or more columns, one or more
intersection connectors, and substantially horizontal beam section.
The parts may be fastened together using nuts, bolts, and washers.
These parts can be fastened at various connection points (holes,
notches, etc.) to be fitted to a specific height and width of the
building/structure to be supported.
[0081] The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is
provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the
present disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will
be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments
without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus,
the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the
embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope
consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed
herein.
[0082] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended
that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its
steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method
claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps
or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or
descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order,
it is in no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect.
This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation,
including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or
operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical
organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments
described in the specification.
[0083] It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art
that various modifications and variations may be made without
departing from the scope or spirit. Other embodiments will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the
specification and practice disclosed herein. It is intended that
the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only,
with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following
claims.
* * * * *