US 6,887,009 B1 · Cylindrical joint and reticulated frame structure

Abstract

Structural system and method are disclosed for constructing reticulated frame structures. Nodal joints having large diameter connectors are used to connect framing members to the structure nodes. The large diameter allows the connectors to directly support or bear the framing members. As such, compressive forces on the framing member may be transferred directly through the connector to the nodal joint through bearing action. A collar is threaded to the framing member at one end, and engages the connector at the other end. Cover panels may be disposed on the reticulated frame structure. Support members secure the cover panels to the framing members. Each support member is attached to a corresponding framing member and to the nodal joints in a manner to help resist bending loads and prevent axial rotation of the framing member.

Claims22

Dependent claims

A reticulated frame structure, comprising:

framing members;
and
one or more nodal joints connecting said framing members to one another, each nodal joint including:
a hub having threaded bores disposed in an outer surface of said hub at predefined locations and angles;
a collar having a proximate opening relative to said hub and a distal opening relative to said hub, said distal opening adapted for threaded attachment to one of said framing members;
and
a connector capable of being inserted in said collar, said connector including a proximate end adapted to pass through said collar for attachment to one of said threaded bores, and a distal end adapted to engage said collar such that said collar is restrained against axial and lateral movement, said distal end having a size that is sufficiently large to directly bear one of said framing members.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Cylindrical joint and reticulated frame structure

Life of this patent

Cylindrical joint and reticulated frame structure

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22