Load-resisting truss segments for buildings

摘要

The invention provides load-resisting segments (e.g., panels or frames for openings) for transmitting loads through a building structure. In the context of a wall, the load-resisting segments transmit shear loads downward to structural elements below the wall, such as to a building foundation. The load-resisting segments may comprise a truss configuration, i.e., an assembly of members forming a rigid framework. Each load-resisting segment can include web members and pairs of truss plates secured to sides of the segment to secure connections of the web members to each other and to other members. The wall segments can include beam-separation blocks that reduce truss plate failure by spacing apart the ends of two web members bearing against a chord or post to position the intersection point of the load paths of the web members with the load path of the chord or post.

主权项

1. A substantially rigid pre-fabricated frame for an opening of a wall of a building, comprising:
a substantially vertical first column comprising:
a first pair of substantially vertical studs laterally spaced from one another;a first holdown positioned between and secured to each stud of the first pair of studs and configured to be secured by a first rod to a structural element below the wall to prevent the first pair of studs from moving upward relative to the structural element; anda plurality of web members coupled to an inner one of the first pair of studs, each web member having a first end coupled to the inner one of the first pair of studs and a second end opposite the first end, wherein any web members coupled to the inner one of the first pair of studs and disposed above the first holdown are angled such that the first ends and second ends are at different vertical heights along the first column; a substantially vertical second column spaced laterally from the first column so that a wall opening can be formed between the first and second columns, the wall opening configured to receive one of a door and a window, the second column comprising:
a second pair of substantially vertical studs laterally spaced from one another; anda second holdown positioned between and secured to each stud of the second pair of studs and configured to be secured by a second rod to the structural element below the wall to prevent the second pair of studs from moving upward relative to the structural element; a substantially horizontal header having a first end and a second end, at least a portion of the first end secured to and positioned above the first column and at least a portion of the second end secured to and positioned above the second column; and wherein the header, the first column, and the second column collectively comprise a substantially rigid framework configured to transmit loads into a structural element below the wall.