Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of constructions, composed of
steel profiles and comprising one or more load-bearing columns. In particular, a solution
for a load-bearing column is presented, that allows for a compact profile transport
and on-site assembly of the load-bearing column, without requiring any anti-corrosion
aftertreatment, and while obtaining the same level of buckling resistance, torsional
rigidity, and general shape stability as for a tubular column.
Background of the Invention
[0002] In a steel frame construction, steel profiles are used to provide structural members
such as columns and beams. Preferably, thin-walled open profiles are used thereby
limiting material costs, under the condition that still sufficient strength can be
offered. In particular, columns - being vertically positioned structural members-typically
carry the weight of a higher structure, the columns thus being subjected to axial
and torsional loads. Therefore, an important requirement for such structural columns
is their bending stiffness and torsional stiffness, thereby offering sufficient buckling
resistance and torsional rigidity, and thus being stable in shape.
[0003] These requirements may be met by using tubular columns, i.e. columns each provided
as a single hollow steel tube. However, such tubular columns are expensive in purchase,
and are voluminous to transport, thereby increasing transport costs. Alternatively,
a column may be constructed from joint steel profiles - e.g. C- or I-shaped profiles
- in a manufacturing plant, using automated tools or rolling techniques, thus still
implying a voluminous and costly transport.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need to assemble load-bearing columns from separate low-cost
steel profiles at the construction site, after the composing profiles being transported
in a compact way, while obtaining columns having the required shape stability.
[0005] In prior art solutions, assembling a column is often done by means of welding. For
example, two U-shaped or C-shaped profiles are positioned with their flanges towards
one another, and the corresponding edges of both profiles are connected by means of
two longitudinal welds provided at the outside of the composed column. In this way,
a column having the required shape stability is obtained. However, a disadvantage
of welding is that it may deform the global shape. Moreover, it impacts the corrosion
resistance of the galvanised metal sheets, so that an aftertreatment like painting
or galvanising is required on site. Also in
RU183856U1 welding is used, to connect the longitudinal edges of two C-profiles, the C-profiles
being positioned web-to-web to form an I-shaped structural member. Moreover, the two
side cavities of the C-profiles are filled with concrete, thereby obtaining a composite
reinforced concrete beam having the required bearing capacity.
[0006] US10513849B1 presents another prior art solution, based on a mechanical connection of profiles
to form a support column. In this solution, a first and second channel member, provided
as two C-shaped profiles, are positioned with their flanges towards another, so as
to define an interior passage extending in longitudinal direction. Inside the interior
passage, an inner member, e.g. an additional C-shaped profile, is placed, the inner
member being coupled to the first and second channel member via screws. The inner
member provides structural support to the support column, thereby allowing to use
profiles of light gauge steel and reducing weight and cost. However, as this solution
requires an inner member, an additional profile, besides the two channel members,
needs to be produced, transported and assembled. Moreover, the inner member is used
as a coupling element, having the function of vertically coupling stacked columns,
and not having the main purpose of substantially increasing the bearing capacity of
the column. It is therefore doubtful that this type of solution offers the same level
of buckling resistance, torsional rigidity, and general shape stability as a tubular
column.
[0007] It is an objective of the present invention to disclose a construction comprising
one or more load-bearing columns, and a corresponding assembly method, that resolve
one or several of the above-described shortcomings of the prior art solutions. More
particularly, it is an objective to present a solution for a load-bearing column that
allows for a compact profile transport and on-site assembly of the load-bearing column,
without requiring any anti-corrosion aftertreatment, and while obtaining the same
level of buckling resistance, torsional rigidity, and general shape stability as for
a tubular column.
Summary of the Invention
[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the above identified objectives
are realised by a construction comprising one or more load-bearing columns, defined
by claim 1, the columns being structural members subjected to axial load, wherein
any of the load-bearing columns comprises a first and a second elongated profile,
the first and second elongated profile extending in length direction, and each comprising:
- a channel portion, comprising two opposing side walls positioned at both sides of
a base wall, the side walls and base wall together defining an open channel;
- an edge portion, comprising a first and a second edge wall, each extending from an
end of a respective side wall in a direction towards the open channel, and comprising
a first respectively second edge surface facing away from said open channel,
wherein the two elongated profiles are positioned with their first edge surfaces facing
each other, and their second edge surfaces facing each other, such that an internal
channel is defined by the two respective channel portions, the two elongated profiles
being joined together to form the load-bearing column, and wherein:
- both the opposing first edge walls and the opposing second edge walls of the two elongated
profiles are joined at multiple connection spots, located inside the internal channel
and distributed along the length,
- the joint provided at any of the connection spots is such that there is no play in
the connection at the connection spots, thereby establishing a sliding-rigid connection
between the respective opposing edge walls, and
- access holes distributed along the length are provided in the base wall or a side
wall of the first elongated profile and/or in the base wall or a side wall of the
second elongated profile, any of the connection spots being accessible via one of
the access holes during joining the two elongated profiles, and being left open or
being closed afterwards.
[0009] Thus, the invention concerns a construction wherein structural profiles, typically
steel profiles, are mutually connected to form a frame or skeleton. For example, the
frame construction is used as a structure for a solar carport or as a high-bay storage
rack, or it forms the skeleton of a building. The construction comprises one or more
load-bearing columns. A column is a structural member, used vertically and supporting
elements of the superstructure. The columns in the construction are thus subjected
to axial load, thereby acting as a vertical compression member. Each of the vertically
loaded columns contributes to carrying the weight of another structure, e.g. a roof
structure, floor structure or storage platform. In an embodiment the load of the supported
structure is completely carried by the one or more load-bearing columns according
to the invention. In another embodiments, other structural members may contribute
to carry this load, besides the invented load-bearing columns. Apart from the vertical
or axial load, the load-bearing columns may be subjected to other types of load, e.g.
a torsional load or bending moment. Typically, the construction is designed such that
the axial stresses due to axial force and bending moment are close to the allowable
tensile strength of the applied steel sheet. For carport applications, the column
length is typically between 3 and 5 meter, and the column's cross section is typically
between 350 mm × 200 mm and 450 mm × 240 mm. For a high-bay storage rack application,
the columns are typically up to 15 m in length, and having a cross section of typically
between 140 mm × 200 mm and 160 mm × 350 mm.
[0010] Each of the load-bearing columns comprises a first and a second elongated profile,
extending according to a longitudinal direction or length direction. A profile refers
to a structural profile or building profile, typically a structural steel profile.
A profile typically has an elongated shape and a specific cross section repeated along
the length. Various production techniques may be used to make a profile, e.g. roll
forming, or extrusion. For example, the profiles may be made of galvanised steel,
in view of obtaining a good corrosion resistance. Typically, the profiles are made
from plates having a thickness between 3 and 5 mm.
[0011] Both the first and the second elongated profile comprise a channel portion and an
edge portion. The channel portion comprises two opposing side walls positioned at
both sides of a base wall, the side walls and base wall together defining an open
channel. The base wall may also be referred to as the web of the profile, and the
side walls as the flanges. The edge portion comprises a first and a second edge wall,
each extending from an end of a respective side wall in a direction towards the open
channel, The edge walls, sometimes also referred to as flanges, are thus directed
inwardly, both edge walls pointing to one another. For example, the first and second
elongated profile are C-profiles or sigma-profiles. In these cases, the channel portion
is U-shaped, comprising two substantially parallel side walls or legs, positioned
at both sides of a base wall. In case of the C-profile, the base wall has a flat top
surface extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the
side walls. In case of the sigma-profile, the base wall has a longitudinal slit in
its top surface.
[0012] In an embodiment, the edge walls are flat plates extending in a single direction.
For example, both side walls are substantially parallel, and both edge walls extend
in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the side walls. In
another embodiment, the edge walls comprise more than one flat plate, each of the
flat plates extending in another direction. For example, the edge wall may be hook-shaped,
comprising a flat plate substantially perpendicular to the direction of the parallel
side walls, and another flat plate substantially parallel to the direction of the
parallel side walls.
[0013] In an embodiment, the first and the second elongated profile have the same cross
section, e.g. both being a C-shaped profile or both being a sigma-shaped profile.
In another embodiment, the first and second elongated profile each have a different
cross section, e.g. one of them is C-shaped and the other one is sigma-shaped, or
both are C-shaped but with other dimensions. Typically, the edge walls are continuous
elements in length direction. In an embodiment, however, an edge wall may consist
of multiple separated plates according to the length direction.
[0014] The first edge wall comprises a first edge surface, and the second edge wall comprises
a second edge surface. Both edge surfaces are directed outwardly, thus facing away
from the open channel defined by the channel portion. The two elongated profiles are
positioned with their first edge surfaces facing each other, and their second edge
surfaces facing each other, thereby forming a hollow column. In this, the channel
portion of the first elongated profile and the channel portion of the second elongated
profile together define an internal channel, the latter being a cavity enclosed by
both channel portions. Typically, the first edge surfaces of both elongated profiles
are in direct contact with each other, and the second edge surfaces of both elongated
profiles are in direct contact with each other. It is also possible, however, that
an additional element is positioned between the opposing first edge surfaces and/or
between the opposing second edge surfaces.
[0015] The two elongated profiles are joined together to form the load-bearing column. The
load-bearing column extends in a longitudinal direction or length direction, corresponding
to the axial direction or height direction of the column. For joining the profiles
together, the opposing first edge walls - of the first and second elongated profile
- are joined at multiple connection spots along the length, and the opposing second
edge walls - of the first and second elongated profile - are joined at multiple connection
spots along the length. The two profiles are thus connected spotwise, at multiple
separated connection spots provided at the opposing first edge walls, and at multiple
separated connection spots provided at the opposing first edge walls, the connection
spots being located inside the internal channel of the column and being distributed
along the length of the column.
[0016] The joint provided at any of the connection spots is such that there is no play in
the connection at the connection spots. A play-free connection is thus provided at
any of the connection spots, for connecting the opposing first edge walls and connecting
the opposing second edge walls. Thus, the type of joint is such that no small movements
are possible of the opposing edge walls with respect to each other at the spot where
they are connected. Such a play-free connection may e.g. be obtained due to plastically
deforming material of the opposing edge walls in the region where they are connected.
For example, a fastener such as a thread-forming self-tapping screw or a self-piercing
rivet may be used to form the joint, thereby obtaining plastically deformed regions
in the opposing edge walls that perfectly fit with the fastener's outer surface. As
no clearances or gaps are present between the plastically deformed edge wall materials
and the fastener's outer surface, the play-free connection is established. In another
embodiment, the play-free connection may be obtained due to plastically forming an
interlock between the opposing edge walls, without using a fastener, like in a clinching
type of connection. In this case, no clearances or gaps are present between the plastically
deformed material of the first edge wall and the plastically deformed material of
the second edge wall, thereby establishing the play-free connection.
[0017] In any of the embodiments, the play-free connections at the respective connection
spots results in establishing a sliding-rigid connection between the respective opposing
edge walls. A sliding-rigid connection means that the opposing edge walls do not slide
with respect to each other, or over each other, when being used in the columns of
the construction. The established connection may also be referred to as sliding-free,
slip-free, slip-resistant or shear-rigid. In a preferred embodiment, the two elongated
profiles are joined by relying only on the aforementioned play-free joints at the
internally located connection spots, without relying on any other connection means.
[0018] The composed column further comprises access holes, provided in the first and/or
second elongated profile, and distributed over the length of the first and/or second
profile. The access holes are placed such that any of the connection spots is accessible
via at least one of the access holes during joining the two elongated profiles. This
means that during assembly of the column, an access hole is used to enter the internal
cavity of the column, e.g. with a tool, thereby reaching the spot at the opposing
edge walls where the joint is to be formed. For example, a self-tapping fastener,
attached to the front end of a tool, e.g. an impact screw gun or socket wrench, may
be inserted via the access hole for installing the fastener at the corresponding connection
spot. Thus, there is a first group of access holes, distributed along the length of
the column, giving access to the connection spots at the opposing first edge walls,
and a second group of access holes, distributed along the length of the column, giving
access to the connection spots at the opposing second edge walls. Preferably, the
access holes are limited in size, in order not to adversely affect the buckling resistance
and bending strength of the column.
[0019] Access holes may be present in the base wall of the first and/or second profile,
or in one of the side walls of the first and/or second profile, or in both side walls
of the first and/or second profile, or in any combination of the base and side walls
of the first and/or second profile. Typically, one of the profiles or both profiles
comprise a series of access holes distributed along the length of the profile, wherein
e.g. every access hole is placed at the same length or height position as a particular
connection spot, thereby giving access to the particular connection spot. In an embodiment,
there is one access hole per connection spot, e.g. when the type of joint allows for
a one-sided installation. In this case, the number of access holes equals the number
of connection spots. In another embodiment, there are two access holes per connection
spot, such that the amount of access holes is twice the number of connection spots.
[0020] In an embodiment, each of the access holes is provided in a base wall, of the first
or the second elongated profile. In this case, a connection spot may be reached by
entering the cavity in a direction substantially perpendicular to the base wall, thereby
reaching the opposing edge walls being flat plates parallel to the direction of the
base walls. Per connection spot, only one access hole may be present, in one of the
base walls, or two access holes may be present, in each of the base walls. In an embodiment,
any of the access holes comprised in the first group, thus giving access to connection
spots located at the opposing first edge walls, are provided in the base wall of the
first elongated profile, and any of the access holes comprised in the second group,
thus giving access to connection spots located at the opposing second edge walls are
provided in the base wall of the second elongated profile. In another embodiment,
the access holes comprised in the first group, thus giving access to connection spots
located at the opposing first edge walls, are distributed between the base wall of
the first profile and the base wall of the second profile, e.g. in an alternating
way. Similarly, the access holes comprised in the second group, thus giving access
to connection spots located at the opposing first edge walls, may be distributed between
the base wall of the first profile and the base wall of the second profile, e.g. in
an alternating way.
[0021] In another embodiment, each of the access holes is provided in a side wall, of the
first or the second elongated profile. For example, the first and second edge walls
of both elongated profiles may be hook-shaped, each of the edge walls comprising a
plate in a direction substantially perpendicular to the side wall and a plate in a
direction substantially parallel to the side wall. In mounted condition, the hooks
of the opposing edge walls may be in contact with one another. The access holes may
be provided at the first and second side wall of one of the elongated profiles, or
they may be provided at the first side wall of the first profile and the second side
wall of the second profile. Thus, a connection spot at the opposing first or second
edge walls may be reached by entering the cavity through an access hole in a side
wall of the first or second profile, thus entering in a direction substantially perpendicular
to the side wall, thereby reaching the portion of the edge walls which is parallel
to the direction of the side walls.
[0022] After forming the joints during assembly of the column, the access holes may be left
open, i.e. perforations along the length are present in the column when being used
in the construction. In another embodiment, the access holes may be closed after having
formed the joints, for example by means of caps a or a filling material.
[0023] By virtue of the provided access holes, the elongated profiles can be joined in a
very easy and fast way, only requiring simple tools that can be operated by construction
workers at the construction site. It suffices, for example, to screw self-tapping
fasteners into the edge walls by means of a manually operated tool such as a an impact
screw gun or socket wrench. As such, columns may easily be assembled on site, without
requiring automated machines or installations that are only usable in a production
environment. Moreover, despite the simple joint technique, yet a column with excellent
strength characteristics is obtained. Indeed, surprisingly it was found that the play-free
connections at the connection spots along the length, result in a column having the
same level of buckling resistance, bending stiffness in all planes, torsional rigidity
or torsional stiffness, and general shape stability, as for a tubular column. Such
strength characteristics would not be obtainable if another type of simple joint like
classical screws would be used, the latter entailing some play in the connection,
however limited that play may be. Thus, the invention brings the advantage that a
stiff and shape-stable column is obtained, without increasing the profile weight,
and without requiring expensive tubular columns or requiring complex installations
to assemble columns in a production plant. Accordingly, the individual profiles, e.g.
C- or sigma-shaped, may be compactly stacked during transport, thus allowing for a
reduced transport cost.
[0024] Furthermore, due to the presence of access holes, the joints may be applied at the
inside of the hollow column, without having to enter the internal cavity via the open
ends of the column, the latter being infeasible with the tools available at a construction
site. The internally located joints have the advantage that they are less prone to
corrosion and damage. Moreover, the outer borders of the edge walls - often being
more corrosion sensitive as they correspond to the saw cuts when cutting the profile
plate from a galvanised strip of material - are located at the inside of the column,
so that any occurring corrosion will have no technical or visual effect. Finally,
as no weld seams are applied at the outside of the elongated profiles, the galvanized
coating of the profiles is not affected, thereby optimally retaining corrosion resistance
without requiring an aftertreatment on site like painting or galvanising.
[0025] Optionally, according to claim 2, material of the opposing first edge walls and material
of the opposing second edge walls is plastically deformed at the connection spots
due to formation of the joints, such that the plastically deformed materials of the
opposing first respectively second edge walls fit with one another and/or each fit
with a fastener's outer surface, without leaving any intermediate clearances. This
implies that by forming the joint, the opposing edge walls are locally deformed, involving
a local plastic deformation. In an embodiment, a fastener is used to form the joint,
and the plastic deformation results from installing the fastener, the fastener e.g.
being a self-tapping fastener like a self-tapping screw or a flow-drilling screw.
In this way, the plastically deformed regions of the opposing edge walls perfectly
fit with the fastener's outer surface, e.g. the screw's outer surface. As no clearances
or gaps are present between the plastically deformed edge wall materials and the fastener's
outer surface, a play-free connection is established. In another embodiment, the fastener
is also plastically deformed during installation, the fastener e.g. being a self-piercing
rivet. In this case, no clearances are present between the plastically deformed regions
of the two opposing edge walls, and no clearances are present between the plastically
deformed edge walls and the fastener's outer surface, thereby obtaining the play-free
connection. In yet another embodiment, no fastener is used, but an interlock is created
between the plastically deformed materials, e.g. by means of a clinching technique.
In this case, no clearances are present between the plastically deformed material
of the first edge wall and the plastically deformed material of the second edge wall,
thereby establishing the play-free connection. Relying on a plastic deformation to
establish a play-free connection has the advantage that a reliable joint is created,
not being dependent on creating sufficient friction between both opposing surfaces,
the latter being difficult to obtain when galvanised plates are used. Moreover, an
inexpensive type of fasteners can be used, that also allow for a fast assembly.
[0026] Optionally, the joint at any of the connection spots is established by means of a
fastener, the fastener being placed through a hole in the opposing first or second
edge walls. The final holes in the edge walls, wherein the fastener is found, may
be formed during installing the fastener. When fasteners are used to form the joints
at the connection spots, an access hole gives access for installing the fastener,
i.e. the fastener can be inserted through an access hole for reaching the connection
spot. In a preferred embodiment, after installing the fastener, it is completely located
inside the column's internal channel, and no portions or elements of the fastener
are located at the outside of the column.
[0027] Optionally, according to claim 3, the joint at any of the connection spots is established
by means of a fastener, the fastener being placed through a hole in the opposing first
or second edge walls, and the shape of the hole results from plastically deforming
the opposing first respectively second edge walls while forming the joint, such that
the plastically deformed edge wall materials fit with the outer surface of the fastener
without leaving any intermediate clearances. For example, before applying the fastener
not any hole may be present in the edge walls, or a pilot hole may be present adapted
to receive the fastener's front end.
[0028] Optionally, according to claim 4, the joint provided at any of the connection spots
allows for a one-side installation. This means that access to the connection spot
from a single side suffices to apply the joint. This has the advantage that one access
hole per connection spot is sufficient, thereby limiting the amount of material that
is taken away from the profile's wall to provide the access holes. In this way, the
buckling resistance and bending strength of the column are not adversely affected,
or only to a minimal extent. Moreover, the one-side installation allows for a fast
application of the fasteners, and thus a reduced assembly time. In an embodiment,
a blind fastener is used to form the joint from one side, like a self-tapping screw
or a blind rivet.
[0029] Optionally, the joint at any of the connection spots is established by means of a
self-tapping fastener. A self-tapping fastener is a fastener that can tap its own
thread as it is driven into the material, for example it is a self-tapping screw.
In a preferred embodiment, the used self-tapping screw is not self-drilling, wherein
a self-drilling type of screw refers to screws having a tip shaped like a drill head
and thus being able to drill a hole into the material without requiring a pilot hole.
Accordingly, self-tapping screws that are not self-drilling typically require a pilot
hole to allow insertion of the screw. Using self-tapping screws that are not self-drilling
has the advantage that they are typically strong enough to pierce through relatively
thick plates, e.g. 3 to 5 mm thickness, in high-strength steel. Moreover, typically
they have a larger diameter than self-drilling screws, thereby being able to withstand
substantial forces occurring in the connections between large profiles. Finally, in
case of a self-drilling screw, steel fibres are removed and end up on the profiles,
thereby entailing a risk for corrosion.
[0030] Optionally, according to claim 5, the self-tapping fastener is a thread-forming self-tapping
screw. A thread-forming self-tapper is a fastener that displaces material without
removing it. It distinguishes from a thread-cutting self-tapping screw, wherein thread-cutting
refers to that fact that material is removed as the screw is inserted. When a thread-forming
self-tapping screw is driven into the material, the material is pushed away by the
screw, the material thus being plastically deformed. The thread-forming self-tapping
screw must be of a type such that both opposing edge walls are plastically deformed,
and in installed condition no clearances or gaps are present between the screw's outer
surface and the plastically deformed region of the edge wall of the first profile,
and between the screw's outer surface and the plastically deformed region of the edge
wall of the second profile. Using thread-forming self-tapping screws has the advantage
that a connection without play can be guaranteed, as they result in precisely fitted
threads. Moreover, a cheap type of fasteners can be used, and the access holes may
be small, the latter avoiding that taking away a substantial amount of material form
the profile's walls would affect the strength properties of the column. Finally, the
thread-forming self-tapping screws allow for a fast assembly, and for a reliable and
durable joint.
[0031] Optionally, according to claim 6, the joint at any of the connection spots is established
by means of a self-tapping screw, the self-tapping screw being tapered, across at
least a portion of its length. In an embodiment, the threaded part of the fastener
comprises a first portion which is not tapered, and a second portion which is tapered,
the first portion being located near the head of the fastener, and the second portion
being located near the tip of the fastener. The tapered second portion is such that
it becomes narrower, in a direction from head to tip. In another embodiment, the threaded
part of the fastener is tapered along its whole length, wherein it becomes narrower
in a direction from head to tip. Using self-tapping screws with a tapered section
has the advantage that while applying the fastener, the material of the edge walls
is gradually deformed, thereby gradually pushing away the material and forming the
play-free connection. Moreover, due to the tapered shape of the screws, the two profiles,
which may have a slight bend longitudinally, become aligned with respect to each other
while screwing the fastener. In this way, both profiles are perfectly positioned relatively
to one another, such that the outer border of the obtained column is nicely rectangular,
without one of the profiles extending laterally from the other profile.
[0032] Optionally, according to claim 7, one access hole is provided per connection spot.
This has the advantage that less material is taken away from the profile's walls,
thereby minimally affecting the strength characteristics of the column.
[0033] Optionally, according to claim 8, any of the access holes is placed at the same length
position as one of the connection spots, thereby giving access to that connection
spot. The length position refers to the position at the column according to the length
direction; it may also be referred to as the height position with respect to the mounted
column. In an embodiment, the joint at any of the connection spots is established
by means of a fastener, and for any of the connection spots, the fastener is at the
same length position as an access hole. This means that the central axis of the fastener
is in line with the central axis of the access hole.
[0034] Optionally, according to claim 9, a first series of access holes, giving access to
the connection spots located at the opposing first edge walls, is provided in the
base wall of the first elongated profile, and a second series of access holes, giving
access to the connection spots located at the opposing second edge walls, is provided
in the base wall of the second elongated profile. Thus, one row of access holes, distributed
along the length, is present in the base wall of the first profile, and another row
of access holes, distributed along the length, is present in the base wall of the
second profile. Such a pattern of access holes has the advantage that the first and
second elongated profile may be identical parts, contributing to ease of manufacturing
and assembly.
[0035] Optionally, according to claim 10, any of the access holes has a circular shape,
with a diameter between 20 mm and 35 mm. This implies that the access holes are provided
as small perforations, thereby not taking away more material than is needed just for
giving access to the connection spots, and thus minimally affecting the strength characteristics
of the column. In particular, an advantage of using access holes being sufficiently
small in size, is that the buckling resistance and bending strength of the column
is not adversely affected.
[0036] Optionally, according to claim 11, the opposing first edge walls are joined by a
first series of joints along the length, and the opposing second edge walls are joined
by a second series of joints along the length, wherein the distance, measured along
the length, between two consecutive joints of the first series, and the distance,
measured along the length, between two consecutive joints of the second series, is
maximum 80 cm, preferably maximum 60 cm, more preferably maximum 50 cm. Thus, the
interval distance between two consecutive joints is at most 80 cm.
[0037] Optionally, according to claim 12, the construction comprising a structure of which
the load is completely carried by the one or more load-bearing columns. For example,
the structure, being supported by the columns, is a roof structure, a floor structure
or a storage platform. This implies that in the construction no other elements than
the invented columns are used for carrying the structure's weight. In an embodiment,
the construction is a carport or solar carport. In other possible embodiment, the
construction is a high-bay storage rack or the skeleton of a building.
[0038] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the above identified objectives
are realized by a method for assembling a construction comprising one or more load-bearing
columns, defined by claim 13, the method comprising:
- assembling the one or more columns by, for each of the columns:
∘ providing a first and a second elongated profile, the first and second elongated
profile extending in length direction, and each comprising:
▪ a channel portion, comprising two opposing side walls positioned at both sides of
a base wall, the side walls and base wall together defining an open channel;
▪ an edge portion, comprising a first and a second edge wall, each extending from
an end of a respective side wall, and comprising a first respectively second edge
surface facing away from said open channel,
wherein access holes distributed along the length are provided in the base wall or
a side wall of the first elongated profile and/or in the base wall or a side wall
of the second elongated profile;
∘ positioning the two elongated profiles with their first edge surfaces facing each
other, and their second edge surfaces facing each other, such that an internal cavity
is defined by the two respective channel portions;
∘ joining the two elongated profiles together to form the load-bearing column, by
joining both the opposing first edge walls and opposing second edge walls of the two
elongated profiles at multiple connection spots distributed along the length, wherein:
▪ the connection spots are located inside the internal channel, any of the connection
spots being accessible via one of the access holes during joining the two elongated
profiles, and
▪ the joint provided at any of the connection spots is such that there is no play
in the connection at the connection spots, thereby establishing a sliding-rigid connection
between the respective opposing edge walls;
- mounting the one or more columns and mounting a structure, such that structure is
carried by the one or more load-bearing columns, the columns thereby at least being
subjected to axial load.
[0039] The construction, load-bearing columns, elongated profiles and structure, and their
features, are defined as with respect to the first aspect of the invention. Apart
to axial load, the columns may be subjected to other types of load, e.g. a bending
moment.
[0040] Optionally, according to claim 14, for each of the columns, pilot holes are present
in the first and second edge walls of the first and second elongated profile, and
joining the opposing first edge walls and joining the opposing second edge walls is
done by means of fasteners, wherein a fastener is inserted through overlapping pilot
holes in the first respectively second edge walls at any of the connection spots.
In this way, during inserting the fastener, material of the first respectively second
edge walls is plastically deformed, thereby obtaining a hole in the respective edge
wall being larger than the original pilot hole. Providing pilot holes has the advantage
that the fasteners, e.g. self-tapping fasteners, may be accurately positioned and
easily driven into the material.
[0041] Optionally, according to claim 15, at least some of the pilot holes are provided
as an elongated slot, having straight opposing borders. In a preferred embodiment,
any of the pilot holes is provided as an elongated slot. The straight opposing borders
are substantially parallel. Moreover, the slots are oriented such that, when positioning
the two elongated profiles with their first and second edge surfaces facing each other,
the slots of the first elongated profile are rotated over 90 degrees with respect
to the slots of the second elongated profile, resulting in a square-shaped overlap
between two opposing slots, for receiving the fastener. The elongated slots, serving
as pilot holes, may e.g. being rectangular or stadium-shaped. A slot comprised in
the first profile is rotated over 90 degrees with respect to the corresponding slot
comprised in the second profile. For example, any of the slots extends in a direction
which is angled with respect to the longitudinal direction, e.g. at an angle of 45
degrees, but the slots of the first profile are rotated over 90 degrees compared to
the slots of the second profile. Using such elongated slots as pilot holes has the
advantage that overlapping slots always result in the same square overlapping hole,
even when the two elongated profiles are not perfectly aligned. More freedom is thus
obtained in aligning the two profiles with respect to each other.
[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the fasteners have a shape that is adapted to the dimensions
of the square overlapping hole. For example, a fastener has a tapered threaded portion,
of which the diameter at the tip end is smaller than the diameter of the inscribed
circle of the square overlap, while the diameter at the head end is larger than the
diameter of the inscribed circle of the square overlap. In this way, the fastener
will tap itself in the overlapping hole, and will deform the borders of the elongated
slots during insertion. Thus, after having installed a fastener, the opposing borders
of an elongated slot are not parallel anymore, but are partially deformed at the position
where the fastener is in contact with the border. Accordingly, in mounted condition
of the columns, any of the columns comprises the aforementioned elongated slots, the
slots being deformed during forming the joints.
[0043] According to a further independent aspect of the invention, a method is described
for anchoring the load-bearing column in a ground surface, the method comprising:
- providing a column, the column being assembled according to the second aspect of the
invention;
- providing a concrete casting, comprising a central recess adapted for receiving the
bottom part of the column;
- positioning the concrete casting into a pit in the ground surface;
- positioning the column in the central recess, such that it is supported by the concrete
casting;
- filling the remaining space between the bottom part of the column and the concrete
casting with concrete.
[0044] Optionally, the space between the outer surface of the concrete casting and the walls
of the pit is filled with screed, for fixing the concrete casting. Further optionally,
one or more apertures are provided in the surface of the bottom part of the column,
such that concrete may run into the internal channel of the column. Further optionally,
a portion of the of the internal channel of the column may be filled with concrete,
the concrete being inserted from the top end of the hollow column.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0045]
Fig. 1 illustrates a construction, namely a structure for a solar carport, according
to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 2 gives a 3D view of an assembled column, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 give a 3D view of a first respectively second elongated profile,
according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 5 gives a transverse cross section of an assembled column, according to an embodiment
of the invention.
Fig. 6 illustrates a self-tapping screw, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 each give a transverse cross section of an assembled column, according
to other possible embodiments of the invention.
Fig. 9 illustrates the presence of elongated slots in the edge walls, serving as pilot
holes, according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 each give a 3D view of a column, to which two beams are attached,
according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 12 illustrates the anchoring of a column in the ground, according to an embodiment
of the invention.
Detailed Description of Embodiment(s)
[0046] Fig. 1 shows a construction 100, according to a possible embodiment of the invention.
The shown construction 100 serves as a carport, placed at a large parking space, and
adapted to mount solar panels on top. The construction 100 comprises columns 200 and
a roof structure 101, the latter being carried by the columns 200. The roof structure
101 comprises beams 801, 802 and purlins 102. In the construction 100, the weight
of the roof structure 101 is carried by the columns 200, the latter serving as load-bearing
columns 200. The columns 200 are subjected to axial load and bending moments.
[0047] Fig. 2 gives a closer view on a load-bearing column 200, the latter being in assembled
condition. The column 200 extends in X-direction 204, also referred to as the vertical
direction, length direction, or height direction. The assembled column 200, comprise
a first elongated profile 201 and a second elongated profile 202. In the shown embodiment
the elongated profiles 201, 202 are structural steel profiles, made of galvanised
steel. The two elongated profiles 201, 202 are joined together, at multiple connection
spots distributed along the length, thereby forming the load-bearing column 200. The
column 200 is hollow, having an internal cavity or internal channel 203.
[0048] Fig. 3 shows the first elongated profile 201, and Fig. 4 shows the second elongated
profile 202. In the shown embodiment both elongated profiles 201, 201 are identical
parts. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the elongated profiles 201, 202 are shown in the condition
before assembly, i.e. before being joined together.
[0049] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the first elongated profile 201 is a C-profile.
It comprises a channel portion, the channel portion comprising a base wall 303 and
two opposing side walls 301, 302. The first side wall 301 and the second side wall
302 are substantially parallel, both being substantially perpendicular to the base
wall 303. The channel portion is thus U-shaped, wherein the base wall 303 and side
walls 301, 302 together define an open channel 304. The first elongated profile 201
further comprises an edge portion, the edge portion comprising a first edge wall 305
and a second edge wall 306. The first edge wall 305 extends from the first side wall
301, i.e. it is connected to the side wall's 301 end but protrudes from the plane
in which the first side wall 301 is situated. Similarly, the second edge wall 306
extends from the second side wall 302. Both edge walls 305, 306 are provided as flat
plates lying in the same plane. They are directed inwardly, towards the open channel
304, i.e. both edge walls 305 and 306 are directed such that they are pointing towards
one another. The first edge wall 305 comprises a first edge surface 309, and the second
edge wall 306 comprises a second edge surface 310, both edge surfaces 309, 310 facing
away from the open channel 304 and being directed downwards in Fig. 3.
[0050] Fig. 3 further shows that the base wall 303 comprises a first series of access holes
300, provided as circular perforations distributed along the length of the profile
201. The access holes 300 are arranged in a longitudinal row, this row being placed
in the portion of the base wall 303 opposing the first edge wall 305. Finally, Fig.
3 shows that the first edge wall comprises elongated slots 307, serving as pilot holes,
which will be described in more detail below.
[0051] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, the second elongated profile 202 is a C-profile.
It comprises a channel portion, the channel portion comprising a base wall 403 and
two opposing side walls 401, 402. The first side wall 401 and the second side wall
402 are substantially parallel, both being substantially perpendicular to the base
wall 403. The channel portion is thus U-shaped, wherein the base wall 403 and side
walls 401, 402 together define an open channel 404. The second elongated profile 202
further comprises an edge portion, the edge portion comprising a first edge wall 405
and a second edge wall 406. The first edge wall 405 extends from the first side wall
401, i.e. it is connected to the side wall's 401 end but protrudes from the plane
in which the first side wall 401 is situated. Similarly, the second edge wall 406
extends from the second side wall 402. Both edge walls 405, 406 are provided as flat
plates lying in the same plane. They are directed inwardly, towards the open channel
404, i.e. both edge walls 405 and 406 are directed such that they are pointing towards
one another. The first edge wall 405 comprises a first edge surface 409, and the second
edge wall 406 comprises a second edge surface 410, both edge surfaces 409, 410 facing
away from the open channel 404 and being directed upwards in Fig. 4.
[0052] Fig. 4 further shows that the base wall 403 comprises a second series of access holes
400, provided as circular perforations distributed along the length of the profile
202. The access holes 400 are arranged in a longitudinal row, this row being placed
in the portion of the base wall 403 opposing the second edge wall 406. Finally, Fig.
4 shows that the first edge wall 405 comprises elongated slots 407, and that the second
edge wall 406 comprises elongated slots 408. The slots 407, 408, serving as pilot
holes, will be described in more detail below.
[0053] Fig. 5 gives a cross section of the column 200, in assembled condition, i.e. after
joining the first and second elongated profile 201, 202 together. In the assembled
condition, the two elongated profiles 201, 202 are positioned such that their first
edge surfaces 309, 409 are facing each other and their second edge surfaces 310, 410
are facing each other. In the shown embodiment the edge surfaces 309, 409 are in direct
contact and the edge surfaces 301, 410 are in direct contact with one another. In
joined condition, the channel portion of the first elongated profile 201 and the channel
portion of the second elongated profile together define an internal channel 203, corresponding
to the internal cavity of the hollow column 200.
[0054] The opposing first edge walls 305, 405, of the first 201 and second elongated profile
202 respectively, are joined at multiple connection spots 503. The connection spots
503 are located inside the internal channel 203 and are distributed over the length
of the column 200. The first edge walls 305, 405 are thus joined spotwise, via a first
series of mutually separated connection spots along the length, of which one connection
spot 503 is illustrated in Fig. 5. Similarly, the opposing second edge walls 306,
406, of the first 201 and second elongated profile 202 respectively, are joined via
a second series of mutually separated connection spots along the length, of which
one connection spot 504 is illustrated in Fig. 5.
[0055] As is clear from Fig. 2 and Fig. 5, the access holes 300 in the first elongated profile
201 give access to the first series of connection spots 503, and the access holes
400 in the second elongated profile 202 give access to the second series of connection
spots 504. In this embodiment, there is a single access hole 300, 400 per connection
spot 503, 504, wherein any connection spot 503 of the first series has a corresponding
access hole 300 in the first elongated profile 201, and any connection spot 504 of
the second series has a corresponding access hole 400 in the second elongated profile
201. In the shown embodiment, a typical column length is between 3 and 5 meter, and
the mutual distance between two consecutive connection spots, or between two consecutive
access holes 300, is between 50 and 60 cm. The access holes 300, 400 are provided
as small circular perforations, with a diameter between 20 mm and 35 mm.
[0056] In the embodiment show in Fig. 5, the joint at any of the connection spots is provided
by means of fasteners 501, 502. The fastener 501 is placed through the opposing first
edge walls 305, 405, and the fastener 502 is placed through the opposing second edge
walls 306, 406. In the shown embodiment, the fasteners 501, 502 are thread-forming
self-tapping screws, e.g. NONUT screws commercialized by SFS. When joining the elongated
profiles 201, 202, screws 501 are inserted through the corresponding access holes
300, and driven into the opposing first edge walls 305, 405. For this purpose, a tool
may be used, e.g. an impact screw gun. Similarly, screws 502 are inserted through
the corresponding access holes 400, and driven into the opposing second edge walls
306, 406.
[0057] Fig. 5 shows that the central axis 507 of fastener 501 is in line with the central
axis 505 of the corresponding access hole 300, and the central axis 508 of fastener
502 is in line with the central axis 506 of the corresponding access hole 400. In
other words, every connection spot 503 resp. 504 or fastener 501 resp. 502 is at the
same length or height position as the corresponding access hole 300 resp. 400.
[0058] Fig. 6 shows the self-tapping fastener 501, 502, extending between a head end 601
and a tip end 602. The fastener 501 comprises a head part 600 and an elongated part
603. The elongated part 603 comprises a threaded portion 604. The threaded portion
604 is tapered across a portion of its length, see 605, with an increasing diameter
in a direction from the tip end 602 to the head end 601. When the fastener 501 is
driven into a material, it taps its own thread, by pushing away the material, thereby
plastically deforming the material without removing it. The fastener 501 is a blind
fastener, thus allowing for a one-side installation and therefore a fast assembly.
[0059] Fig. 2 to Fig. 5 illustrate one specific embodiment of the invention. It is clear
that other embodiments are possible, using a different type of elongated profiles,
or having a different distribution or pattern of access holes. For example, in an
embodiment, the column may be similar as in Fig. 2, but wherein the first group of
access holes, giving access to the first series of connection spots 503, is partially
provided in the base wall 303 of the first profile 201, and partially provided in
the base wall 403 of the second profile 202, and similar for the second group of access
holes. For example, within the first group of access holes, according to the length
direction, an access hole in base wall 303 is alternated with an access hole in base
wall 403, and similar for the second group of access holes.
[0060] Fig. 7 illustrates yet another embodiment. In the shown embodiment, the elongated
profiles 7001, 7002 are sigma-profiles. The side walls 301, 302, 401, 402 and the
edge walls 305, 306, 405, 406 have the same shape as in the embodiment of Fig. 2 to
5. However, the base wall 7003 of the first elongated profile 7001 and the base wall
7004 of the second elongated profile 7002 have a different shape than in the embodiment
of Fig. 2-5. Indeed, both base walls 7003, 7004 are not provided as flat plates lying
in one plane, but each comprise a longitudinal slit 7000 resp. 7005. In the shown
embodiment, two profiles 7001, 7003 are connected in a similar way as in Fig. 2-5,
by means of self-tapping fasteners 501, 502 through opposing edge walls.
[0061] Fig. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment, wherein the access holes are not provided
in the base walls, but are provided in side walls. In this embodiment, the first elongated
profile 8001 comprises a hook-shaped first edge wall, and a hook-shaped second edge
wall. The first edge wall comprises a plate 8003 extending in a plane substantially
parallel to the base wall 303, and a plate 8004 extending in a plane substantially
parallel to the side wall 301. The second edge wall comprises a plate 8008 extending
in a plane substantially parallel to the base wall 303, and a plate 8009 extending
in a plane substantially parallel to the side wall 302. Similarly, the second elongated
profile 8002 comprises a hook-shaped first edge wall, and a hook-shaped second edge
wall. The first edge wall comprises a plate 8005 extending in a plane substantially
parallel to the base wall 403, and a plate 8006 extending in a plane substantially
parallel to the side wall 401. The second edge wall comprises a plate 8010 extending
in a plane substantially parallel to the base wall 403, and a plate 8011 extending
in a plane substantially parallel to the side wall 402. In assembled condition the
hook-shaped opposing first edge walls are in contact with one another, and the hook-shaped
opposing second edge walls are in contact with one another.
[0062] The first side wall 301 of the first elongated profile 8001 comprises access holes
8007, distributed along the length. The access holes 8007 allow a fastener 501 to
be inserted into the internal cavity of the column, thereby giving access to a connection
spot located at the portion of the opposing first edge walls that is parallel to the
side walls. Indeed, in the shown embodiment, the fastener 501 is placed through the
plates 8004 and 8006, wherein the central axis of the fastener 501 is in line with
the central axis of the access hole 8007. Similarly, the second side wall 402 of the
second elongated profile 8002 comprises access holes 8012, distributed along the length.
The fastener 502 is placed through the opposing plates 8009 and 8011, wherein the
central axis of the fastener 502 is in line with the central axis of the access hole
8012.
[0063] Pilot holes may be provided in the first and second edge walls of both profiles,
serving as a starting point for the holes being tapped by the self-tapping fasteners.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 to 5, the pilot holes are provided as elongated
slots 307, 407 in the first edge walls 305, 405, and elongated slots 308, 408 in the
second edge walls 306, 406. Fig. 9 illustrates the opposing slots 308 and 408, in
the condition wherein the second edge wall 306 of the first profile 201 is positioned
against the second edge wall 406 of the second profile 202. The same concept applies
to the opposing slots 307, 407 of the opposing first edge walls 305, 405. The shape
of the slots shown in Fig. 9 is their unaffected shape, i.e. before the fastener 502
was inserted.
[0064] Before joining the profiles, any of the elongated slots 307, 407, 308, 408 is stadium-shaped,
having two parallel opposing borders. Moreover, any of the slots 307, 407, 308, 408
extends in a direction which is at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the length
direction. In the condition of Fig. 9, the opposing slots 308, 408 are rotated over
90 degrees with respect to each other. Similarly, the opposing slots 307, 407 are
rotated over 90 degrees with respect to each other. Fig. 9 shows that the overlapping
slots 308 and 408 result in a square-shaped overlap hole 700. Fig. 9 further illustrates
how the dimensions of the fastener 501, 502 relate to the dimensions of the square-shaped
overlap 700. The figure shows the maximum diameter 702 of the fastener's tapered portion
605 and the minimum diameter 701 of the tapered portion. The minimum diameter 701
is smaller than the inscribed circle of the square overlap 700, while the maximum
diameter 702 is larger than the inscribed circle of the square overlap 700.
[0065] When inserting the fastener 501, 502, it will tap itself in the overlapping hole
700, and will gradually deform the borders of the elongated slots 308, 408 during
insertion. Due to the tapered shape of the fasteners 501, 502, the two elongated profiles
are gradually aligned with respect to each other when inserting the fastener. After
having installed a fastener 501, 502, the parallel borders of an elongated slot 308,
408 are not straight anymore, but are partially deformed at the position where the
fastener 501, 502 is in contact with the border. In particular, the edge walls materials
are plastically deformed locally, wherein the plastically deformed borders of the
slots 308, 408 perfectly fit with the outer surface of the threaded portion 604. In
this way, a joint is formed wherein no clearances remain between the outer surface
of the threaded portion 604 and the plastically deformed edge wall materials, thereby
establishing a connection without play at the connection spot. It is clear however,
that in the region where the slot borders are not deformed due to insertion of the
fastener, a gap remains between the slot border and the fastener's outer surface.
These gaps, however, do not cause play in the connection being formed between the
opposing edge walls at the connection spots.
[0066] Due to the multiple play-free connections along the length, a sliding-rigid connection
is established between the opposing edge walls. Simulation results show that assembling
a column 200 in this way, results in a column having the same level of buckling resistance,
torsional rigidity, and general shape stability as for a tubular column. The simulations
were done for two C-profiles, made of S450 steel, with 4 mm plate thickness and having
a cross section with the following dimensions: 400 mm (base wall dimension), 100 mm
(side wall dimension), 35 mm (edge wall dimension). When the two C-profiles are connected
according to an embodiment of the invention, using self-tapping NONUT screws, an effective
moment of inertia Iz around the weak axis, representing the degree of bending stiffness
and buckling resistance, is obtained of 2402 cm4, and an effective torsional moment
of inertia It, also referred to as torsional constant It, representing the torsional
rigidity and resistance against second order deformations, of 8070 cm4. These It and
Iz values are substantially larger compared to a solution wherein the two C-profiles
are connected, either back-to-back or belly-to-belly, by means of classical bolts
and nuts (Iz = 574 cm4; It = 2.60 cm4), and compared to a solution wherein the two
C-profiles are welded with their base walls against one another (Iz = 942 cm4; It
= 2.60 cm4).
[0067] Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 further illustrate how the column 200 is used in the construction
100. Two beams 801, 802, provided as C-profiles are attached to the opposing base
walls of the column 200. The beams 801, 802 may be connected to the column 200 by
means of fasteners 800, e.g. self-tapping screws or classical bolts and nuts. During
assembly of the construction 100, the beam 801 may be connected to the first elongated
profile 201, and the beam 802 connected to the second elongated profile 202, before
the two elongated profiles 201, 202 are joined to form the column 200. Using blind
fasteners is thus not required for connection the beams 801, 802 to the column 200,
such that classical bolts and nuts may suffice.
[0068] Fig. 12 illustrates how the column 200 is anchored in the ground surface 1000. A
pit is made in which a prefabricated concrete casting 1002 is inserted and fixed by
means of screed 1001. The concrete casting 1002 has a U-shaped cross section, with
a central recess for receiving the column's bottom end. The column 200 is positioned
such that it is supported by the concrete casting 1002, and the remaining space 1003
between the column's bottom part 200 and the concrete casting 1002 is filled with
concrete. The column 200 is provided with apertures 1004 to allow the concrete to
run into the internal cavity of the column 200. Furthermore, a portion of the internal
cavity may be filled with concrete 1005, the concrete being inserted from the top
end of the hollow column 200.
[0069] Although the present invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments,
it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited
to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention
may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the
scope thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects
as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by
the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which
come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended
to be embraced therein. In other words, it is contemplated to cover any and all modifications,
variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles
and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application. It will furthermore
be understood by the reader of this patent application that the words "comprising"
or "comprise" do not exclude other elements or steps, that the words "a" or "an" do
not exclude a plurality, and that a single element, such as a computer system, a processor,
or another integrated unit may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the
claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective
claims concerned. The terms "first", "second", third", "a", "b", "c", and the like,
when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between
similar elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological
order. Similarly, the terms "top", "bottom", "over", "under", and the like are introduced
for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. It is to
be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances
and embodiments of the invention are capable of operating according to the present
invention in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described
or illustrated above.
1. Construction (100) comprising one or more load-bearing columns (200), the columns
(200) being structural members subjected to axial load,
wherein any of the load-bearing columns (200) comprises a first (201) and a second
elongated profile (202), the first (201) and second elongated profile (202) extending
in length direction (204), and each comprising:
- a channel portion, comprising two opposing side walls (401, 402) positioned at both
sides of a base wall (403), the side walls (401, 402) and base wall (403) together
defining an open channel (404);
- an edge portion, comprising a first (405) and a second edge wall (406), each extending
from an end of a respective side wall (401, 402) in a direction towards the open channel
(404), and comprising a first (409) respectively second edge surface (410) facing
away from said open channel (404),
wherein the two elongated profiles (201, 202) are positioned with their first edge
surfaces (309, 409) facing each other, and their second edge surfaces (310, 410) facing
each other, such that an internal channel (203) is defined by the two respective channel
portions, the two elongated profiles (201, 202) being joined together to form the
load-bearing column (200),
CHARACTERIZED IN THAT:
both the opposing first edge walls (305, 405) and the opposing second edge walls (306,
406) of the two elongated profiles (201, 202) are joined at multiple connection spots
(503, 504), located inside the internal channel (203) and distributed along the length,
wherein the joint provided at any of the connection spots (503, 504) is such that
there is no play in the connection at the connection spots, thereby establishing a
sliding-rigid connection between the respective opposing edge walls, and
wherein access holes (300, 400) distributed along the length are provided in the base
wall (303, 404) or a side wall (301, 302, 401, 402) of the first elongated profile
(201) and/or in the base wall or a side wall of the second elongated profile (202),
any of the connection spots (503, 504) being accessible via one of the access holes
(300, 400) during joining the two elongated profiles, and being left open or being
closed afterwards.
2. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein material of the opposing first edge walls (305, 405) and material of the opposing
second edge walls (306, 406) is plastically deformed at the connection spots (503,
504) due to formation of the joints,
such that the plastically deformed materials of the opposing first (305, 405) respectively
second edge walls (306, 406) fit with one another and/or each fit with a fastener's
(501, 502) outer surface, without leaving any intermediate clearances.
3. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the joint at any of the connection spots (503, 504) is established by means
of a fastener (501, 502), the fastener (501, 502) being placed through a hole in the
opposing first (305, 405) or second edge walls (306, 406), and
wherein the shape of the hole results from plastically deforming the opposing first
respectively second edge walls while forming the joint, such that the plastically
deformed edge wall materials fit with the outer surface of the fastener (501, 502)
without leaving any intermediate clearances.
4. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the joint provided at any of the connection spots (503, 504) allows for a
one-side installation.
5. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the joint at any of the connection spots (503, 504) is established by means
of a self-tapping fastener (501, 502), the self-tapping fastener being a thread-forming
self-tapping screw.
6. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the joint at any of the connection spots (503, 504) is established by means
of a self-tapping screw (501, 502), the self-tapping screw being tapered, across at
least a portion (605) of its length.
7. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein one access hole (300, 400) is provided per connection spot (503, 504).
8. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein any of the access holes (300, 400) is placed at the same length position as
one of the connection spots (503, 504), thereby giving access to that connection spot.
9. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein a first series of access holes (300), giving access to the connection spots
(503) located at the opposing first edge walls (305, 405), is provided in the base
wall (303) of the first elongated profile (201), and a second series of access holes
(400), giving access to the connection spots (504) located at the opposing second
edge walls (306, 406), is provided in the base wall (403) of the second elongated
profile (202).
10. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein any of the access holes (300, 400) has a circular shape, with a diameter between
20 mm and 35 mm.
11. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the opposing first edge walls (305, 405) are joined by a first series of joints
along the length, and the opposing second edge walls (306, 406) are joined by a second
series of joints along the length,
and wherein the distance, measured along the length, between two consecutive joints
of the first series, and the distance, measured along the length, between two consecutive
joints of the second series, is maximum 80 cm, preferably maximum 60 cm, more preferably
maximum 50 cm.
12. Construction (100) according to any of the preceding claims,
the construction (100) comprising a structure (101) of which the load is completely
carried by the one or more load-bearing columns (200), the structure (101) being a
roof structure, a floor structure or a storage platform.
13. Method for assembling a construction (100) comprising one or more load-bearing columns
(200), the method comprising:
- assembling the one or more columns (200) by, for each of the columns (200):
∘ providing a first (201) and a second elongated profile (202), the first (201) and
second elongated profile (202) extending in length direction, and each comprising:
▪ a channel portion, comprising two opposing side walls (401, 402) positioned at both
sides of a base wall (403), the side walls (401, 402) and base wall (403) together
defining an open channel (404);
▪ an edge portion, comprising a first (405) and a second edge wall (406), each extending
from an end of a respective side wall (401, 402), and comprising a first (409) respectively
second edge surface (410) facing away from said open channel (404),
wherein access holes (300, 400) distributed along the length are provided in the base
wall (303, 403) or a side wall (301, 302, 401, 402) of the first elongated profile
(201) and/or in the base wall or a side wall of the second elongated profile (202);
∘ positioning the two elongated profiles (201, 202) with their first edge surfaces
(309, 409) facing each other, and their second edge surfaces (310, 410) facing each
other, such that an internal channel (203) is defined by the two respective channel
portions;
∘ joining the two elongated profiles (201, 202) together to form the load-bearing
column (200), by joining both the opposing first edge walls (305, 405) and opposing
second edge walls (306, 406) of the two elongated profiles (201, 202) at multiple
connection spots (503, 504) distributed along the length, wherein
▪ the connection spots (503, 504) are located inside the internal channel (203), any
of the connection spots (503, 504) being accessible via one of the access holes (300,
400) during joining the two elongated profiles (201, 202), and
▪ the joint provided at any of the connection spots (503, 504) is such that there
is no play in the connection at the connection spots, thereby establishing a sliding-rigid
connection between the respective opposing edge walls;
- mounting the one or more columns (200) and mounting a structure (101), such that
structure (101) is carried by the one or more load-bearing columns (200), the columns
(200) thereby at least being subjected to axial load.
14. Method according to claim 13,
wherein, for each of the columns (200), pilot holes (307, 308, 407, 408) are present
in the first (305, 405) and second edge walls (306, 406) of the first and second elongated
profile (201, 202),
and wherein joining the opposing first edge walls (305, 405) and joining the opposing
second edge walls (306, 406) is done by means of fasteners (501, 502), wherein a fastener
is inserted through overlapping pilot holes (308, 408) in the first respectively second
edge walls at any of the connection spots, such that during inserting the fastener
(501, 502), material of the first (305, 405) respectively second edge walls (306,
406) is plastically deformed, thereby obtaining a hole in the respective edge wall
being larger than the original pilot hole.
15. Method according to claim 14,
wherein at least some of the pilot holes are provided as an elongated slot (307, 308,
407, 408), having straight opposing borders,
and wherein the slots (307, 308, 407, 408) are oriented such that, when positioning
the two elongated profiles (201, 202) with their first (309, 409) and second edge
surfaces (310, 410) facing each other, the slots (307, 308) of the first elongated
profile (201) are rotated over 90 degrees with respect to the slots (407, 408) of
the second elongated profile (202), resulting in a square-shaped overlap (700) between
two opposing slots (308, 408), for receiving the fastener (501, 502).