Intermeshing: A new concept for rapid steel erection

Salam Al-Sabah, Debra F. Laefer, Linh Truong-Hong

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Three-dimensional intermeshing of steel enabled by advanced digital manufacturing holds the potential to radically change how steel bridges and buildings are connected. This paper presents the concept of the first universal structural steel connection in over 100 years. The proposed Intermeshed Steel Connection (ISC) exploits recent advances in steel cutting technologies and robotics to shape member ends precisely. This vastly reduces on-site bolting and welding. Forces are transferred through common bearing surfaces at multiple contact points. The new connection is designed to accelerate structural steel deployment and offer better disassembly options. This paper introduces the geometry, manufacturing, and initial analysis of the connection approach, which holds the potential to be robust, secure, scalable, and faster to erect.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication20th Congress of IABSE, New York City 2019
Subtitle of host publicationThe Evolving Metropolis - Report
PublisherInternational Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)
Pages187-194
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9783857481659
StatePublished - 2019
Event20th IABSE Congress, New York City 2019: The Evolving Metropolis - New York City, United States
Duration: Sep 4 2019Sep 6 2019

Publication series

Name20th Congress of IABSE, New York City 2019: The Evolving Metropolis - Report

Conference

Conference20th IABSE Congress, New York City 2019: The Evolving Metropolis
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityNew York City
Period9/4/199/6/19

Keywords

  • Connections
  • Disassembly
  • Erection
  • Manufacturing
  • Structural Steel

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

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