Free spider joint nodes for space structural frames

摘要

The invention includes two models types of free spider joint nodes for connecting structure members. The free spider joint nodes are hinged joint connectors for structure frame members without using welding or direct bolt fixation, only by using slip pressure fittings. The free spider joint nodes have ability to connect multi members with free and non-predefined in-between member's angles. The free spider joint nodes can be disassembled and assembled again to join members for other different frame angles. One node can connect 24 members in three layers and in three directions. The nodes are mainly consisting of central spherical body (1), guide arms (2) and connectors (7). The members are fixed to connectors (7) through flanges; those connectors (7) are tightly rested on the central spherical body (1) by group of guide arms (2). The guide arms (2) pass through connectors (7) and fixed to central spherical body (1) through slip pressure fittings, the angles of guide arms (2) and members can be modified horizontally around vertical axis, that movement of guide arms is controlled by upper and lower guide base. Also, the angles of connectors (7) and members can be modified vertically through guide arms (2). The joint nodes can connect any tubular bars without pre preparation for tube's ends, only the length of the tubes should be adjusted according frame design and directly connected to the connector's flanges using screw bolts.