Abstract: An adjustable structural connection—a connection which can be adjusted to alter the location and angle of member attachment—transforms the traditional notion of connections as a static means of connecting members at specific angles to a dynamic means of assembling a variety of structurally efficient forms. The adjustable connection connects a diagonal member to a vertical or horizontal member using either curved plate mounted to both of the structural members or a temporarily rotatable link. The adjustable connection can be used in a kit-of-parts type system, using multiple versions of the adjustable connection, which can join members at a wide variety of angles using a small number of unique components.

Abstract: An adjustable structural connection can be used to join steel structural elements at a range of angles and is capable of adjusting in situ to accommodate additional angles or tolerances through cold bending. Pre-bent plate or plates may be loosely fitted around steel structural elements, such that holes in the plates align with holes of the steel structural elements. Placing bolts through the aligned holes and tightening those bolts can be used to cold bend the plate or plates and conform the angle of the pre-bent plates to a different angle defined by an apex joint of two steel structural elements. Specific tightening procedures may be employed.

Abstract: This disclosure presents a new strategy for modular construction: an adjustable module. This disclosure develops a new adjustable module comprised of a four-bar linkage which can form more efficient variable depth structures. Applications can include rapidly erectable bridges, roofs, buildings, and grid shells, among others. This disclosure provides specific detail related to rapidly erectable bridge applications for variable depth arch forms. Existing rapidly erectable, steel panelized bridge systems have limited material efficiency as they are comprised of rigid modules in a girder-type configuration. This disclosure shows that the module can form variable depth three- and two-hinged arches which increase the material efficiency. The module and other arch components can be made of standard rolled steel sections, thereby forming a versatile, kit-of-parts systems.