Novel CFS Truss with Stamped Diagonal System

This research presents a novel technology for the design and fabrication of cold-formed two-dimensional (2D) trusses. The concept is based on developing a connection in which the axes of the web members are concentric—intersecting at a single point—thereby preventing secondary moments in the chord members and enhancing the overall stability of the truss. An original connection configuration was created by stamping the flanges of the diagonal webs, and this technique also enables the continuous manufacturing of the diagonal elements. To verify the efficiency of this new truss design, experimental tests and finite element (FE) models were conducted on trusses with spans of 3 meters and 7 meters. First, the 3-meter-long trusses were investigated by comparing five standard cold-formed trusses with the proposed configuration. The experimental and numerical results showed that the new truss exhibited greater strength and stiffness than the standard cold-formed steel trusses, indicating its potential as a viable solution for floor and roof applications. Subsequently, the structural performance of the 7-meter-long trusses was examined through a comprehensive program that included FE modeling, experimental testing, and parametric analysis. The overall findings demonstrate that the new truss provides structural performance comparable to existing technologies while offering strong potential for a more economical and efficient solution. These results confirm that 2D CFS trusses have significant potential for use in building construction. The intellectual merit of this work is further recognized by the University of North Texas, which has initiated a patent application in partnership with the inventors.