Q5.33: 1. If we attach a column with the same length as a wall, does it violate the rules by increasing the dimension wall thus making the wall can not fit in the dimension box for checking or both the wall and column counts as two different elements? 2. If we glue three layers of 2 mm walls does it violate the rules or each wall counts as a different component in the glued state of the wall member checking?
A: For the first question, the frame member and wall member would count as two separate elements and this would be permitted per Sections 5.2-5.4 of the Official Rules. For the second question, because these are all wall members layered on top of each other, the final wall would violate Section 5.4.d of the Official […]
Q5.34: Are Gusset Plates allowed to be in the non-buildable floor area?
A: Gusset plates are not allowed to be in the non-buildable floor area. All floors of the model must fit within the specified floor plan dimensions per Section 5.6.d of the Official Rules.
Q5.31: Section 5.2.a outlines that “vertical frame members must have a clear space of at least 0.25”… [but this] does not apply to horizontal… frame members.” Section 5.4.b adds that the faying surface of two members “shall not exceed 1” from the centroid of the faying surface.” Are we allowed to have a horizontal frame member, the length of which is under 2”, glued along its length to other horizontal frame members, an example of which is included in image 1 (image 1 shown in answer)?
Image 1: here A: Yes, this conforms to the official rules and is allowed.
Q5.32: When we attach the frame columns to the base plate, are we allowed to add some kind of footing to the attachment area maybe like a triangle shape cut balsa glued to the column and base plate thus giving additional support?
A: Per Section 5.4.c of the Official Rules, gusset plates shall be in contact with and glued to at least two frame members in contact. Since the base plate is not considered a frame member, gusset plates would technically not be allowed. However, you may be able to make a wall member work as long […]
Q5.30: Regarding vertical frame members, are we allowed to place horizontal spacers connecting two vertical members, ensuring adequate spacing between vertical members, even if those horizontal spacers are not aligned with floor planes (i.e. placed at the midspan of the columns rather than at a defined floor level)
A: Yes, you are allowed to place horizontal members between vertical members at any elevation, as long as you ensure that the minimum vertical member spacing requirement and all frame member requirements are met. Also, remember to check that the horizontal members do not cut off access to any rentable floor area (all rentable areas […]