US20170145679A1 - Connector system for c-channel members - Google Patents
Connector system for c-channel members Download PDFInfo
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- US20170145679A1 US20170145679A1 US15/321,000 US201515321000A US2017145679A1 US 20170145679 A1 US20170145679 A1 US 20170145679A1 US 201515321000 A US201515321000 A US 201515321000A US 2017145679 A1 US2017145679 A1 US 2017145679A1
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- connector
- connectors
- holes
- bolt
- channel members
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- 238000009435 building construction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 3
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 3
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000010079 rubber tapping Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005728 strengthening Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920002430 Fibre-reinforced plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005253 cladding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011151 fibre-reinforced plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003365 glass fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
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- 230000000704 physical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
- E04B1/24—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal
- E04B1/2403—Connection details of the elongated load-supporting parts
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/388—Separate connecting elements
-
- E04B1/40—
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/56—Load-bearing walls of framework or pillarwork; Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members
- E04B2/58—Load-bearing walls of framework or pillarwork; Walls incorporating load-bearing elongated members with elongated members of metal
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
- E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
- E04C3/30—Columns; Pillars; Struts
- E04C3/32—Columns; Pillars; Struts of metal
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B7/00—Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections
- F16B7/18—Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections using screw-thread elements
- F16B7/185—Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections using screw-thread elements with a node element
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
- E04B1/24—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal
- E04B1/2403—Connection details of the elongated load-supporting parts
- E04B2001/2406—Connection nodes
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
- E04B1/24—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal
- E04B1/2403—Connection details of the elongated load-supporting parts
- E04B2001/2448—Connections between open section profiles
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
- E04B1/24—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons the supporting parts consisting of metal
- E04B2001/2466—Details of the elongated load-supporting parts
- E04B2001/2472—Elongated load-supporting part formed from a number of parallel profiles
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2103/00—Material constitution of slabs, sheets or the like
- E04B2103/06—Material constitution of slabs, sheets or the like of metal
Abstract
The invention provides in a broadest aspect a system of connectors for connecting to metal C-channel members (200, 250, 300) in building construction, the C-channel members (200, 250, 300) having a channel formed by web (203, 255, 303) and opposed flange surfaces (201, 202, 251, 252, 301, 302) the system comprising a plurality of connectors (100), of one or more connector types, the connectors being of a rigid block composition, at least a first connector type being sized and shaped to join together the C-channel members (200, 250, 300) in more than one relative orientation, the first connector type comprising one or more holes (110, 105, 111, 109, 106, 113, 150, 133) on one or more faces for fastening the connector to the C-channel members and to other connectors.
Description
- The present invention relates to construction of buildings using C-channel members, typically light gauge and made of folded steel, typically in domestic or small-scale commercial construction.
- There are a large number of junctional devices used in both metallic construction methods in industry, although in relation to light gauge steel construction there is a limited range. Most junctional devices for light gauge construction are single use, being adapted to a permanent structure which is not intended to be disassembled and reassembled. With the increasing demand for temporary structures, junctional methods are needed which allow modular reusable components to be created.
- There is a need to provide an improved reusable connector system to with enhanced strength, convenience, simplicity and/or durability.
- According to a broad aspect of the invention there is provided a system of connectors for connecting to metal C-channel members in building construction, the C-channel members having a channel formed by web and opposed flange surfaces, the system comprising a plurality of connectors of one or more connector types, the connectors being of a rigid block composition, at least a first connector type being sized and shaped to join together the C-channel members in more than one relative orientation, the first connector type comprising one or more holes on one or more faces for fastening the connector to the C-channel members and to other connectors.
- In one embodiment, the one or more holes on one or more faces comprise one or more holes for fastening the connector to the C-channel members through the flanges of the C-channel members.
- In one embodiment, the holes of the first connector type include straight-through bolt holes allowing a bolt to be passed through from one side of the connector to the other.
- In one embodiment, the more than one relative orientation includes two C-channel members joined in parallel with the respective channels facing one another to form a box beam or column.
- In one embodiment, the more than one relative orientation includes two C-channel members joined in parallel with the respective channels facing away from one another to form an I-beam or I-column.
- In one embodiment, the more than one relative orientation includes two C-channel members joined at right angles.
- In one embodiment, the more than one relative orientation includes another C-channel member joined at right angles to the box beam or column.
- In one embodiment, the more than one relative orientation includes at least two of the box beams or columns joined at right angles.
- In one embodiment, wherein the two C-channel members are a first C-channel member and a 2nd C-channel member and the connector of the first type is adapted to form the box beam or column so that:
- a first part of the connector engages an inside surface of the first C-channel member;
- a second part of the connector engages an inside surface of the second C-channel member; and
- one or more screws fastens the C-channel members in position to the connector through one or more screw holes in the first and second parts of the connector and through corresponding holes in the C-channel members.
- In one embodiment, the two C-channel members are a first C-channel member and a 2nd C-channel member and the connector of the first type is adapted to form the box beam or column so that:
- a first part of the connector engages an inside surface of the first C-channel member;
- a second part of the connector engages an inside surface of the second C-channel member; and
- one or more bolts fastens the C-channel members in position to the connector through one or more of the holes disposed in the first and second parts of the connector and through corresponding holes in the C-channel members.
- In one embodiment,
- the first and second parts comprise regions disposed on opposite first and second side faces of the connector respectively which engage at least an inside surface of the web of the corresponding C-channel members.
- In one embodiment:
- the one or more holes comprise a first straight-through bolt hole providing a straight line access path all the way through the connector from the first side face to the second side face; and
- the corresponding holes in the C-channel members comprise holes disposed in the corresponding webs;
- whereby a single bolt may be passed through the first straight-through bolt hole and the corresponding holes in the C-channel members.
- In one embodiment:
- the one or more holes comprise a first bolt hole in a first side face extending through to a first nut receiving face or first embedded thread disposed between the first side face and a midpoint of the connector midway between the first and second side faces, and a second bolt hole in the second side face extending through to a second nut receiving face or 2nd embedded thread disposed between the second side face and the midpoint; and
- the corresponding holes in the C-channel members are disposed in the corresponding webs;
- whereby
- a first bolt may be passed through the first bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the first C-channel member and secured with a first nut bearing on the first nut receiving face or with the first embedded thread, and
- a second bolt may be passed through the second bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the second C-channel member and secured with a second nut bearing on the second nut receiving face or with the 2nd embedded thread.
- In one embodiment:
- the first part of the connector comprises a first end of opposite third and fourth sides of the connector each engaging the respective opposed flange of the first C-channel member; and
- the second part of the connector comprises a second end of the opposite third and fourth sides of the connector each engaging the respective opposed flanges of the second C-channel member.
- In one embodiment, the one or more screw holes are disposed on the first and second ends and the corresponding holes in the C-channel members are disposed on the flanges thereof.
- In one embodiment, the connector of the first type has first and 2nd opposite side faces and:
- the one or more holes comprise a first bolt hole in the first side face extending through to a first nut receiving face disposed between the first side face and a midpoint of the connector midway between the first and second side faces, and a second bolt hole in the second side face extending through to a second nut receiving face disposed between the second side face and the midpoint; and
- the corresponding holes in the C-channel members are disposed in the corresponding webs;
- whereby
- a first bolt may be passed through the first bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the first C-channel member and secured with a first nut bearing on the first nut receiving face, and
- a second bolt may be passed through the second bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the second C-channel member and secured with a second nut bearing on the second nut receiving face;
- and the first bolt hole and the 2nd bolt hole meet to also form a first straight-through bolt hole allowing a bolt to be passed all the way through the connector from the first side face to the 2nd side face.
- In one embodiment, the system of connectors further comprises screw holes disposed in the first and 2nd side faces on either side of the first and 2nd bolt holes.
- In one embodiment, a width of the connector between the first and 2nd side faces matches a width of the C-channel member between the opposed flanges so that the connector may be connected to the C-channel member with screws passing through the flanges into the screw holes.
- In one embodiment, the system of connectors further comprises 3rd and 4th opposite side faces at right angles to the first and 2nd opposite side faces, and corresponding 3rd and 4th bolt holes, 3rd and 4th corresponding nut receiving faces and a 2nd straight-through bolt hole allowing a bolt to be passed all the way through the connector from the 3rd side face to the 4th side face.
- In one embodiment, the midpoint between the first and 2nd side faces and the midpoint between the 3rd and 4th side faces coincide.
- In one embodiment, the first connector type further comprises a third straight-through bolt hole is oriented at right angles to the first and 2nd straight-through bolt holes.
- In one embodiment, the first connector type is sized and shaped so it can also be installed inside a third C-channel member and fastened thereto through the flanges of the C-channel member so that the first or second straight-through bolt hole is oriented along the third C-channel member, whereby connectors of the first connector type may be used with a bolt passing through the first or second straight-through bolt holes to attach a single C-channel member at right angles to another connector of the system forming part of a box-section beam or column.
- In one embodiment, the first connector type is sized and shaped so it can also be installed inside a C-channel member and fastened thereto through the flanges of the C-channel member so that the third straight-through bolt hole is oriented across the C-channel member and perpendicular to its web, whereby connectors of the first connector type may be used in each of two C-channel members with a bolt passing through both third straight-through bolt holes and corresponding apertures in the webs of the C-channel members to attach the two C-channel members together in parallel with the channels facing away from one another to form an I-beam or I-column.
- In one embodiment, the system further comprises a joining piece for stacking two of the connectors of first type together in the direction of the third straight-through bolt hole to form a cube shaped connector which can be used to form and join up to 6 box-section beams or columns along x, y and z axes at a single intersection.
- In one embodiment, the system may further comprise a second connector type being sized and shaped to function in two applications: in a first application to join together a first and second C-channel member at right angles; and in a second application to provide a secure attachment point for a bolt through one flange of a C-channel member; the second connector type having: opposite first and second sides each with a screw hole and being sized to fit inside the C-channel with the first side engaging one flange of the C-channel member and the second side engaging an opposite flange of the C-channel member; and a third and fourth side oriented at right angles to the first and second sides with a straight-through bolt hole passing through the connector from the third side to the fourth side, the third side also having screw holes on either side of the straight-through bolt hole; whereby in the first application, the first and second C-channel members can be joined at right angles by: a connector of the second type being fastened inside the first C-channel member with screws passed through holes in the flanges of the second C-channel member into the screw holes of its first and second sides, with the third side and opposite fourth side being oriented facing with the bolt hole directed perpendicular to a web of the first C-channel member; and the first and second C-channel members being able to be joined with a bolt passed through the straight-through bolt hole of the connector of the second type installed in the first C-channel member and also through a bolt hole in a connector of the first or second type installed in the second C-channel member; and whereby in the second application, a connector of the second type is placed inside the C-channel member with the third side engaging the flange and fastened using screws into the screw holes in the third side passed through corresponding holes in the flange, providing a secure attachment point for a bolt through the straight-through bolt hole in the third side and a corresponding hole in the flange.
-
FIG. 1A andFIG. 1B are perspective views showing front and back faces of a connector of the first type according to an embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 1C is a plan view of the visible face of the connector shown inFIG. 1B ; -
FIG. 1D is a side view of another face of the connector shown inFIG. 1B ; -
FIG. 1E is a cross-section through the plane extending perpendicularly out of the page and defined by line B-B shown inFIG. 1B , with diagonal line shading representing intersection with the solid; -
FIG. 1F is a cross-section through the plane extending perpendicularly out of the page and defined by the line D-D shown inFIG. 1B , with diagonal line shading representing intersection with the solid; -
FIG. 1G is a side view of another face of the connector shown inFIG. 1B ; -
FIG. 1H is a plan view of the visible face of the connector shown inFIG. 1A ; -
FIG. 1J is a cross-section through the plane extending perpendicularly out of the page and defined by the line A-A inFIG. 1H ; -
FIG. 1K is a cross-section through the plane extending perpendicularly out of the page and defined by the line C-C inFIG. 1G ; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the connector of the first type in the embodiment shown inFIG. 1A in use to create a box section out of two C-channels, and to connect another C-channel at right angles thereto; -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a cube shaped connector formed from two of the connectors of the first type shown inFIG. 1A and a connector sleeve; -
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the sleeve partly shown inFIG. 3A ; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cube shaped connector ofFIG. 3A in use to join up to 6 box sections together; -
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a connector of the second type according to an embodiment of the invention in use to provide a bolt connection through a web of a C-channel; -
FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the connector of the second type ofFIG. 5A in use to provide a bolt connection through a flange of a C-channel. - An embodiment of the current invention will now be described.
- Referring first to
FIGS. 1A to 1K , where a connector of the first type according to an embodiment of the invention is shown from various views and cross-section as described above, the connector of thefirst type 100 comprises four identical sides, although in different embodiments the sides need not be identical due to their different function in use, and for the purposes of defining the invention the upper and lower sides shown inFIG. 1A will be referred to as first and second sides respectively, and the left and right sides inFIG. 1A (corresponding to the right and left sides inFIG. 1B ) will be referred to as the third and fourth sides respectively. - The numerical dimensions shown in
FIG. 1C ,FIG. 1D ,FIG. 1G andFIG. 1K are expressed in millimetres. -
Connector 100 is 88 mm on each side in width and 38 mm in depth, external dimensions chosen to essentially wholly fit inside a standard light gauge C-channel member commonly used in the construction industry.Connector 100 is in the shape of a block constructed from a reinforced polymer, such as glass fibre reinforced nylon or similar, and is manufactured typically by injection or other moulding, the or a combination of moulding and drilling, but could also be manufactured using other methods such as pressing or for small volumes 3-D printing. The physical properties ofconnector 100 are selected to provide a strong, rigid connector which is able to provide a secure connection point for light gauge C-channel members and attached nuts and bolts, and preferably also to allow the use of self-tapping screws repeatedly in appropriately sized screw holes, allowing reconfiguration and reuse of structural modules constructed using the invention. - The first side face of
connector 100 comprises screw holes 103 and 104 on opposite ends thereof and afirst bolt hole 111 disposed in the middle. Screw holes 103 and 104 have an internal diameter of 3.9 mm suitable for receiving self-tapping “tech screws” and the openings thereof are located within a recessed bevelled region designed to conform to “dimpled” screw holes commonly provided in the flanges of C-channels.First bolt hole 111 has an internal diameter of 8.42 millimetres, suitable to slidingly receive 8 mm bolts. - Identical second side face of
connector 100 comprises corresponding screw holes 107 and 108 andsecond bolt hole 113. Similarly, identical third side face ofconnector 100 comprises screw holes 109 and 110 andthird bolt hole 114. Similarly, identical fourth side face ofconnector 100 comprises screw holes 105 and 106 andfourth Bolt hole 112. -
First bolt hole 111 andsecond bolt hole 113 are coaxial and meet at a midpoint 140 and together provide a first straight-through bolt hole having a straight line access path all the way through the connector from the first side face to the second side face, enabling a long bolt to be passed all the way through the connector if desired. The long bolt may be used when passed through holes in the C-channel member associated withconnector 100 to connect with other connectors of the first type associated with the same or other C-channel members, or alternatively may connect to other accessories such as brackets to be disposed on an outside face of the C-channel member. -
First bolt hole 111 also comprises firstnut receiving face 131 disposed between the first side face and a midpoint 140 ofconnector 100. Similarly,second bolt hole 113 also comprises a secondnut receiving face 133 disposed between the second side face and the midpoint 140 ofconnector 100. Thereby, a short first bolt may be passed throughfirst bolt hole 111 and secured with a first nut inserted sideways into firstnut receiving slot 138, the first nut bearing on the firstnut receiving face 131; and similarly a short second bolt may be passed throughsecond Bolt hole 113 and secured with a second nut inserted sideways into corresponding secondnut receiving slot 139, the second nut bearing on the secondnut receiving face 133. The short bolts may be used when passed through holes in the C-channel member associated withconnector 100 to connect with other connectors of the first type associated with the same or other C-channel members, or alternatively may connect to other accessories such as brackets to be disposed on an outside face of the C-channel member. This may be achieved at the same time as leaving free the axial straight-throughbolt hole 150 to be described below. - The identical third, and fourth side faces have corresponding identical features. In this embodiment, the
third bolt hole 114 andfourth bolt hole 112 meet at right angles at the midpoint 140 and similarly form a second straight-through bolt hole, which intersects with the first straight-through bolt hole described above. -
Connector 100 further comprises an axial third straight-throughbolt hole 150 also of 8.42 mm internal diameter which allows a bolt to be passed straight throughconnector 100 in an axial direction parallel to the first, second, third and fourth sides which may also in use be parallel to an axis of a beam or column constructed as described below. An hexagonal nut-receivingslot 152 is provided on the front face shown inFIG. 1A in the case that it is desired to secure a threaded bolt at that location. - Referring now in addition to
FIG. 2 ,connector 100 of the first type is shown joining together a first C-channel member 200 and a second C-channel member 250 to form a box-section beam or column. As described below, an I-section beam or column is also achievable with this embodiment. -
Dimple 211 withhole 210 in the centre thereof in theflange 201 of first C-channel member 200 fits into the dimpled recess aroundscrew hole 110 in the third side ofconnector 100, and a self-tapping screw (not shown) may be screwed throughhole 210 inflange 201 to be secured into ascrew hole 110. Similarly,opposed flange 202 comprises a similar dimple and hole which fits into the dimpled recess aroundscrew hole 105 in the fourth side ofconnector 100. When screwed into place, a first part ofconnector 100 which engages with the flanges of first C-channel member 200 comprises atleast region 122 on a first end of the third side face surroundingscrew hole 110 andregion 123 on a first end of the fourth side face surroundingscrew hole 105. Engagement withweb 203 of first C-channel member 200 also may occur through the first side face ofconnector 100 atregions connector 100 may be bolted throughweb 203 to first C-channel member 200 usingbolt hole 111 in which case engagement necessarily occurs throughregions regions - Similarly, second C-
channel member 250 withflanges flange 251 with a self-tapping screw throughhole 260 at the centre ofdimple 261 intoscrew holes 109 inengagement contact region 124 disposed in a second part of the third side face, and similarly throughflange 252 intoscrew hole 106 inengagement contact region 125 in a second part of the fourth side face. Again in an alternative mode of attachment,connector 100 may be bolted throughweb 255 to second C-channel member 250 usingbolt hole 113. - The beam or column may be joined by multiple connectors of first type disposed at intervals of typically about 450 mm along a length thereof, or as required to offer connection opportunities for other constructional elements.
- It will be appreciated that the axial straight-through
bolt hole 150, of which hexagonalnut receiving slot 152 is visible inFIG. 2 , may be used to pass a long threaded bolt along a central axis of the beam or column which may connect to or pass through further connectors in the beam or column, provided the straight-through path is clear of another bolt. This enables strengthening of the beam or column as desired. -
FIG. 2 also shows how in this embodiment of the connector of the first type is sized and shaped to also be installed inside a single C-channel member 300 and fastened thereto throughflanges hole comprising hole 133 is oriented along a length of C-channel member 300. This enables a bolt passing through the second straight-through bolt hole to attached through ahole 270 in web 253 of second C-channel member 250 throughbolt hole 113 and attached by a nut innut receiving slot channel member 300 to be attached at right angles to the box-section beam or column. - The same configuration of the connector inside C-
channel member 300 can be used to form an I-beam whereby connectors of the first connector type may be used in each of two C-channel members with a bolt passing through both third straight-through bolt holes and corresponding apertures in the webs of the C-channel members to attach the two C-channel members together in parallel with the channels facing away from one another to form the I-beam or I-column. -
FIG. 3A shows a cube shaped connector which can be formed from 2 connectors offirst type joiner 180.Joiner 180 is shown inFIG. 3B and preferably has a profile suited to match the internal landscape of the connectors of first type to provide multiple points of engagement. -
FIG. 4 shows the use of the composite cube shaped connector to join up to 6 of the box section beams or columns in 3 dimensions. Central cube-shapedconnector 400 is shown oriented along a defined labelled Z axis, in an expanded view of a 6-way attachment. Beams orcolumns columns connector 400 unimpeded by using bolts which terminate at the nut-receiving slots in the central cube shapedconnector 400. Along the Z axis, single connectors of thefirst type columns central cube 400 by means of a bolt through the aligned axial third straight-through bolt holes of theconnectors central cube 400. As described above, the bolts may extend some distance along either or both of any of the beams or columns to provide a desired amount of strengthening, and in particular a single strengthening bolt may extend straight through the Z axis in both directions if desired. - Referring now to
FIG. 5A and 5B , this embodiment further comprises asecond connector type 600 which is sized and shaped essentially as approximately one half of the connector of the first type and is adapted to function in two applications. While the connector of the first type in this embodiment can be used for these 2 applications, it can be useful to have a one-half connector of the 2nd type as described herein.First side 620 and oppositesecond side 630 each comprise a screw hole such as 603 and are spaced apart by 88 mm to snugly fit across and inside the first C-channel member 300 with thefirst side 620 engaging theflange 301 and thesecond side 630 engaging anopposite flange 302 of C-channel member 300. Athird side 650 is disposed between the first and second sides and is oriented at right angles thereto and comprises a straight-throughbolt hole 610 passing through the middle of thethird side 640 and emerging on oppositefourth side 640.Third side 650 also comprises screw holes 601 and 602. The distance between the opposite third and fourth sides is sufficiently small to enable theconnector 600 to fit inside the C-channel member 300 underlips connector 600 is also sufficiently small to be alternatively oriented with the straight-throughbolt hole 610 facing along the length of the C-channel member as described below. As described above in relation to the connector of the first type, the connector of the 2nd type can also be used to form I-section beams or columns. - In the first application, the connector of the second type is used to join first C-
channel member 300 to a second C-channel member (not shown) at right angles by fasteningconnector 600 through the screw holes in the first andsecond sides 620 and 632 theflanges channel member 300, with thefourth side 640 being oriented facing outwards perpendicular toweb 303 with thebolt hole 610 directed through an aperture in theweb 303. The second C-channel member (not shown) may be connected at right angles to first C-channel member 300 using a bolt throughbolt hole 610 extending through a bolt hole of a connector of the first type installed in the second C-channel member as shown inFIG. 2 , or alternatively a bolt hole of another connector of the second type installed in the second C-channel member rotated by 90° similar toFIG. 5A but the third and fourth sides rotated by 90° compared withFIG. 5A . - In the second application shown in
FIG. 5B , connector of thesecond type 600 is placed inside C-channel member 300 with thethird side 650 engaging one of theflanges 302 and fastened to theflange 302 using screws into the screw holes 601, 602, providing a secure attachment point for a Bolt passed through the straight-throughbolt hole 610 in the third and fourth sides and a corresponding hole (not shown) in the flange. This application enables a secure foundation for a bolt anywhere along a flange of a C-channel member, which may be used for example to securely attach a bracket which may enable cladding to be attached to a C-channel member used as a wall joist. - It can be seen from the above description that embodiments of the invention allow connectors of only 1 or 2types to provide wide number of relative orientations for a connecting C-channel members, including providing a means of constructing box section or I-section beams or columns and reversibly joining them with bolts to each other or to C-channel members. The invention offers an opportunity also to construct modular, typically rectangular, frame elements from C-channels which can be bolted together through adjacent connectors to form building structures and easily unbolted for dismantling and later re-use in other building structures.
- Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that many variations may be made to the invention without departing from the broadest scope of the invention, which is determined from the consistory clauses and claims.
- For example, the particular dimensions shown are exemplary only and different sizes of C-channel members and corresponding connector dimensions are contemplated, including C-channel members with 180 mm width webs, used for structural floors, and 70 mm webs used for lightweight office partitions. Similar variations apply to flanges. The example provided above is typical for wall, floor and roof construction. While the embodiment connector of the first type is composed of a fibre reinforced plastic, any rigid block composition of sufficient strength is within the broadest scope.
- Further, it is not intended that the holes in the connector in the broadest aspect are limited to holes in which bolts are slidingly passed therethrough or threaded holes able to accept screws or unthreaded holes able to accept screws—in its broadest aspect the invention extends to connectors with any holes suitable for receiving a fastening element of any type. Further, the term “bolt” refers in its broadest sense, unless the context requires otherwise, to a fastening element being adapted to engage with a constant diameter threaded nut, free or embedded, or an embedded threaded sleeve. Accordingly, while it is preferred to use nut receiving slots for removable nuts in the embodiment shown above, alternative embodiments with restricted functionality can use embedded threads which cannot be removed. Also, the term “screw” refers to a tapered fastening element adapted to screw into the hole of the connector, typically able to tap its own thread in the hole.
- Further still, the terms “side” and “side faces” in the claims are intended to be interpreted in terms of the different functions of the described sides or side faces rather than visually and extend to surfaces which may not be recognisably distinct or uniformly flat and which may continuously curve into adjacent sides or faces.
- Further still, the invention in its broadest aspect extends to systems where the one or more holes on one or more faces include one set of holes for performing the function of fastening the connector to the C-channel members and another set of holes for performing the function of fastening the connector to other connectors, as well systems where some or all of the holes can form both functions.
- In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.
- It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.
Claims (21)
1. (canceled)
2. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the one or more holes on one or more faces comprise one or more holes for fastening the connector to the C-channel members through the flanges of the C-channel members.
3. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the holes of the first connector type include straight-through bolt holes allowing a bolt to be passed through from one side of the connector to the other.
4. The system of connectors of claim 2 , wherein the holes of the first connector type include straight-through bolt holes allowing a bolt to be passed through from one side of the connector to the other.
5. A system of connectors for connecting to metal C-channel members in building construction, the C-channel members having a channel formed by web and opposed flange surfaces, the system comprising a plurality of connectors of one or more connector types, the connectors being of a rigid block composition, at least a first connector type being sized and shaped to join together the C-channel members in more than one relative orientation, the first connector type comprising one or more holes on one or more faces for fastening the connector to the C-channel members and to other connectors; wherein the more than one relative orientation includes a two C-channel members joined in parallel with the respective channels facing one another to form a box beam or column.
6. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the more than one relative orientation includes two C-channel members joined in parallel with the respective channels facing away from one another to form an I-beam or I-column.
7. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the more than one relative orientation includes two C-channel members joined at right angles.
8. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the more than one relative orientation includes another C-channel member joined at right angles to the box beam or column.
9. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the more than one relative orientation includes at least two of the box beams or columns joined at right angles.
10. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the two C-channel members are a first C-channel member and a 2nd C-channel member and the connector of the first type is adapted to form the box beam or column so that:
a first part of the connector engages an inside surface of the first C-channel member;
a second part of the connector engages an inside surface of the second C-channel member; and
one or more screws fastens the C-channel members in position to the connector through one or more screw holes in the first and second parts of the connector and through corresponding holes in the C-channel members.
11. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the two C-channel members are a first C-channel member and a 2nd C-channel member and the connector of the first type is adapted to form the box beam or column so that:
a first part of the connector engages an inside surface of the first C-channel member;
a second part of the connector engages an inside surface of the second C-channel member; and
one or more bolts fastens the C-channel members in position to the connector through one or more of the holes disposed in the first and second parts of the connector and through corresponding holes in the C-channel members.
12. The system of connectors of claim 11 , wherein: the first and second parts comprise regions disposed on opposite first and second side faces of the connector respectively which engage at least an inside surface of the web of the corresponding C-channel members.
13. The system of connectors of claim 11 , wherein:
the one or more holes comprise a first straight-through bolt hole providing a straight line access path all the way through the connector from the first side face to the second side face; and
the corresponding holes in the C-channel members comprise holes disposed in the corresponding webs;
whereby a single bolt may be passed through the first straight-through bolt hole and the corresponding holes in the C-channel members.
14. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein:
the one or more holes comprise a first bolt hole in a first side face extending through to a first nut receiving face or first embedded thread disposed between the first side face and a midpoint of the connector midway between the first and second side faces, and a second bolt hole in the second side face extending through to a second nut receiving face or 2nd embedded thread disposed between the second side face and the midpoint; and
the corresponding holes in the C-channel members are disposed in the corresponding webs;
whereby
a first bolt may be passed through the first bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the first C-channel member and secured with a first nut bearing on the first nut receiving face or with the first embedded thread, and
a second bolt may be passed through the second bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the second C-channel member and secured with a second nut bearing on the second nut receiving face or with the 2nd embedded thread.
15. The system of connectors of claim 10 , wherein:
the first part of the connector comprises a first end of opposite third and fourth sides of the connector each engaging the respective opposed flange of the first C-channel member; and
the second part of the connector comprises a second end of the opposite third and fourth sides of the connector each engaging the respective opposed flanges of the second C-channel member.
16. The system of connectors of claim 15 , wherein: the one or more screw holes are disposed on the first and second ends and the corresponding holes in the C-channel members are disposed on the flanges thereof.
17. The system of connectors of claim 5 , wherein the connector of the first type has first and 2nd opposite side faces and:
the one or more holes comprise a first bolt hole in the first side face extending through to a first nut receiving face disposed between the first side face and a midpoint of the connector midway between the first and second side faces, and a second bolt hole in the second side face extending through to a second nut receiving face disposed between the second side face and the midpoint; and
the corresponding holes in the C-channel members are disposed in the corresponding webs;
whereby
a first bolt may be passed through the first bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the first C-channel member and secured with a first nut bearing on the first nut receiving face, and
a second bolt may be passed through the second bolt hole and the corresponding hole in the second C-channel member and secured with a second nut bearing on the second nut receiving face; and
the first bolt hole and the 2nd bolt hole meet to also form a first straight-through bolt hole allowing a bolt to be passed all the way through the connector from the first side face to the 2nd side face.
18. The system of connectors of claim 17 , further comprising screw holes disposed in the first and 2nd side faces on either side of the first and 2nd bolt holes.
19. The system of connectors of claim 18 , wherein a width of the connector between the first and 2nd side faces matches a width of the C-channel member between the opposed flanges so that the connector may be connected to the C-channel member with screws passing through the flanges into the screw holes.
20-26. (canceled)
27. The system of connectors of claim 10 , wherein: the first and second parts comprise regions disposed on opposite first and second side faces of the connector respectively which engage at least an inside surface of the web of the corresponding C-channel members.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2014203604A AU2014203604A1 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2014-07-01 | UNIKONNECTOR TM : A universal connection and release device designed to be used in conjunction with light gauge steel (LGS) structural members and intended but not exclusively for use in the modular construction industry. |
AU2014203604 | 2014-07-01 | ||
AU2014274524 | 2014-12-09 | ||
AU2014274524A AU2014274524B1 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2014-12-09 | Connector system for c-channel members |
PCT/AU2015/000379 WO2016000021A1 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2015-06-30 | Connector system for c-channel members |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20170145679A1 true US20170145679A1 (en) | 2017-05-25 |
Family
ID=52746139
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/321,000 Abandoned US20170145679A1 (en) | 2014-07-01 | 2015-06-30 | Connector system for c-channel members |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20170145679A1 (en) |
AU (2) | AU2014203604A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2016000021A1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
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US10006193B1 (en) * | 2017-02-07 | 2018-06-26 | Tai Yu Liu | Lightweight steel construction |
US20190100937A1 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2019-04-04 | Esdra Srl Unipersonale | Structure with hollow or partially hollow structural elements, with modular and improved system of joints |
US20190368202A1 (en) * | 2017-01-26 | 2019-12-05 | Ejot Austria Gmbh & Co Kg | Support for fastening facade elements |
US10501928B2 (en) * | 2015-12-16 | 2019-12-10 | Flexlink Ab | Split connector and modular frame comprising such a split connector |
RU2724575C1 (en) * | 2019-12-11 | 2020-06-23 | Акционерное общество "РМ РЕЙЛ АБАКАНВАГОНМАШ" (АО "РМ РЕЙЛ АБАКАНВАГОНМАШ") | Unit for connection of elements of metal frame of prefabricated buildings (versions) |
WO2022201165A1 (en) * | 2021-03-25 | 2022-09-29 | Modulart | Volumetric modules |
WO2023249827A1 (en) * | 2022-06-24 | 2023-12-28 | Patrick Santini | Tubular beam with mechanically fastened end plates |
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TWI608148B (en) * | 2016-12-22 | 2017-12-11 | Tai You Liu | Light steel building structure |
CN108240040A (en) * | 2016-12-27 | 2018-07-03 | 刘泰佑 | Light steel structure fabric structure |
EP3361018B1 (en) * | 2017-02-14 | 2019-10-16 | Tai Yu Liu | Lightweight steel construction |
CN112523354B (en) * | 2020-12-29 | 2022-04-12 | 安徽金和鑫钢结构有限公司 | Steel house assembling connecting part |
CN115288291B (en) * | 2022-08-05 | 2023-05-12 | 石家庄铁路职业技术学院 | Reinforcing and connecting device for building structure |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2016000021A1 (en) | 2016-01-07 |
AU2014274524B1 (en) | 2015-04-02 |
AU2014203604A1 (en) | 2015-04-09 |
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Legal Events
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Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |