CA2364076C - Wall anchor with improved drilling tip - Google Patents
Wall anchor with improved drilling tip Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2364076C CA2364076C CA002364076A CA2364076A CA2364076C CA 2364076 C CA2364076 C CA 2364076C CA 002364076 A CA002364076 A CA 002364076A CA 2364076 A CA2364076 A CA 2364076A CA 2364076 C CA2364076 C CA 2364076C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- anchor
- cylindrical body
- cutting edge
- central portion
- drill
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 title description 20
- 230000004323 axial length Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 20
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052602 gypsum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 11
- 239000010440 gypsum Substances 0.000 description 11
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 9
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000153 supplemental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- 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
- F16B25/00—Screws that cut thread in the body into which they are screwed, e.g. wood screws
- F16B25/001—Screws that cut thread in the body into which they are screwed, e.g. wood screws characterised by the material of the body into which the screw is screwed
- F16B25/0026—Screws that cut thread in the body into which they are screwed, e.g. wood screws characterised by the material of the body into which the screw is screwed the material being a hard non-organic material, e.g. stone, concrete or drywall
-
- 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
- F16B13/00—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose
- F16B13/002—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose self-cutting
-
- 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
- F16B25/00—Screws that cut thread in the body into which they are screwed, e.g. wood screws
- F16B25/0036—Screws that cut thread in the body into which they are screwed, e.g. wood screws characterised by geometric details of the screw
- F16B25/0084—Screws that cut thread in the body into which they are screwed, e.g. wood screws characterised by geometric details of the screw characterised by geometric details of the tip
Abstract
A wall anchor for use in a friable material, composed of a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end. The drill end has a generally flat blade which includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and the second portion has a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge. These portions are formed on a common line and are offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body, and these portions together form a point. The central portion and the flange end have a combined axial length, and the drill end has an axial length which is shorter than that of the central portion and the flange end.
Description
WALL ANCHOR WITH IMPROVED DRILLING TIP
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
P 1. The present invention generally relates to wall anchors, and more specifically to wall anchors for use in a wall composed of a friable material such as drywall or gypsum wallboard. Wall anchors are known in the art, and generally take the form of a friction-fit anchor, which is hammered into the wall, or a self drilling anchor, which is screwed into the wall. These wall anchors are used to mount articles to a wall that is made with gypsum wallboard. The wall anchors are usually made of a rigid plastic or a metal such as zinc.
P2. Conventional self drilling anchors are available from ITW Buildex Division, Itasca, Illinois under the mark "E-Z Anchor", and are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,601,625, which may be referred to for further details. Such self drilling anchors are screwed into the wall by an installer using an insertion device such as a manual or powered Phillips-head screwdriver. Self drilling anchors generally include three components:
a flange which prevents 'the anchor from completely entering the wall and accepts the insertion device, a threaded portion on a generally tubular, cylindrical body that engages the friable material and draws the anchor into the wall, and a blade or drilling portion which drills or bores a hole into the friable material or substrate. Inside the cylindrical body is a central bore that accepts a threaded fastener, such as a screw, into the anchor for mounting an article in place on the wall.
Splines are usually disposed on the interior surface of the cylindrical body, eztend longitudinally with respect to the body and engage the threaded fastener. The use of splines allows the threaded fastener to be relatively easily inserted into the wall anchor due to the small amount of contact surface area between the threaded fastener and the splines, and provides secure mounting of the article to be mounted.
P3. Upon installation of a fastener into the.body, the drilling portion is caused to deflect laterally. This deflecting feature is beneficial in that it allows the use of a screw which has a predetermined length regardless of the thickness of the material being fastened.
Also, in applications where the wallboard is installed against a hard surface such as concrete, the anchor is first threaded into the wallboard to create a hole. The installer then removes the anchor by counter-clockwise rotation, and manually breaks off the drilling portion. Next, the anchor is reinstalled into the wallboard. In this manner, the broken off drilling portion does not become lodged between the wallboard and the wall, which would result in an unsatisfactory installation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
P 1. The present invention generally relates to wall anchors, and more specifically to wall anchors for use in a wall composed of a friable material such as drywall or gypsum wallboard. Wall anchors are known in the art, and generally take the form of a friction-fit anchor, which is hammered into the wall, or a self drilling anchor, which is screwed into the wall. These wall anchors are used to mount articles to a wall that is made with gypsum wallboard. The wall anchors are usually made of a rigid plastic or a metal such as zinc.
P2. Conventional self drilling anchors are available from ITW Buildex Division, Itasca, Illinois under the mark "E-Z Anchor", and are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,601,625, which may be referred to for further details. Such self drilling anchors are screwed into the wall by an installer using an insertion device such as a manual or powered Phillips-head screwdriver. Self drilling anchors generally include three components:
a flange which prevents 'the anchor from completely entering the wall and accepts the insertion device, a threaded portion on a generally tubular, cylindrical body that engages the friable material and draws the anchor into the wall, and a blade or drilling portion which drills or bores a hole into the friable material or substrate. Inside the cylindrical body is a central bore that accepts a threaded fastener, such as a screw, into the anchor for mounting an article in place on the wall.
Splines are usually disposed on the interior surface of the cylindrical body, eztend longitudinally with respect to the body and engage the threaded fastener. The use of splines allows the threaded fastener to be relatively easily inserted into the wall anchor due to the small amount of contact surface area between the threaded fastener and the splines, and provides secure mounting of the article to be mounted.
P3. Upon installation of a fastener into the.body, the drilling portion is caused to deflect laterally. This deflecting feature is beneficial in that it allows the use of a screw which has a predetermined length regardless of the thickness of the material being fastened.
Also, in applications where the wallboard is installed against a hard surface such as concrete, the anchor is first threaded into the wallboard to create a hole. The installer then removes the anchor by counter-clockwise rotation, and manually breaks off the drilling portion. Next, the anchor is reinstalled into the wallboard. In this manner, the broken off drilling portion does not become lodged between the wallboard and the wall, which would result in an unsatisfactory installation.
P4. US Patent No. 5,558,479, to McElderry, which may be referred to for further details, discloses a wall anchor that has two types of splines disposed on the interior wall of the cylindrical body. A first type includes at least one spline protruding centrally at a narrow angle, and a second type including at least one spline protruding centrally at a wider angle.
The different sized splines allow different sizes of fasteners to be inserted into the same sized wall anchor. When a #d sheet metal screw (SMS) is inserted into the McElderry wall anchor, the first type of spline will primarily engage the threads of the #6 SMS. A
relatively larger diameter #8 SMS can also be inserted into the McElderry wall anchor and both the first and second type of splines will engage the threads of the #8 SMS.
P5. Prior art wall anchors have a problem of "walking", which refers to the anchor being screwed into the wall off line, and are also relatively slow to install due to the relatively dull structure of their drilling portions. These drawbacks are generally more evident when the anchors are made of plastic rather than metal. Another problem that exists with the prior art anchors is that they generate gypsum dust or powder when being drilled into the drywall. In most cases, this dust or powder is ejected from the hole into which the anchor is being drilled, and leaves a messy residue. Further, the prior art wall anchors tear and rip the drywall paper.
P6. Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved wall anchor with a new sharp drill point which starts drilling faster and will not walk during installation.
The different sized splines allow different sizes of fasteners to be inserted into the same sized wall anchor. When a #d sheet metal screw (SMS) is inserted into the McElderry wall anchor, the first type of spline will primarily engage the threads of the #6 SMS. A
relatively larger diameter #8 SMS can also be inserted into the McElderry wall anchor and both the first and second type of splines will engage the threads of the #8 SMS.
P5. Prior art wall anchors have a problem of "walking", which refers to the anchor being screwed into the wall off line, and are also relatively slow to install due to the relatively dull structure of their drilling portions. These drawbacks are generally more evident when the anchors are made of plastic rather than metal. Another problem that exists with the prior art anchors is that they generate gypsum dust or powder when being drilled into the drywall. In most cases, this dust or powder is ejected from the hole into which the anchor is being drilled, and leaves a messy residue. Further, the prior art wall anchors tear and rip the drywall paper.
P6. Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved wall anchor with a new sharp drill point which starts drilling faster and will not walk during installation.
P7. Further, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with cutting edges or blades on the drill point which cut and remove gypsum faster during installation.
P8. Further still, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with a stronger blade on the drill point which provides extra torsional strength.
P9. Still further, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with a new drill point design which reduces the amount of gypsum dust or powder ejected from the hole during drilling.
P 10. Yet further, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with a new drill point that cuts a clean hole in the drywall, resulting in less paper damage.
SL)ZvIMARY OF THE INVENTION
P 11. The above-identified aspects are met or exceeded by the present wall anchor, which features an improved drilling tip. Being relatively shorter and sharper than conventional self drilling anchor tips, the present tip drills faster and more accurately. Thus, unwanted "walking" is minimized. In addition, the present anchor generates less gypsum dust, resulting in a cleaner installation. Also, the relatively shorter tip has greater tortional strength than self conventional drilling anchors.
P 12. More specifically, the invention in one broad aspect provides a wall anchor for use in friable material, comprising: a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end with a central bore defined inside the cylindrical body. The drill end has a generally flat blade, including a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, the first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body.
Pl2a. Another aspect of the invention provides a wall anchor for use in a friable material, comprising: a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end and a central bore defined inside the cylindrical body, the drill end having a flat blade. The flat blade includes a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, the first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative 4a to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body. The central portion and the flange end have a combined axial length, and the drill end has an axial length approximately less than three-Bights (3/8) of the combined axial length of the central portion of the flange end. The central portion has a diameter, and the drill end has a diameter shorter than that of the central portion. Preferably, the central portion and the flange end have a combined axial length, and the drill end has an axial length which is shorter than that of the central portion and the flange end.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
P 13. FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of the present invention;
P 14. FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the present invention;
P 15. FIG. 3 is an end view of the present invention of FIG. 1 taken from the top of FIG. 1;
P 16. FIG. 4 is an end view of the present invention of FIG. 1 taken from the bottom of FIG. 1; and P17. FIG. S is a fragmentary vertical sectional view showing the central bore of the wall anchor.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
P 18. Referring now to FIGs. 1 and 2, a wall anchor for use in friable material is generally designated 10. The wall anchor 10 has a generally cylindrical body 12 having a flanged end 14, a central portion 16, and a drill end 18. In the preferred embodiment of the wall anchor 10, the cylindrical body 12 is made of plastic. However, it is also contemplated that the cylindrical body 12 could be made out of zinc or a similar metal. The drill end 18 has a generally flat blade 20 with a first portion 22 and a second portion 24.
The first portion 22 has a first angled cutting edge 26 and a first side cutting edge 28, and the second portion 24 has a second angled cutting edge 30 and a second side cutting edge 32. As best seen in FIG. 4, these portions 22 and 24 are formed on, and are offset relative to each other along a plane 36 passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body 12. Further, in the preferred embodiment, at least one and preferably each of the portions 22, 24 form a point 38. In fact, the angled cutting edges 26, 30, 28 and 32 respectively are formed by the offset positioning of the two portions 22, 24.
P 19. It is the configuration of the flat blade 20 that allows the present wall anchor to achieve the objects stated above. The point 38 is relatively sharp, which allows for faster drilling and prevents walking during installation. In addition, the point 38 is not accompanied by supplemental projections, as is the tip disclosed in U.S.
Patent No.
4,601,625. Also, the first and second angled cutting edges 26 and 30, along with the first and second side cutting edges 28 and 32 are all sharp, which cut and remove gypsum faster during installation.
P20. Referring to FIG. 4, the offset disposition of the first portion 22 from the second portion 24 creates a first flute 48 and a second flute 50. The first flute 48 is disposed on an underside of the first portion 22 and extends along the length of both the first angled cutting edge 26 and the first side cutting edge 28. Similarly, the second flute 50 is disposed on an underside of the second portion 24 and extends along the length of both the second angled cutting edge 30 and the second side cutting edge 32. The first and second flutes 48 and SO also help to quickly remove gypsum dust generated during installation of the anchor in wallboard.
P21. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the central portion 16 has a diameter 56 which narrows slightly and gradually from the flange end 14 to the central portion 16, and the drill end 18 has a diameter 58, which is smaller than that of the central portion. Best seen in FIG. 2, the flat blade 20 is relatively thick compared to the diameter 56 of the central portion 16, which increases the strength of the blade, and provides extra torsional strength. In a preferred embodiment, a thickness 51 of the flat blade 20 is generally one third (1/3) of the diameter 56 of the central portion 16 found near the flange end 14. It is contemplated, however, that the thickness of the flat blade 20 could be increased or decreased, and still provide enough torsional strength for drilling into gypsum wallboard. It is contemplated that the thicker blade 20, especially when the anchor 10 is made of plastic, will provide more precise drilling action and will be less prone to "walking".
P22. Refernng now to FIG. l, the central portion 16 and the flange end 14 have a combined axial length 52, and the drill end 18 has an axial length 54 which in the preferred embodiment is shorter than that of the central portion and the flange end. In the preferred . embodiment, the axial length 54 of the drill end 18 is approximately less than three-eighths (3/8) of the axial length 52 of the central portion 16 and the flange end 14.
It is contemplated that the relative axial length 54 of the drill end may vary relative to the axial length 52, however in general shorter relative length 54 is preferred. This is because a shorter drill end 18 results in a stiffer drilling point.
P23. The features of the drill end 18 as described above provide the present wall anchor 10 with features not found in the prior art wall anchors. One such feature is that the present drill end 18 starts drilling and removing gypsum faster and prevents walking during installation. This is due to the relatively shorter length of the blade 20 and the relative sharpness of the cutting edges 26, 28, 30 and 32. There is also less gypsum dust or powder to clean up when using the present wall anchor 10 compared to prior art wall anchors.
Further, this new drill end 18 enables the present wall anchor 10 to cut a clean hole in the drywall resulting in less paper damage compared to prior art wall anchors.
P24. Referring now to FIG. 3, the flange end 14 has a Phillips-type drive recess 60 configured for accepting a manual or powered Phillips-head screw-driver.
However, it is contemplated that the recess on the flange end 14 could be provided in any shape desired which is suitable for accepting different insertion devices including, but not limited torx-drive, Allen-type or flat-blade screw-drivers. Once inserted into the drive recess 60, the insertion device is turned in a clockwise direction to insert the wall anchor 10 into the walls ~ ard. Conversely, rotating the wall anchor 10 in a counter-clockwise direction will remove the anchor 10 from the wallboard.
P25. Now referring back to FIGs. 1 and 2, the cylindrical body 12 has an exterior helical thread 62 disposed between the flange end 14 and the drill end 18.
There is also an unthreaded neck portion 64 disposed in between the flange end 14 and the exterior thread 62.
As is well known in the art, the exterior thread 62 pulls the wall anchor 10 into the wallboard, and the unthreaded neck 64 allows the flange end 14 to become flush with an exterior surface of the wallboard.
P26. As can be seen in FIGs. 3 and 5, the wall anchor 10 has a central bore 66 defined inside the cylindrical body 12, and has a surface lined with axially oriented splines 68. The configuration of the splines 68 on the central bore 66 is described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,558,479, which may be referred to for same. This configuration of splines 68 allows for a variety of screw sizes, for example #6, #7, and #8 diameter SMS, to be used in conjunction with the present wall anchor 10.
P27. Referring now to FIG. S, the central bore 66 preferably has a constant diameter 70 through the central portion 16 until the drill end 18, where the central bore has a ramped configuration 72 resulting in a decreased diameter 74. The ramped configuration 72 of the central bore 66 facilitates the lateral deflection or ultimate frangibility of the flat blade 20 when a fastener of sufficient length is driven into the present wall anchor 10.
P28. While a particular embodiment of the present improved wall anchor has been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the invention in its broader aspects and as set forth in the following claims.
P8. Further still, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with a stronger blade on the drill point which provides extra torsional strength.
P9. Still further, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with a new drill point design which reduces the amount of gypsum dust or powder ejected from the hole during drilling.
P 10. Yet further, the present invention seeks to provide an improved wall anchor with a new drill point that cuts a clean hole in the drywall, resulting in less paper damage.
SL)ZvIMARY OF THE INVENTION
P 11. The above-identified aspects are met or exceeded by the present wall anchor, which features an improved drilling tip. Being relatively shorter and sharper than conventional self drilling anchor tips, the present tip drills faster and more accurately. Thus, unwanted "walking" is minimized. In addition, the present anchor generates less gypsum dust, resulting in a cleaner installation. Also, the relatively shorter tip has greater tortional strength than self conventional drilling anchors.
P 12. More specifically, the invention in one broad aspect provides a wall anchor for use in friable material, comprising: a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end with a central bore defined inside the cylindrical body. The drill end has a generally flat blade, including a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, the first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body.
Pl2a. Another aspect of the invention provides a wall anchor for use in a friable material, comprising: a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end and a central bore defined inside the cylindrical body, the drill end having a flat blade. The flat blade includes a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, the first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative 4a to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body. The central portion and the flange end have a combined axial length, and the drill end has an axial length approximately less than three-Bights (3/8) of the combined axial length of the central portion of the flange end. The central portion has a diameter, and the drill end has a diameter shorter than that of the central portion. Preferably, the central portion and the flange end have a combined axial length, and the drill end has an axial length which is shorter than that of the central portion and the flange end.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
P 13. FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of the present invention;
P 14. FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the present invention;
P 15. FIG. 3 is an end view of the present invention of FIG. 1 taken from the top of FIG. 1;
P 16. FIG. 4 is an end view of the present invention of FIG. 1 taken from the bottom of FIG. 1; and P17. FIG. S is a fragmentary vertical sectional view showing the central bore of the wall anchor.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
P 18. Referring now to FIGs. 1 and 2, a wall anchor for use in friable material is generally designated 10. The wall anchor 10 has a generally cylindrical body 12 having a flanged end 14, a central portion 16, and a drill end 18. In the preferred embodiment of the wall anchor 10, the cylindrical body 12 is made of plastic. However, it is also contemplated that the cylindrical body 12 could be made out of zinc or a similar metal. The drill end 18 has a generally flat blade 20 with a first portion 22 and a second portion 24.
The first portion 22 has a first angled cutting edge 26 and a first side cutting edge 28, and the second portion 24 has a second angled cutting edge 30 and a second side cutting edge 32. As best seen in FIG. 4, these portions 22 and 24 are formed on, and are offset relative to each other along a plane 36 passing through a diameter of the cylindrical body 12. Further, in the preferred embodiment, at least one and preferably each of the portions 22, 24 form a point 38. In fact, the angled cutting edges 26, 30, 28 and 32 respectively are formed by the offset positioning of the two portions 22, 24.
P 19. It is the configuration of the flat blade 20 that allows the present wall anchor to achieve the objects stated above. The point 38 is relatively sharp, which allows for faster drilling and prevents walking during installation. In addition, the point 38 is not accompanied by supplemental projections, as is the tip disclosed in U.S.
Patent No.
4,601,625. Also, the first and second angled cutting edges 26 and 30, along with the first and second side cutting edges 28 and 32 are all sharp, which cut and remove gypsum faster during installation.
P20. Referring to FIG. 4, the offset disposition of the first portion 22 from the second portion 24 creates a first flute 48 and a second flute 50. The first flute 48 is disposed on an underside of the first portion 22 and extends along the length of both the first angled cutting edge 26 and the first side cutting edge 28. Similarly, the second flute 50 is disposed on an underside of the second portion 24 and extends along the length of both the second angled cutting edge 30 and the second side cutting edge 32. The first and second flutes 48 and SO also help to quickly remove gypsum dust generated during installation of the anchor in wallboard.
P21. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the central portion 16 has a diameter 56 which narrows slightly and gradually from the flange end 14 to the central portion 16, and the drill end 18 has a diameter 58, which is smaller than that of the central portion. Best seen in FIG. 2, the flat blade 20 is relatively thick compared to the diameter 56 of the central portion 16, which increases the strength of the blade, and provides extra torsional strength. In a preferred embodiment, a thickness 51 of the flat blade 20 is generally one third (1/3) of the diameter 56 of the central portion 16 found near the flange end 14. It is contemplated, however, that the thickness of the flat blade 20 could be increased or decreased, and still provide enough torsional strength for drilling into gypsum wallboard. It is contemplated that the thicker blade 20, especially when the anchor 10 is made of plastic, will provide more precise drilling action and will be less prone to "walking".
P22. Refernng now to FIG. l, the central portion 16 and the flange end 14 have a combined axial length 52, and the drill end 18 has an axial length 54 which in the preferred embodiment is shorter than that of the central portion and the flange end. In the preferred . embodiment, the axial length 54 of the drill end 18 is approximately less than three-eighths (3/8) of the axial length 52 of the central portion 16 and the flange end 14.
It is contemplated that the relative axial length 54 of the drill end may vary relative to the axial length 52, however in general shorter relative length 54 is preferred. This is because a shorter drill end 18 results in a stiffer drilling point.
P23. The features of the drill end 18 as described above provide the present wall anchor 10 with features not found in the prior art wall anchors. One such feature is that the present drill end 18 starts drilling and removing gypsum faster and prevents walking during installation. This is due to the relatively shorter length of the blade 20 and the relative sharpness of the cutting edges 26, 28, 30 and 32. There is also less gypsum dust or powder to clean up when using the present wall anchor 10 compared to prior art wall anchors.
Further, this new drill end 18 enables the present wall anchor 10 to cut a clean hole in the drywall resulting in less paper damage compared to prior art wall anchors.
P24. Referring now to FIG. 3, the flange end 14 has a Phillips-type drive recess 60 configured for accepting a manual or powered Phillips-head screw-driver.
However, it is contemplated that the recess on the flange end 14 could be provided in any shape desired which is suitable for accepting different insertion devices including, but not limited torx-drive, Allen-type or flat-blade screw-drivers. Once inserted into the drive recess 60, the insertion device is turned in a clockwise direction to insert the wall anchor 10 into the walls ~ ard. Conversely, rotating the wall anchor 10 in a counter-clockwise direction will remove the anchor 10 from the wallboard.
P25. Now referring back to FIGs. 1 and 2, the cylindrical body 12 has an exterior helical thread 62 disposed between the flange end 14 and the drill end 18.
There is also an unthreaded neck portion 64 disposed in between the flange end 14 and the exterior thread 62.
As is well known in the art, the exterior thread 62 pulls the wall anchor 10 into the wallboard, and the unthreaded neck 64 allows the flange end 14 to become flush with an exterior surface of the wallboard.
P26. As can be seen in FIGs. 3 and 5, the wall anchor 10 has a central bore 66 defined inside the cylindrical body 12, and has a surface lined with axially oriented splines 68. The configuration of the splines 68 on the central bore 66 is described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,558,479, which may be referred to for same. This configuration of splines 68 allows for a variety of screw sizes, for example #6, #7, and #8 diameter SMS, to be used in conjunction with the present wall anchor 10.
P27. Referring now to FIG. S, the central bore 66 preferably has a constant diameter 70 through the central portion 16 until the drill end 18, where the central bore has a ramped configuration 72 resulting in a decreased diameter 74. The ramped configuration 72 of the central bore 66 facilitates the lateral deflection or ultimate frangibility of the flat blade 20 when a fastener of sufficient length is driven into the present wall anchor 10.
P28. While a particular embodiment of the present improved wall anchor has been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the invention in its broader aspects and as set forth in the following claims.
Claims (16)
1. A wall anchor for use in friable material, comprising:
a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end;
a central bore defined inside said cylindrical body; and said drill end having a generally flat blade, including a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, said first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of said cylindrical body.
a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end;
a central bore defined inside said cylindrical body; and said drill end having a generally flat blade, including a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, said first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of said cylindrical body.
2. The wall anchor of claim 1, wherein a first flute is formed on an underside of said first portion, and a second flute is formed on an underside of said second portion.
3. The wall anchor of claim 1, wherein said central portion and said flange end have a combined axial length, and said drill end has an axial length which is shorter than that of said central portion and said flange end.
4. The wall anchor of claim 3, wherein said axial length of said drill end is approximately less than three-eighths (3/8) of said combined axial length of said central portion and said flange end.
5. The anchor of claim 1, wherein said flange end has a Phillips-type drive recess.
6. The anchor of claim 1, wherein said cylindrical body has an exterior thread disposed thereon between said flange end and said drill end.
7. The anchor of claim 6, further comprising an unthreaded neck disposed between said flange end and said exterior thread.
8. The anchor of claim 1 wherein said central bore has a surface lined with axially oriented splines.
9. The anchor of claim 8, wherein said central bore has a constant diameter through said central portion until said drill end, where said central bore has a ramped configuration defining a decreased diameter.
10. The anchor of claim 1, wherein said cylindrical body is made of plastic.
11. The anchor of claim 1, wherein said cylindrical body is made of zinc.
12. The anchor of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first and second angled cutting edges form a point.
13. A wall anchor for use in a friable material, comprising:
a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end;
a central bore defined inside said cylindrical body;
said drill end having a flat blade;
said flat blade including a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, said first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of said cylindrical body;
said central portion and said flange end have a combined axial length, and said drill end has an axial length approximately less than three-eighths (3/8) of said combined axial length of said central portion and said flange end; and said central portion has a diameter, and said drill end has a diameter shorter than that of said central portion.
a generally cylindrical body having a flanged end, a central portion, and a drill end;
a central bore defined inside said cylindrical body;
said drill end having a flat blade;
said flat blade including a first portion having a first angled cutting edge and a first side cutting edge, and a second portion having a second angled cutting edge and a second side cutting edge, said first and second portions being formed on a common line and offset relative to each other along a plane passing through a diameter of said cylindrical body;
said central portion and said flange end have a combined axial length, and said drill end has an axial length approximately less than three-eighths (3/8) of said combined axial length of said central portion and said flange end; and said central portion has a diameter, and said drill end has a diameter shorter than that of said central portion.
14. The wall anchor of claim 13, wherein a first flute is formed on an underneath edge of said first portion, and a second flute is formed on an underneath edge of said second portion.
15. The anchor of claim 13, wherein said cylindrical body has an exterior thread disposed thereon between said flange end and said drill end.
16. The anchor of claim 13 wherein said central bore has a surface lined with axially oriented splines.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/760,546 | 2001-01-16 | ||
| US09/760,546 US6382892B1 (en) | 2001-01-16 | 2001-01-16 | Wall anchor with improved drilling tip |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2364076A1 CA2364076A1 (en) | 2002-07-16 |
| CA2364076C true CA2364076C (en) | 2007-01-16 |
Family
ID=25059424
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002364076A Expired - Lifetime CA2364076C (en) | 2001-01-16 | 2001-11-30 | Wall anchor with improved drilling tip |
Country Status (9)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US6382892B1 (en) |
| EP (1) | EP1223352B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP4279495B2 (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE321217T1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU754152B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2364076C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE60210025T2 (en) |
| DK (1) | DK1223352T3 (en) |
| NZ (1) | NZ516313A (en) |
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| US20060018730A1 (en) * | 2003-10-10 | 2006-01-26 | Ernst Richard J | Drywall fastener |
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| US20050084360A1 (en) * | 2003-10-10 | 2005-04-21 | Panasik Cheryl L. | Self-drilling anchor |
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| US7001124B2 (en) * | 2004-02-05 | 2006-02-21 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Anchor |
| US20060165506A1 (en) * | 2004-02-05 | 2006-07-27 | Panasik Cheryl L | Anchor |
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| US20100239386A1 (en) * | 2004-10-08 | 2010-09-23 | Innozinc, Inc. | Supporting device |
| CA2484381C (en) * | 2004-10-08 | 2013-03-19 | Anne Marie Sedgwick | Supporting device |
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| US7604446B2 (en) * | 2006-03-25 | 2009-10-20 | Honeywell International Inc. | Housing mountable with drywall anchor |
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| US8448910B2 (en) * | 2009-02-27 | 2013-05-28 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Wall mountable holder system |
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| US20160223008A1 (en) * | 2015-01-29 | 2016-08-04 | Ming-Chia Cheng | Screw |
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| USD860770S1 (en) * | 2017-09-15 | 2019-09-24 | Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg | Anchor |
| WO2019154485A1 (en) * | 2018-02-07 | 2019-08-15 | Mungo Befestigungstechnik Ag | Self-drilling wall plug |
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| USD985421S1 (en) * | 2021-05-07 | 2023-05-09 | Classic Home & Garden, LLC | Plug |
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-
2001
- 2001-01-16 US US09/760,546 patent/US6382892B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-11-30 CA CA002364076A patent/CA2364076C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-12-17 AU AU97276/01A patent/AU754152B2/en not_active Expired
- 2001-12-21 NZ NZ516313A patent/NZ516313A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2002
- 2002-01-16 JP JP2002007213A patent/JP4279495B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2002-01-16 DK DK02290108T patent/DK1223352T3/en active
- 2002-01-16 AT AT02290108T patent/ATE321217T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2002-01-16 EP EP02290108A patent/EP1223352B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-01-16 DE DE60210025T patent/DE60210025T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE60210025D1 (en) | 2006-05-11 |
| AU9727601A (en) | 2002-07-18 |
| DE60210025T2 (en) | 2006-08-17 |
| JP2002235715A (en) | 2002-08-23 |
| CA2364076A1 (en) | 2002-07-16 |
| ATE321217T1 (en) | 2006-04-15 |
| DK1223352T3 (en) | 2006-07-31 |
| NZ516313A (en) | 2003-06-30 |
| JP4279495B2 (en) | 2009-06-17 |
| EP1223352B1 (en) | 2006-03-22 |
| EP1223352A2 (en) | 2002-07-17 |
| EP1223352A3 (en) | 2003-07-09 |
| US6382892B1 (en) | 2002-05-07 |
| AU754152B2 (en) | 2002-11-07 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20211130 |