US20050210771A1 - Fastening system for use with a structural member - Google Patents
Fastening system for use with a structural member Download PDFInfo
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- US20050210771A1 US20050210771A1 US11/107,216 US10721605A US2005210771A1 US 20050210771 A1 US20050210771 A1 US 20050210771A1 US 10721605 A US10721605 A US 10721605A US 2005210771 A1 US2005210771 A1 US 2005210771A1
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- Prior art keywords
- elongated
- holding portion
- structural member
- elongated members
- fastener
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Images
Classifications
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- 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
- F16B13/04—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front
- F16B13/08—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate or non-separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device without further manual operation
- F16B13/0833—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate or non-separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device without further manual operation with segments or fingers expanding or tilting into an undercut hole
-
- 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
- F16B13/04—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front
- F16B13/08—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate or non-separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device without further manual operation
- F16B13/0858—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate or non-separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device without further manual operation with an expansible sleeve or dowel body driven against a tapered or spherical expander plug
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- 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
- F16B35/00—Screw-bolts; Stay-bolts; Screw-threaded studs; Screws; Set screws
- F16B35/04—Screw-bolts; Stay-bolts; Screw-threaded studs; Screws; Set screws with specially-shaped head or shaft in order to fix the bolt on or in an object
- F16B35/041—Specially-shaped shafts
- F16B35/044—Specially-shaped ends
- F16B35/045—Specially-shaped ends for retention or rotation by a tool
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)
- Clamps And Clips (AREA)
- Dowels (AREA)
- Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
Abstract
A fastening system provides for connecting structural members with blind fasteners. The fasteners are movably positionable along an elongated opening of a chamber, such as a channel, anchored with the structural members. A structural member may have multiple chambers. The fasteners are constructed with a holding portion of elongated members. The elongated members are movable for insertion into the chamber and for engaging the opposed margins of the channel.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 10/696,332, filed Oct. 29, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 10/418,448, filed Apr. 17, 2003, each of which is incorporated by reference herein for all purposes.
- Not applicable.
- Not applicable.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to fastening systems and structural members and, in particular, to fastening systems including a blind fastener.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- The general concept of fastening is the fixing or bringing together of two distinct items or devices with a fastener. In the positioning of an element with a structural member, such as a wall, ceiling, floor, substrate or other supporting structure, one particular type of fastener, generally known as a blind fastener, allows positioning of the element without access to one side of the structural member. The blind fastener accomplishes this fastening by allowing a holding portion and a rod (e.g., a stud, bolt, or the like) to be inserted through an aperture in the structural member, and then resists removal of the holding portion through the aperture. There have been fasteners known in the past that are moved through an aperture in a structural member during insertion and, thereafter, resist removal of the fastener.
- One type of blind fastener is what is known as a toggle bolt. The general concept of a toggle bolt is a bolt with a nut having pivotally attached elongated members or wings. The wings of the toggle bolt retract during passage through the aperture and, thereafter, spring open or expand to resist removal of the bolt back through the aperture. Examples of toggle bolts include U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,024,871; 4,793,755; 4,997,327; 5,209,621; 5,224, 807; and 6,203,260. Three characteristics of the toggle bolt are (1) each wing's bearing line area or contact with the blind side of the structural member, (2) the plurality of components for “spring” pivoting action of each wing, and (3) the sizing of the aperture, having an area larger than the cross-sectional area of the bolt, to allow insertion of the wings in their retracted position.
- Another type of blind fastener is what is known as a “molly bolt,” also known as a “hollow wall anchor.” The general concept of a molly bolt is a bolt connected to a body having a pair of elongated members or wings and two housings. The housings are initially spaced apart from one another with the ends of each wing being in contact with one of the housings. During insertion of the molly bolt, the wings are retracted towards the bolt. Then, after insertion, as the housings are moved closer to each other, the wings extend outwardly. The general operation of the molly bolt is discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,888,156; 4,152,968; 4,307,598; and 5,509,765. While molly bolts need not have a spring to extend the wings outwardly, two characteristics of the molly bolt design are (1) precision insertion of the body to ensure proper deformation of the wings for the desired structural support, and (2) precision threading and deforming of the wings to, once again, allow the desired structural support.
- Other types of blind fasteners include those proposed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,086,840, issued to Kurlander, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,944,466, issued to Rudnicki, et al., along with rivets. The '840 Kurlander patent proposes a fastener having a nut integral with an elastomeric conical member adapted to deform or collapse radially and longitudinally when compressed. Upon insertion of the fastener through an aperture in a structural member, the elastomeric conical collapses radially inwardly. After insertion, the bolt is threaded with the integral nut and the elastomeric conical member collapses in a longitudinal direction against the structural member.
- The '466 Rudnicki patent, concerned with loading by an anchoring assembly or holding portion of fastener on the structural member, proposes that the radial distance between the points of support provided by an anchoring assembly and the bolt are too short for large loads. (Col. 1, lns. 45-58). The '466 Rudnicki patent proposes a fastener assembly to extend the radial distance between the points of support provided by the anchoring assembly and the bolt as a solution to this loading concern. (Col. 4, lns. 16-26). The proposed fastener assembly includes a face plate, an anchoring assembly, and a positioner. The face plate is positioned on a surface of the structural member. The anchoring assembly includes a base portion and a support structure. Upon insertion of the anchoring assembly through an aperture in the structural member, the support structure extends outwardly from the base portion to three or more radially equidistant regions isolated from the peripheral edge of the aperture in the structural member.
- It would be desirable to provide a simple, yet effective, repositionable fastening system that provides desirable flexibility and structural support to fasten an element to a structural member. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide a fastener that optimizes the bearing area to distribute the loading by the holding portion on the fastening system.
- It would also be desirable to provide a fastener that could use an off-the-shelf nut in combination with any desired length, style and/or size of threaded rod with a holding portion of limited components to reduce manufacturing and inventory costs.
- According to one embodiment of the invention, a fastening system adapted for use with a structural member having a chamber with an elongated opening is provided. The fastening system includes opposed margins attached with a structural member and a fastener configured to be restrained by the opposed margins. The fastener can be positioned in a variety of locations within the chamber. The fastener can also be selectively repositioned in various positions along the opening.
- According to another embodiment of the invention, a structural member adapted for use with a fastener is provided. The structural member includes a mass of material having one or more chambers, each having opposed margins. Each chamber includes an elongated opening on a first side defined by the opposed margins. The elongated opening is sized to receive fasteners configured to be restrained by the opposed margins. The elongated opening accepts repositioning of fasteners at several locations within the chamber.
- According to still another embodiment of the invention, a holding portion of a fastener for fastening an element to a structural member in a chamber with an elongated opening is provided. The holding portion includes a plurality of elongated members and a compression member positioned with the elongated members. The elongated members are moveable between an insertion position and a predetermined extended position, and each includes a lip. The compression member resists a movement from the predetermined extended position to the insertion position. The elongated members move to the predetermined extended position upon positioning the compression member about the plurality of elongated members. When the plurality of elongated members are assembled with the compression member, the holding portion includes a restriction recess, configured to receive the nut and to restrict a rotation of the nut with a wall substantially parallel to a side of the nut when the holding portion is in the predetermined extended position. When the elongated members are assembled with the compression member, the holding portion also includes a throughway sized to receive a rod, which is configured to engage the nut. When the elongated members are assembled with the compression member in the predetermined extended position, the lips of at least two elongated members are received in the elongated opening.
- According to yet another embodiment of the invention, a method for making a structural member is provided. The method includes providing a form and positioning opposed margins within the form so that the opposed margins define an elongated opening. A non-solid version of a structural material is provided into the form after blocking the elongated opening.
- According to still yet another embodiment of the invention, a method for fastening an element to a structural member is provided. This method includes positioning opposed margins with the structural member to provide an elongated opening and positioning a holding portion of a fastener and a portion of a rod of a fastener in a chamber of the structural member. The fastener includes a plurality of elongated members. This method further includes engaging at least one of the elongated members with each margin. This method also includes supporting the element with the rod extending from the structural member when the elongated members are in the extended position.
- A better understanding of the present invention can be obtained when the following detailed description of the disclosed embodiments is considered in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is one embodiment of an internally threaded holding portion of a fastener usable with various embodiments of the present invention, shown in a perspective view; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional elevational view of the holding portion of the fastener taken across line 2-2 ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is an end view of the embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is an illustration of the embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener, shown inFIG. 1 , in the insertion position while being inserted through an aperture in a structural member using a threaded rod; -
FIG. 5 is an illustration of the embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener, similar toFIG. 4 , in the extended position after insertion through the aperture; -
FIG. 6 is an illustration of the embodiment of the extended holding portion of the fastener, similar toFIG. 5 , in the engaged or bearing position to position the element, shown in the phantom view, using a washer and nut threadably received on the threaded rod; -
FIG. 7 is another embodiment of an internally threaded holding portion of a fastener, shown in a cross-sectional elevation view; -
FIG. 8 is an end view of the embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is an illustration of the embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener ofFIG. 7 , after insertion through an aperture in a structural member, using a threaded bolt along with a tapered sleeve and a spacer of predetermined length to move the holding portion to the extended position upon tightening the bolt head of the bolt with the holding portion; -
FIG. 10 is an illustration of the embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener, similar toFIG. 9 , in the extended position and engaged or bearing position after the holding portion is threaded upon the bolt; -
FIG. 11 is yet another embodiment of the holding portion of a fastener in a predetermined extended position, shown in a cross-sectional view with a part of the holding portion shown in phantom view, and the bolt shown in elevational view; -
FIG. 12 is an illustration of the embodiment shown inFIG. 11 , with the holding portion shown in the insertion position while being inserted through an aperture in a structural member; -
FIG. 13 is an illustration of the embodiment shown inFIG. 11 , with the holding portion shown in the predetermined extended and engaged or bearing position and element shown in phantom view; -
FIG. 14 is an end view of the embodiment of the fastener taken along line 14-14 ofFIG. 13 with the holding portion shown in solid lines when in the predetermined extended position and shown in phantom view when in the insertion position; -
FIG. 15 is an embodiment of the holding portion of a fastener usable with various embodiments of the invention, shown in a cross-sectional view, having a recess to receive a nut and with the holding portion shown in a predetermined extended position; -
FIG. 16 is an embodiment of the fastener taken along line 16-16 ofFIG. 15 ; -
FIG. 17 is an embodiment of the fastener taken along line 17-17 ofFIG. 15 ; -
FIG. 18 is an embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener, as shown inFIG. 15 , in the insertion position while being inserted through an aperture in a structural member using a threaded bolt; -
FIG. 19 is an embodiment of the holding portion of the fastener, as shown inFIG. 15 , in the predetermined extended position and in the engaged or bearing position after the holding portion is threaded with the bolt; -
FIG. 20 shows some exemplary threaded rods for use with the present invention; -
FIG. 21 is an elevational view of the holding portion of the fastener ofFIG. 15 in the insertion position, similar toFIG. 18 , to better illustrate the compression member positioned with the housing of the holding portion; -
FIG. 22 is an elevational view of the holding portion of the fastener ofFIG. 15 with the holding portion in the predetermined extended position; -
FIG. 23 is a view of the holding portion taken along line 23-23 ofFIG. 22 ; -
FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a channel anchored in a mass of structural material to form a chamber with a layer of material overlying the channel at the opening; -
FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a channel in a mass of structural material; -
FIG. 24C is a view of an embodiment of a fastener usable with various embodiments of the invention, shown in a cross-sectional view in the channel ofFIG. 24A , with the holding portion in a predetermined extended position inside the chamber and an element shown in phantom view; -
FIG. 25 is a view of the channel and the holding portion taken along line 25-25 ofFIG. 24C ; -
FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the holding portion taken along line 26-26 ofFIG. 24C ; -
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the holding portion taken along line 27-27 ofFIG. 24C ; -
FIG. 28 is an elevational view of the fastener ofFIG. 24C in the extended position; -
FIG. 29 is an elevational view of the fastener ofFIG. 24C in the insertion position entering the opposed margins, shown in phantom view; -
FIG. 30 is a cutaway view taken along line 30-30 ofFIG. 29 ; -
FIG. 31 is an elevational view of a wall and a door, with a cutaway view of a stairwell showing various channels each with one or more fasteners; -
FIG. 32 is an elevational view of a wall, a floor, and an upright support showing various channels, each with one or more fasteners; -
FIG. 33 is an elevational view of a ceiling with hanging equipment or elements and a wall and a wall-to-wall connection showing various channels and configurations, including a ceiling channel connected to reinforcing elements, each channel having one or more fasteners; -
FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the wall-to-wall connection, taken along line 34-34 ofFIG. 33 ; and -
FIG. 35 is a top view of a form for making a structural member according to embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 1 through 6 , generally show a first embodiment of the invention. InFIG. 1 , a holdingportion 20 includes ahousing 30 and a plurality of elongated members orwings 40. In this embodiment, each of the four equidistance elongatedmembers 40 is bent radially outwardly into an extended position. A resilience in the material of theelongated members 40 tends to keepelongated members 40 in this extended position—for example, resisting a radial inwardly compression. Material for theelongated members 40 can include, but is not limited to, various forms of metal (e.g., aluminum), plastics, and the like. At the end of each plurality ofelongated members 40 areend areas 48, which together make up anend surface area 44. Theend surface area 44 is arranged and configured to serve as a bearing surface, which will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 6 below. - Turning now to
FIG. 2 , thehousing 30 of the holdingportion 20 includes anoutside diameter 34, aninside diameter 36, and a length ofengagement 32. The length ofengagement 32 in this embodiment is the length of thehousing 30 that is adapted for engaging or coupling with a rod 50 (shown inFIG. 4 ). As can be seen inFIG. 2 , thehousing 30 is internally threaded with internally threadedroots 33 and internally threaded crests 35. As such, the engagement with therod 50 in this embodiment will be a threaded coupling. Whilehousing 30 is internally threaded in this embodiment, it is contemplated thathousing 30 in other embodiments may be adapted to couple with therod 50 in other manners, for example, via fixed attachments, clamped attachment, rivets and the like. As should become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the length ofengagement 32 can be a variety of different lengths depending on factors including, but not limited to, the material used in thehousing 30, the material used in therod 50, the coupling technique, and intended load to be supported by the holdingportion 20. The length ofengagement 32 is preferably greater than one-third of a length of a perimeter of the cross-sectional area of therod 50. In this embodiment, the perimeter is the diameter of therod 50 multiplied by the geometric constant, pi (roughly 3.14). Therefore, the length ofengagement 32 in this embodiment is preferably equal to or greater than the diameter of the rod 50 (greater than one-third of a length of a perimeter of the cross-sectional area of the rod 50). As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the length of the perimeter of the cross-sectional area can change with different shapes for the cross-sectional area of therod 50—for example, ovals, triangles, squares, rectangles, and the like. It is to be expressly understood that the length ofengagement 32 in other embodiments can be less than one-third of a length of a perimeter of the cross-sectional area of therod 50. In such embodiments, the coupling technique and material used in the holdingportion 20 and/orrod 50 can define the length. Further discussion of the length ofengagement 32 follows below with reference toFIG. 6 . - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 1-6 , theoutside diameter 34 defines a cross-sectional area forhousing 30, while theinside diameter 36 defines a cross-sectional area corresponding to therod 50. As both the rod 50 (shown inFIG. 4 ) andhousing 30 are threaded in this embodiment, theinside diameter 36 corresponds to the “major diameter” of the internally threaded portion of the housing 30 (e.g., root to root in the internally threadedhousing 30 or crest to crest in the externally threaded rod 50). - Moving to
FIG. 3 , as referenced above, theinside diameter 36 of the holdingportion 20 in this embodiment corresponds to the internally threaded root to root of the internally threaded portion of thehousing 30. Aminor diameter 38 is seen extending from crest to crest of the internally threadedcrest 35 of thehousing 30. - With general reference to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , the circular area defined by theoutside diameter 34 in this embodiment is substantially equivalent to theinside diameter 36 plus theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40. In other words, as best shown inFIG. 1 , the end surface area 44 (total of end areas 48) in this embodiment is substantially an annulus area between the circular area defined by theoutside diameter 34 and theinside diameter 36—each of theend areas 48 shaped as an annular arc. While the annular arcs of theshaped end areas 48 in this embodiment are shown with small gaps between them, it is contemplated that in other embodiments even smaller gaps will exist. - With reference to
FIGS. 2-4 , an illustration of the differences in cross-sectional areas is shown. When theaperture 65 in thestructural member 60 is sized a cross-sectional area the same size as the housing 30 (just allowing thehousing 30 to pass through the aperture 65), theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40 will be substantially the same area as the difference between the cross-sectional area of theaperture 65 and the cross-sectional area of the rod 50 (shown inFIG. 4 ). With this configuration, a maximumend surface area 44 can be extended through the aperture 65 (FIG. 4 ), allowing a reduced bearing force per surface area—for example, a larger area to distribute a load. Note that theaperture 65 can be a portion of a larger opening, as discussed below with respect toFIGS. 24A-35 , so any reference to theaperture 65 also refers to theelongated opening 401. - While the
end surface area 44 described in the above embodiment is the difference between the area defined by theoutside diameter 34 and the area defined by theinside diameter 36, it is contemplated that in more complex embodiments theend surface area 44 ofend areas 48 of the plurality ofelongated members 40 can exceed the area defined by theoutside diameter 34 of thehousing 30. For example, the holdingportion 20 could be a frustum of a cone with a cylindrical bore extending the longitudinal distance of the holdingportion 20—for example, corresponding to the diameter of therod 50. In such an embodiment, theoutside diameter 34 could start at the apex of the frustum of the cone and enlarge towards the base. Theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40 can be the difference between the area defined by the diameter of the base of the frustum of the cone and the internal diameter of the cylindrical bore extending to the base. With this “frustum of a cone” embodiment, theend surface area 44, similar to that described with reference to the above embodiment, can be the difference between the cross-sectional area of theaperture 65 and the cross-sectional area of therod 50. - With reference to
FIG. 4 , the holdingportion 20 is shown in an insertion position, being pushed through theaperture 65 in thestructural member 60. Therod 50 is shown threaded to thehousing 30 along a length ofengagement 32 of thehousing 30 of the holdingportion 20. Therod 50, while shown in this embodiment as a threaded stud, in other embodiments can include a bolt, a smooth stud, a rivet and the like. And, with each of the different types ofrods 50 used, the holdingportion 20 can be adapted for an appropriate coupling. - The insertion of the holding
portion 20 through theaperture 65 of thestructural member 60 will radially urge or compress the plurality ofelongated members 40 inwardly, against the above-referenced resilience to stay in an outwardly extended position-such that theelongated members 40 almost lay flush with therod 50. Once again, as discussed above, in this embodiment the cross-sectional area of theinside diameter 36 of thehousing 30 and theend surface area 44 of the plurality ofelongated members 40 together are substantially the same as the cross-sectional area, defined by theoutside diameter 34 of thehousing 30. With this configuration, the bearing area of theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 of the plurality ofelongated members 40 can be substantially the difference between a cross-sectional area of theaperture 65 and therod 50, where the cross-sectional area defined by theoutside diameter 34 is the same as the cross-sectional area of theaperture 65—just allowing the holdingportion 20 to pass therethrough. - It should be expressly understood that while the holding
portion 20 has been shown with a circular cross-sectional area in this embodiment, in other embodiments the cross-sectional area can take on different shapes e.g., squares, rectangles, triangles, etc., which can ultimately depend on therod 50 being used and theaperture 65 through which the holdingportion 20 will be inserted. -
FIG. 5 shows the holdingportion 20 moving back to a memory position after insertion through theaperture 65. The memory position in this embodiment is the extended position caused by the resilience in the material of the holdingportion 20 tending to urge the plurality ofelongated members 40 into the extended position. -
FIG. 6 shows the holdingportion 20 in a bearing position with thesurface area 62 of thestructural member 60. In bringing the holdingportion 20 into contact with theblind surface area 62 from the position shown inFIG. 5 , in this embodiment, theelongated members 40 andhousing 30 can maintain a positional relationship with therod 50—that is, therod 50 need not be further threaded through thehousing 30 of the holdingportion 20. Rather, the holdingportion 20 coupled to therod 50 can be brought into the bearing position by pulling therod 50 until theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40 contacts theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. Anelement 70 can be mounted to therod 50; and, then by maintaining tension of therod 50, awasher 80 andnut 90 can be threaded on therod 50 to bring theelement 70 into contact with an exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60. The friction force of theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 with theblind surface area 62 prevents rotation of the holdingportion 20. With this maintenance of positional relationship, no further access is needed on the blind side of thestructural member 60. For example, therod 50 in this embodiment need not be further threaded through thehousing 30 to bring the holdingportion 20 into a bearing position with theblind surface area 62. Additionally, therod 50 in this embodiment need not be further threaded through thehousing 30 to bring theelement 70 into contact with the exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60. As such, the holdingportion 20 in this embodiment is particularly helpful when limited access or space is available on the blind side of thestructural member 60. While this positional relationship has been described with reference to this embodiment, it is to be expressly understood that further threading through thehousing 30 of the holdingportion 20 can occur, if desired, as will be described with reference to other embodiments below. - The holding
portion 20 through many of the features described herein is configured to resist removal of therod 50. In this resistance of the removal of therod 50, forces are transmitted from therod 50 through the length ofengagement 32 to theelongated members 40, forcing theelongated members 40 into a bearing position with ablind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. Thus, in the structural design of the holdingportion 20, consideration is given to the following: (1) the length ofengagement 32 in coupling therod 50 to thehousing 30 to withstand a loss of such coupling, (2) theelongated members 40 to withstand buckling, and (3) the bearing surface area between theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 and theblind surface area 62 to withstand crushing (e.g., a point load failure from too much force per unit area) of thestructural member 60. In the embodiment described herein, the length ofengagement 32 is threaded at a length for a predetermined design load. As such, a specified number of threads and/or specified length ofengagement 32 should be used to ensure that thehousing 30 does not disengage with therod 50 when a pull force is applied to therod 50. For example, with reference to the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-6 , stripping (a disengagement) can occur either in the internal threads of thehousing 30 or in the external threads of therod 50. As such, the length ofengagement 32 in this embodiment has a length large enough to resist this stripping. Preferably, as referenced above, the length ofengagement 32 in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-6 is greater than the diameter of therod 50. As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the length ofengagement 32 can increase to account for a difference of materials between thehousing 30 and therod 50. For example, one of the threaded portions (either thehousing 30 or the rod 50) could have a material such as plastic while the other threaded portion (either thehousing 30 or the rod 50) could have a material such as steel, the plastic generally deforming at a lower load than the steel. The increase in the length ofengagement 32 distributes a design load along the length ofengagement 32 resisting the stripping of either the internal threads for thehousing 30 or the external threads for therod 50—regardless of whether the weaker material (the one which deforms first) is in thehousing 30 or therod 50. - To resist buckling in the
elongated members 40, several buckling factors should be considered, including the length of theelongated members 40. Generally, for a given material, as the length in theelongated members 40 increase, so should the cross-sectional area of thatelongated member 40 to adequately prevent buckling. Additionally, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-6 , a curvature in theelongated members 40 helps resist buckling. As can be seen in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-6 , each of theelongated members 40 has a curvature that is arced. The structural benefits of such an arced configuration in resistance to buckling should become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, by illustration, a piece of paper on a desk sat on its end can resist more compressive strength by being curved into an arc rather than by simply being set planarly straight up. While an arced curvature is shown in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-6 as a preferred curvature, it is contemplated that other forms of curvature can be used—for example, different angles of bending including bending at right angles and corrugated designs. - To resist a crushing of the
structural member 60, theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40 is maximized (while not sacrificing simplicity of design) to distribute the load over theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. Preferably, thisend surface area 44 will be the difference between a cross-sectional area of theaperture 65 and the cross-area of therod 50 to be inserted in theaperture 65. In the bearing contact of theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40, this embodiment will always have at least three of theend areas 48 of theelongated members 40 in contact with theblind surface area 62. Additionally, it is contemplated thatend areas 48 can be angled, similar to theend areas 48B, described in detail below with reference toFIGS. 11-14 below. - As an illustrative use of the embodiment described with reference to
FIGS. 1-6 , arod 50 is inserted through anaperture 65 in astructural member 60 to fasten anelement 70 to thestructural member 60. Therod 50 can be any of the commerciallyavailable rods 50 described, including, but not limited to, bolts, threaded studs, smooth studs, rivets and the like. Thestructural member 60 can be any number of structures—for example, a wall, a ceiling, a floor, a door, a circuit board, plastic pieces, boards, substrates, etc. Likewise, theelement 70 can be any number of items, including anotherstructural member 60. Generally, thestructural member 60 andelement 70 are two distinct “things,” which are desired to be coupled to one another-preferably as shown in several embodiments of the invention, theelement 70 being coupled or fastened to thestructural member 60. The desired configuration and size of therod 50 and holdingportion 20 can be defined by the intended use. In this embodiment, therod 50 is initially coupled to the housing 30 (the coupling contact being at the length of engagement 32) of the holdingportion 20. The coupling of therod 50 to thehousing 30 can take on one of many coupling techniques, generally described herein, which should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. The coupling technique in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-6 is a threaded coupling. At rest, theelongated members 40 are urged outwardly in an extended position by the resilience in the material. After coupling therod 50 to the holdingportion 20, therod 50 and holdingportion 20 are inserted into theaperture 65, whereupon theaperture 65 radially compresses the outwardly urgedelongated members 40 inwardly into an insertion position. After insertion through theaperture 65, theelongated members 40 return to their memory position-their outwardly urged extended position. Anelement 70 can then be received on the end of therod 50 adjacent to an exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60, whereupon therod 50 is pulled partially back through theaperture 65 allowing theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 to come into a bearing position with theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. The friction force between theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 and theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60 resists rotation of the holdingportion 20. Therefore, therod 50 maintains a positional relationship with the holdingportion 20. Awasher 80 andnut 90 are then threaded on therod 50 engaging theelement 70 with the exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60. The holdingportion 20 resists removal of therod 50 through a length ofengagement 32 in thehousing 30 of the holding portion to theelongated members 40, which distribute their load over theend surface area 44 of theend areas 48 on theblind surface area 62—reducing the bearing force per area on theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 7-10 , the holdingportion 20A includes anannular notch 100, which helps define movement of the four equidistantelongated members 40A between an insertion position and an extended position. As can be seen inFIG. 7 , the at rest position of theelongated members 40 is an insertion position. - With reference to
FIGS. 7 and 8 , at the end of each of theelongated members 40A is a taperedinterior end 110 which, as will be described below, facilitates the urging of theelongated members 40 to an extended position. - Turning now to
FIG. 9 , the holdingportion 20A, coupled to arod 50A, is in an insertion position after being pushed through theaperture 65 of thestructural member 60. In this embodiment, therod 50A is shown as a bolt with abolt head 52A. Thus, to urge theelongated members 40A to an extended position (as seen inFIG. 10 ), atapered sleeve 120 and, if needed, aspacer 130 can be inserted after the insertion of the holdingportion 20A. Thetapered sleeve 120 can take on a variety of shapes, depending on the configuration and design of theelongated members 40A. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, thetapered sleeve 120 has a circular cross-sectional area. To facilitate the alignment of thistapered sleeve 120, each of theelongated members 40A, as referenced above, includes a taperedinterior end 110, which is adapted to receive thetapered sleeve 120. In addition to urging theelongated members 40A into an extended position, thetapered sleeve 120 centers therod 50A within theaperture 65. In some embodiments, the thickness of thestructural member 60 may not be known. As such, thespacer 130 can be inserted after thetapered sleeve 120, facilitating thetapered sleeve 120 in urging theelongated members 40A to their extended position and centering therod 50A in theaperture 65. The spacer, similar to the taperedsleeve 120, can take on a variety of shapes. Preferably, thespacer 130 has a circular cross-sectional area with at least one opening to allow thespacer 130 to be placed over and around therod 50A. -
FIG. 10 shows the holdingportion 20A in an extended position and a bearing position with theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. This bearing contact of theend surface area 44A of theend areas 48A with ablind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60 is similar to that described with reference toFIG. 6 . It is contemplated that spacer(s) 130 of a plurality of lengths would be provided for use with the holdingportion 20A. - As an illustrative use of the embodiment described with reference to
FIGS. 7-10 , arod 50A is inserted through theaperture 65 in astructural member 60 to fasten anelement 70 to thestructural member 60. Similar to the illustrative use, described with reference toFIGS. 1-6 above, theelement 70 andstructural member 60 can be any number of “things.” In this embodiment, therod 50A (such as a bolt) can be inserted through thewasher 80, theelement 70, thetapered sleeve 120, and, if needed, spacer(s) 130. Then, therod 50A can be threaded along the length ofengagement 32A of thehousing 30A of the holdingportion 20A, whereupon the holdingportion 20A and a portion of therod 50A are inserted through theaperture 65 in thestructural member 60. Thetapered sleeve 120, and, if needed, spacer(s) 130, can then be moved down therod 50A and further into theaperture 65, centering therod 50A and urging theelongated members 40A to an extended position. As discussed, if needed, one ormore spacers 130 can be inserted after thetapered sleeve 120 by inserting thespacer 130 over and around therod 50A in contact with thetapered sleeve 120. Therod 50A can then be partially be pulled back through theaperture 65 bringing theend surface area 44A of theelongated members 40A into the bearing position with theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. Friction forces of theend surface area 44A of theend areas 48A with theblind surface area 62 and friction forces with thetapered sleeve 120 helps resist rotation of the holdingportion 20A. To bring theelement 70 into contact with an exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60, therod 50A can be further rotated through thehousing 30A of the holdingportion 20A. To increase resistance between the holdingportion 20A and therod 50A, tension can be maintained on therod 50A while threading to increase the friction force betweenend surface area 44A of theend areas 48A and theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. Additionally, thetapered sleeve 120 can be designed of a high friction material, such that friction is created both between thetapered sleeve 120 and theaperture 65 and thetapered sleeve 120 and theelongated members 40A. As will now be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the threadedrod 50 ofFIGS. 1-6 can be interchanged with the bolt described with reference toFIGS. 7-10 . - With reference to
FIGS. 11-14 , another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, as generally shown inFIGS. 11 and 12 , arod 50B has a holdingportion 20B slidingly coupled thereto. Therod 50B in this embodiment has ashoulder 170, areduced diameter neck 150, and ahead 140. The holdingportion 20B in this embodiment includes twoelongated members 40B, acompression member 200, and ahousing 30B, which moves slidingly with respect to theneck 150 of therod 50B. The twoelongated members 40B are semicircular halves, which will be described in more detail with reference toFIG. 14 below. Thehousing 30B includes afirst shoulder 160 and asecond shoulder 180. Thecompression member 200 is positioned and designed to create a radially compressive force on an end of the holdingportion 20B, adjacent to thesecond shoulder 180. When the holdingportion 20B is in a predetermined extended position, as shown inFIG. 11 , the twoelongated members 40 are moved outwardly to the predetermined extended position until the housing surface orshoulders 41 engage theneck 150 and thehousing 30B slides towards thehead 140 with thesecond shoulder 180 preferably mating flush therewith. Upon insertion of holdingportion 20B and rod SOB into anaperture 65, the twoelongated members 40B are compressed radially inwardly into an insertion position, expanding thecompression member 200. Thehousing 30B slides towards theshoulder 170 of therod 50B, with thefirst shoulder 160 preferably mating flush therewith. - With reference to
FIGS. 11-14 , the ends of each of theelongated members 40B includelips 190, which have been configured to center the holdingportion 20B (and hence, therod 50B) in a central location within theaperture 65. Thelips 190 in this embodiment contact an annular surface area 67 (best seen inFIG. 13 ) of theaperture 65. InFIG. 14 , thelips 190 are shown contacting the annular surface area 67 (shown in phantom) at an upper and lower part of theannular surface area 67. To help ensure that thelips 190 comes in contact with theannular surface area 67, atension wire 210 can be utilized. Thetension wire 210 in this embodiment is put through a loop (best seen inFIGS. 12 and 14 ) inside a wrench flat 220 at the end of therod 50. The loop in the wrench flat 220 is preferably smaller than the diameter of therod 50B; and, when therod 50 is threaded as shown, preferably smaller than a minor diameter 38 (for example, seen inFIG. 3 ). As seen inFIG. 12 , as therod 50B and holdingportion 20B are inserted through theaperture 65 in the direction, indicated byarrow 500, thetension wire 210 is pulled to ensure that theelongated members 40B are not inadvertently pushed through theaperture 65. As soon astips 46B of theelongated members 40B clear theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65, thecompression member 200 automatically urges thelips 190 for contact with theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65. - With reference to
FIGS. 12 and 14 , theend areas 48B of the twoelongated members 40B can be seen. InFIG. 14 , theend areas 48B extend just beyond the circumference 69 (shown in phantom) of the cross-sectional area of theaperture 65. Theend areas 48B in this embodiment have an angled configuration which allows full bearing contact with theblind surface area 62. - Turning once again to
FIG. 13 , thetension wire 210 can provide the force necessary to establish friction force between theend areas 48B andblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60—thus, allowing thenut 90 to be threaded on therod 50B, while the holdingportion 20B maintains its positional relationship with the bolt orrod 50B. As an additional aid, a wrench (not shown) can be clamped on to thewrench flats 220 helping to maintain the positional relationship of the holdingportion 20B with the bolt orrod 50B by preventing rotation of therod 50B. - As an illustrative example of the use of the embodiment described with reference to
FIGS. 11-14 , arod 50B having ahousing 30B, coupled thereto is inserted into theaperture 65, whereupon theelongated members 40B are compressed radially inward into an insertion position. Upon clearance oftips 46B of theelongated members 40B of theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65, thecompression member 200 urges thelips 190 into contact with theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65. Then, anelement 70 can be received on therod 50B, whereupon a force is applied on thetension wire 210 bringing theend areas 48B into a bearing position for full bearing contact. While maintaining tension on the tension wire 210 (to increase the friction force between theend areas 48B and the blind surface area 62), awasher 80 andnut 90 are inserted on therod 50B to threadably mate theelement 70 into contact with an exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60. Additionally, a wrench (not shown) can be clamped on to thewrench flats 220 helping to maintain the positional relationship of the holdingportion 20B with the bolt orrod 50B. The holdingportion 20B resists removal of therod 50B through thehead 140,first shoulder 180, andelongated members 40B, which have a full distributed load over theend areas 48B onblind surface area 62—reducing the bearing force per area of theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. - With reference to
FIGS. 15-23 , another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, as generally shown inFIG. 15 , arod 50C has anut 300 threadably coupled thereto within a holding portion, generally indicated 20C. The holdingportion 20C in this embodiment includeselongated members 40C, acompression member 200, and ahousing 30C. Thenut 300 is positioned within interior formedrecess 310 in thehousing 30C. The twoelongated members 40C in this embodiment are each generally semicircular. Thehousing 30C forms the exterior of therecess 310. Thecompression member 200, positioned in an annular groove 316 (best seen inFIG. 21 ), is designed to create a radially compressive force on the end of the holdingportion 20C, adjacent to thehousing 30C. Thehousing 30C andelongated members 40C will preferably be integral and made from zinc, aluminum, brass, steel, or stainless steel. Thecompression member 200 will preferably be continuous and made from neoprene, steel, or spring wire. As will be explained in detail below, when the holdingportion 20C is in the extended position, as shown inFIG. 15 , or in the insertion position, as shown inFIG. 18 , therecess 310 resists rotation of thenut 300. The angle of the extension of theelongated members 40C is preferably predetermined. As way of an example, inFIG. 15 , the predetermined angle of theelongated members 40C in the extended position is approximately 30°. InFIG. 18 , the predetermined angle of theelongated members 40C in the insertion position is approximately 4° or less. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the actual angles of the predetermined extended position and the insertion position of the elongated members may be any desired angles where the predetermined angle in the insertion position is less than the predetermined angle in the extended position. - With reference to
FIGS. 15-19 , the end of each of theelongated members 40C includeslips 190, which have been configured to center the holdingportion 20C with theaperture 65. One or more of thelips 190 in this embodiment can come in contact with an annular surface area 67 (best seen inFIG. 19 ) of theaperture 65. InFIG. 19 , while thelips 190 are shown contacting theannular surface area 67 at an upper and lower part of theannular surface area 67, it may be that only one lip is in contact with thesurface area 67. As shown inFIG. 18 , therod 50C and holdingportion 20C are inserted through theaperture 65 in the direction indicated byarrow 600. As soon astips 46C of theelongated members 40C clear theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65, thecompression member 200 urges thelips 190 to the predetermined extended position. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that because ofhousing shoulders 314, as best seen inFIGS. 15, 17 , 18, 21, 22 and 23, thelips 190 can be opened to a predetermined extended position where thelips 190 are less than the cross-sectional area of the holdingportion 20C in the insertion position. This approximate cross sectional area of the holdingportion 20C in the insertion position is shown inFIG. 16 . In other words, because theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65 will be greater than the cross-sectional area of theelongated members 40C in the insertion position, the holdingportion 20C allows thelips 190 to be received in theaperture 65 from either side of thestructural member 60. - Turning to
FIGS. 15, 16 , and 18, the holdingportion 20C includesinterior recess 310 having a plurality of angles and sides to correspond to the plurality of angles and sides of thenut 300. AsFIGS. 15, 16 , and 18 indicate, thenut 300 is blocked from rotation by the interior surface defining therecess 310 in thehousing 30C. As best shown inFIG. 15 , the holdingportion 20C threadably engages with arod 50C via the length ofengagement 32 of thenut 300 within therecess 310. Those skilled in the art will now appreciate that thehousing 30C resists rotation of thenut 300 because of the blockingshoulders 312 in therecess 310 relative to thenut 300. - Turning to
FIG. 17 , showing the cross-sectional view of the holdingportion 20C in the predetermined extended position, similar toFIGS. 15, 19 , 22 and 23, theend areas 48C of theelongated members 40C can be seen. As discussed above, in the predetermined extended position, the position of thelips 190 are less than the cross-sectional area of the holdingportion 20C in the insertion position. As best shown inFIG. 19 , theend areas 48C extend beyond thecircumference 69 of the cross-sectional area of theaperture 65. As also best seen inFIG. 19 , theend areas 48C in this embodiment have an angled configuration which allows alignment for full bearing contact with theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. - With reference to
FIG. 18 , anelement 70 can be mounted to therod 50C. Therod 50C, having anut 300 threadably coupled thereto along the length ofengagement 32 of thenut 300 within a holdingportion 20C, is inserted along direction ofarrow 600 intoaperture 65, whereupon theelongated members 40C are compressed radially inward into an insertion position. Upon clearance oftips 46C of theelongated members 40C of theannular surface area 67 of theaperture 65, thecompression member 200 urges thelips 190 outwardly to the predetermined extended position. Therod 50C is further threaded to thenut 300, whereupon a tension force is applied by therod 50C, bringing theend areas 48C into a contact and bearing position for bearing contact withsurface area 62. This, in turn, brings theelement 70 into contact with exposedsurface area 64 of thestructural member 60. - The holding
portion 20C of this embodiment of the invention (best seen inFIGS. 15-23 ) has many advantages. First of all, those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the plurality ofelongated members 40C could be identical. Thus, savings in manufacturing and inventory costs can be anticipated as a result of being able to use only one form (or mold), or other way of forming, for theintegral housing 30C andelongated members 40C for the holdingportion 20C. Additionally, because of the unique configuration of the holdingportion 20C of this embodiment, an off-the-shelf nut 300 could be assembled with the properlysized recess 310 of the holdingportion 20C. This again results in reduction of manufacturing and inventory costs as thenut 300 can be purchased in quantities when needed for assembly with the holdingportion 20C. -
FIG. 20 is an illustration of some exemplary threaded rods for use with an embodiment of the invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, with this embodiment, any type of threaded rod can be used.FIG. 20 indicates some typical threaded rods that may be advantageously used with this embodiment, including aflat head bolt 50D, anallen head bolt 50E, a halfround head bolt 50F, a counter sunkhead bolt 50G, aphillips head bolt 50H, a longerphillips head bolt 501, and a threadedstud 50J withnut 400. Of course, thenut 400 could be identical tonut 300. This again will result in savings in manufacturing and inventory costs. Additionally, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that the holdingportion 20C allows thenut 400 to be threaded on thestud 50J, while the holdingportion 20C maintains its positional relationship with thestud 50J and the structuredmember 60. -
FIGS. 21-23 provide side and front views ofhousing shoulders 314 used to limit the extension of thelips 190 to a position less than the cross-sectional area of the holdingportion 20C in the insertion position. Further, as best shown inFIGS. 21 and 22 , because theaperture 65 will be greater than the cross-sectional area of theelongated members 40C in the insertion position, the holdingportion 20C advantageously allows thelips 190 to be received from either side of thestructural member 60. That is, thelips 190 travel in the direction ofarrow 600, as shown inFIG. 21 , and then when thelips 190 are in the extended position, they travel in the opposite direction from the position shown inFIG. 22 back into theaperture 65. Those skilled in the art will now appreciate that the because thelips 190 may be received from either side of thestructural member 60, one ormore end areas 48C may always be brought into a continued and bearing position with theblind surface area 62 of thestructural member 60. InFIG. 21 , thecompression member 200 is positioned in theannular groove 316. With reference toFIG. 22 , those skilled in the art will now appreciate that if theaperture 65 is oversized relative to the holding portion 21C, only one or more of thelips 190 may be in contact with thesurface 67 when the holdingportion 20C is in the extended position. - As used herein, the term “anchored” is defined as being securely positioned within, on, or being made from the underlying material. The term “fastener” is defined as the combination of a holding portion and a rod, equivalent to the holding portions and rods discussed herein. The holding portion can include either an integral length of engagement, such as a threaded portion, or may a separate engaging component, such as a nut.
- With reference to
FIGS. 24A-30 , various embodiments of the invention are shown in whole or in part. In some embodiments, as generally shown inFIGS. 24A-24C , a cross-section of achannel 410 is shown anchored in a mass or volume ofstructural material 610, so as to form achamber 408 in thestructural material 610. Thechannel 410 may be formed from the same material as thestructural material 610, or thechannel 410 can be made of a different material, as illustrated inFIGS. 24A-25 . In the embodiments shown inFIGS. 24A-34 thestructural material 610 is concrete, although other materials, including, but not limited to, foam or metal, are contemplated. Thechannel 410 is preferably a metal, such as steel, iron, or aluminum, plastic, or other resilient material. - In
FIGS. 24A and 24C , one embodiment of achannel 410 is shown. In this embodiment,rear corners 412 of thechannel 410 are shown extending outwardly from thesidewalls 411 of arear wall 413 of thechannel 410. In this embodiment, thesidewalls 411 tend inwards as they extend rearward until an inflection from which they extend outwardly to form the protrusion of therear corners 412. InFIG. 24B , another embodiment of achannel 410A is shown. As shown in this embodiment, therear corners 412A of therear wall 413A extend perpendicularly outwardly from the substantiallystraight sidewalls 411A. In other embodiments, therear corners 412A extend at other angles with respect to therear wall 413A. - With reference to
FIGS. 24A and 24B , thechannel 410 is shown anchored in thestructural material 610. AlthoughFIGS. 24A- 24C show channel 410 as being embedded within the structure material, it is contemplated that a portion of the channel could extend beyond the surface of thestructural material 610. Thechannel 410 may also be anchored to an exterior surface of thestructural material 610. Alternatively, thechannel 410 can be integral with thestructural material 610, having been formed therein. Thechannel 410 can be of any dimension, including length, width, depth, or height. Thechamber 408 can be formed in thestructural material 610 without thechannel 410. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 24A , afront surface 403 of thestructural material 610 is shown being separated from the front side of thechannel 410 by adepth 404 of thestructural material 610. In the embodiment ofFIG. 24B , thefront surface 403 of thestructural material 610 is shown approximately flush with the front side of thechannel 410. Anopening 401 is shown in thechamber 408, thechannel 410, and thestructural material 610. As thechamber 408 is shown from the side, a length of thechamber 408 is not visible, but may be any length.Channel 410 includesopposed margins 414 that define theopening 401, so that awidth 402 of theopening 401 is narrower than awidth 416 of thechamber 408 formed by thechannel 410. As shown, eachmargin 414 has awidth 415. In the embodiments ofFIGS. 24A and 24B , thethickness 422 of thechannel channel thickness 422 can be any thickness desired for various applications. Although the channel as shown inFIGS. 24A, 24B , or 24C appears to have auniform thickness 422, it is contemplated thatside walls 411,margins 414 and therear wall 413 can havenon-uniform thicknesses 422. For example,margins 414 could have a thickness that is a multiple of the thickness of the correspondingrear wall 413. - As shown in
FIGS. 24A and 24B , inside bearingsurfaces 418 of themargins 414 are constructed to bear weight when used to secure elements (e.g.,element 70 shown inFIG. 24C ) using a fastener with a holding portion, such as the holdingportions FIGS. 1, 7 , 11, 15, and 28, respectively. The bearingsurface 418 meets thesurfaces 67D of theopening 401 atcorners 420. In the embodiment ofFIG. 24A , thesurface area 67D of theopening 401 is larger than shown in other embodiments due to thedepth 404 of thestructural material 610 along theopening 401. The bearingsurface 418 is an example of theblind surface area 62, and any reference herein to theblind surface area 62 also refers to thebearing surface 418. - Generally referring to
FIGS. 24C-30 , an embodiment of a holding portion, generally designated 20D, is shown inserted into thechamber 408 in thechannel 410. As best shown inFIG. 24C , arod 50C (shown as a bolt) has anut 300 threadably coupled thereto withinrecess 310. The holdingportion 20D includes twoelongated members 40D and acompression member 200D. Turning now toFIGS. 28-29 , theelongated members 40D have rectangular bearing surfaces 48D andtips 46D that allow alignment for full bearing contact with the inside bearing surfaces 418 of theopposed margins 414. As best shown inFIG. 24C , thenut 300 is positioned between theelongated members 40D within the interior formedrecess 310. Thecompression member 200D, positioned in agroove 316A, best seen in FIGS. 27-29, is designed to create a compressive force on the end of the holdingportion 20D, adjacent to therecess 310. - Since holding
portion 20D is similar to holdingportion 20C, either holdingportion rod 50C to make a fastener so that theend areas portion FIGS. 15 and 24 C, respectively. The geometries of theend areas arcuate end areas 48C are intended to contact a bearingsurface 62 after being inserted in the generally roundedaperture 65, while the generallyrectangular end areas 48D are intended to contact abearing surface 418 above and below after being inserted into theelongated opening 401. The holdingportion 20D can also be used with theaperture 65. Note thatcompression members 200C and 200D also have different geometries, generally circular and generally rectangular with a loop and a missing side, respectively. As best shown inFIG. 18 , theshoulders 312 of therecess 310 of the holdingportion 20C are substantially parallel to the sides of thenut 300 when the holdingportion 20C is in the insertion position. In contrast, as best shown inFIG. 24C , theshoulders 312 of therecess 310 of the holdingportion 20D are substantially parallel to the sides of thenut 300 when the holdingportion 20C is in the extended position. - Referring again to
FIGS. 24A-30 , eachelongated member 40D is preferably identical and preferably made from a metal, such as zinc, aluminum, brass, steel, or stainless steel, plastic, or the like. Thecompression member 200D will preferably be unitary and preferably be made from neoprene, steel, or spring wire. In other embodiments,compression member 200D can have other geometries or compositions. As explained in detail herein, when the holdingportion 20D is in the extended position, such as shown inFIG. 28 , or in the insertion position, such as shown inFIG. 29 , the blockingshoulders 312 of therecess 310, best seen inFIG. 30 , resist rotation of thenut 300. The angle of the elongated members is preferably predetermined, similar to other holdingportion 20 embodiments described herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the actual angles of the predetermined extended position and the insertion position of the elongated members may be any desired angles where the predetermined angle in the insertion position is less than the predetermined angle in the extended position. - With reference to
FIGS. 24C, 25 , 28, and 29, the end of eachelongated member 40D includeslips 190D configured to position the holdingportion 20D with theelongated opening 401 in thechamber 408. As best shown inFIG. 25 , the rectangular bearingend areas 48D, shown in phantom view, contact theopposed margins 414. The bearingend areas 48D sum to form the end surface area for this embodiment. Referring toFIG. 24C , thechamber 408 is shown substantially filled with the holdingportion 20D. In other embodiments, thechamber 408 may be larger. - As shown in
FIGS. 28 and 29 , therod 50C and holdingportion 20D are inserted through theelongated opening 401 between theopposed margins 414. As soon astips 46D of theelongated members 40D clear the plane of theopening 401 between themargins 414, thecompression member 200D urges thelips 190D to the predetermined extended position. Those skilled in the art having benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that because of thehousing shoulders 314, as best seen inFIGS. 24C, 28 , and 29, thelips 190D are limited to a predetermined extended position where thelips 190D are within the cross-sectional area of the holdingportion 20D in the insertion position. In other words, because the spread of theelongated members 40D in the insertion position is less than thewidth 402 of theopening 401, the holdingportion 20D allows thelips 190D to be received within theopening 401. Referring toFIGS. 24C and 25 , in this extended position inside thechamber 408, theend areas 48D contact theinside surface 418 of theopposed margins 414. Thelips 190D at least partially fill theopening 401 between the margin edges 420. - Turning now to
FIG. 26 , an elongated member'sknob 450 andcorresponding profile 451 are shown. The wireclip compression member 200D is also shown. Having eachelongated member 40D identical reduces cost in manufacturing and inventory. The cutaway of therod 50C is shown inside thethroughway 452 created by the combinedelongated members 40D. - Turning now to
FIG. 27 , thegroove 316A to position thecompression member 200D of the holdingportion 20D is shown. The incline from thetips 46D of theelongated members 40D from thecompression member 200D in thegroove 316A is also shown. - Turning to
FIGS. 28 and 29 , the relative positions of theknob 450 andcorresponding profile 451 are shown in phantom view along with the direction ofinsertion 600. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art having benefit of this disclosure that the embodiments of the holdingportion 20D having theknobs 450 and the correspondingprofiles 451 will resist relative lateral movements between theelongated members 40D. As the holdingportion 20D is moved to the insertion position, thecompression member 200D expands in thegroove 316A, as shown inFIG. 29 . When the holdingportion 20D is urged to the extended position, thecompression member 200D returns to the shape shown inFIG. 28 . - Returning to
FIG. 30 , a plan view ofelongated member 40D shows thehousing shoulders 314 on opposite sides of thethroughway 452. While theknob 450 and theprofile 451 may be reversed in positions, theknob 450 and theprofile 451 are configured to mate with acorresponding profile 451 andknob 450 on anotherelongated member 40D. A portion of therecess 310 formed by the blockingshoulders 312 and thelip 190D are also shown. The shapes of theknobs 450 and theprofiles 451 are illustrative only, and theknobs 450 and theprofiles 451 may have other geometries. -
FIGS. 31-34 show various embodiments of structural members and combinations thereof. The structural members includewalls ceiling 644, andfloors channels portions 20D seen inFIGS. 24C-34 is that thechannels portions 20D can be slid along the elongated openings of thechannels channels channels elongated members 40D of the holdingportion 20D with the plurality ofopposed margins 414. Reinsertion includes increasing the engagement force of theelongated members 40D of the holdingportion 20D after sliding or removal. - Turning now to
FIG. 31 , a structural member, awall 620, composed of thestructural material 610, includes a plurality ofchannels 410 configured to receive holdingportions 20D for securing various elements to thewall 620. A portion of astairway 512 withsteps 512B is shown in cutaway view secured to thewall 620 using fasteners with holdingportions 20D through astairway sidewall 512A. Thechannels 410 used to secure thestairway 512 are substantially parallel and offset.Notches 512C in thestairway sidewall 512A, for securing thestairway 512, may be used to adjust the vertical positioning of thestairway 512 by a small amount, typically less than one inch.Hinges 511 of adoor 510 are secured to thewall 620 using parallel, but not offset,channels 410 by fasteners using holdingportions 20D. Thestairway 512 and thedoor 510 are secured abovefloor 622. In other embodiments, thechannels 410 may be vertical or angled instead of horizontal in orientation. Withvertical channels 410 orchannels 410 with other orientations, thenotches 512C may be omitted. - As seen in
FIG. 32 , awall 630 composed ofstructural material 610 includes a plurality ofchannels 410A configured to receive fasteners with holdingportions 20D for securing various elements to thewall 630. Fasteners withlong rods 50K and holdingportions 20D invertical channel 410A secure astructural support 508A to thewall 630, while fasteners withrods 50C and holdingportions 20D inhorizontal channel 410A secure a structural support 508B to afloor 632. Thestructural supports 508 each integrate achannel 410A for receiving holdingportions 20D using an appropriatelysized rod 50. A beam 514 (here a shelf) is secured to thestructural supports 508A and 508B usingangle brackets 70. Theshelf 514 may be repositioned up or down using the repositionability feature of the fasteners with holdingportions 20D secured in thechannel 410A. - Turning to
FIG. 33 , aceiling 644, composed ofstructural material 610, includes achannel 410A configured to receive fasteners with holdingportions 20D for securing one or more elements 505 (here a light) to theceiling 644. Thechannel 410A in the ceiling 502 is secured by reinforcing elements 503 (here rebar). It is contemplated that thechannels 410A can be securely anchored to thestructural material 610 using anchors, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other suitable mechanism (e.g. welding, when thestructural material 610 is metal or includes a form of metal, such as the rebar). The reinforcingelements 503 further secure the structural integrity of thechannel 410 in thestructural material 610 and may advantageously allow for a greater load bearing force to be placed on the holdingportion 20D in thechannel 410A. It is contemplated that weighty elements 505 (e.g., air conditioning units) could be hung from the ceiling 502 using fasteners described herein. - Also in
FIG. 33 , awall 640 is secured to theceiling 644 using fasteners withangle brackets 70 and holdingportions 20D in thechannels 410A in thewall 640 and theceiling 644. Thechannels 410A in thewall 640 are inrecesses 520, allowing for cosmetic finishing after installation, covering up the holdingportions 20D and theangle brackets 70. Through the use of a cutaway, thewall 640 is shown connected to asidewall 650. - In
FIG. 34 , thewall 640 is secured to thesidewall 650 usingangle brackets 70 and holdingportions 20D inchannels 410A. Both thewall 640 and thesidewall 650 haverecesses 520. Thesidewall recess 520 is an interior recess, while thewall recess 520 is an edge recess, similar to the recess shown inFIG. 33 . Therecesses 520 are covered with afinishing layer 525, such as finished plasterboard, to cover cosmetically the connection between thewall 640 and thesidewall 650. - Turning to
FIG. 35 , an embodiment of aform 550 includesform walls structural material 610, such as wet concrete, until appropriately solidified, dried or cured. The form walls 551 form a shell for the structural member being produced. As illustrated, theform 550 outlines a generally rectangular solid, but other geometries are contemplated. An optionalstructural support 552 provides a fixed separation distance betweenform walls 551B and 551D. The upperleft channel 410A is positioned to be approximately flush with the surface of the resulting structural member, so only a cover 561 (such as film, tape, etc.) is needed to cover theopening 401. Acap 560 at the bottom end of the upperleft channel 410A keeps non-solidstructural material 610 out of thechannel 410A. The leftlower channel 410A is substantially perpendicular to the upperleft channel 410A, with thechamber 408 visible, similar toFIG. 24B . - The upper
right channel 410A ofFIG. 35 is positioned to be anchored below the surface of the resultant structural member. Aspacer 565 maintains theopening 401 in thestructural material 610 because the opening will not be flush with theform wall 551B. Thecover 561 may not be necessary when thespacer 565 is present. Acap 560 covers the bottom end of the rightupper channel 410A. Similar to the left side, the lowerright channel 410A is shown substantially perpendicular to the upperright channel 410A, withspacer 565 maintaining access to thechamber 408 therein when the non-solidstructural material 610 is added to theform 550. In some embodiments, thechannels 410A are spaced from the edge of the structural member to create therecess 520 shown inFIGS. 33 and 34 . - As shown in
FIG. 35 , thechannels 410A are connected to reinforcing elements 503 (here e.g., welded to rebar). The rebar is shown either parallel or perpendicular to the channels 401A. The orientation of the reinforcingelements 503 and theelongated openings 501 of the channels 401A is a matter of design choice. - A method of making a structural member may include the following steps. Having provided a form, such as the
form 550,opposed margins 414 are positioned in theform 550. Theopposed margins 414 may be positioned in theform 550 before providingstructural material 610 into theform 550. Theopposed margins 414 define theelongated opening 401 by their placement. Theelongated opening 401 is blocked to prevent filling of theopening 401 bystructural material 610. Non-solidstructural material 610 is then provided into theform 550 and allowed to solidify, harden, cure, etc. If desired, reinforcingelements 503 may be positioned in theform 550. Theopposed margins 414 may be anchored to the reinforcingelements 503. Theopposed margins 414 may be attached to or a part of achannel 410. In other embodiments, theopposed margins 414 may be a separate piece attached to another member that forms thechamber 408 when theopposed margins 414 are added. Acap 560 can be used to block an end of thechamber 408. Acover 561 and/or aspacer 565 can be used to block theelongated opening 401 of thechamber 408. - The
chamber 408 may also be created within thestructural material 610 after the structural member is formed. For example, if the member is made of concrete, a portion of the concrete can be removed to create thechamber 408 or to accommodate thechannel 410. If securing thechannel 410 more firmly within thestructural material 610 is desired, a filler material bondable with concrete (e.g. an epoxy) can be added before thechannel 410 is positioned in the concrete. Once thechannel 410 is placed within the concrete, the filler material will fill any void space between thechannel 410 and the concrete. Other means for securing thechannel 410 to thestructure material 610 include anchors, nuts and bolts, rivets, or securing mechanisms (e.g. welding, when thestructural material 610 is metal or includes metal, such as rebar) as previously discussed. - Note that in various embodiments, the holding
portions 20 may be freely substituted freely for each other along with other appropriate components that work together. Also in various embodiments, theelongated opening 401 is of differing sizes. For example, on one embodiment, theelongated opening 401 has a length less than two widths of the holdingportion 20D. In another embodiment, theelongated opening 401 is substantially the same length as two holdingportion 20D widths. In yet another embodiment, theelongated opening 401 has a length greater than two holdingportion 20D widths. In still yet another embodiment, theelongated opening 401 length is within a range of approximately six to approximately twenty widths of the holdingportion 20D. In other embodiments, theelongated opening 401 length is a fraction of the length of the structural member, or the entire length. Further, in various embodiments, different structural members may be made from differentstructural materials 610. A given structural member may be of uniform or non-uniform construction, being made of one or morestructural materials 610. - It is contemplated that the maximum load that may be suspended or held by one of the fasteners described herein may be calculated in various embodiments from the tensile strength of the bolt or
rod 50 used therein. By way of example and not limitation, common structural steel with a tensile strength of around 60,000 to 75,000 pounds-force per square inch (PSI) may be used. It is further contemplated that for arod 50 of given diameter, assuming an applied tensile stress of 6,000 PSI, the following loads could be held, including a five-to-one safety factor: ¼ inch diameter would hold up to 160 pounds; 1/2 inch diameter would hold up to 760 pounds; one inch diameter would hold up to 3,300 pounds; one and 12 inch diameter would hold up to 7,700 pounds, and 2 inch diameter would hold up to 13,800 pounds. Other steel alloys may hold twice as much at the same size. Plastics, nylons, and other non-ferrous materials may not hold as much. No experimental tests have been made. - The foregoing disclosure and description is intended only to be illustrative and explanatory thereof. To the extent foreseeable, various changes in the size, shape, and materials, as well as in the details of illustrative construction and assembly, may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
Claims (34)
1. A fastening system adapted for use with a structural member, the fastening system comprising:
a plurality of opposed margins attached with the structural member forming an elongated opening of a chamber; and
a fastener comprising a holding portion, wherein the holding portion comprises:
a plurality of elongated members, wherein the plurality of elongated members are moveable between an insertion position for insertion through the elongated opening and an extended position for positioning with the plurality of opposed margins;
wherein the holding portion is positionable in the chamber, and wherein the fastener is movable along the elongated opening to a plurality of locations relative to the structural member.
2. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins is anchored with the structural member.
3. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins comprises parts of a channel fixed relative to the structural member.
4. The fastening system of claim 3 , wherein the channel defines the chamber.
5. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins and the structural member are fabricated from different materials.
6. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins is fabricated from metal.
7. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the structural member is fabricated from concrete.
8. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins and the structural member are fabricated from the same material.
9. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins is formed with the structural member.
10. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein the fastener further comprises a rod received with the holding portion, the rod extending out of the elongated opening.
11. The fastening system of claim 10 , wherein the rod is threadably received within the holding portion.
12. The fastening system of claim 10 , further comprising a compression member on the fastener, wherein the compression member moves the plurality of elongated members to the extended position.
13. The fastening system of claim 10 , wherein the holding portion further comprises a lip on each of the elongated members.
14. The fastening system of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of elongated members comprises a lip; and wherein when the plurality of elongated members are in the extended position, the lips of at least two of the plurality of elongated members position the fastener with the elongated opening.
15. The fastening system of claim 14 , wherein each of the plurality of elongated members further comprises a knob and a profile formed in the elongated member.
16. The fastening system of claim 15 , wherein the profile of a first elongated member of the plurality of elongated members is configured to receive the knob of a second elongated member of the plurality of elongated members for alignment of the first elongated member with the second elongated member.
17. A structural member, comprising:
a structural mass;
a chamber positioned with the structural mass, the chamber comprising an elongated opening; and
a plurality of opposed margins defining the elongated opening to the chamber;
wherein the elongated opening is sized to receive a fastener into the chamber, wherein the fastener comprises a holding portion comprising a plurality of elongated members, wherein the plurality of elongated members are moveable between an insertion position for insertion through the elongated opening and an extended position for positioning with the plurality of opposed margins; and
wherein the plurality of opposed margins is configured to allow the fastener to slide along the elongated opening to a plurality of locations relative to the structural member.
18. The structural member of claim 17 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins is anchored with the structural mass.
19. The structural member of claim 17 , wherein the plurality of opposed margins is substantially flush with a surface of the structural mass.
20. A holding portion of a fastener, the holding portion comprising:
a plurality of elongated members, each elongated member comprising:
a recess configured to receive a portion of a nut;
a knob and a profile formed on a surface;
a bearing surface; and
a lip adjacent the bearing surface;
wherein the plurality of elongated members is moveable between an insertion position and an extended position; and
wherein the recess restricts a rotation of the nut when the elongated members are in the extended position; and
wherein when the plurality of elongated members is in the extended position, the lips of at least two of the plurality of elongated members position the holding portion for engagement of the rectangular bearing surfaces with a structural member.
21. The holding portion of claim 20 , wherein the bearing surface comprises a rectangular bearing surface.
22. The holding portion of claim 20 , further comprising:
a compression member positioned with the plurality of elongated members, wherein the compression member resists movement from the extended position to the insertion position.
23. The holding portion of claim 22 , wherein the knob of a first elongated member of the plurality of elongated members engages the profile of a second elongated member of the plurality of elongated members to resist translational motion of the first elongated member relative to the second elongated member.
24. A method for making a structural member, the method comprising:
providing a form for shaping a structural material;
positioning a plurality of opposed margins in the form to define an elongated opening;
blocking the elongated opening; and
providing the structural material into the form.
25. The method of claim 24 , wherein the structural material is concrete.
26. The method of claim 24 , further comprising:
positioning a plurality of reinforcing members in the form;
wherein the step of positioning the plurality of opposed margins comprises anchoring the plurality of opposed margins to the reinforcing members.
27. The method of claim 24 , wherein the step of positioning the plurality of opposed margins comprises providing a channel; and wherein the step of blocking the elongated opening comprises covering the elongated opening of the channel with a cover.
28. The method of claim 27 , further comprising covering an end of the channel with a cap.
29. The method of claim 24 , wherein blocking the elongated opening comprises positioning a spacer between the plurality of opposed margins.
30. A method for fastening an element to a structural member, the method comprising:
positioning a plurality of opposed margins with the structural member, defining an elongated opening;
positioning a holding portion of a fastener and a portion of a rod of the fastener in a chamber of the structural member, wherein the holding portion comprises a plurality of elongated members in an extended position;
engaging at least one of the plurality of elongated members of the holding portion with each of the plurality of opposed margins; and
supporting the element with the rod.
31. The method of claim 30 , further comprising:
reducing an engagement force of the plurality of elongated members of the holding portion with the opposed margins;
sliding the fastener along the elongated opening; and
increasing the engagement force of the plurality of elongated members of the holding portion with the opposed margin.
32. A structure, comprising:
a first structural member, comprising:
a first chamber, comprising:
a first pair of opposed margins, forming a first elongated opening;
a second structural member, comprising:
a second chamber, comprising:
a second pair of opposed margins, forming a second elongated opening;
a second fastener, the second elongated opening sized to receive the second fastener; and
an element fastened by the first fastener to the first structural member and fastened by the second fastener to the second structural member;
wherein the first fastener is positionable to a plurality of locations relative to the first elongated opening; and
wherein the second fastener is positionable to a plurality of locations relative to the second elongated opening.
33. The structure of claim 32 , wherein the first structural member is a ceiling member and the second structural member is a wall member.
34. The structure of claim 32 , wherein the first structural member is a first wall member and the second structural member is a second wall member.
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Cited By (20)
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US8333048B2 (en) | 2005-07-20 | 2012-12-18 | Joseph Talpe | Fixture set |
US7780387B2 (en) * | 2005-07-20 | 2010-08-24 | Joseph Talpe | Fixture set |
US20070033895A1 (en) * | 2005-07-20 | 2007-02-15 | Joseph Talpe | Fixture set |
US20100275550A1 (en) * | 2005-07-20 | 2010-11-04 | Joseph Talpe | Fixture set |
US20090019812A1 (en) * | 2007-07-18 | 2009-01-22 | Steve Getz | Anchoring Apparatus and Method |
US20100172713A1 (en) * | 2008-12-30 | 2010-07-08 | Michael Louis Benson | Self locking floating fastener |
US8567148B2 (en) * | 2009-03-12 | 2013-10-29 | Peikko Group Oy | Device for connecting prefabricated concrete sections |
US20100229490A1 (en) * | 2009-03-12 | 2010-09-16 | Gerhard Krummel | Device for connecting prefabricated concrete sections |
WO2011138306A1 (en) * | 2010-05-04 | 2011-11-10 | Cedric Terence Cooke | Radially expandable assembly and use thereof |
GB2481206A (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2011-12-21 | Ev Ip Lp | Blind fastener adapter |
GB2481206B (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2014-05-07 | Ev Ip Lp | Blind fastener |
US9145908B2 (en) | 2011-12-16 | 2015-09-29 | Ev Ip Lp | Blind fastener |
EP2607719A1 (en) * | 2011-12-20 | 2013-06-26 | Ev Ip Lp | Blind fastener |
US20150308065A1 (en) * | 2014-04-28 | 2015-10-29 | Jangpyoung Construction Co., LTD. | Multi-stage extending ground anchor assembly |
US9617701B2 (en) * | 2014-04-28 | 2017-04-11 | Jangpyoung Construction Co., LTD. | Multi-stage extending ground anchor assembly |
US11326640B2 (en) | 2015-12-09 | 2022-05-10 | Bossard Ag | Fastening element |
US10914334B2 (en) * | 2018-03-30 | 2021-02-09 | Food Grade Solutions, Llc | Wall mounting assembly |
US11428255B2 (en) | 2018-03-30 | 2022-08-30 | Food Grade Solutions, Llc | Wall mounting assembly |
US11111111B2 (en) * | 2018-11-15 | 2021-09-07 | B/A Products Co. | Lifting device and methods for pulling up overturned vehicles and other structures |
US11795035B2 (en) | 2018-11-15 | 2023-10-24 | B/A Products Co. | Lifting device and methods for pulling up overturned vehicles and other structures |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20040208722A1 (en) | 2004-10-21 |
WO2004094840A2 (en) | 2004-11-04 |
WO2004094840A3 (en) | 2006-01-26 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: POP-IN POP-OUT, INC., TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KUENZEL, RAINER;REEL/FRAME:016485/0627 Effective date: 20050414 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |