CA2209717A1 - Corner assembly for use with a flanged support post - Google Patents
Corner assembly for use with a flanged support postInfo
- Publication number
- CA2209717A1 CA2209717A1 CA 2209717 CA2209717A CA2209717A1 CA 2209717 A1 CA2209717 A1 CA 2209717A1 CA 2209717 CA2209717 CA 2209717 CA 2209717 A CA2209717 A CA 2209717A CA 2209717 A1 CA2209717 A1 CA 2209717A1
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- Prior art keywords
- assembly according
- corner
- corner assembly
- terminal ends
- radial opening
- Prior art date
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Abstract
A corner assembly for use with a flanged support post includes a corner bracket and a member for securing the corner bracket to the support post. The corner bracket includes a main body with an axial bore and slotted flanges at terminal ends of the main body.
The corner bracket also includes legs extending toward respective adjacent support posts.
The corner bracket also includes legs extending toward respective adjacent support posts.
Description
. CA 02209717 1997-07-07 648.M126 TITLE
CORNER ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A FLANGED SUPPORT POST
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a modular storage and support assembly. In particular, the invention relates to a corner assembly that forms part of a sub-structure of the modular assembly.
The sub-structure of the modular assembly is formed from a plurality of flanged support posts, e.g., four, secured in place by at least one frame assembly. A
plurality of corner assemblies and stringers, spanning between adjacent corner assemblies, comprise the frame assembly. The corner assemblies are secured to the flanged support posts, in either a permanent or temporary manner, to provide a sturdy sub-structure which can be easily customized to fit the end-user's needs. The sub-structure provides the structural integrity of the modular storage and support assembly.
The flanged support posts, which form part of the sub-structure, are the subject of U.S. Patent Application No. 08/426,674, which is incorporated herein by reference. A support post 11 shown in Figure 12 is generally comprised of an interior post 13 and a plurality of radially extending, equally spaced flanges CA 022097l7 l997-07-07 15. The interior post is preferably tubular in shape, with a circular cross-section and interior 17 and exterior 19 wall surfaces as best seen in Figure 13.
The flanges 15 preferably extend along the entire longitudinal length of the interior post. In addition, the flanges 15, or dove tails, are preferably spaced equidistant from each other around the periphery of the interior post 13 to create a symmetrical support post.
Each flange has a first portion 21 which extends radially from the interior post 13. At the terminal end of each first portion is transversely disposed a second portion 23. The second portions are formed with arcuate outer surfaces 25, that together outline a circumference that is concentric with the interior 17 and exterior 19 wall surfaces of the interior post 13.
A slot 27 iS formed between each pair of adjacent flanges 15. Because of the arcuate shape of the exterior wall surface 19 and the flanges, the slots can be described as substantially concave T-shaped, with respect to a longitudinal axis of the support post.
The flanges 15 can also include horizontal grooves 29 on their outer surfaces 25.
Description of the Prior Art Storage and support assemblies for use in enclosed structures such as carts (with wheels) or cabinets (without wheels) are well known in the art.
In one type of enclosed structure known as the METROFLEX cart, which is assigned to the assignee of the subject invention, interlocking molded panels are used without the need for vertical support posts. In that regard, two side/bottom panels are joined together to form the lateral sides and bottom of the cart and a back panel is secured to the side/bottom panels. A top portion is added to complete a 3-sided enclosed cart.
The open side can receive an array of differently sized drawers and bins, and shelves or other accessories can be provided on the outer sides of the cart. For mobility, the cart can be provided with casters or, alternatively, set on a base platform provided with casters. The METROFLEX cart is the subject of U.S.
Patents No. 5,016,948 and No. D 323,915.
However, further improvements in storage and support assemblies are desired. For example, it would be desirable to provide a customizable modular assembly that employs a sub-structure for structural integrity.
This would relieve the lateral panels from having to structurally support the modular assembly, allowing them to fulfill a primarily aesthetic function.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is a principle object of the invention to provide a modular storage and support assembly that can be easily customized to fit an end user's needs.
Another object of the invention is to provide a sub-structure for structurally supporting the modular assembly.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a frame assembly for use in the sub-structure.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a corner assembly for use in the frame assembly.
Another object of the invention is to provide a corner bracket as part of the corner assembly which can be secured to a flanged support post.
Still another object of the invention is to provide means for securing the corner bracket to the flanged support post.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a corner bracket for use with a flanged support post comprises a main body having an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween. The corner bracket includes first and second flanges disposed at the terminal ends, with each flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post, and at least one leg extending from the main body.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a corner assembly for use with a flanged support post comprises a corner bracket having a main body with an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween and a securing member for securing the corner bracket to the support post.
In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the securing member is comprised of a cam pin insertable within the radial opening between the terminal ends.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a frame assembly for use with flanged support posts includes a corner bracket mountable to each support post and a frame member secured between first and second corner brackets. The corner bracket has a main body with an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween. The corner bracket also includes first and second flanges disposed at the terminal ends, with each flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post, and at least one leg extending from the main body. A securing member secures the corner bracket to the support post.
These and other objects, aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular storage and support assembly made in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a sub-structure used in the modular storage and support assembly shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a corner bracket in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 4 is a top plan view of the corner bracket shown in Figure 3;
Figure 5(A) is a perspective view of a corner assembly ready to be assembled and secured to a flanged support post in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5(B) is a perspective view of the corner assembly shown in Figure 5(A) secured to the flanged support post;
Figure 6(A) is a perspective view of a corner assembly ready to be assembled and secured to a flanged support post in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6(B) is a perspective view of the corner assembly shown in Figure 6(A) secured to the flanged support post;
Figure 7(A) is a perspective view of a corner assembly ready to be assembled and secured to a flanged support post in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7(B) is a perspective view of the corner assembly shown in Figure 7(A) secured to the flanged support post;
Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of two corner assemblies secured to a flanged support post in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a modified corner bracket in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 10 is a top plan view of a frame member in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the frame member taken along line I-I of Figure 11;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of a flanged support post for use in the modular storage and support assembly shown in Figure l; and Figure 13 is a top plan view of the flanged support post shown in Figure 12.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A free standing modular assembly 10 which incorporates the corner assembly of the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The corner assembly forms part of a sub-structure 20 of the modular assembly as shown in Figure 2 and discussed in detail below.
The modular assembly illustrated in Figure 1 is shown to include side and rear lateral panels 12, a top panel 14, and a bottom panel 16. In this non-limiting example, active level shelving with pull-out drawers 18 is supported within the modular assembly. Support legs 22 also form part of the assembly.
Of course, the modular assembly shown in Figure 1 is only one example of the environment in which the corner assembly of the present invention can be used. The configuration of the sub-structure which incorporates the corner assembly can be varied to support one or more modular assemblies of virtually any size or shape.
The sub-structure 20 shown in Figure 2 is comprised of a plurality, e.g., four (4), of flanged support posts 11 of the type described above and shown in Figures 12 and 13. In this embodiment, two frame assemblies 24 are used, i.e., a top frame assembly and a bottom frame assembly.
Each frame assembly includes a corner assembly 26, secured to each support post, and a frame member, or stringer, 28 extending between adjacent corner assemblies. As will be appreciated, the sub-structure provides structural integrity for the modular assembly.
This allows the panels shown in Figure 1 to be used primarily as a facade for aesthetic purposes. The panels can be supported by and secured to the stringers 28 by conventional means.
The frame assembly 24 of the present invention features a corner bracket 30 as shown in detail in Figures 3 and CA 02209717 l997-07-07 4. The corner bracket is preferably a one-piece element formed of extruded aluminum. Of course, alternative materials and methods of forming the corner bracket can be used without departing from the scope of the invention.
The corner bracket 30 iS shaped to have a main body 32 with an axial bore 34 and a radial opening 36. At terminal ends of the main body are formed slotted flanges 38, between which is the radial opening 36. In addition, legs 40 extend in transverse directions from the main body and serve to support the stringers 2 8 running between the support posts as shown in Figure 2.
Each slotted flange 38 iS shaped to have an exterior lip 42 and an interior finger 44 defining therebetween a slot 46 running in a direction parallel to a central axis A of the axial bore 34. The interior finger itself is also shaped to define an interior bore 48 within its semi-circular, open body. As seen in this embodiment, the two flanges 38 defining therebetween the radial opening 36 are provided with concave surfaces 50 for receiving a pin or other securing means as described in detail below.
The preferred manner of securing the corner bracket 30 to the support post is, generally speaking, accomplished by spreading apart, or separating, the flanges 38 from their normal, unbiased state. This can be accomplished, for example, by applying a camming force from within the radial opening 36 or the axial bore 34. In this manner, the flanges 38 are forced in opposite directions (arrow B, Figure 4) to exert a pressing force against adjacent flanges 15 on the support post 11.
In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5(A) and 5(B), a cam pin 52 supplies the camming force. As best seen in Figure 5(A), the cam pin includes a head 54 and a pin body 56. In this figure, a cylindrical head with a hexagonal-shaped opening is shown, but heads of different shapes and types can of course be used. For example, Figure 8 shows a cam pin 52 with a rounded head 54'. The pin body 56 is generally cylindrical, but includes at least one, and preferably two, flat sides 58 extending in the longitudinal direction. If two flat sides are provided, they should be disposed on opposite sides of the pin body. The flat sides can be achieved by machining the pin body or, as a simpler alternative, the pin body can be compressed or lS otherwise flattened to provide the flat sides.
To insert the cam pin 52, the flat sides 58 are generally aligned with the concave surfaces 50 of the flanges 38. This allows the cam pin to slide freely in and out of the radial opening 36 in the corner bracket 30. When inserted, the cam pin is rotated, e.g., 90~, such that the rounded surfaces of the pin body 56 (which have a greater radius than the flat sides) engage the concave surfaces. This action forces the flanges 38 in the directions of arrow B, thus exerting a force against the adjacent flanges 15 on the flanged support post 11 and securing the corner bracket 30 as shown in Figure 5(B).
In a second embodiment of the invention, Figures 6(A) and 6(B) show use of a cam plug 60 and a round pin 62 in place of the cam pin 52. In this alternative, a body 64 of the cam plug includes a flat section 66.
Placing the flat section 66 opposite to the round pin allows the cam plug 60 to be received in the axial bore 34 and the pin 62 to be inserted into an interior edge 63 of the radial opening 36. An end cap 68 can be inserted into the axial bore from below to support the pin.
With the pin in position, the cam plug 60 is rotated in either direction to engage a cylindrical portion of the body 64 with the pin 62. This forces the pin further into the radial opening to separate, or spread, the flanges 38 and secure the corner bracket 30 as shown in Figure 6(B). As evident in Figure 6(A), with this arrangement it is unnecessary to provide the flanges 38 with concave surfaces at the radial opening 36 (as shown in Figure 5(A)).
As an alternative to using the pin 62, a tapered wedge 70 can be used as shown in Figures 7(A) and 7(B) to secure the corner bracket 30. The wedge, which is ideally formed of a hard, rigid plastic, is also positioned at the interior edge 63 of the radial opening in the same manner as the pin. To accommodate the tapering shape of the wedge, the radial opening is also tapered to have a wider interior edge and a narrower exterior edge 65.
With the wedge 70 in place, the cam plug is rotated to engage a rounded portion of its cylindrical body 64 against the wedge, thus forcing it radially outward toward the flanged support post 11. The flanges 38 of the corner bracket necessarily are separated by this movement and the corner bracket is secured.
It is also contemplated to use the interior fingers 44 for securing the corner bracket 30. The open design of the interior fingers, provided by the elongated slots 48, make the fingers slightly pliable, which provides a degree of tolerance for the corner bracket as it is secured to the flanged support post. As shown in Figure 8, however, the elongated slots can also be used CA 022097l7 l997-07-07 to receive a cam pin 74 for securing the corner bracket. The cam pin 74 will be shaped similarly to the cam pin 52 shown in Figure 5 (A), i.e., round with preferably two flat sides, but will necessarily be of smaller dimensions for fitting into the elongated slot in the interior finger. Rotating the cam pin spreads the finger 44 apart enough to create a force between a flange 15 of the support post 11 and the interior post 13.
The corner bracket 30 illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 iS
shown with two legs 40 extending in substantially perpendicular directions to each other for supporting the stringers 28 as shown in Figure 2. It will be appreciated, however, that the number of legs and direction in which they extend can vary depending on the configuration of the sub-structure without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, Figure 9 illustrates a corner bracket 76 with only one leg 78.
Figures 10 and 11 show one example of the stringer 28 that is secured between the corner brackets 30. In this example, the stringer is an L-bracket having 2 5 perpendicular legs 80 and 82. One way to secure the stringers is to provide holes 41 in the legs 40 of the corner brackets as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The stringers can then be secured to the corner brackets by rivets or other comparable securing means to complete the frame assembly.
Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail, it will be understood that this description is merely for purposes of illustration. Various modifications of and equivalent structures corresponding to the disclosed aspects of the preferred embodiments in addition to those described above may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention which is defined in the following claims, the scope of which is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass such modifications and equivalent structures.
CORNER ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A FLANGED SUPPORT POST
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a modular storage and support assembly. In particular, the invention relates to a corner assembly that forms part of a sub-structure of the modular assembly.
The sub-structure of the modular assembly is formed from a plurality of flanged support posts, e.g., four, secured in place by at least one frame assembly. A
plurality of corner assemblies and stringers, spanning between adjacent corner assemblies, comprise the frame assembly. The corner assemblies are secured to the flanged support posts, in either a permanent or temporary manner, to provide a sturdy sub-structure which can be easily customized to fit the end-user's needs. The sub-structure provides the structural integrity of the modular storage and support assembly.
The flanged support posts, which form part of the sub-structure, are the subject of U.S. Patent Application No. 08/426,674, which is incorporated herein by reference. A support post 11 shown in Figure 12 is generally comprised of an interior post 13 and a plurality of radially extending, equally spaced flanges CA 022097l7 l997-07-07 15. The interior post is preferably tubular in shape, with a circular cross-section and interior 17 and exterior 19 wall surfaces as best seen in Figure 13.
The flanges 15 preferably extend along the entire longitudinal length of the interior post. In addition, the flanges 15, or dove tails, are preferably spaced equidistant from each other around the periphery of the interior post 13 to create a symmetrical support post.
Each flange has a first portion 21 which extends radially from the interior post 13. At the terminal end of each first portion is transversely disposed a second portion 23. The second portions are formed with arcuate outer surfaces 25, that together outline a circumference that is concentric with the interior 17 and exterior 19 wall surfaces of the interior post 13.
A slot 27 iS formed between each pair of adjacent flanges 15. Because of the arcuate shape of the exterior wall surface 19 and the flanges, the slots can be described as substantially concave T-shaped, with respect to a longitudinal axis of the support post.
The flanges 15 can also include horizontal grooves 29 on their outer surfaces 25.
Description of the Prior Art Storage and support assemblies for use in enclosed structures such as carts (with wheels) or cabinets (without wheels) are well known in the art.
In one type of enclosed structure known as the METROFLEX cart, which is assigned to the assignee of the subject invention, interlocking molded panels are used without the need for vertical support posts. In that regard, two side/bottom panels are joined together to form the lateral sides and bottom of the cart and a back panel is secured to the side/bottom panels. A top portion is added to complete a 3-sided enclosed cart.
The open side can receive an array of differently sized drawers and bins, and shelves or other accessories can be provided on the outer sides of the cart. For mobility, the cart can be provided with casters or, alternatively, set on a base platform provided with casters. The METROFLEX cart is the subject of U.S.
Patents No. 5,016,948 and No. D 323,915.
However, further improvements in storage and support assemblies are desired. For example, it would be desirable to provide a customizable modular assembly that employs a sub-structure for structural integrity.
This would relieve the lateral panels from having to structurally support the modular assembly, allowing them to fulfill a primarily aesthetic function.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is a principle object of the invention to provide a modular storage and support assembly that can be easily customized to fit an end user's needs.
Another object of the invention is to provide a sub-structure for structurally supporting the modular assembly.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a frame assembly for use in the sub-structure.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a corner assembly for use in the frame assembly.
Another object of the invention is to provide a corner bracket as part of the corner assembly which can be secured to a flanged support post.
Still another object of the invention is to provide means for securing the corner bracket to the flanged support post.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a corner bracket for use with a flanged support post comprises a main body having an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween. The corner bracket includes first and second flanges disposed at the terminal ends, with each flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post, and at least one leg extending from the main body.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a corner assembly for use with a flanged support post comprises a corner bracket having a main body with an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween and a securing member for securing the corner bracket to the support post.
In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the securing member is comprised of a cam pin insertable within the radial opening between the terminal ends.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a frame assembly for use with flanged support posts includes a corner bracket mountable to each support post and a frame member secured between first and second corner brackets. The corner bracket has a main body with an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween. The corner bracket also includes first and second flanges disposed at the terminal ends, with each flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post, and at least one leg extending from the main body. A securing member secures the corner bracket to the support post.
These and other objects, aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular storage and support assembly made in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a sub-structure used in the modular storage and support assembly shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a corner bracket in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 4 is a top plan view of the corner bracket shown in Figure 3;
Figure 5(A) is a perspective view of a corner assembly ready to be assembled and secured to a flanged support post in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5(B) is a perspective view of the corner assembly shown in Figure 5(A) secured to the flanged support post;
Figure 6(A) is a perspective view of a corner assembly ready to be assembled and secured to a flanged support post in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6(B) is a perspective view of the corner assembly shown in Figure 6(A) secured to the flanged support post;
Figure 7(A) is a perspective view of a corner assembly ready to be assembled and secured to a flanged support post in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7(B) is a perspective view of the corner assembly shown in Figure 7(A) secured to the flanged support post;
Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of two corner assemblies secured to a flanged support post in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a modified corner bracket in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 10 is a top plan view of a frame member in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the frame member taken along line I-I of Figure 11;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of a flanged support post for use in the modular storage and support assembly shown in Figure l; and Figure 13 is a top plan view of the flanged support post shown in Figure 12.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A free standing modular assembly 10 which incorporates the corner assembly of the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The corner assembly forms part of a sub-structure 20 of the modular assembly as shown in Figure 2 and discussed in detail below.
The modular assembly illustrated in Figure 1 is shown to include side and rear lateral panels 12, a top panel 14, and a bottom panel 16. In this non-limiting example, active level shelving with pull-out drawers 18 is supported within the modular assembly. Support legs 22 also form part of the assembly.
Of course, the modular assembly shown in Figure 1 is only one example of the environment in which the corner assembly of the present invention can be used. The configuration of the sub-structure which incorporates the corner assembly can be varied to support one or more modular assemblies of virtually any size or shape.
The sub-structure 20 shown in Figure 2 is comprised of a plurality, e.g., four (4), of flanged support posts 11 of the type described above and shown in Figures 12 and 13. In this embodiment, two frame assemblies 24 are used, i.e., a top frame assembly and a bottom frame assembly.
Each frame assembly includes a corner assembly 26, secured to each support post, and a frame member, or stringer, 28 extending between adjacent corner assemblies. As will be appreciated, the sub-structure provides structural integrity for the modular assembly.
This allows the panels shown in Figure 1 to be used primarily as a facade for aesthetic purposes. The panels can be supported by and secured to the stringers 28 by conventional means.
The frame assembly 24 of the present invention features a corner bracket 30 as shown in detail in Figures 3 and CA 02209717 l997-07-07 4. The corner bracket is preferably a one-piece element formed of extruded aluminum. Of course, alternative materials and methods of forming the corner bracket can be used without departing from the scope of the invention.
The corner bracket 30 iS shaped to have a main body 32 with an axial bore 34 and a radial opening 36. At terminal ends of the main body are formed slotted flanges 38, between which is the radial opening 36. In addition, legs 40 extend in transverse directions from the main body and serve to support the stringers 2 8 running between the support posts as shown in Figure 2.
Each slotted flange 38 iS shaped to have an exterior lip 42 and an interior finger 44 defining therebetween a slot 46 running in a direction parallel to a central axis A of the axial bore 34. The interior finger itself is also shaped to define an interior bore 48 within its semi-circular, open body. As seen in this embodiment, the two flanges 38 defining therebetween the radial opening 36 are provided with concave surfaces 50 for receiving a pin or other securing means as described in detail below.
The preferred manner of securing the corner bracket 30 to the support post is, generally speaking, accomplished by spreading apart, or separating, the flanges 38 from their normal, unbiased state. This can be accomplished, for example, by applying a camming force from within the radial opening 36 or the axial bore 34. In this manner, the flanges 38 are forced in opposite directions (arrow B, Figure 4) to exert a pressing force against adjacent flanges 15 on the support post 11.
In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5(A) and 5(B), a cam pin 52 supplies the camming force. As best seen in Figure 5(A), the cam pin includes a head 54 and a pin body 56. In this figure, a cylindrical head with a hexagonal-shaped opening is shown, but heads of different shapes and types can of course be used. For example, Figure 8 shows a cam pin 52 with a rounded head 54'. The pin body 56 is generally cylindrical, but includes at least one, and preferably two, flat sides 58 extending in the longitudinal direction. If two flat sides are provided, they should be disposed on opposite sides of the pin body. The flat sides can be achieved by machining the pin body or, as a simpler alternative, the pin body can be compressed or lS otherwise flattened to provide the flat sides.
To insert the cam pin 52, the flat sides 58 are generally aligned with the concave surfaces 50 of the flanges 38. This allows the cam pin to slide freely in and out of the radial opening 36 in the corner bracket 30. When inserted, the cam pin is rotated, e.g., 90~, such that the rounded surfaces of the pin body 56 (which have a greater radius than the flat sides) engage the concave surfaces. This action forces the flanges 38 in the directions of arrow B, thus exerting a force against the adjacent flanges 15 on the flanged support post 11 and securing the corner bracket 30 as shown in Figure 5(B).
In a second embodiment of the invention, Figures 6(A) and 6(B) show use of a cam plug 60 and a round pin 62 in place of the cam pin 52. In this alternative, a body 64 of the cam plug includes a flat section 66.
Placing the flat section 66 opposite to the round pin allows the cam plug 60 to be received in the axial bore 34 and the pin 62 to be inserted into an interior edge 63 of the radial opening 36. An end cap 68 can be inserted into the axial bore from below to support the pin.
With the pin in position, the cam plug 60 is rotated in either direction to engage a cylindrical portion of the body 64 with the pin 62. This forces the pin further into the radial opening to separate, or spread, the flanges 38 and secure the corner bracket 30 as shown in Figure 6(B). As evident in Figure 6(A), with this arrangement it is unnecessary to provide the flanges 38 with concave surfaces at the radial opening 36 (as shown in Figure 5(A)).
As an alternative to using the pin 62, a tapered wedge 70 can be used as shown in Figures 7(A) and 7(B) to secure the corner bracket 30. The wedge, which is ideally formed of a hard, rigid plastic, is also positioned at the interior edge 63 of the radial opening in the same manner as the pin. To accommodate the tapering shape of the wedge, the radial opening is also tapered to have a wider interior edge and a narrower exterior edge 65.
With the wedge 70 in place, the cam plug is rotated to engage a rounded portion of its cylindrical body 64 against the wedge, thus forcing it radially outward toward the flanged support post 11. The flanges 38 of the corner bracket necessarily are separated by this movement and the corner bracket is secured.
It is also contemplated to use the interior fingers 44 for securing the corner bracket 30. The open design of the interior fingers, provided by the elongated slots 48, make the fingers slightly pliable, which provides a degree of tolerance for the corner bracket as it is secured to the flanged support post. As shown in Figure 8, however, the elongated slots can also be used CA 022097l7 l997-07-07 to receive a cam pin 74 for securing the corner bracket. The cam pin 74 will be shaped similarly to the cam pin 52 shown in Figure 5 (A), i.e., round with preferably two flat sides, but will necessarily be of smaller dimensions for fitting into the elongated slot in the interior finger. Rotating the cam pin spreads the finger 44 apart enough to create a force between a flange 15 of the support post 11 and the interior post 13.
The corner bracket 30 illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 iS
shown with two legs 40 extending in substantially perpendicular directions to each other for supporting the stringers 28 as shown in Figure 2. It will be appreciated, however, that the number of legs and direction in which they extend can vary depending on the configuration of the sub-structure without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, Figure 9 illustrates a corner bracket 76 with only one leg 78.
Figures 10 and 11 show one example of the stringer 28 that is secured between the corner brackets 30. In this example, the stringer is an L-bracket having 2 5 perpendicular legs 80 and 82. One way to secure the stringers is to provide holes 41 in the legs 40 of the corner brackets as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The stringers can then be secured to the corner brackets by rivets or other comparable securing means to complete the frame assembly.
Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail, it will be understood that this description is merely for purposes of illustration. Various modifications of and equivalent structures corresponding to the disclosed aspects of the preferred embodiments in addition to those described above may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention which is defined in the following claims, the scope of which is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass such modifications and equivalent structures.
Claims (33)
1. A corner bracket for use with a flanged support post, comprising:
a main body having an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween; and first and second flanges disposed at said terminal ends, with each said flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post.
a main body having an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween; and first and second flanges disposed at said terminal ends, with each said flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post.
2. A frame assembly according to Claim 1, wherein each said flange includes an interior finger and an exterior lip defining the slot therebetween.
3. A frame assembly according to Claim 2, wherein said interior finger includes an elongated slot.
4. A frame assembly according to Claim 1, wherein said terminal ends have concave faces defining the radial opening.
5. A frame assembly according to Claim 1, wherein said terminal ends have tapered faces defining the radial opening.
6. A frame assembly according to Claim 1, further comprising a leg extending from said main body.
7. A corner assembly for use with a flanged support post, comprising:
a corner bracket having a main body with an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween, and first and second flanges disposed at said terminal ends, with each said flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post; and securing means for securing said corner bracket to the support post.
a corner bracket having a main body with an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween, and first and second flanges disposed at said terminal ends, with each said flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post; and securing means for securing said corner bracket to the support post.
8. A corner assembly according to Claim 7, wherein each said flange includes an interior finger and an exterior lip defining the slot therebetween.
9. A corner assembly according to Claim 8, wherein said interior finger includes an elongated slot.
10. A corner assembly according to Claim 8, wherein said terminal ends have concave faces defining the radial opening.
11. A corner assembly according to Claim 8, wherein said terminal ends have tapered faces defining the radial opening.
12. A corner assembly according to Claim 7, wherein said securing means comprises a cam pin insertable within the radial opening between said terminal ends.
13. A corner assembly according to Claim 12 wherein said cam pin includes a cam body having at least one flat portion extending in an axial direction.
14. A corner assembly according to Claim 13, wherein said cam pin includes two flat portions disposed on substantially opposite sides of said cam body.
15. A corner assembly according to Claim 7, wherein said securing means comprises a cam plug insertable into the axial bore and a separating member positioned in the radial opening and in contact with said cam plug.
16. A corner assembly according to Claim 15, wherein said cam plug includes a plug body having a flat section and an arcuate section.
17. A corner assembly according to Claim 16, wherein said separating member is a pin.
18. A corner assembly according to Claim 16, wherein said separating member is a wedge.
19. A corner assembly according to Claim 7, further comprising a leg extending from said main body.
20. A frame assembly for use with flanged support posts, said frame assembly comprising:
a corner bracket mountable to each support post, said corner bracket including a main body having an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween, and first and second flanges disposed at said terminal ends, with each said flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post;
securing means for securing said corner brackets to the support posts; and a frame member secured between a first and second said corner bracket.
a corner bracket mountable to each support post, said corner bracket including a main body having an axial bore and terminal ends defining a radial opening therebetween, and first and second flanges disposed at said terminal ends, with each said flange having a slot for receiving a flange of the support post;
securing means for securing said corner brackets to the support posts; and a frame member secured between a first and second said corner bracket.
21. A corner assembly according to Claim 20, wherein each said flange includes an interior finger and an exterior lip defining the slot therebetween.
22. A corner assembly according to Claim 21, wherein said interior finger includes an elongated slot.
23. A corner assembly according to Claim 21, wherein said terminal ends having concave faces defining the radial opening.
24. A corner assembly according to Claim 21, wherein said terminal ends have tapered faces defining the radial opening.
25. A corner assembly according to Claim 20, wherein said securing means comprises a cam pin insertable within the radial opening between said terminal ends.
26. A corner assembly according to Claim 25, wherein said cam pin includes a cam body having at least one flat portion extending in an axial direction.
27. A corner assembly according to Claim 26, wherein said cam pin includes two flat portions disposed on substantially opposite sides of said cam body.
28. A corner assembly according to Claim 20, wherein said securing means comprises a cam plug insertable into the axial bore and a separating member positioned in the radial opening and in contact with said cam plug.
29. A corner assembly according to Claim 28, wherein said cam plug includes a plug body having a flat section and an arcuate section.
30. A corner assembly according to Claim 28, wherein said separating member is a pin.
31. A corner assembly according to Claim 28, wherein said separating member is a wedge.
32. A corner assembly according to Claim 22, wherein said securing means comprises a cam pin insertable within the elongated slot in said interior finger.
33. A frame assembly according to Claim 20, further comprising a leg extending from said main body.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US2131496P | 1996-07-08 | 1996-07-08 | |
| US60/021314 | 1996-07-08 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2209717A1 true CA2209717A1 (en) | 1998-01-08 |
Family
ID=21803505
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2209717 Abandoned CA2209717A1 (en) | 1996-07-08 | 1997-07-07 | Corner assembly for use with a flanged support post |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2209717A1 (en) |
-
1997
- 1997-07-07 CA CA 2209717 patent/CA2209717A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |