CA3131228A1

CA3131228A1 - A spacer for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, a method for manufacturing the same, and method and a use of said spacer

Info

Publication number: CA3131228A1
Application number: CA3131228A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Denis St-Jean; Eve St-Jean
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-09-01
Filing date: 2021-09-01
Publication date: 2023-03-01
Also published as: CA3171766A1; US20230062513A1

Abstract

A spacer for interconnecting in a frame structure, adjacent elongated members.
Said spacer comprises: a main member having opposite ends, at least one first attachment plate, and a at least one second attachment plate, the at least one first attachment plate being adapted to be secured to one of the opposite ends of the main member, and the at least one second attachment plate being adapted to be secured to the other of the opposite ends, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the at least one second attachment plate is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to the other of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the main member has a length and a width, the length corresponding to a distance separating the adjacent elongated members, the width being close to the width of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the main member is further provided with at least one portion comprising an opening obstructed by a corresponding removable element fastened to the main member by at least one breakable member, and wherein when the at least one breakable member is broken, the element is removed to give access to the opening. Also, a method for manufacturing the spacer, a method of use of said spacer and a use of said spacer.

Description

I
A SPACER FOR INTERCONNECTING ADJACENT ELONGATED MEMBERS, A
METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME, AND A METHOD AND A USE OF
SAID SPACER
Field of the invention [0001] The present invention relates to a spacer for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, a method for manufacturing the spacer, a method using said spacer for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, and use of said spacer for interconnecting adjacent elongated members. Preferably, the spacer may be a plastic, metal or composite spacer, more preferably a metal spacer.
Description of the background

[0002] Positioning of spacers between adjacent elongated members of a frame structure (i.e. between posts or studs of a wall, joists of a floor or ceiling, roof trusses, etc.) reveals to be time consuming. It is necessary prepare each of said spacers on the premise, generally by cutting at an appropriate length additional elongated members. As an example, a carpenter needs to measure, cut, position and fasten each spacer between adjacent elongated members of the frame structure. Spacers are required to strengthen and stiffen a frame structure. Also, spacers are required to meet with national and/or regional building codes.

[0003] The Applicant already described in Canadian patent no 2.998.656 an adjustable metal spacer for interconnecting adjacent elongated structural members. More particularly, this Canadian patent 2.998.656 describes an adjustable metal spacer for interconnecting adjacent elongated structural members in spaced parallel alignment in at least one predetermined region spaced from interconnected common ends of said elongated structural members, said adjustable metal spacer comprising a rigid telescopic spacer bar formed by two telescopically interconnected bridge arms, fastening means for immovably interconnecting said bridge arms to adjust the length of said spacer bar to a length common with the spacing between adjacent ones of said elongated structural members as measured at one of said interconnected common ends, and a transverse attachment plate at an outer free end of each said bridge arms for immovable securement Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 to a respective one of said adjacent ones of said elongated structural members in said at least one predetermined region thereof. Also, this metal spacer may be provided with fasteners and/or connectors comprising fasteners, allowing to secure various elements (e.g. electric wires, pipings, ducts, etc.) with respect to the metal spacer.

[0004] However, when using an adjustable metal spacer as described in Canadian patent 2.998.656, time is required to adjust and lock the telescopically interconnected bridge arms. This negatively affect the efficiency of carpenters.

[0005] Also, it is known in the art that several national/regional building codes require to avoid and/or minimize air movements between adjacent elongated members of a structural building wall, roof and/or floor (e.g. to avoid and/or minimize flames propagation).
Also, in order to position or pass various articles (e.g. electric wires, pipings, ducts, etc) between the adjacent elongated members, the metal spacer of Canadian application no.
2.998.656 must be oriented to clear some space. Therefore, (i) it is not possible to position or pass said articles across the metal spacer of said Canadian patent no.
2.998.656 because bridges arms are allowed to move one to each other, and (ii) it is not possible to reduce (preferably almost prevent, and more preferably prevent) air flow between said adjacent elongated members.

[0006] Therefore, there is a strong need for al spacer allowing to overcome drawbacks associated with existing spacers.

[0007] The Applicant has surprisingly discovered a new spacer allowing to overcome drawbacks associated with spacers of the prior art.

[0008] Depending on the nature of the constitutive material involved in the manufacturing of the spacers; spacers according to the invention comprise at least one of the following unexpected advantages:
- do not expanse or shrink because of temperature and/or humidity variations;
- make easier the work of carpenters, electricians and plumbers, as well as various professionals proceeding with the installation of panels (e.g. sheetrock panels) on the frame structure;
- do not generate dusts;
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 - do not require using dangerous tools to provide openings therethrough;
- have knock-out portions allowing to easily provide determined openings therethrough;
- improve thermal and/or sound insulations by avoiding resonance and/or thermal bridges;
- when made of metal, prevent eventual chemical reactions between constitutive metal;
- respect national/regional building codes;
- allow a quick and safe installation with screws or nails;
- is lighter and less bulky than wood spacers; and/or - contribute to avoid waste and overconsumption of lumber.
Summary of the invention

[0009]
The present invention relates to several aspects illustrated by the following embodiments [1] to [44]:
[1] A
spacer for interconnecting in a frame structure, adjacent elongated members having a determined width and maintaining a determined distance between said adjacent elongated members, wherein said spacer comprises:
- a main member having opposite ends, - at least one first attachment member and - at least one second attachment member, wherein the at least one first attachment member is secured to one of the opposite ends of the main member, and the at least one second attachment member is secured to the other of the opposite ends, wherein the at least one first attachment member is adapted to cooperate with at least one first fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members, Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 wherein the at least one second attachment member is adapted to cooperate with at least one second fastener for fastening the same to the other of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the main member has a length corresponding to the determined distance between the adjacent elongated members, and a width which is close to the width of the adjacent elongated members, and wherein the main member is further provided with at least one removable knock-out portion substantially covering or closing at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
[2] The spacer according to [1], wherein the at least one first attachment member forms a first attachment plate, and the at least one second attachment member forms a second attachment plate.
[3] The spacer according to [1] or [2], wherein the at least one first attachment member is further provided with at least one fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one first fastener, and wherein the at least one second attachment member is further provided with at least one second fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one second fastener.
[4] The spacer according to [1] or [2], wherein the at least one first fastener makes an integral part of the at least one first attachment member.
[5] The spacer according to [1], [2] or [4], wherein the at least one second fastener makes an integral part of the at least one second attachment member.
[6] The spacer according to any one of claims [1] to [5], wherein the at least one removable knock-out portion and the corresponding opening are joined together by at least one breakable member or by at least one weakened line.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 [7] The spacer according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment member and the at least one second attachment member are made of a material selected from the group consisting of metallic materials, fiberglass materials, plastic materials, and composite materials.
[8] The spacer according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment member and the at least one second attachment member are made of a steel sheet.
[9] The spacer according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment member, and the at least one second attachment member are further provided with reinforcing portions and/or reinforcing members.

[10] The spacer according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein when one of the adjacent elongated members is provided with an elongaged C channel having a transversal C cross section, then the at least one first attachment member or the at least one second attachment, and optionally a corresponding portion of the main member, are sized to be housed within said C channel.

[11] The spacer according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein when both of the adjacent elongated members are each provided with an elongaged C
channel having a transversal C cross section, then either the at least one first attachment member and a corresponding portion of the main member are sized to be housed within the C channel of one of the at adjacent elongated members, and the at least one second attachment member is sized to be secured to the back of the C channel of the other of the adjacent elongated members; or the at least one first attachment member, the at least one second attachment member, and corresponding portions of the main member are sized to be respectively housed within the C
channels of the adjacent elongated members..
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[12] A metal spacer for interconnecting in a frame structure, adjacent elongated members having a determined width and maintaining a determined distance between said adjacent elongated members, wherein said metal spacer comprises:
- a main member having opposite ends, - at least one first attachment plate and - at least one second attachment plate, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is secured to one of the opposite ends of the main member, wherein the at least one second attachment plate is secured to the other of the opposite ends, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is adapted to cooperate with at least one first fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the at least one second attachment plate is adapted to cooperate with at least one second fastener for fastening the same to the other of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the main member has a length corresponding to the determined distance between the adjacent elongated members, and a width which is close to the width of the adjacent elongated members, and wherein the main member is further provided with at least one removable knock-out portion substantially covering or closing at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.

[13] The metal spacer according to [12], wherein the main member further comprises at least one reinforcing portion and/or at least one reinforcing member.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[14] The metal spacer according to [12], wherein the main member further comprises at least two reinforcing members each positioned on opposite sides of the main member along the length of said main member.

[15] The metal spacer according to [14], wherein the main member, the reinforcing members, the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate are made by cutting and folding corresponding portions of a single sheet of metal having an upper face and a lower face.

[16] The metal spacer according to [15], wherein each of the reinforcement members is obtained by folding a portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between one of the reinforcing members and the main member, and folding another portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between the other of the reinforcing members and the main member, to have the main member and the reinforcement members forming a first channel.

[17] The metal spacer according to [15] or [16], wherein the at least one first attachment plate is obtained by folding a portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between the at least one first attachment plate and the main member, and the at least one second attachment plate is obtained by folding a portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between the at least one second attachment plate and the main member, to form a second channel.

[18] The metal spacer according to [17], wherein the first channel and the second channel are respectively opened toward opposite directions.
[20] The metal spacer according to [17] or [18], wherein the first channel is a U channel and the second channel is a U channel.
[21] The metal spacer according to any one [15] to [19], wherein the single sheet of metal is a sheet of steel having a gauge varying from 18 to 25.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 [22] The metal spacer according to [20], wherein the sheet of steel has a gauge 18.
[23] The spacer according to any one of [12] to [22], wherein the at least one first fastener makes an integral part of the at least one first attachment plate.
[24] The spacer according to [23], wherein the at least one first fastener comprises at least one first tongue-shaped nail punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one first attachment plate, the at least one first tongue-shaped nail being oriented for engaging one of the corresponding adjacent elongated members.
[25] The spacer according to [24], wherein the at least one first fastener comprises a plurality of first tongue-shaped nails punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one first attachment plater, [26] The spacer according to any one of [12] to [25], wherein the at least one second fastener makes an integral part of the at least one first attachment plate.
[27] The spacer according to [26], wherein the at least one second fastener comprises a at least one second tongue-shaped nail punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one second attachment plate, the at least one second tongue-shaped nail being oriented for engaging one of the corresponding adjacent elongated members.
[28] The spacer according to [26], wherein the at least one second fastener comprises a plurality of second tongue-shaped nails punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one second attachment plate, [29] The spacer according to any one of [12] to [28], wherein the at least one first attachment plate is further provided with at least one first fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one first Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 fastener, and wherein the at least one second attachment plate is further provided with at least one second fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one fastener.
[30] The spacer according to any one of [12] to [29], wherein the at least one removable knock-out portion and the corresponding opening are joined together by at least one breakable member or at least one weakening line.
[31] The spacer according to any one of [12] to [30], wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment plate, and/or the at least one second attachment member are further provided with at least one reinforcing portion.
[32] The spacer according to [31], wherein the at least one reinforcing portion two reinforcing portions.
[33] The metal spacer according to any one of [1] to [32], wherein the at least one removable knock-out portion comprises three removable knock-out portions, and wherein the at least one corresponding opening comprises three openings.
[34] The metal spacer according to [33], wherein each of the three openings has a determined size and shape to allow receiving or passing therethrough an element or an article having a cross section of similar size and shape.
[35] The metal spacer according to [34], wherein the element is a sleeve designed for the passage of an electric wire, said sleeve being pressed fit in a corresponding opening of the main member.
[36] The metal spacer according to any one of [12] to [35], wherein when one of the adjacent elongated members is provided with an elongaged C
channel having a transversal C cross section, then the at least one first attachment plate or the at least one second attachment plate, and optionally a corresponding portion of the main member, are sized to be housed within a corresponding C channel.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 [37] The spacer according to any one of [12] to [35], wherein when both of the adjacent elongated members are each provided with an elongated C
channel having a transversal C cross section, then either the at least one first attachment member and a corresponding portion of the main member are sized to be housed within the C channel of one of the at adjacent elongated members, and the at least one second attachment member is sized to be secured to the back of the C channel of the other of the adjacent elongated members; or the at least one first attachment plate, the at least one second attachment plate, first fastening member, the and corresponding portions of the main member are sized to be respectively housed within C channels of the adjacent elongated members.
[38] A method for the manufacturing of the spacer defined in any one of [1] to [1 1 ] , wherein said method at least comprises a step of forming the main member, the at least one first attachment member, the at least one second attachment member, and the at least one removable knock-out portion covering or closing the at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
[39] A method for the manufacturing of a metal spacer defined in any one of [12] to [37], said method at least comprising the steps of:
cutting a sheet of metal having an upper face and a lower face, to define the main member, the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate; and stamping with a die at least one portion of the main member to define the at least one removable knock-out portion covering or closing the at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
[40] The method according to [39], further comprising the steps of:
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 cutting in the sheet of metal having an upper face and a lower face, at least two reinforcement member;
folding one of the reinforcement members along a junction line of the reinforcement member with the main member, folding one of the other reinforcement members along a junction line of this reinforcement member with the main member to form a first channel;
and folding the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate along respective junction lines joining them with the main member to form a second channel.
[41] The method according to [39] or [40] , further comprising the step of stamping at least one portion of the main member to define at least one reinforcing embossment defining the at least one reinforcement portion.
[42] A method for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, said method comprising the step of positioning the spacer defined in any one of [1] to [11] between the adjacent elongated members, to have its reinforcement members substantially co-planar with each of corresponding edges of the adjacent, elongated members, and fastening the at least one first attachment member and the at least one second attachment member to corresponding adjacent elongated members.
[43] A method for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, said method comprising the step of positioning the spacer defined in any one of [12] to [37] between the adjacent elongated members, to have its reinforcement members substantially co-planar with each of corresponding edges of the adjacent, elongated members, and fastening the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate to corresponding adjacent elongated members.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 [44] A use of the spacer defined in any one of [1] to [37] for interconnecting adjacent elongated members together.
[0010] The present invention will be better understood with reference to the following drawings:
[0011] Figure 1 represents a perspective view of a sheet of metal provided with sections that will define a first embodiment of the metal spacer;
[0012] Figure 2 represents the first embodiment of the metal spacer according to the invention;
[0013] Figure 3 represents a variant of the metal spacer of Figure 2 where the breakable members are replaced by a weakening line.
[0014] Figure 4 represents the metal spacer of Figure 2 further provided with optional fittings 41a and 41c.
[0015] Figure 5 represents a cross sectional view of the spacer of Figure 4 (further provided with optional fitting 41b), positioned between posts 101 and 101'.
[0016] Figure 6 represents a top view of the metal spacer of Figure 5 with panels further enclosing said metal spacer within the adjacent elongated members and to substantially prevent air circulation between the metal spacer, the adjacent elongated members and the panels.
[0017] Figure 7 represents a cross-sectional view of the spacer of Figure 3 according to line VII ¨VII.
[0018] Figure 8 represents a partial view of the metal spacer of Figure 2 where the opening 13 have been replaced by a plurality of tongue-shaped nails 14, or the openings 15 have been replaced by a plurality of tongue-shaped nails 16.

[0019] Figure 9 represents a perspective view of a fitting 41a or 41c appearing in the metal spacer of Figure 4.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[0020] Figure 10 represents a perspective view of a sheet of metal provided with sections of a second embodiment of a metal spacer (designed for use with C)>
channel metal posts);

[0021] Figure 11 represents a perspective view of the second embodiment of the metal spacer;

[0022] Figure 12 represents a variant of the metal spacer of Figure 11 where the breakable members are replaced by a weakening line.

[0023] Figure 13 represents a cross-sectional view according to XIII ¨
XIII of the metal spacer of Figure 12;

[0024] Figure 14 represents a cross-sectional view of the metal spacer of Figure 12 when positioned between a pair of C channel posts, and with an electric wires and a metal pipe passing through the openings of said metal spacer;

[0025] Figure 15 represents a top view of the metal spacer of Figure 14 with panels further enclosing said metal spacer within the adjacent elongated members to substantially prevent air circulation between the metal spacer, the adjacent elongated members and the panels.

[0026] Figure 16 represents the third embodiment of a spacer according to the invention;

[0027] Figure 17 represents a cross-sectional view of the spacer of Figure according to line XVII ¨ XVII; and

[0028] Figure 18 represents a cross-sectional view of the spacer of Figure according to line XVIII ¨ XVIII, with removable elements removed.
Detailed description of preferred aspects the invention

[0029] Referring to the drawings, the invention relates to a spacer 3 (a metal spacer for positioning between posts), a spacer 303 (a metal spacer for positing between metallic C)> channel posts) or a spacer 603 (a non-metallic spacer for positioning between posts).
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 Metal spacer 3 according to a first preferred aspect of the invention

[0030] As mentioned above, with reference to Figures 1 to 9 the drawings, the metal spacer 3 is intended for interconnecting adjacent elongated members 101, 101' of a frame structure. Examples of the adjacent elongated members 101, 101' may consist of posts of a frame structure (e.g. wooden posts, metal posts, wooden joists, metal joists, etc.). The frame structure is generally further covered with covering material (e.g. panels of wood, sheetrock, etc.) to form a wall, a floor, a ceiling, a roof, etc.

[0031] The metal spacer 3 comprises: a main member 5, reinforcing members 7a and 7b, a first attachment plate 9, and a second attachment plate 11. The main member has a length L and a width W, the length L corresponding to a distance separating the elongated members 101, 101', and the width W being close to the width of the elongated members 101, 101',

[0032] The reinforcing member 7a is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 5 along the junction 8a. The reinforcing member 7b is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 5 at the junction 8b.
More preferably, reinforcing members 7a and 7b substantially extend along the whole length L
of the main member 5, and they may have a height H that will contribute to strengthen the main member 5, preferably a height varying from 0.1 inch to few inches, much more preferably from 0.1 inch to 2 inches.

[0033] The first attachment 9 is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 5 along the junction 10, and the second attachment plate 11 is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 5 along the junction 12.

[0034] The first attachment plate 9 is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members 101.
Preferably at least one opening, preferably two openings 13, are provided in the first attachment plate 9.
These openings 13 are adapted to be engaged by fastener (e.g. a screw, a nail, etc.) further engaging elongated member 101.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[0035] The second attachment plate Ills adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to the elongated members 101'. Preferably at least one opening, preferably two openings 15, are provided in the first attachment plate 11. These openings 15 are adapted to be engaged by fastener (e.g. a screw, a nail, etc.) further engaging the elongated member 101'.

[0036] Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 8, the openings 13 of the attachment plate 9 and/or the openings 15 of the attachment plate 11 may be replaced by a plurality of teeth or tongue-shaped nails 14, 16 obtained by any appropriate means well known in the art, preferably by die stamping of the attachment plate 9 and/or the attachment plate 11. This alternative may be advantageous when the elongated members are wood posts.
Then, the carpenter only has to drive said teeth or tongue-shaped nails in the wood posts with a hammer (e.g. the attachment plate 9 or 11 is struck with the hammer).
In such case the first attachment plate 9 and the second attachment plate 11 may be optionally slightly inclined to ease the positioning of the spacer 3 between elongated members (101, 101') made of wood.

[0037] The main member 5 is further provided with at least one portion comprising an opening covered or closed by a corresponding removable element fastened to the main member by at least one breakable member. As illustrated in the drawings, three distinct portions 31a, 31b and 31c comprising corresponding openings 33a, 33b and 33c respectively covered or closed by corresponding removable elements 35a, 35b and 35c.
The removable element 35a is fastened to the main member 3 by breakable members 37a, the removable element 35b is fastened to the main member 3 by breakable members 37b, and the removable element 35c is fastened to the main member 3 by breakable members 37c. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 7 of the drawings, the removable elements 35a, 35b and 35c are respectively fastened to the corresponding portions 31a, 31b and 31c by a weakening line 36a, 36b and 36c. Each of the weakening line 36a, 36b and 36c is formed by thinning a part of the distinct portions 31a, 31b and 31c.

[0038] When the removable element 35a is removed, access is given to the opening 33a. The removable element 35a is removed by breaking the breakable members 37a by Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 any appropriate means. As an example, a pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used to break the breakable members 37a, to remove or punch out the removable element and to open the opening 33a. Alternatively, when a weakening line 36a is provided, the removable element 35a is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable element 35a, and break the weakening line 36a. As an example, the removable element 35a may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.

[0039] When the removable element 35b is removed, access is given to the opening 33b. The removable element 35b is removed by breaking the breakable members 37b by any appropriate means. As an example, a pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used to break the breakable members 37b, to remove or punch out the removable element and to open the opening 33b. Alternatively, when a weakening line 36b is provided, the removable element 35b is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable element 35b, and break the weakening line 36a. As an example, the removable element 35b may be struck by the blade of a screw driver

[0040] When the removable element 35c is removed, access is given to the opening 33c. The removable element 35c is removed by breaking the breakable members 37c by any appropriate means. As an example, a pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used to break the breakable members 37c, to remove or punch out the removable element and to open the opening 33c. Alternatively, when a weakening line 36c is provided, the removable element 35c is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 35c, and break the weakening line. As an example, the removable element 35b may be struck by the blade of a screw driver

[0041] Of course, any one of the removable elements 35a, 35b and 35c may be knocked out before or after positioning of the spacer 3 between the adjacent elongaged members 101, 101'.

[0042] Optionally, any one of the openings 33a, 33b and 33c may be further provided conventional plastic fitting allowing to pass therethrough electric wires and/or other pipings. As illustrated, optional fittings 41a and 41c are PVC fittings currently used in the field of electric boxes. Said fittings 41a and 41c are sized to be just press fit in any one Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 of the openings 33a and 33c. Non !imitative examples of fittings 41a and 41c may be those commercialized under the tradename LOOMEX CONNECTOR. Also, optional fitting 41b may be of any type suitable to fit within the opening 33b.
Optional fitting 41b can be made of any suitable plastic material, such as PVC. Of course, any other type of fitting or connectors can be used. Fittings 41a, 41b and 41c are useful to prevent electric wires, pipings or elements to be damaged due to a direct contact with the metal spacer.
Also, they are useful to preferably minimize and/or more preferably prevent air of flowing across the spacer 3.
Manufacture of the metal spacer 3

[0043] With reference to Figure 1, there is represented a sheet of steel 1 (obtained from a larger sheet of steel) having a gauge of about 18 and cut out to define different parts of a metal spacer 3 . The metal spacer 3 comprises a main member 5, reinforcing members 7a and 7b, a first attachment plate 9 and a second attachment plate 11.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the invention, the metal spacer 3 may be preferably obtained according to a process comprising the following steps:

[0045] Step 1: Cutting from a sheet of steel, the sheet of metal 1 having an upper face and a lower face, and provided with portions defining the main member 5, the reinforcing members 7a and 7b, the first attachment plate 9 and the second attachment plate 11.

[0046] The cutting of the sheet of metal can be made with any appropriate tools well known to persons skilled in the art of sheet metal working. Preferably, the sheet of metal may be steel sheet having a gauge varying from 18 to 25, preferably a gauge of about 18. More preferably, the sheet of steel is a gauge 18 galvanized steel sheet.

[0047] Step 2: Stamping the main member 5 to define portions 31a, 31b and 31c comprising openings 33a, 33b and 33c covered or closed by removable elements 35a, 35b and 35c fastened to the main member 5 by four breakable members 37a, four breakable members 37b and four breakable members 37c, or alternatively fastened to the main member 5 by the weakening lines 36a, 36b and 36c.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[0048] Optionally, the openings 13 and 15 of the tongue-shaped nails 14 and 16 can be made in a step 2a by stamping portions of the sheet of metal 1 corresponding to the first attachment plate 9 and the second attachment plate 11. More preferably, this stamping can be made by any appropriate means, before or after step 2, or more preferably simultaneously with step 2.

[0049] Step 3: Folding the reinforcing members 7a along the junction line 8a, and folding the reinforcing member 7b along the junction line 8b, to form a U
channel with the upper face of the main member 5. The folding can be made with any appropriate tools well known to persons skilled in the art of sheet metal working.

[0050] Step 4: Folding the first attachment 9 along the junction line 10, and the second attachment plate 11 along the junction line 12. Again, the folding can be made with any appropriate tools well known to persons skilled in the art of sheet metal working.

[0051] Optionally, steps 1, 2, 2a, 3 and 4 can be made in any order. Also, two or several of said steps can be made simultaneously. Also, two or more of said steps 1, 2, 2a, 3 and 4 may be carried out simultaneously. Also, stamping and folding steps may be carried out according to any appropriate techniques well known in the art.

[0052] The metal spacer 3 has a determined width W and length L. The length L
corresponds to the standard distances between adjacent joists or posts of a frame structure, and the width W corresponds to the width of said joists or posts (i.e corresponding to the thickness of the frame structure (not considering the thickness of any covering materials fixed thereto). Example of the width W and length L may vary from 10.5 inches to 22.5 inches. Example of the height H may vary from 0.1 to few inches, preferably from 1 to 2 inches, more preferably about 2 inches.

[0053] When necessary, any one of the removable elements 35a, 35b and 35c can be removed to give access to the openings 33a, 33b and 33c. To do so, as mentioned above, any one of the removable elements 35a, 35b and 35c can be removed by breaking the corresponding breakable members 37a, 37b and 37c. or the weakening lines 36a, 36b and 36c.This operation can be made using a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, etc..
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[0054] Optionally, as mentioned above, the plastic fittings 41a, 41b and 41c are conventional plastic fittings. They are positioned within the corresponding openings 33a, 33b and 33c by any appropriate means, preferably manually.
Method and use of the metal spacer 3 for interconnecting adjacent elongated members of a frame structure

[0055] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, there is represented a metal spacer 3 as illustrated in Figure 4, positioned between posts 101 and 101'. The metal spacer 3 is fastened to the posts 101, 101' with screws 103 engaging the first attachment plate 9 and the post 101, and screws 103' engaging the second attachment plate 11 and the post 101'.

[0056] A metal piping 121 may be passed through the opening 33b, and electric wires 131a and 131c are passed through the fittings 41a and 41c. Also, optionally, as preferably illustrated, a fitting 41b may be positioned in the opening 33b to prevent contact of the metal piping with the main portion 5, and also to minimize and more preferably prevent air of flowing via the opening 33b.

[0057] As illustrated in Figure 6, the metal spacer 3 minimize the possibility of having air flowing between said metal spacer 3, posts 101 and 101' and covering materials 151 and 151' (e.g. gypsum plates). Also, in the frame structure, posts 101 and 101' may be secured to other metal spacers 3' and 3". Indeed, there is no openings between the spacer 3 and the posts 101, 101' and the covering materials 151, 151'.
Metal spacer 303 according to a first preferred aspect of the invention

[0058] As mentioned above, with reference to Figures 10 to 15 of the drawings, the metal spacer 303 is intended for interconnecting adjacent elongated members 301, 301' of a frame structure. Examples of the adjacent elongated members 301, 301' may consist of C channel metal posts.

[0059] The metal spacer 303 comprises: a main member 305, reinforcing embossments 306a and 306b, reinforcing members 307a and 307b, a first attachment plate 309, and a second attachment plate 311. The main member 305 has a length L' and a width W', the length L' corresponding to a distance separating the elongated Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 members 301, 301', the width being close to the width of the elongated members 301, 301'.

[0060] The reinforcing member 307a is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 305 along the junction 308a. The reinforcing member 307b is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 305 at the junction 308b. More preferably, reinforcing members 307a and 307b substantially extend along the whole length L of the main member 305, and they may have a height H' that will contribute to strengthen the main member 5, preferably a height varying from 0.1 inch to few inches, much more preferably from 0.1 inch to 2 inches.

[0061] The first attachment 309 is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 305 along the junction 310, and the second attachment plate 311 is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 305 along the junction 312. Preferably, the first attachment 309 and a portion 305a of the main member 305 has a width W'i that is slightly smaller than the width W' of the member 305 to allow an easy housing of the same within the C channel of the post 301. Also, optionally, notches 305b may be further provided to receive the ends of the C of the C
channel metal post 301.

[0062] The first attachment plate 309 is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members 301.
Preferably at least one opening, preferably two openings 313, are provided in the first attachment plate 309. These openings 313 are adapted to be engaged by fastener (e.g.
a screw, a nail, etc.) which are adapted to further engage the elongated member 301.

[0063] The second attachment plate 311 is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to the elongated members 301'. Preferably at least one opening, preferably two openings 315, are provided in the first attachment plate 311.
These openings 315 are adapted to be engaged by fastener (e.g. a screw, a nail, etc.) which are adapted to further engage the elongated member 301'.

[0064] The main member 305 is further provided with at least one portion comprising an opening covered or closed by a corresponding removable element fastened to the Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 main member by at least one breakable member. As illustrated in the drawings, three distinct portions 331a, 331b and 331c comprising corresponding openings 333a, 333b and 333c respectively obstructed by corresponding removable elements 335a, 335b and 335c. The removable element 335a is fastened to the main member 305 by breakable members 337a, the removable element 335b is fastened to the main member 305 by breakable members 337b, and the removable element 335c is fastened to the main member 305 by breakable members 337c. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figures 12 and 13 of the drawings, the removable elements 335a, 335b and 335c are respectively fastened to the main member 305 by a weakening line 336a, 336b and 336c. Each of the weakening line 336a, 336b and 336c is formed by thinning a part of the distinct portions 31a, 31b and 31c.

[0065] When the removable element 335a is removed, access is given to the opening 333a. The removable element 335a is removed by breaking the breakable members 337a by any appropriate means. As an example, a pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used to break the breakable members 337a, to remove or punch out the removable element and to open the opening 333a. Alternatively, when a weakening line 336a is provided, the elements 335a is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 335a, and break the weakening line 336a. As an example, the removable element 335a may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.

[0066] When the removable element 335b is removed, access is given to the opening 333b. The removable element 335b is removed by breaking the breakable members 337b by any appropriate means. As an example, a pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used to break the breakable members 337b, to remove or punch out the removable element and to open the opening 333b. Alternatively, when a weakening line 336b is provided, the elements 335b is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 335b, and break the weakening line 336b. As an example, the removable element 335b may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.

[0067] When the removable element 335c is removed, access is given to the opening 333c. The removable element 335c is removed by breaking the breakable members 337c by any appropriate means. As an example, a pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 to break the breakable members 337c, to remove or punch out the removable element and to open the opening 333c. Alternatively, when a weakening line 336c is provided, the elements 335c is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 335c, and break the weakening line 336c. As an example, the removable element 335c may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.

[0068] Of course, any one of the removable elements 335a, 335b and 335c may be knocked out before or after positioning of the spacer 303 between the adjacent elongaged members 301, 301'.

[0069] Optionally, any one of the openings 333a, 333b and 333c may be further provided conventional plastic fitting allowing to pass therethrough electric wires and/or other pipings. As illustrated, optional fittings 341a and 341c are PVC
fittings currently used in the field of electric boxes. Said fittings 341a and 341c are sized to be just press fit in any one of the openings 333a and 333c. Non !imitative examples of fittings 341a and 341c may be those commercialized under the tradename LOOMEX CONNECTOR. Also, optional fitting 341b may be of any type suitable to fit within the opening 333b. Optional fitting 341b can be made of any suitable plastic material, such as PVC. Of course, any other type of fitting or connectors can be used. Fittings 341a, 341b and 341c are useful to prevent electric wires, pipings or elements to be damaged due to a direct contact with the metal spacer. Also, they are useful to preferably minimize and/or more preferably prevent air of flowing across the spacer 3.
Manufacture of the metal spacer 303

[0070] With reference to Figure 10, there is represented a sheet of steel 301 (obtained from a larger sheet of steel) having a gauge of about 18 and cut out to define different parts of a metal spacer 303. The metal spacer 303 comprises a main member 305, reinforcing members 307a and 307b, reinforcing embossments 306a and 306b, a first attachment plate 309 and a second attachment plate 311. Reinforcing embossments 306a and 306b contribute to increase the stiffness of the metal spacer 303.

[0071] According to an embodiment of the invention, the metal spacer 303 may be preferably obtained according to a process comprising the following steps:
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

[0072] Step 1: Cutting from a sheet of steel, the sheet of metal 301 having an upper face and a lower face, and provided with portions defining the main member 305, the reinforcing members 307a and 307b, the first attachment plate 309 and the second attachment plate 311.

[0073] The cutting of the sheet of metal can be made with any appropriate tools well known to persons skilled in the art of sheet metal working. Preferably, the sheet of metal may be steel sheet having a gauge varying from 18 to 25, preferably a gauge of about 18. More preferably, the sheet of steel is a gauge 18 galvanized steel sheet.

[0074] Step 2: Stamping the main member 305 to define portions 331a, 331b and 331c comprising openings 333a, 333b and 333c covered or closed by removable elements 335a, 335b and 335c fastened to the main member 305 by four breakable members 337a, four breakable members 337b and four breakable members 337c, or alternatively fastened to the main member 305 by the weakening lines 336a, 336b and 336c. Simultaneously with step 2 or according to a separate stamping step 2b carried out before or after step 2, reinforcing embossments 306a and 306b are formed.

[0075] More preferably, stamping and folding steps may be carried out according to any appropriate techniques well known in the art..

[0076] Step 3: Folding the reinforcing members 307a along the junction line 308a, and folding the reinforcing member 307b along the junction line 308b, to form a U
channel with the upper face of the main member 305. The folding can be made with any appropriate tools well known to persons skilled in the art of sheet metal working.

[0077] Step 4: Folding the first attachment 309 along the junction line 310, and the second attachment plate 311 along the junction line 312. Again, the folding can be made with any appropriate tools well known to persons skilled in the art of sheet metal working.

[0078] Optionally, steps 1, 2, 2b, 3 and 4 can be made in any order. Also, two or several of said steps can be made simultaneously

[0079] The metal spacer 303 has a determined width W' and length L'. The length L' corresponds to the standard distances between the bottom of the C channel of the Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 elongated C channel metal post 301, and the back of the C channel of the elongated C channel metal post 301'. Also, the cutting step 1 is adjusted to have the width L' corresponding to the width of the elongated C channel metal post, except for a portion 305a of the main member 305, and the first attachment plate 309, which have a width W'i that is slightly smaller than W' to allow an easy housing of the portion 305a and the first attachment plate 309 within the C channel of the elongated C channel metal post 301; and have notches 305b are provide to receive the ends of the C of the C
channel of the elongated C channel metal post 301. Preferably, the width W', the width W'i may vary from 3.5 inches to 5.5 inches, and the length L' may vary from A
to B, with A representing 12 inches ¨ (a thickness of the metal sheet forming the adjacent elongated C)> channel metal post/2) and with B representing 24 inches ¨ (a thickness of the metal sheet forming adjacent elongated C)> channel metal posts/2). An example of the length L' when each of the adjacent elongaged C channel metal posts are made from a sheel of steel having gauge 18 (i.e. 0.0478 inch thick), said length L' may vary from 11.9522 inches to 23.9522 inches. Example of the height H' may vary from 0.1 to few inches, preferably from 1 to 2 inches, more preferably about 2 inches.

[0080] When necessary, any one of the removable elements 335a, 335b and 335c can be removed to give access to the openings 333a, 333b and 333c. To do so, as mentioned above, any one of the removable elements 335a, 335b and 335c can be removed by breaking the corresponding breakable members 337a, 337b and 337c, or the weakening lines 336a, 336b and 336c.This operation can be made using a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, etc..

[0081] Optionally, as mentioned above, the plastic fittings 341a, 341b and 341c are conventional plastic fittings similar to plastic fittings 41a, 41b and 41c defined above concerning metal spacer 3. They are positioned within the corresponding openings 333a, 333b and 333c by any appropriate means, preferably manually.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 Method and use of the metal spacer 303 for interconnecting adjacent elongated members of a frame structure [0083] With reference to Figures 14 and 15, there is represented a metal spacer 303 as illustrated in Figure 12, positioned between posts 301 and 301'. The metal spacer 303 is fastened to the post 301 with screws, preferably metal screws 303, engaging the first attachment plate 309 and the post 301, and screws, preferably metal screws 303', engaging the second attachment plate 311 and the post 301'.
[0084] A metal piping 421 may be passed through the opening 333b, and electric wires 431a and 431c may be passed through the fittings 341a and 341c. Optionally, as illustrated, a fitting 341b may be positioned in the opening 333b to avoid direct contact of the metal pipe with the main member 305, and prevent air flow by said opening 333b.
Fittings 341a, 341b and 341c are similar to fittings 41a, 41b and 41c of the metal spacer 3.
[0085] As illustrated in Figure 15, the metal spacer 303 minimize the possibility of having air flowing between said metal spacer 303, posts 301 and 301' and covering materials 451 and 451' (e.g. gypsum plates). Indeed, there is no openings between the spacer 303 and the posts 301, 301' and the covering materials 451, 451'. Also, in the frame structure, posts 301 and 301' may be secured to other metal spacers 303.
Non-metallic spacer 603 according to a third preferred aspect of the invention [0086] As mentioned above, with reference to Figures 16 to 18 of the drawings, the non-metallic spacer 603 is intended for interconnecting adjacent elongated members similar adjacent elongated members 101, 101' illustrated for spacer 3.
Examples of the adjacent elongated members may consist of wood posts.
[0087] The non-metallic spacer 603 comprises: a main member 605 reinforcing members 607a and 607b, a first attachment plate 609, and a second attachment plate 611. The main member 605 has a length L" and a width W", the length L"
corresponding to a distance separating the adjacent elongated members of the frame structure (i.e.
similar to the elongated members 101 and 101'), the width L' being close to the width of the elongated members. More preferably, reinforcing members 607a and 607b Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 substantially extend along the whole length L of the main member 605, and they may have a height H" that will contribute to strengthen the main member 605, preferably a height varying from 0.1 inch to few inches, much more preferably from 0.1 inch to 2 inches. According to a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the main member 605, the reinforcing members 607a and 607b, the first attachment plate 609 and/or the second attachment plate 611 may vary from 0.1 inch to 1 inch, preferably from 0.1 inch to 0.75 inch, more preferably from 0.25 inch to 0.5 inch or 0.125 inch to 0.375 inch.
[0088] The reinforcing member 607a is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 605 along the junction 608a. The reinforcing member 607b is makes an integral part of the main member 605 at the junction 608b.
[0089] The first attachment plate 609 makes an integral part of the main member 605 along the junction 610, and the second attachment plate 611 is connected to (preferably makes an integral part of) the main member 605 along the junction 612.
[0090] The first attachment plate 609 is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members.
Preferably at least one opening, preferably two openings 613, are provided in the first attachment plate 609. Each of these openings 613 is adapted to be engaged by a fastener (e.g. a screw, a nail, etc.) in order to further engage the corresponding elongated member.
[0091] The second attachment plate 611 is adapted to cooperate with at least one fastener for fastening the same to the adjacent elongated member. Preferably at least one opening, preferably two openings 615, are provided in the second attachment plate 611. Each of these openings 615 is adapted to be engaged by a fastener (e.g. a screw, a nail, etc.) in order to further engage the corresponding elongated member.
[0092] The main member 605 is further provided with at least one portion comprising an opening obstructed by a corresponding removable element fastened to the main member by at least one breakable member. As illustrated in Figures 16 to 18 of the drawings, the removable elements 635a, 635b and 635c are respectively fastened to the main member 605 by the weakening lines 363a, 363b and 363c. Each of the weakening Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 line 336a, 336b and 336c is formed by thinning a part of the distinct portions 331a, 331b and 331c.
[0093] When the removable element 635a is removed, access is given to the opening 633a. The removable element 635a is removed by breaking the weakening line 363a. To do so, the removable element 635a is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 635a, and break the weakening line 363a. As an example, the removable element 635a may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.
[0094] When the removable element 635b is removed, access is given to the opening 633b. The removable element 635b is removed by breaking the weakening line 363b. To do so, the removable element 635b is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 635b, and break the weakening line 363b. As an example, the removable element 635b may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.
[0095] When the removable element 635c is removed, access is given to the opening 633c. The removable element 635c is removed by breaking the weakening line 363c. To do so, the removable element 635c is knocked out with any appropriate tool allowing to impact the removable elements 635c, and break the weakening line 363c. As an example, the removable element 635c may be struck by the blade of a screw driver.
[0096] Optionally, any one of the openings 633a, 633b and 633c may be further provided conventional plastic fittings allowing to pass therethrough electric wires and/or other pipings. Said plastic fittings are preferably similar to those of the first embodiment of the invention (i.e. metallic spacer 3).
Manufacture of the non-metallic spacer 603 [0097] The non-metallic spacer 603 is obtained by moulding of a plastic material in a mold. Said plastic material advantageously further contains additives such as flame retardant, etc. The moulding can be carried out according to any appropriate moulding techniques well known to persons skilled in the art.
[0098] The molded non-metallic spacer 603 has an upper face and a lower face, and is provided with portions defining the main member 605, the reinforcing members 607a Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 and 607b, the first attachment plate 609 and the second attachment plate 611.
Preferably, any kind the plastic or composite material can be used, especially fiber glass, or preferably HDPE comprising additives such flame retardant.
[0099] The non-metallic spacer 603 has a determined width W" and length L". The length L" corresponds to the standard distances between joists or posts, and the width W" corresponds to the width of said joists or posts (i.e corresponding to the thickness of the frame structure (i.e. not considering the thickness of any covering materials fixed to said frame structure). Examples of the standard distances may vary from 10.5 inches to 22.5 inches. Example of the height H" may vary from 0.1 to few inches, preferably from 1 to 2 inches, more preferably about 2 inches. Examples of the thickness of the main member 605, the reinforcing members 607a and 607b, the first attachment plate and/or the second attachment plate 611 may vary from 0.1 inch to 1 inch, preferably from 0.1 inch to 0.75 inch, more preferably from 0.25 inch to 0.5 inch or 0.125 inch to 0.375 inch, much more preferably about 0.25 inch.
[0100] When necessary, any one of the removable elements 635a, 633b and 635c can be removed to give access to the openings 633a, 633b and 633c. To do so, as mentioned above, any one of the removable elements 635a, 635b and 635c can be removed by breaking the corresponding breakable lines 636a, 636b and 636c.
These breakable lines are obtained by thinning a portion of the spacer 603 between the main portion 631a, 631b and 631c and the removable elements 635a, 635b and 635c.
This operation can be made using a pair of pliers and/or a screwdriver.
[0101] Optionally, conventional plastic fittings may be positioned within the openings 633a, 633b and 633c to allow passing therethrough electric wires and/or other pipings.
Any type of fittings can be used. These fittings may be positioned within the corresponding openings 633a, 633b and 633c manually when necessary.
Method and use of the non-metallic spacer 603 for interconnecting adjacent elongated members of a frame structure [0102] The non-metallic spacer 603 can be used in a way similar to the one concerning the spacer 3.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01 [0103]
The above description of the embodiments should not be interpreted in a limiting manner since other variations, modifications and refinements are possible within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. The scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-09-01

Claims

Claims 1. A spacer for interconnecting in a frame structure, adjacent elongated members having a determined width and maintaining a determined distance between said adjacent elongated members, wherein said spacer comprises:
- a main member having opposite ends, - at least one first attachment member and - at least one second attachment member, wherein the at least one first attachment member is secured to one of the opposite ends of the main member, and the at least one second attachment member is secured to the other of the opposite ends, wherein the at least one first attachment member is adapted to cooperate with at least one first fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the at least one second attachment member is adapted to cooperate with at least one second fastener for fastening the same to the other of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the main member has a length corresponding to the determined distance between the adjacent elongated members, and a width which is close to the width of the adjacent elongated members, and wherein the main member is further provided with at least one removable knock-out portion substantially covering or closing at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
2. The spacer according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first attachment member forms a first attachment plate, and the at least one second attachment member forms a second attachment plate.

3. The spacer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one first attachment member is further provided with at least one fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one first fastener, and wherein the at least one second attachment member is further provided with at least one second fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one second fastener.
4. The spacer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one first fastener makes an integral part of the at least one first attachment member.
5. The spacer according to claim 1, 2 or 4, wherein the at least one second fastener making an integral part of the second attachment member.
6. The spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one removable knock-out portion and the corresponding opening are joined together by at least one breakable member or by at least one weakened line.
7. The spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment member and the at least one second attachment member are made of a material selected from the group consisting of metallic materials, fiberglass materials, plastic materials, and composite materials.
8. The spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment member and the at least one second attachment member are made of a steel sheet.
9. The spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment member, and the at least one second attachment member are further provided with reinforcing portions and/or reinforcing members.
10. The spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when one of the adjacent elongated members is provided with an elongaged C channel having a transversal C cross section, then the at least one first attachment member or the at least one second attachment member, and optionally a corresponding portion of the main member, are sized to be housed within said C channel.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 11. The spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when both of the adjacent elongated members are each provided with an elongaged C channel having a transversal C cross section, then either the at least one first attachment member and a corresponding portion of the main member are sized to be housed within the C channel of one of the at adjacent elongated members, and the at least one second attachment member is sized to be secured to the back of the C channel of the other of the adjacent elongated members; or the at least one first attachment member, the at least one second attachment member, and corresponding portions of the main member are sized to be respectively housed within the C channels of the adjacent elongated members.
12. A metal spacer for interconnecting in a frame structure, adjacent elongated members having a determined width and maintaining a determined distance between said adjacent elongated members, wherein said metal spacer comprises:
- a main member having opposite ends, - at least one first attachment plate and - at least one second attachment plate, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is secured to one of the opposite ends of the main member, wherein the at least one second attachment plate is secured to the other of the opposite ends, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is adapted to cooperate with at least one first fastener for fastening the same to one of the adjacent elongated members, wherein the at least one second attachment plate is adapted to cooperate with at least one second fastener for fastening the same to the other of the adjacent elongated members, Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 wherein the main member has a length corresponding to the determined distance between the adjacent elongated members, and a width which is close to the width of the adjacent elongated members, and wherein the main member is further provided with at least one removable knock-out portion substantially covering or closing at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
13. The metal spacer according to claim 12, wherein the main member further comprises at least one reinforcing portion and/or at least one reinforcing member.
14. The metal spacer according to claim 12, wherein the main member further comprises at least two reinforcing members each positioned on opposite sides of the main member along the length of said main member.
15. The metal spacer according to claim 14, wherein the main member, the reinforcing members, the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate are made by cutting and folding corresponding portions of a single sheet of metal having an upper face and a lower face.
16. The metal spacer according to claim 15, wherein each of the reinforcement members is obtained by folding a portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between one of the reinforcing members and the main member, and folding another portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between the other of the reinforcing members and the main member, to have the main member and the reinforcement members forming a first channel.
17. The metal spacer according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is obtained by folding a portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between the at least one first attachment plate and the main member, and the at least one second attachment plate is obtained by folding a portion of the sheet of metal along a junction line positioned between the at least one second attachment plate and the main member, to form a second channel.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 18. The metal spacer according to claim 17, wherein the first channel and the second channel are respectively opened toward opposite directions.
20. The metal spacer according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the first channel is a U
channel and the second channel is a U channel.
21. The metal spacer according to any one claims 15 to 19, wherein the single sheet of metal is a sheet of steel having a gauge varying from 18 to 25.
22. The metal spacer according to claim 20, wherein the sheet of steel has a gauge 18.
23. The spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein the at least one first fastener makes an integral part of the at least one first attachment plate.
24. The spacer according to claim 23, wherein the at least one first fastener comprises at least one first tongue-shaped nail punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one first attachment plate, the at least one first tongue-shaped nail being oriented for engaging one of the corresponding adjacent elongated members.
25. The spacer according to claim 24, wherein the at least one first fastener comprises a plurality of first tongue-shaped nails punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one first attachment plate, 26. The spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 25, wherein the at least one second fastener makes an integral part of the at least one first attachment plate.
27. The spacer according to claim 26, wherein the at least one second fastener comprises a at least one second tongue-shaped nail punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one second attachment plate, the at least one second tongue-shaped nail being oriented for engaging one of the corresponding adjacent elongated members.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 28. The spacer according to claim 26, wherein the at least one second fastener comprises a plurality of second tongue-shaped nails punched-out from the portion of the sheet of metal forming the at least one second attachment plate, 29. The spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 28, wherein the at least one first attachment plate is further provided with at least one first fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one first fastener, and wherein the at least one second attachment plate is further provided with at least one second fastening opening adapted to receive and cooperate with the at least one fastener.
30. The spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 29, wherein the at least one removable knock-out portion and the corresponding opening are joined together by at least one breakable member or at least one weakening line.
31. The spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 30, wherein the main member, the at least one first attachment plate, and the at least one second attachment plate are further provided with at least one reinforcing portion.
32. The spacer according to claim 31, wherein the at least one reinforcing portion is two reinforcing portions.
33. The metal spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 32, wherein the at least one removable knock-out portion comprises three removable knock-out portions, and wherein the at least one corresponding opening comprises three openings.
34. The metal spacer according to claim 33, wherein each of the three openings has a determined size and shape to allow receiving or passing therethrough an element or an article having a cross section of similar size and shape.
35. The metal spacer according to claim 34, wherein the element is a sleeve designed for the passage of an electric wire, said sleeve being pressed fit in a corresponding opening of the main member.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 36. The metal spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 35, wherein when one of the adjacent elongated members is provided with an elongaged C channel having a transversal C cross section, then the at least one first attachment plate or the at least one second attachment plate, and optionally a corresponding portion of the main member, are sized to be housed within a corresponding C
channel.
37. The spacer according to any one of claims 12 to 35, wherein when both of the adjacent elongated members are each provided with an elongated C channel having a transversal C cross section, then either the at least one first attachment member and a corresponding portion of the main member are sized to be housed within the C channel of one of the at adjacent elongated members, and the at least one second attachment member is sized to be secured to the back of the C channel of the other of the adjacent elongated members; or the at least one first attachment plate, the at least one second attachment plate, first fastening member, the and corresponding portions of the main member are sized to be respectively housed within C channels of the adjacent elongated members.
38. A method for the manufacturing of the spacer defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said method at least comprises a step of forming the main member, the at least one first attachment member, the at least one second attachment member, and the at least one removable knock-out portion covering or closing the at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
39. A method for the manufacturing of a metal spacer defined in any one of claims 12 to 37, said method at least comprising the steps of:
cutting a sheet of metal having an upper face and a lower face, to define the main member, the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate; and stamping with a die at least one portion of the main member to define the at least one removable knock-out portion covering or closing the at least one corresponding opening provided in the main member.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 40. The method according to claim 39, further comprising the steps of:
cutting in the sheet of metal having an upper face and a lower face, at least two reinforcement member;
folding one of the reinforcement members along a junction line of the reinforcement member with the main member, folding one of the other reinforcement members along a junction line of this reinforcement member with the main member to form a first channel; and folding the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate along respective junction lines joining them with the main member to form a second channel.
41. The method according to claim 39 or 40, further comprising the step of stamping at least one portion of the main member to define at least one reinforcing embossment defining the at least one reinforcing portion.
42. A method for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, said method comprising the step of positioning the spacer defined in any one of claims 1 to 11 between the adjacent elongated members, to have its reinforcement members substantially co-planar with each of corresponding edges of the adjacent, elongated members, and fastening the at least one first attachment member and the at least one second attachment member to corresponding adjacent elongated members.
43. A method for interconnecting adjacent elongated members, said method comprising the step of positioning the spacer defined in any one of claims 12 to 37 between the adjacent elongated members, to have its reinforcement members substantially co-planar with each of corresponding edges of the adjacent, elongated members, and fastening the at least one first attachment plate and the at least one second attachment plate to corresponding adjacent elongated members.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1 44. A
use of the spacer defined in any one of claims 1 to 37 for interconnecting adjacent elongated members together.
Date Recue/Date Received 202 1-09-0 1