EP4644629A1

EP4644629A1 - Connector

Info

Publication number: EP4644629A1
Application number: EP24173042.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Robert Evans; Jeremy SIMONS; Steve LIMB; Duncan Shea-Simonds
Original assignee: Saint Gobain Placo SAS
Current assignee: Saint Gobain Placo SAS
Priority date: 2024-04-29
Filing date: 2024-04-29
Publication date: 2025-11-05
Also published as: WO2025228574A1

Abstract

According to the present invention, there is provided a connector for connecting two building elements, the connector comprising; a first connector portion for abutting a first surface of a first building element; a second connector portion for abutting a second surface of a first building element; wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion substantially oppose one another; the connector further comprising an intermediate portion located between the first connector portion and the second connector portion; wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable and/or adjustable so as to vary the distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a connector for connecting two building elements.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

During their lifetime, buildings experience forces from the environment, such as weather systems, which cause relative movement between the floors of the building. Tall buildings and buildings located in certain climates are particularly susceptible to these environmental forces, such as strong winds. Additionally, a crowd of people moving about on an upper floor of a building may cause the upper floor to move slightly in relation to the floor/s below.
The loads experienced by the building can be transferred between floors of the building by the wall partitions. As such, the floor-wall and wall-ceiling connections are placed under load by these external forces.
While buildings may be designed to accommodate moderate forces so that they are structurally sound, known building systems are not designed to mitigate unwanted consequences of movement between floors of the building. As such, unwanted noise, such as creaking occurs when the building system experiences, for example, strong winds.
Additionally, floor-wall and ceiling-wall connections comprise building elements, such as channels, which are manufactured in a variety of sizes and dimensions depending on the application. As such, there are challenges in providing a connection which can be integrated with building elements of different sizes.
Objects and aspects of the present invention seek to alleviate at least these problems with the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for connecting two building elements, the connector comprising; a first connector portion for abutting a first surface of a first building element; a second connector portion for abutting a second surface of a first building element; wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion substantially oppose one another; the connector further comprising an intermediate portion located between the first connector portion and the second connector portion; wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable and/or adjustable so as to vary the distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion.
The connector is configured to be inserted between the first surface and second surface of a building element so as to connect to the building element. The intermediate portion is deformable and/or adjustable such that the distance between the first connector portion and second connector portion can be modified to suit the dimensions of the building element in which the connector is to be inserted. Advantageously, an adaptable, versatile connector is provided. In particular, the connector is adaptable to the width of the building element, the width being the distance between the first surface and second surface of the building element.
The connector is also configured to be inserted into a second building element. In this way, the connector is configured to couple the first building element to the second building element. The resiliently deformable intermediate portion allows the connector to absorb forces experienced by the first or second building element, and further permits moderate motion between the building elements.
In the prior art, connectors are configured to be in contact with each building element such that the stick/slip phenomenon occurs. Forces build up between the surface of the connector and the surface of the building element which, when overcome, releases energy as unwanted noise when the connector and building element 'slip' against one another.
The connector of the present invention inhibits the stick/slip phenomenon from occurring by permitting the absorption of some of the forces experienced by the building elements into the intermediate portion, thereby reducing 'stick' and preventing unwanted energy release leading to noise due to 'slipping'. The resiliently deformable connector of the present invention provides a greater degree of movement compared to the single axial movement along the longitudinal axis of the connector known in the art. The present invention provides a deformable or adjustable connector for connecting two building elements, such as a connector coupling a wall partition to a ceiling system or floor system.
In this way, the unwanted effects of movement between floors of a building, such as undesired creaking noises, are mitigated. Occupants of multi-floor buildings can find the noises made by the building as it moves under strong winds to be disconcerting or alarming. In this way, the connector improves the wellbeing and perceived safety of the building occupants.
Advantageously, the motion caused by a crowd of people occupying the floor of a building, such as when occupants of a party are jumping or dancing in unison, is absorbed, in part, by the resiliently deformable intermediate portion of the connector. Further, the undesired effects of motion caused by strong winds, such as due to the strain on known couplings of wall partitions and ceilings, are mitigated.
Preferably, when the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable, the intermediate portion comprises an undeformed position, wherein no deforming force is placed on the intermediate portion. Alternatively or additionally, when the intermediate portion is resiliently adjustable, the intermediate portion comprises an unadjusted position wherein adjustment to reduce the distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion has not occurred. In some embodiments, the intermediate portion is biased to the undeformed and/or unadjusted position. In embodiments wherein the connector is not formed of an integral part, it is understood that the unadjusted position is the position in which the parts of the connector are joined such that the width of the connector is at a maximum.
Preferably, when the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable, the intermediate portion further comprises at least one deformed position, wherein, a deforming force is present on the intermediate portion. Preferably, in the at least one deformed position, a distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion is less than and/or greater than the distance when the intermediate portion is in the undeformed position, and/or the position of the first connector portion has moved relative to the position of the second connector portion in the undeformed position. In this way, the shape of the intermediate portion is resiliently modified.
Alternatively or additionally, the intermediate portion comprises at least one adjusted position, wherein a distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion is less than a distance when the intermediate portion is in the unadjusted position, and/or the position of the first connector portion has moved relative to the position of the second connector portion in the unadjusted position.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable and/or adjustable in a first direction. Preferably, the first direction comprises a positive first direction and an opposing negative first direction. Preferably, the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in the positive second direction and the negative second direction. It is understood that the first, second and third directions of the first aspect correspond to the first, second and third directions of the second aspect of the invention. In particular, the third direction projects parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector and the second direction is perpendicular to both the first and third directions.
Preferably, the first connector portion comprises an outer wall configured to abut the first surface of a building element and the second connector portion comprises an outer wall configured to abut the second surface of a building element, wherein the distance between the outer walls in the first direction defines the width of the connector. Preferably, the outer walls are planar to the third direction.
In some embodiments, when the intermediate portion is in the undeformed or unadjusted position, the width of the connector is from 60 to 80 mm. Preferably, when the intermediate portion is in the undeformed or unadjusted position, the width of the connector is from 65 to 85 mm. In some embodiments, when the intermediate portion is in the undeformed or unadjusted position, the width of the connector is 70 mm.
In some embodiments, when the intermediate portion is in a first deformed or first adjusted position, the width of the connector in the first direction is 40 to 60 mm.
Preferably, when the intermediate portion is in a first deformed or first adjusted position, the width of the connector in the first direction is 45 to 50 mm. In some embodiments, when the intermediate portion is in a first deformed or first adjusted position, the width of the connector in the first direction is 48 mm. Preferably, the first deformed or first adjusted position is the position wherein the width of the connector is at a minimum.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion is configured to deform and/or adjust by between 5 mm and 30 mm in the first direction. Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform and/or adjust by between 10 mm and 25 mm in the first direction.
Preferably, the intermediate portion comprises an aperture. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the aperture is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector. More preferably, the longitudinal axis of the aperture is parallel to the third direction. In this way, the aperture inhibits deformation of the intermediate portion in the third direction. Further, there is open space within the intermediate portion to promote deformation in the second and first directions. As such, deformation in the second and first directions is facilitated by the aperture. Additionally, wiring, cables or other equipment may be inserted and housed within the aperture.
Preferably, a cross section of the aperture comprises a diamond, circle, oval or ellipse. Preferably, the cross-section of the aperture is constant along the length of the aperture. Preferably, the diamond, circle, oval or ellipse cross-section is coaxial to the longitudinal axis of the connector. Preferably, the intermediate portion is substantially symmetrical about a plane located along the longitudinal axis of the connector.
Alternatively, the intermediate portion comprises a chamber or enclosed cavity. In this way, the open space of the chamber within the intermediate portion promotes resilient deformation in the second and first directions in a similar manner as the continuous aperture.
In some embodiments, the first connector portion comprises a rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the second connector portion comprises a rectangular cross-section.
In some embodiments, the first connector portion and/or second connector portion comprise additional retention means configured to better retain the first connector portion and/or second connector portion in the first surface of the first building element and/or second surface of the first building element, respectively. For example, the first connector portion and/or second connector portion may comprise screw apertures configured to house a screw. As such, the connector can be fixed to the first building element via screws or similar means. Alternatively or additionally, the first connector portion and/or second connector portion comprise at least one rib located on a building element facing surface. In this way, the at least one rib reduces slipping of the first connector portion and/or second connector portion relative to the first surface of a first building element and/or second surface of a first building element, respectively.
Preferably, the connector is configured to be inserted into at least one channel. Preferably, the connector is configured to be inserted into at least one C-shaped channel. Alternatively, the at least one channel is U-shaped. Alternatively, the at least one channel is I-shaped. Preferably, the at least one channel is a channel in a wall partition. Alternatively, the at least one channel is a channel in a ceiling system or floor system. Preferably, the at least one channel comprises metal. It is understood that a channel is a type of building element and the term channel encompasses, for example, studs in vertical framing elements and tracks in floor or ceiling elements. In preferred embodiments, the connector is configured to connect two building elements in a partition wall system.
As outlined above, preferably, the connector is configured to be inserted into a first building element and a second building element. Preferably, the first building element and a second building element each comprise a channel. For example, the first building element may comprise a C-shaped channel in a stud vertical framing element and the second building element may comprise a U-shaped channel in a track of a ceiling or floor element.
Preferably, the connector comprises a first end distal to a second end. Preferably, the first end is configured to connect to a first building element and the second end is configured to connect to a second building element. Alternatively, the first end is configured to connect to a second building element and the second end is configured to connect to a first building element.
Preferably, the first connector portion comprises a slit. Preferably, the second connector portion comprises a slit. More preferably, the first connector portion comprises a slit and the second connector portion comprise a slit. The slit provides a gap into which a portion of a building element may be inserted. Preferably, the slit/s divide the first connector portion and/or second connector portion such that the first connector portion and/or second connector portion are configured to resiliently deform about the slit. In this way, a portion of a building element is better accommodated within the slit. Preferably, the slit/s are located along a longitudinal axis of the first connector portion and/or second connector portion. Preferably, the slit/s are parallel to the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the slits project in the third direction. In this way, the slit facilitates insertion of the connector into an I-shaped channel. The slit does not inhibit or affect the ability for the connector to be inserted into other shape channels, such as C-shaped or U-shaped, wherein no portion of the building element is configured to be inserted into the slit/s.
Preferably, the first connector portion and second connector portion comprise a projection portion projecting from an outer surface of the intermediate portion, wherein the slits are located in the projection portion. Preferably, the projection portion projects in the third direction. Preferably, the second end of the connector comprises the projection portion. In this way, a portion of a building element can be accommodated within the slit without obstruction from the intermediate portion. Preferably, the slit of the first connector portion is identical to the slit of the second connector portion.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to be resiliently deformable and/or adjustable such that the distance between the first connector portion and second connector portion varies along the length of the intermediate portion. Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform variably along the longitudinal axis of the connector in the first direction. For example, in the first direction, the distance between the first connector portion and second connector portion at the first end of the connector may be less than the distance between the first connector portion and second connector portion at the second end of the connector due to greater deformation of the intermediate portion at the first end.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to be resiliently deformable and/or adjustable such that the distance between the first connector portion and second connector portion is constant along the length of the intermediate portion. In this way, the first connector portion and second connector portion can remain parallel to one another when the intermediate portion is deformed and/or adjusted.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion comprises an inflatable member. Preferably, inflation of the inflatable member increases the width of the intermediate portion. Preferably, deflation of the inflatable member decreases the width of the intermediate portion. More preferably, inflation of the inflatable member increases the width of the intermediate portion and deflation of the inflatable member decreases the width of the intermediate portion. For example, the inflatable member may comprise a balloon, bag or other pneumatically or fluidly operated means for modifying the width of the intermediate portion using air or other fluid.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion comprises an adjustable bolt. Preferably, the adjustable bolt comprises a screw jack. In this way, the width of the connector can be adjusted via rotation of the screw or bolt.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion comprises a resiliently stretchable and compressible mesh. In this way, the width of the connector can be adjusted by stretching and compressing the mesh in a concertina-style action.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion comprises a pair of complementary-shaped parts. For example, the intermediate portion may comprise two triangular parts, wherein each triangular part is configured to slide against the other such that the width of the connector can be adjusted.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion comprises a first member connected to the first connector portion and a second member connected to the second connector portion, wherein the first member comprises at least one engagement protrusion and the second member comprises at least one engagement cavity configured to removably retain the at least one engagement protrusion. Preferably, the first member comprises a plurality of engagement protrusions and the second member comprises an equal number of engagement cavities to the number of engagement protrusions.
Preferably, wherein the longitudinal axis of the at least one engagement protrusion is parallel to the first direction. In this way, the at least one engagement protrusion projects in the first direction. Preferably, the width of the connector is variable between a plurality of discrete values. In this way, the width of the connector can be deformed and/or adjusted at predetermined increments. Alternatively, the width of the connector is continuously variable. In this way, the width of the connector can be deformed and/or adjusted to the precise width required for the application.
In some embodiments, the intermediate portion is resiliently adjustable in the first direction and is inhibited from resiliently deforming and/or adjusting in the third direction and second direction. In this one, the connector is permitted to deform and/or adjust in a single plane of motion.
Preferably, the connector comprises plastic. Building elements typically comprise metal and therefore the stick/slip phenomenon is inhibited due to the dissimilar materials at the point of contact of the connector with the building element.
Unless outlined as alternatives, it is appreciated that one or more preferable features of the first aspect of the invention may be combined.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for connecting two building elements, the connector comprising; a first portion for connection to a first building element, a second portion for connection to a second building element; and an intermediate portion located between the first portion and the second portion; wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable.
The resiliently deformable intermediate portion allows the connector to absorb forces experienced by the first or second building element, and further permits moderate motion between the building elements. In the prior art, connectors are configured to be in contact with each building element such that the stick/slip phenomenon occurs. Forces build up between the surface of the connector and the surface of the building element which, when overcome, releases energy as unwanted noise when the connector and building element 'slip' against one another.
The connector of the present invention inhibits the stick/slip phenomenon from occurring by permitting the absorption of some of the forces experienced by the building elements into the intermediate portion, thereby reducing 'stick' and preventing unwanted energy release leading to noise due to 'slipping'. The resiliently deformable connector of the present invention provides a greater degree of movement compared to the single axial movement along the longitudinal axis of the connector known in the art.
In this way, the unwanted effects of movement between floors of a building, such as undesired creaking noises, are mitigated. Occupants of multi-floor buildings can find the noises made by the building as it moves under strong winds to be disconcerting or alarming. In this way, the connector improves the wellbeing and perceived safety of the building occupants.
Advantageously, the motion caused by a crowd of people occupying the floor of a building, such as when occupants of a party are jumping or dancing in unison, is absorbed, in part, by the resiliently deformable intermediate portion of the connector. Further, the undesired effects of motion caused by strong winds, such as due to the strain on known couplings of wall partitions and ceilings, are mitigated. The present invention therefore provides an improved connector for connecting two building elements, such as a connector coupling a wall partition to a ceiling system or floor system.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in a third direction, wherein the third direction is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector. Considering the axial or transverse plane of the connector, the third direction is preferably perpendicular to the axial plane. Preferably, the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in a positive third direction and a negative third direction. Considering the third direction as an axis on a graph, the 'positive' third direction is understood to be the opposing direction to the 'negative' third direction. The positive third direction is understood to be the direction under which, when a tension force is applied in said direction, the deformation of the intermediate portion is positive i.e. under tension the length of the intermediate portion in the third direction increases. The negative third direction is understood to be the direction under which, when a compressive force is applied in said direction, the deformation of the intermediate portion is negative i.e. under compression the length of the intermediate portion in the third direction decreases.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in a second direction, wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector. Considering the coronal or frontal plane of the connector, the second direction is preferably perpendicular to the frontal plane. Preferably, the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in a positive second direction and a negative second direction. Considering the second direction as an axis on a graph, the 'positive' second direction is understood to be the opposing direction to the 'negative' second direction. In one example, the positive second direction may be right and the negative second direction may be left.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is inhibited from deforming in a first direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector. Considering the sagittal or longitudinal plane of the connector, the first direction is perpendicular to the sagittal plane. Preferably, the intermediate portion is inhibited from deforming in a positive first direction and a negative first direction. Considering the first direction as an axis on a graph, the 'positive' first direction is understood to be the opposing direction to the 'negative' first direction.
As the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in both the second and third directions, the intermediate portion may twist or roll slightly about its longitudinal axis, thereby absorbing twisting, rolling and compression forces placed on the connector by the first or second building element. In this way, the connector is configured to act as a deflection head. As the intermediate portion is inhibited from deforming in a first direction, unwanted motion in a third plane is supressed.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ±50 mm in the third direction. It is understood that ± indicates that the intermediate portion may deform, for example, 50 mm in the positive third direction and 50 mm in the negative third direction, such that a total deformation of 100 mm is permitted. More preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ±40 mm. Stil more preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ± 25 mm.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ±25 mm in the second direction. It is understood that ± indicates that the intermediate portion may deform, for example, 25 mm in the positive first direction and 25 mm in the negative first direction, such that a total deformation of 50 mm is permitted. More preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ±15 mm in the second direction. Still more preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ±8 mm in the second direction.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform less than ±2 mm in the first direction. More preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform less than ±1 mm in a first direction. Still more preferably, the intermediate portion is configured to deform less than ±0.5 mm in a first direction. It is understood that ± indicates that the intermediate portion may deform, for example, 2 mm in the positive first direction and 2 mm in the negative first direction, such that a total deformation of 4 mm is permitted. In this way, the connector inhibits motion of the first building element relative to the second building element in the first direction. As such, forces applied to the first or second building element in the first direction are better absorbed by the intermediate portion.
Preferably, the first portion is configured to be inserted into a channel. Preferably, the connector is configured to be inserted into at least one C-shaped channel. Alternatively, the at least one channel is U-shaped. Alternatively, the at least one channel is I-shaped. Preferably, the at least one channel is a channel in a wall partition. Alternatively, the at least one channel is a channel in a ceiling system or floor system. Preferably, the at least one channel comprises metal. It is understood that a channel is a type of building element and the term channel encompasses, for example, studs in vertical framing elements and tracks in floor or ceiling elements. In preferred embodiments, the connector is configured to connect two building elements in a partition wall system.
Preferably, the first portion is configured to be inserted into a channel with an interference fit. Preferably, the first portion comprises one or more ribs. Preferably, the first portion comprises a plurality of concentric ribs. In this way, an improved interference fit can be provided between the first portion and the first building element.
Preferably, the second portion is configured to be inserted into a channel. Preferably, the connector is configured to be inserted into at least one C-shaped channel. Alternatively, the at least one channel is U-shaped. Alternatively, the at least one channel is I-shaped. Preferably, the at least one channel is a channel in a wall partition. Alternatively, the at least one channel is a channel in a ceiling system or floor system. Preferably, the at least one channel comprises metal. It is understood that a channel is a type of building element and the term channel encompasses, for example, studs in vertical framing elements and tracks in floor or ceiling elements. In preferred embodiments, the connector is configured to connect two building elements in a partition wall system.
Preferably, the second portion is configured to be inserted into a channel with an interference fit. Preferably, the second portion comprises one or more ribs. Preferably, the second portion comprises a plurality of concentric ribs. In this way, an improved interference fit can be provided between the second portion and the second building element. As such, the first portion and second portion of the connector are configured to more securely couple the first building element to the second building element.
Preferably, the intermediate portion is substantially symmetrical about a first axis. Preferably, the intermediate portion is substantially symmetrical about a first axis parallel to the third direction, and a second axis parallel to the second direction. Preferably, the first portion is substantially symmetrical about the first axis. Preferably, the second portion is substantially symmetrical about the first axis.
Preferably, the intermediate portion comprises an aperture. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the aperture is parallel to the first direction. In this way, the aperture inhibits deformation of the intermediate portion in the first direction. Further, there is open space within the intermediate portion to improve deformation in the third direction. Additionally, deformation in the second direction is facilitated by the aperture.
Preferably, a cross section of the aperture comprises a diamond, circle, oval or ellipse. Preferably, the cross-section of the aperture is constant along the length of the aperture. Preferably, the diamond, circle, oval or ellipse cross-section is coaxial to the first direction.
Preferably, the first portion, second portion and intermediate portion are integrally formed. In this way, the connector is formed from a single piece of material. Preferably, the integrally formed first portion, second portion and intermediate portion are formed of plastic. As such, the connector may be stronger, and forces can be better transferred from the first and second portion to the intermediate portion. Further, the connector may be easier to manufacture.
Preferably, the connector is configured to be manufactured using additive manufacturing. For example, the connector can be 3D-printed. Alternatively, the connector is configured to be manufactured using plastic extrusion; plastic extrusion and injection blow moulding; injection moulding; rotational moulding; vacuum casting; thermoforming; vacuum forming; or compression moulding.
Preferably, the first portion comprises at least one aperture, cavity or recess. Preferably, the second portion comprises at least one aperture, cavity or recess. In this way, the volume of material required to form the first portion and/or second portion is reduced, leading to a reduction in weight of the connector. Further, the aperture, cavity or recess can enable the first portion and/or second portion to be better inserted into the first and second building elements, respectively. Additionally, the connector is better suited to manufacture by additive manufacturing techniques.
Preferably, the depth of the first portion is different to the depth of the second portion. In this way, the first portion and second portion are better configured to connect to first and second building elements, respectively. Alternatively, the second portion is configured to be inserted into a first building element and the first building portion is configured to be inserted into the second building element. In this way, the connector can be orientated in either orientation. Preferably, the first portion comprises a rectangular cross-section. Preferably, the second portion comprises a rectangular cross-section. It is appreciated that the size and shape of the first portion and second portion may be determined by the shape of the first and second building elements, respectively.
In some embodiments, the first portion and/or second portion comprise additional retention means configured to better retain the first portion and/or second portion in the first building element and/or second building element, respectively. For example, the first portion and/or second portion may comprise screw apertures configured to house a screw. As such, the connector can be fixed to the building elements via screws or similar means.
Unless outlined as alternatives, it is appreciated that one or more preferable features of the second aspect of the invention may be combined in one or more embodiments of the present invention.
Embodiments of the invention falling within the scope of both the first aspect of the invention and the second aspect of the invention are envisaged. In particular, the connector of the second aspect of the invention may comprise; a first connector portion for abutting a first surface of a first building element; a second connector portion for abutting a second surface of a first building element; wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion substantially oppose one another; the connector further comprising an intermediate portion located between the first connector portion and the second connector portion; wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable and/or adjustable so as to vary the distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion.
It is understood that one or more preferable features of the first aspect of the invention may be combined with the connector of the second aspect of the invention. It is also understood that one or more preferable features of the second aspect of the invention may be combined with the connector of the first aspect of the invention.
In particular, the intermediate portion of a connector according to the second aspect of the invention may preferably comprise a first aperture, the longitudinal axis of the first aperture being parallel to the first direction. Preferably, the intermediate portion further comprises a second aperture, wherein the longitudinal axis of the second aperture is parallel to the third direction. In this way, a pair of perpendicular apertures are provided in the connector such that the connector may better twist or roll slightly about its longitudinal axis, thereby better absorbing the twisting, rolling and compression forces placed on the connector by the first or second building element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the following figures:

Figure 1 depicts a perspective view of a connector for connecting two building elements according to the first aspect of the present invention, the connector in connection with an I-shaped building element;
Figure 2 depicts a further view of the connector of Figure 1, the connector in connection with a C-shaped building element;
Figure 3 depicts a second embodiment of a connector according to the first aspect of the invention;
Figure 4 depicts a view of the connector of Figure 3 in an unadjusted position; and
Figure 5 depicts a view of the connector of Figure 3 in a first adjusted position;
Figure 6 depicts a front view of a connector for connecting two building elements of the second aspect of the present invention, the plane of the page being parallel to the frontal plane of the connector;
Figure 7 depicts a perspective view of the connector of Figure 6;
Figures 8A and 8B depict further views of the connector of Figure 6;
Figure 9 depicts a second embodiment of a connector according to the second aspect of the invention;
Figure 10 depicts a third embodiment of a connector according to the second aspect of the invention;
Figure11 depicts the connector of Figure 10 experiencing deformation under load in the third direction;
Figure 12 depicts the connector of Figure 10 experiencing deformation under load in the second direction;
Figure 13 depicts the connector of Figure 10 experiencing deformation under load in the first and second directions;
Figure 14 depicts a connector falling within the scope of both the first aspect of the invention and the second aspect of the invention; and
Figure 15 depicts a second embodiment of a connector falling within the scope of both the first aspect of the invention and the second aspect of the invention.

With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a first embodiment of a connector 1000 according to the second aspect of the present invention is illustrated. In Figure 1 the connector 1000 is shown in connection with an I-shaped first building element 1005 and in Figure 2 the connector 1000 is shown in connection with a C-shaped first building element 1005' and a U-shaped second building element 1010.
With reference to Figure 1, the connector 1000 comprises a first connector portion 1015 for abutting a first surface 1001 of a first building element 1005 and a second connector portion 1020 for abutting a second surface 1002 of a first building element 1005. The first connector portion 1015 and the second connector portion 1020 each comprise a planar plate, wherein the two planar plates substantially oppose one another. The connector 1000 further comprises an intermediate portion 1025 located between the first connector portion 1015 and the second connector portion 1020 and the intermediate portion 1025 is resiliently deformable so as to vary the distance D between the first connector portion 1015 and the second connector portion 1020.
The intermediate portion 1025 is resiliently deformable in a first direction X, wherein the first direction X is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L' of the connector 1000 and is parallel to the minimum distance between the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020. The first direction is perpendicular to an abutting surface (not pictured) of the first connector portion 1015 and perpendicular to an abutting surface 1050 of the second connector portion 1025. The abutting surfaces 1050 of the first and second connector portions 1015, 1025 are configured to directly contact the first surface 1001 and second surface 1002, respectively, when the connector 1000 is housed within the first building element 1005. The abutting surfaces 1050 may be considered the exterior surfaces of the first and second connector portions 1015, 1025.
The intermediate portion 1025 comprises an aperture 1030 wherein the longitudinal axis of the aperture 1030 extends along a third direction Z, wherein the third direction Z is parallel to the longitudinal axis L' of the connector 1000. The cross-section of the aperture 1030 is circular when the intermediate portion 1025 is in the undeformed position. The cross-section of the aperture 1030 is configured to vary as the intermediate portion is deformed. In this embodiment, a deformed circular or oval cross-section may be formed when the intermediate portion 1025 is, for example, compressed. The open space within the aperture 1030 enables deformation of the intermediate portion 1025 in the first direction X.
The intermediate portion 1025 comprises a cylindrical tube defining the aperture 1030. The intermediate portion 1025 is directly fixed to the first connector portion 1015 and directly fixed to the second connector portion 1025 such that forces on the first and second connector portions 1015, 1020 may be transferred to the intermediate portion 1025. The thickness of the cylindrical tube defining the aperture 1030 is less than the thickness of each first and second connector portion 1015, 1025. As the first and second connector portions 1015, 1025 are relatively more rigid compared to the intermediate portion 1025, the intermediate portion 1025 is configured to deform and therefore absorb the forces experienced by the first and second connector portions 1015, 1020.
The first direction X comprises a positive first direction X⁺ and an opposing negative first direction X- and the intermediate portion 1025 is configured to deform in the positive first direction X⁺ and opposing negative first direction X^-. When a compressive force is applied to the first connector portion 1015 in the positive first direction X⁺ and/or a compressive force is applied to the second connector portion 1020 in the negative first direction X^-, the distance D between the first and second connector portions 1015, 1020 decreases. Similarly, if a tensile force is applied to the first connector portion 1015 in the negative first direction X- and/or a tensile force is applied to the second connector portion 1020 in the positive first direction X⁺, the distance D between the first and second connector portions 1015, 1020 increases. As such, the width of the connector 1000 can be modified by applying a force to the connector 1000 in the first direction X.
The connector 1000 is configured to deform in a second direction Y. The second direction Y comprises a positive second direction Y⁺ and an opposing negative second direction Y^- and the intermediate portion 1025 is configured to deform in the positive second direction Y⁺ and opposing negative second direction Y^-. When a force is applied to the first connector portion 1015 in the positive second direction Y⁺ and/or a force is applied to the second connector portion 1020 in the negative second direction Y^-, the first and second connector portions 1015, 1020 are configured to move relative to one another such that the intermediate portion 1025 experiences a shear force. Similarly, if a force is applied to the first connector portion 1015 in the negative second direction Y^- and/or a force is applied to the second connector portion 1020 in the positive second direction Y⁺, the first and second connector portions 1015, 1020 are configured to move relative to one another such that the intermediate portion 1025 experiences a shear force. As such, the aperture 1030 permits deformation of the intermediate portion 1025 in the second direction Y.
The connector 1000 is inhibited from deforming in a third direction Z. The third direction Z comprises a positive third direction Z⁺ and an opposing negative third direction Z^- and the intermediate portion 1025 is not configured to deform in the positive third direction Z⁺ or the negative third direction Z^-. In part, the orientation of the aperture 1030 inhibits motion of the first connector portions 1015 relative to the second connector portion 1020 under shear forces and also inhibits compression of the intermediate portion 1025. As such, undesirable deformation of the connector 1000 in the third direction Z is prevented.
With reference to Figure 2, to insert the connector 1000 into a channel, such as a C-shaped channel of the first building element 1005', the intermediate portion 1025 is configured to be deformed such that the distance between the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020 is less than the width of the channel into which the connector 1000 is to be partially inserted. In Figure 2, the connector is schematically illustrated under such a deforming compressive force. The deforming force on the intermediate portion 1025 can then be removed when the connector 1000 is in position. The intermediate portion 1025 returns towards an undeformed position when the deformation force is removed, until the first connector portion 1015 abuts the first surface 1001 of the first building element 1005' and the second connector portion 1020 abuts the second surface 1002 of the first building element 1005'. The first surface 1001 and second surface 1002 are opposing interior surfaces of the first building element 1005'.
The intermediate portion 1025 is biased to the undeformed position and this biasing force ensures the connector 1000 remains in contact with the first and second surfaces 1001, 1002 of the channel. In this way, the connector 1000 is housed within the channel with an artificially produced interference fit. The interference fit prohibits the connector 1000 sliding relative to the first and second surfaces 1001, 1002 of the channel.
Alternatively, to insert the connector 1000 into the channel, the connector 1000 is configured to be inserted into the channel and rotated 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the connector 1000 such that the first connector portion 1015 abuts the first surface 1001 of the channel and the second connector portion 1020 abuts the second surface 1002 of the connector. The intermediate portion 1025 is configured to deform such that the distance D between the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020 decreases and the connector 1000 can be accommodated in the channel during rotation. In this way, the connector 1000 is configured to be inserted into the channel with a rotation-fit.
The connector 1000 further comprises a linear first slit (not pictured) located in the first connector portion 1015 and a linear second slit 1035 located in the second connector portion 1020. The slits 1035 are substantially identical to one another and are each located along a longitudinal axis of the first connector portion 1015 and the second connector portion 1020. The slits 35 project in the third direction Z.
The first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020 comprise a projection portion 1040 projecting from an outer surface 1045 of the intermediate portion 1025. The slits 1035 are located in the projection portion 1040 and do not intersect any region of the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 102 in contact with the intermediate portion 1025.
The slits 1035 provide a gap into which a portion of the first building element 1005 can be inserted. With reference to Figure 1, to insert the connector 1000 into a channel, such as an I-shaped channel of the first building element 1005, the central portion of the I-shaped channel can be inserted into the slit of the first connector portion 1015 and the slit 1035 of the second connector portion 1020. The distance D between the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020 can be decreased by compressing the intermediate portion 1035 in the first direction X, such that the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020 are narrower than the width of the channel. The connector 1000 can then be inserted into the channel and, as illustrated in Figure 1, when the connector 1000 is fully inserted into the I-shaped channel, the central portion of the I-shaped channel fully occupies the slits 1035.
The compression force on the intermediate portion 1025 in the first direction X can then be removed such that, because the intermediate portion 1025 is biased to an undeformed position, the distance D between the first connector portion 1015 and second connector portion 1020 increases until the first connector portion 1015 abuts the first surface 1001 of the first building element 1005 and the second connector portion 1020 abuts the second surface 1002 of the first building element 1005. An interference fit is therefore provided.
With reference to Figures 3 to 5, a second embodiment of a connector 2000 according to the second aspect of the invention is illustrated. The connector 2000 comprises a first connector portion 2015 for abutting a first surface of a first building element (not pictured) and a second connector portion 2020 for abutting a second surface of a first building element (not pictured). The first connector portion 2015 and the second connector portion 1220 each comprise a planar portion comprising an abutting surface 2050 configured to directly contact the first and second surfaces of the first building element, wherein the two planar portions substantially oppose one another when the connector 2000 is in an unadjusted position, as illustrated in Figure 4.
The connector 2000 further comprises an intermediate portion 2025 located between the first connector portion 1015 and the second connector portion 2020 and the intermediate portion 2025 is resiliently adjustable so as to allow the user to vary the distance D', D" between the first connector portion 2015 and the second connector portion 2020. In this embodiment, the connector 2000 comprises an unadjusted position shown in Figure 4 and a first adjusted position shown in Figure 5, wherein in the first adjusted position the distance D" between the first and second connector portions 2015, 2020 is less than the distance D between the first and second connector portions 2015, 2020 in the unadjusted position.
The intermediate portion 2025 comprises a first member 2055 connected to the first connector portion 2015 and a second member 2060 connected to the second connector portion 2020. A portion of the first and second members 2055, 2060 project away from the first and second connector portions 2015, 2020 in the second direction and a portion of the first and second members 2055, 2060 project away from the first and second connector portions 2015, 2020 in the third direction. The first member 2055 comprises three engagement protrusions 2065 and the second member 2060 comprises three engagement cavities 2070, each engagement cavity 2070 is configured to removably retain one of the three engagement protrusions 2065.
Each engagement protrusion projects in a direction parallel to a first direction X and perpendicular to the abutting surfaces 2050 of the first connector portion 2015 and the second connector portion 2020 when the connector 2000 is in the unadjusted position and the first adjusted position. The first direction X of the embodiment of Figures 3-3 is equivalent to the first direction X of the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2. The longitudinal axis of each engagement cavity 2070 is also parallel to the first direction X and perpendicular to the abutting surfaces 2050 of the first connector portion 2015 and the second connector portion 2020 when the connector 2000 is in the unadjusted position and the first adjusted position. In this way, each engagement cavity 2070 is complimentary to the respective engagement protrusion 2065 configured to be housed within it.
Each engagement protrusion 2065 comprises a head 2080 and the width of the engagement protrusion 2065 widens at the head 2080. The width of each engagement cavity 2070 is less than the maximum width of the head 2080 of the respective engagement protrusion 2065. In this way, each engagement protrusion 2065 cannot fit within the respective engagement cavity 2070 until a deforming force is placed on the walls to widen the engagement cavity 2070. In this way, the walls of the engagement cavity 2070 are configured to resiliently deform to allow insertion of the engagement protrusion 2065 into the engagement cavity 2070. The walls of the engagement cavity 2070 are biased to an undeformed position.
Each engagement cavity 2070 comprises a first head accommodating portion 2075' and a second head accommodating portion 2075". The width of the engagement cavity 2070 increases at the first and second head accommodating portions 2075', 2075" to allow the head 2080 of the engagement protrusion 2065 to be housed within the head accommodating portion 2075', 2075". The engagement cavity 2070 narrows to a neck 2085 on either side of the first head accommodating portion 2075'.
The intermediate portion 2025 comprises two discrete parts, the first member 2055 and the second member 2060, which may be entirely removed from one another. To place the connector 2000 in the unadjusted position (Figure 4), the head 2080 of each engagement protrusion 2065 must be pushed into the first head accommodating portion 2075' which an adequate force to resiliently deform the walls of the engagement cavity 2070 and widen the engagement cavity 2070 at the neck 2085.
Once in the unadjusted position, the neck 2080 inhibits removal of the head 2080 from the first head accommodating portion 2075'. A sufficient force is required to resiliently deform the walls of the engagement cavity 2070, such as an intentional user force on the engagement protrusion 2065 to push the engagement protrusion 2065 further into the engagement cavity 2070, or to pull the engagement protrusion 2065 out of the engagement cavity 2070. As such, the connector 2000 is configured to inhibit accidental adjustment of the distance D', D" between the first connector portion 2015 and the second connector portion 2020, such as under the normal forces experienced by the connector 2000 when connected to a first and second building element.
When the user applies an adequate force on the engagement protrusion 2065 to resiliently deform the walls of the engagement cavity 2070 and push the head 2080 past the neck 2085 of the engagement cavity 2070, the head 2080 can be passed through the portion of the engagement cavity 2070 separating the first and second head accommodating portions 2075', 2075". The head 2080 can then be housed within the second head accommodating portion 2075" and the connector 2000 is placed in the first adjusted position, as illustrated in Figure 5. Similarly, the engagement protrusion 2065 can be pulled out of the second head accommodating portion 2075" with adequate force to resiliently deform a neck 2085 adjacent to the second head accommodating portion 2075". The connector 2080 can therefore be pulled back into the unadjusted position, or the first member 2055 and second member 2060 can be entirely separated from one another.
In this way, the width of the connector 2000 is variable between a plurality of discrete values. The number of head accommodating portions 2075', 2075" is equal to the number of positions in which the connector can be removably retained. Therefore, the connector 2000 is configured to be adjustable to a plurality of discrete widths. As such, the distance D', D" between the first connector portion 2015 and the second connector portion 2020 can be adjusted such that the abutting surfaces 2050 are configured to directly contact the first and second surfaces of the first building element with an interference fit.
The first direction X comprises a positive first direction X⁺ and an opposing negative first direction X^- and the intermediate portion 1025 is configured to adjust in the positive first direction X⁺ and the opposing negative first direction X^-. When a pulling force is applied to the first member 2055 in the positive first direction X⁺ and/or a pulling force is applied to the second member 2060 in the negative first direction X^-, the distance D'. D" between the first and second members 2055, 2060 increases. Similarly, if a pushing force is applied to the first member 2055 in the negative first direction X^- and/or a pushing force is applied to the second member 2060 in the positive first direction X⁺, the distance D', D" between the first and second members 2055, 2060 decreases. As such, the width of the connector 2000 can be modified by applying a force to the connector 2000 in the first direction X.
The connector 2000 is inhibited from deforming in a second direction Y. The second direction comprises a positive second direction and an opposing negative second direction (not pictured) and the intermediate portion 2025 is not configured to deform in the positive second direction or the negative second direction. It is understood that the positive second direction projects substantially into the page of Figures 3 to 5 and the negative second direction extends substantially out of the page of Figures 3 to 5. In part, the rigidity of the intermediate portion 2025 and the connection between the engagement protrusions 2065 and engagement cavities 2070 prevents the first member 2055 and second member 2060 from moving relative to one another in the second direction, such as when the first member 2055 and/or second member 2060 experience a shearing force. The rigidity and structure of the intermediate portion 2025 also inhibits compression of the intermediate portion 2025 in the second direction. As such, undesirable deformation of the connector 2000 in the second direction is prevented.
The connector 2000 is inhibited from deforming in a third direction Z. The third direction Z comprises a positive third direction Z⁺ and an opposing negative third direction Z- and the intermediate portion 2025 is not configured to deform in the positive third direction Z⁺ or the negative third direction Z^-. In part, the rigidity of the intermediate portion 2025 and the connection between the engagement protrusions 2065 and engagement cavities 2070 prevents the first member 2055 and second member 2060 from moving relative to one another in the third direction Z, such as when the first member 2055 and/or second member 2060 experience a shearing force. The rigidity and structure of the intermediate portion 2025 also inhibits compression of the intermediate portion 2025 in the third direction Z. As such, undesirable deformation of the connector 2000 in the third direction Z is prevented.
In this way, the connector 2000 desirably permits adjustment in the first direction X only, with minimal to no deformation in the third direction Z or second direction Y.
With reference to Figures 6 to 8, there is depicted a connector 100 for connecting two building elements 105, 110, wherein the connector comprises a first portion 115, a second portion 120 and an intermediate portion 125. The first portion 115 is configured to connect to a first building element 105 and the second portion 120 is configured to connect to a second building element 110, as illustrated in Figure 7.
In this embodiment, both the first building element 105 and second building element 110 are preferably metal channels, and the first portion 115 and second portion 120 are configured to be inserted into each channel, respectively. The first building element 105 is a C-shaped channel for a wall partition and the second building element 110 is a U-shaped channel for a wall partition. In this way, the connector 100 is configured to be connected to two different types of building element.
The first and second portions 115, 120 are configured to be inserted into a channel with an interference fit, such that friction between the first and second portions 115, 120 and each channel inhibits removal of the connector 100 from each channel. Additionally, the first portion 115 comprises a lip 130 to prevent the first portion 115 from being inserted too far into the first building element 105. Similarly, the second portion 120 comprises a lip 130 to prevent the second portion 120 from being inserted too far into the second building element 110. It is envisaged that the second portion 120 may be inserted into the channel and twisted 90 degrees about a longitudinal axis L of the connector 100 such that the second portion 120 is twisted into place within the channel. In some embodiments both the first and second portions 115, 120 may be inserted into the channels and twisted 90 degrees about a longitudinal axis L of the connector 100 such that the first and second portions 115, 120 are twisted into place within the channels.
The intermediate portion 125 is located between the first portion 115 and the second portion 120, such that, when the connector 100 is connected to the building elements 105, 110, the first building element 105 is coupled to the second building element 110 by the connector 100.
The intermediate portion 125 is resiliently deformable. In this way, the resilient portion 125 is configured to deform when a force is applied in at least one direction. When the deforming force is removed, the intermediate portion 125 is configured to return to a neutral position. The intermediate portion 125 is biased to the neutral position, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 7.
As illustrated in Figure 8A, the intermediate portion 125 is resiliently deformable in a third direction Z. The third direction Z is parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the connector 100 and perpendicular to the axial plane of the connector 100. The third direction Z comprises a positive third direction Z⁺ and an opposing negative third direction Z^-. The intermediate portion 125 is configured to deform when a force is placed on the second building element 110 in both the positive third direction Z⁺ and an opposing negative third direction Z^-.
Namely, a force placed on the second building element 110 in the positive third direction Z⁺ will cause the intermediate portion 125 to elongate such that the distance between the first building element 105 and the second building element 110 increases. A force placed on the second building element 110 in the negative third direction Z^-will cause the intermediate portion 125 to compress such that the distance between the first building element 105 and the second building element 110 decreases.
Similarly, the intermediate portion 125 is configured to deform when a force is placed on the first building element 105 in both the positive third direction Z⁺ (in such a case the force applied would compress the intermediate member 125) and the opposing negative third direction Z^- (in such a case the force applied would elongate the intermediate member 125).
For ease of reference, the plane of the page of Figures 6 and 8A is parallel to the frontal plane of the connector 100. The plane lying perpendicular to the page and along the longitudinal axis L of the connector 100 forms the sagittal plane of the connector 100. The plane dissecting the page perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the connector 100 forms the axial plane of the connector 100.
The intermediate portion 125 is also resiliently deformable in a second direction Y, wherein the second direction Y is parallel to the sagittal plane (i.e. in a direction into the page of Figures 6 and 8A. The intermediate portion 125 is configured to deform when a force is placed on the second building element 110 in both a positive second direction Y⁺ and an opposing negative second direction Y^-. For example, the positive second direction Y⁺ may be a rightwards direction and the negative second direction Y^- may be a leftwards direction. It understood the terms right and left are taken relative to the direction shown in the image of Figure 8B and are not limiting to the orientation of the connector 100. Similarly, the intermediate portion 125 is configured to deform when a force is placed on the first building element 105 in both the positive second direction Y⁺ and the opposing negative second direction Y^-.
In both cases, one of the first building element 105 or second building element 110 moves relative to the other, wherein the intermediate portion 125 facilitates this translational motion by deforming under the applied force in direction Y.
Accordingly, the intermediate portion 125 is configured to deform along any vector of a combination of forces applied in the third direction Z and/or second direction Y.
As illustrated in Figure 8A, the intermediate portion 125 is configured to inhibit deformation in a first direction X, wherein the first direction X is parallel to the frontal plane. The first direction X comprises a positive first direction X⁺ and an opposing negative first direction X^-. In this way, when a force is applied to the first building element 105 or second building element 110 in either the positive first direction X⁺ or negative first direction X^-, the intermediate portion 125 inhibits motion of the building elements 105, 110 relative to one another in the first direction X.
Such an effect is achieved, in part, by an aperture 145 located within the intermediate portion 125. The aperture 145 also permits deformation of the intermediate portion 125 in the third direction X and second direction Y. In this embodiment, the aperture 145 comprises a diamond cross-section, wherein the cross-section of the aperture 145 is constant along its length.
The aperture 145 projects through the entire depth of the intermediate portion 125 in the third direction X, namely along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the connector and parallel to the frontal plane. In this way, the aperture 145 projects coaxially to the first direction X, thereby inhibiting deformation of the intermediate portion 125 in the first direction X.
The first portion 115, second portion 120 and intermediate portion 125 are integrally formed from a single piece of plastic. In this embodiment, the connector 100 is configured to be manufactured using additive manufacturing or injection moulding.
The first portion 115 and second portion 120 each comprise a plurality of recesses 135. The recesses 135 are separated by a plurality of walls 140 which run parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the connector 100 and project in the second direction Y. The material content of the connector 100 is therefore reduced and the manufacturing process and final tooling design are therefore simplified. In this way, the weight of the connector 100 is reduced and the connector 100 is better suited to manufacture by injection moulding or additive manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing.
The first portion 115 has a substantially constant rectangular cross-section along its length. Similarly, the second portion 120 has a substantially constant rectangular cross-section along its length. The depth of the first portion 115 is longer than the depth of the second portion 120 to better accommodate insertion and retention into the first building elements 105. It is understood that the size and shape of the first portion 115 and second portion 120 are, in part, determined by the shape of the first and second building elements 105, 110, respectively.
With reference to Figure 9, a second embodiment of a connector 200 for connecting two building elements 205 is illustrated. The connector 200 is substantially identical to the connector 100 of Figures 6 to 8 with the following differences.
A first portion 215 and second portion 220 each comprise a plurality of hexagonal apertures 235. The hexagonal apertures 235 improve the strength of the first portion 215 and second portion 220 when inserted into a first building element 205 and second building element (not pictured), respectively. The hexagonal apertures 235 also improve ease of insertion of the first portion 215 and second portion 220 into the two building elements 205.
An intermediate portion 225 comprises an aperture 245 having an elliptical cross-section when the intermediate portion 225 is in the neutral position and is not under load. The elliptical aperture 245 is connected to the first portion 215 by a pair of struts 250. Similarly, the elliptical aperture 245 is connected to the second portion 220 by a pair of struts 250. The orientation of the elliptical cross-section of the aperture 245 is such that the width of the elliptical aperture 245 in the second direction Y (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector 200) is greater than the height of the elliptical aperture 245 in the third direction Z (parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector 200).
With reference to Figure 10 to 13, a third embodiment of a connector 300 for connecting two building elements 305, 310 is illustrated. The connector 300 is substantially identical to the connector 100 of Figures 6 to 8 with the following differences.
A first portion 315 and second portion 320 each comprise a plurality of concentric ribs 355. The first portion 315 comprises three concentric ribs 255 located equidistant along the length of the first portion 315. Similarly, the second portion 320 comprises three concentric ribs 255 located equidistant along the length of the second portion 330. In this way, there is an improved interference fit between the first portion 315 and a first building element 305 and the second portion 320 and a second building element 310.
An intermediate portion 325 comprises an aperture 345 having a circular cross-section when the intermediate portion 325 is in the non-deformed position and is not under load. The longitudinal axis of the aperture 345 is parallel to the first direction X. As illustrated in Figure 11, the circular aperture 345 is configured to be deformed into an elliptical shape when a force is applied to the first building element 305 in a positive third direction Z⁺ (in such a case the force applied would compress the intermediate member 325) or when a force is applied to the second building element 310 in an opposing negative third direction Z^-. This 'squashing' motion between the first building element 305 and second building element 310 may be desirable to achieve the benefits of the invention.
As described in relation to the first embodiment of the connector 100, the connector 300, the intermediate portion 325 is configured to deform when a force is placed on the second building element 310 in both a positive second direction Y⁺ and an opposing negative second direction Y^-. Similarly, the intermediate portion 325 is configured to deform when a force is placed on the first building element 305 in both the positive second direction Y⁺ and the opposing negative second direction Y^-. This 'rolling' motion between the first building element 305 and second building element 310 may be desirable to achieve the benefits of the invention.
Figure 13 illustrates how a vector force from more than one of the third directions Z⁺, Z^- and second directions Y⁺, Y^- is configured to twist and deform the intermediate portion 325. This 'flexing' motion between the first building element 305 and second building element 310 may be desirable to achieve the benefits of the invention.
With reference to Figure 14, a connector 3000 falling within the scope of the first aspect of the invention and the second aspect of the invention are depicted. The connector 3000 is substantially identical to the connector of Figures 10 to 13, with the following differences. The first, second and first directions X⁺, X^-, Y⁺, Y^-, Z⁺, Z^- referred to in the embodiment of Figures 10 to 13 are employed in the embodiment of Figure 14.
The intermediate portion 3325 comprises a first aperture 3345 having a circular cross-section when the intermediate portion 3325 is in an undeformed position and the connector 3000 is not under load. The longitudinal axis of the first aperture 3345 is parallel to the first direction X. The connector 3000 further comprises a second aperture 3350 located in the first portion 3315, second portion 3320 and intermediate portion 3325. The longitudinal axis of the second aperture 3350 is parallel to the third direction Z. In this way, two uninterrupted, perpendicular apertures 3345, 3350 are present in the connector 3000. The second aperture 3350 comprises a rectangular cross-section.
As, the longitudinal axis of the second aperture 3350 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first aperture 3345, the connector 300 is better configured to roll and twist about its longitudinal axis (the longitudinal axis being parallel to the third direction Z). The first aperture 3345 primarily assists deformation of the intermediate portion 3325 in the positive third direction and negative third direction, and the positive second direction and negative second direction. The second aperture 3350 primarily assists deformation of the intermediate portion in the positive first direction and negative first direction. The advantages of the embodiment of Figures 10 to 13 are therefore achieved.
The first portion 3315 comprises a first connector portion 3015 for abutting a first surface of a first building element and a second connector portion 3020 for abutting a second surface of the first building element. As described in relation to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the intermediate portion 3325 is resiliently deformable so as to vary the distance between the first connector portion 3015 and the second connector portion 3020 in the first direction X. The second aperture 3350 allows the intermediate portion 3325 to deform, such as under the force of a user pinching the first portion 3315 towards the second portion 3020 in the first direction X. Therefore, the distance D‴ between the first connector portion 3015 and second connector portion 3020 in the first direction X can be modified.
The walls of the first portion 3315 are narrower and less rigid than the first and second connector portions 3015, 3020. As such, the first portion 3315 is configured to deform and absorb forces placed on the first and second connector portions 3015, 3020 before the first and second connector portions 3015, 3020 are permanently deformed.
The advantages of the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 are also exhibited by the connector 3000 of Figure 14, due to the presence of the second aperture 3350, first connector portion 3015 and second connector portion 3020.
With reference to Figure 15, a second embodiment of a connector 4000 falling within the scope of the first aspect of the invention and the second aspect of the invention are depicted. The connector 4000 is substantially identical to the connector of Figures 1 and 2, with the following differences. The first, second and third directions X⁺, X^-, Y⁺, Y^-, Z⁺, Z^- referred to in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 are employed in the embodiment of Figure 15.
The connector 4000 comprises a first portion 4315 for connection to a first building element and a second portion 4325 for connection to a second building element. The connector 4000 further comprises a resiliently deformable intermediate portion 4025 located between the first portion 4315 and the second portion 4320.
The connector 4000 comprises a first aperture 4030 extending in the third direction Z, namely in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector 4000. The first aperture 4030 is substantially identical to the aperture 1030 of Figures 1 and 2. The connector 4000 further comprises a second aperture 4345, the second aperture 4345 similar to the aperture 345 of Figure 10. The second aperture 4345 extends through the intermediate portion 4025 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector 4000, in the first direction X. The connector 4000 therefore comprises two uninterrupted, perpendicular apertures 4030, 4345.
As in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the distance Dʺʺ between the first connector portion 4015 and second connector portion 4020 can be modified as the first aperture 4030 permits the intermediate portion 4025 to resiliently deform in the first direction X. The advantages of the embodiment of Figures 10 to 13 are also exhibited by the connector 4000 of Figure 15, as the second aperture 4345 allows the intermediate portion 4025 to resiliently deform in the third direction Z and the second direction Y.
Further embodiments within the scope of the present invention may be envisaged that have not been described above, for example, the connector of any of the embodiments described may be any suitable shape and/or dimensions for the desired application.
The present invention will also be understood in relation to the following clauses:

1. A connector for connecting two building elements, the connector comprising;
- a first portion for connection to a first building element,
- a second portion for connection to a second building element; and
- an intermediate portion located between the first portion and the second portion;
- wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable.
2. The connector of clause 1, wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in a third direction, wherein the third direction is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector.
3. The connector of clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable in a second direction, wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector.
4. The connector of any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the intermediate portion is configured to deform by less than ±50 mm in the third direction.
5. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein, in use, the intermediate portion is configured to deform less than ±2 mm in a first direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector.
6. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the first portion is configured to be inserted into a channel.
7. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the first portion comprises one or more ribs.
8. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the second portion is configured to be inserted into a channel.
9. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the second portion comprises one or more ribs.
10. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the intermediate portion is substantially symmetrical about a first axis.
11. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the intermediate portion comprises an aperture.
12. The connector of clause 11, wherein the longitudinal axis of the aperture is parallel to the first direction.
13. The connector of clause 11 or clause 12, wherein a cross section of the aperture comprises a diamond, circle, oval or ellipse.
14. The connector of any one preceding clause, wherein the first portion, second portion and intermediate portion are integrally formed.
15. The connector of clause 14, wherein the integrally formed first portion, second portion and intermediate portion are formed of plastic.

Claims

A connector for connecting two building elements, the connector comprising; a first connector portion for abutting a first surface of a first building element;
a second connector portion for abutting a second surface of a first building element; wherein the first connector portion and the second connector portion substantially oppose one another;

the connector further comprising an intermediate portion located between the first connector portion and the second connector portion;

wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable and/or adjustable so as to vary the distance between the first connector portion and the second connector portion.
The connector of claim 1, wherein the intermediate portion is resiliently deformable and/or adjustable in a first direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to a surface of the first connector portion and/or the second connector portion.
The connector of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the intermediate portion is configured to deform and/or adjust by between 5 mm and 30 mm in the first direction.
The connector of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, in use, the intermediate portion is configured to and/or adjust by between 10 mm and 25 mm in the first direction .
The connector of any one preceding claim, wherein the intermediate portion comprises an aperture.
The connector of claim 5, wherein the longitudinal axis of the aperture is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector.
The connector of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein a cross section of the aperture comprises a diamond, circle, oval or ellipse.
The connector of any one preceding claim, wherein the first connector portion comprises a slit and the second connector portion comprise a slit.
The connector of claim 8, wherein the first connector portion and second connector portion comprise a projection portion projecting from an outer surface of the intermediate portion, wherein the slits are located in the projection portion.
The connector of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the intermediate portion comprises an inflatable member, wherein inflation of the inflatable member increases the width of the intermediate portion and deflation of the inflatable member decreases the width of the intermediate portion.
The connector of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the intermediate portion comprises an adjustable bolt.
The connector of claim 2, wherein the intermediate portion comprises a first member connected to the first portion and a second member connected to the second portion, wherein the first member comprises at least one engagement protrusion and the second member comprises at least one engagement cavity configured to removably retain the at least one engagement protrusion.
The connector of claim 12, wherein the longitudinal axis of the at least one engagement protrusion is parallel to the first direction.
The connector of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the width of the connector is variable between a plurality of discrete values.
The connector of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the width of the connector is continuously variable.