GB2587781A - Tool - Google Patents

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Publication number
GB2587781A
GB2587781A GB1909595.9A GB201909595A GB2587781A GB 2587781 A GB2587781 A GB 2587781A GB 201909595 A GB201909595 A GB 201909595A GB 2587781 A GB2587781 A GB 2587781A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
sleeve
fixing device
extended member
tool
plug portion
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
GB1909595.9A
Other versions
GB201909595D0 (en
GB2587781B (en
Inventor
Tyzack Hugh
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Grapplefix Ltd
Original Assignee
Grapplefix Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Grapplefix Ltd filed Critical Grapplefix Ltd
Priority to GB1909595.9A priority Critical patent/GB2587781B/en
Publication of GB201909595D0 publication Critical patent/GB201909595D0/en
Publication of GB2587781A publication Critical patent/GB2587781A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2587781B publication Critical patent/GB2587781B/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
    • B25B31/00—Hand tools for applying fasteners
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B13/00—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose
    • F16B13/04—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front
    • F16B13/08—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate or non-separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device without further manual operation
    • F16B13/0808—Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate or non-separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device without further manual operation by a toggle-mechanism
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B37/00—Nuts or like thread-engaging members
    • F16B37/04—Devices for fastening nuts to surfaces, e.g. sheets, plates
    • F16B37/041—Releasable devices
    • F16B37/042—Releasable devices locking by rotation

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Supports Or Holders For Household Use (AREA)

Abstract

The tool 100, for installing a fixing device (101, Figure 3c) in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, includes an extended member 131. The member has a first end (133, Figure 5) for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end 134 for attaching to the fixing device. A sleeve 141 is slidably mounted on the extended member between a first position proximal to the first end and a second position proximal to the second end. The extended member comprises a detent 135 arranged to engage with the sleeve when in the second position. The sleeve is prevented from being slid along the extended member towards the first end. The tool is part of a system and method for installing the fixing device, having a longitudinal back plate 102 and a plug portion 104 with a screw thread 111. When the fixing device is attached, and the sleeve 141 is slid along the extended member 131 to the second end, the fixing device is positioned so that the sleeve contacts the plug 104. Rotating the tool screws the thread into the hole with the backplate engaging the rear face of the wall.

Description

The present invention relates to a tool, in particular to a tool for securing a fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
Suspended plasterboard (or "stud partition") walls constructed from plasterboard attached to a timber frame require different fixing devices to attach items to them compared to solid walls. This is because the fixing is attached solely to the plasterboard and thus cannot rely on, e.g., bricks behind the plasterboard to secure the fixing owing to the presence of a void behind the plasterboard (unless the very restricted positions of the timber frame are used to screw into). Conventional wall plugs are therefore inadequate in plasterboard as they work loose when a load is attached to them.
Figures la and lb show a fixing device 1 suitable for use with a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, e.g. as disclosed in WO 2018/007811 Al. The fixing device 1 includes a longitudinal backplate 2 that is substantially flat on a side from which a plug portion 4 projects. The plug portion 4 is configured to fit into a hole that has been cut in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, such that the longitudinal backplate 2 comes into contact with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion 4 is secured in the hole. External screw threads 11 projecting from the plug portion 4 allows the plug portion 4 to be screwed into and retained in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
The fixing device 1 has an aperture 6 in the centre of the plug portion 4 into which a bolt can be fastened, e.g. once the fixing device 1 has been secured in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This allows an item to be attached to the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling via the fixing device 1. The fixing device 1 also has a circular recess 12 in the plug portion 4 into which a tool for installing the fixing device 1 into a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling can be inserted.
Such a tool 20, for use in securing the fixing device 1 shown in Figures la and lb into a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, is shown in Figure 2. The tool 20 includes an elongate shaft 22. A handle 24 for manipulating the tool 20 is formed at one end of the shaft 22 and an attachment portion 21 for inserting into the circular recess 12 in the plug portion 4 of the fixing device 1 is formed at the other end of the shaft 22.
To install the fixing device 1 into a hole drilled into a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, the tool 20 is attached to the fixing device 1 by inserting the attachment portion 21 of the tool 20 into the circular recess 12 in the plug portion 4 of the fixing device 1.
The tool 20 is then used to push the fixing device 1, along the length of the longitudinal backplate 2, through the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and into the void behind it. When the fixing device 1 is fully in the void, the tool 20 can be pulled back to catch the rounded end of the longitudinal backplate 2 of the fixing device 1 on the rear face of the plasterboard. This acts to rotate the fixing device 1 about the tool 20 (i.e. rotates the of the tool 20 in the circular recess 12) until the flat face of the longitudinal backplate 2 is parallel with the rear face of the plasterboard.
With the four ends of the screw threads 11 on the plug portion 4 of the fixing device 1 engaged with the rear face of the plasterboard, the handle 24 of the tool 1 is then rotated to screw the plug portion 4 of the fixing device 1 into the hole in the plasterboard, with the screw threads 11 cutting into the sides of the hole in the plasterboard.
However, the Applicant has found that it is difficult to secure such a fixing device into a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling in an easy and repeatable manner, such that the longitudinal backplate ends up completely flush in contact with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This is because any slight misalignment of the fixing device with respect to the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall (which is easy for a user to make owing to the fixing device being hidden in the void behind the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling), or reduction in the pulling force being applied to the fixing device through the tool when the fixing device is being installed, results in the screw threads on the outside 3 -of the plug portion not engaging with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall at the same time or not being screwed into the plasterboard evenly.
This results in the longitudinal backplate not being aligned flush with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the fixing device has been screwed into place using the tool. As will be appreciated, this significantly lessens the load that is able to be attached to the fixing device. In the worst case scenario, the plug portion of the fixing device is not secured sufficiently well in the hole of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling such that it is pushed out of the hole when a fastener is attempted to be screwed into the aperture in the plug portion to attach an item to the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, and is lost irretrievably in the void behind the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
The aim of the present invention is to provide an improved tool for securing a fixing device into a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall.
When viewed from a first aspect the invention provides a system for installing a fixing device, the system comprising: a fixing device comprising a longitudinal backplate, and a plug portion for securing in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and for receiving a fastener, wherein the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate and the plug portion comprises an outer face distal from the longitudinal backplate, and wherein an outer wall of the plug portion comprises a screw thread, wherein the longitudinal backplate is arranged to engage with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole; and a tool for installing the fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, the tool comprising an extended member, wherein the extended member comprises a first end for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end for attaching to the fixing device, and a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the extended member, wherein the sleeve is slidable between a first position proximal to the first end of the extended member and a second position proximal to the second end of the extended member; wherein the system is arranged such that, when the fixing device is attached to the second end of the extended member of the tool and the sleeve of the tool is slid along the extended member into the second position, the sleeve engages with 4 -the fixing device and positions the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion; and wherein the sleeve is arranged to be secured in the second position such that the sleeve is prevented from being slid along the extended member towards the first end when the sleeve has been secured in the second position.
When viewed from a second aspect the invention provides a method of installing a fixing device in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling using a tool, wherein the fixing device comprises a longitudinal backplate, and a plug portion for securing in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and for receiving a fastener, wherein the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate and the plug portion comprises an outer face distal from the longitudinal backplate, and wherein an outer wall of the plug portion comprises a screw thread, wherein the longitudinal backplate is arranged to engage with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole; and the tool comprises an extended member, wherein the extended member comprises a first end for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end for attaching to the fixing device, and a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the extended member, wherein the sleeve is slidable between a first position proximal to the first end of the extended member and a second position proximal to the second end of the extended member; the method comprising: attaching the second end of the extended member of the tool to the fixing device and inserting the fixing device into a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and into a void behind the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling; sliding the sleeve of the tool along the extended member from the first position to the second position to engage the sleeve with the fixing device and position the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion; securing the sleeve in the second position to prevent the sleeve from being slid along the extended member towards the first end when the sleeve has been secured in the second position;
-
using the tool to position the plug portion of the fixing device relative to the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling such that the screw thread contacts the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling; and rotating the tool to screw the screw thread into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling such that the plug portion is secured in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and the longitudinal backplate engages with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
The present invention relates to a system that includes a fixing attaching an item to (e.g. hanging an item from) a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, and a tool for installing the fixing device in a hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The fixing device has a longitudinal backplate and a plug portion that is attached to the longitudinal backplate. The plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate, e.g. in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the backplate extends longitudinally (alternatively expressed, the longitudinal backplate projects diametrically from opposite sides of the plug portion).
The plug portion, for securing in the hole (e.g. drilled) in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling is arranged to receive a fastener (e.g. the plug portion has an aperture therein for receiving the fastener). Once a fastener (e.g. a bolt or a screw) has been placed in the plug portion, this allows an item to be attached to (e.g. hung from) the fastener. The longitudinal backplate, which is arranged to come into contact with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole, prevents the fixing device from being pulled back through the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, e.g. when an item is attached to a fastener that has been placed in the plug portion which thus exerts a force on the fixing device from the front of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
The plug portion has a screw thread, formed on an outer wall of the plug portion.
The external screw thread is arranged to screw into the (sides of the) hole in the plasterboard wall or ceiling, thus helping to secure the fixing device in the hole. The plug portion also has an outer face which is distal from (and, e.g., lying parallel to) the longitudinal backplate. When located in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, the outer face of the plug portion faces outwards through towards (and, 6 -e.g., is the closest part of the plug portion and of the fixing device to) the front face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
The tool for installing the fixing device includes an extended member to which a sleeve is slidably mounted. The sleeve can be slid between (at least) first and second positions towards the first and second ends respectively of the extended member. The first end of the extended member is used to manipulate the tool and the second end is used to attach the tool to the fixing device.
To install the fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, according to the method of the present invention, first the fixing device is attached to the second end of the extended member of the tool. The tool is used to insert the fixing device into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, and thus into the void behind the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, e.g. while retaining hold of the tool attached to the fixing device such that the tool can then be used to screw the plug portion back into the hole.
The sleeve of the tool, which is initially in the first position on the extended member of the tool, is slid along the extended member into the second position. This has the effect of engaging the end of the sleeve closer to the second end with the fixing device such that it positions the fixing device (e.g. rotates the fixing device about the second end of the extended member) so that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion.
This helps to align the fixing device (and thus the plug portion and the screw thread on the plug portion) with the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling into which the plug portion is to be secured. The sleeve is secured in the second position on the extended member such that the sleeve is prevented (e.g. blocked) from being slid along the extended member back towards the first end. This helps to retain the fixing device in the correct alignment for screwing the plug portion into the hole.
The tool is used to position the plug portion of the fixing device such that the screw thread of the plug portion contacts the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. In this position, the fixing device is ready to be screwed into the hole. 7 -
With the sleeve secured in the second position, the tool (e.g. being manipulated at the first end) is rotated to screw the screw thread into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This secures the plug portion in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling such that the longitudinal backplate engages with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
It will thus be appreciated that the system of the present invention helps to install a fixing device, e.g. such as that disclosed in WO 2018/007811 Al, in an easier and more repeatable manner. The sleeve on the tool, which is able to be secured in (the second) position, helps to retain alignment of the plug portion with respect to the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, while the fixing device is being screwed into position. This helps to align the longitudinal backplate of the fixing device with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, such that it is more likely that the longitudinal backplate engages flush with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling once the plug portion has been secured in the hole.
The design and operation of the fixing device of the present invention thus helps to avoid the difficulties the Applicant has encountered when trying to install the fixing device disclosed in WO 2018/007811 Al with the tool disclosed in WO 2018/007811 Al.
The fixing device may be any suitable and desired fixing device (haying a longitudinal backplate, a plug portion projecting from the longitudinal backplate and a screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion) for securing in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, e.g. as disclosed in WO 2018/007811 Al.
The longitudinal backplate may be provided in any suitable and desired way such that, in use, it engages with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole. Preferably the longitudinal backplate has a cross section (through, and including, the plug portion), in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends longitudinally, which enables the fixing device to be pushed fully along the length of the longitudinal backplate through the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. 8 -
Preferably, the longitudinal backplate comprises a flat face (to which the plug portion is attached) arranged, in use, to engage with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole. Preferably, the (e.g. flat) face of the longitudinal backplate (from which the plug portion projects) comprises rounded ends. Preferably, the rounded ends have a shape formed from an arc of an ellipse (e.g. symmetrical about the major axis of the ellipse). The elliptical shape of the ends of the longitudinal backplate helps to provide a shape that easily fits through a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the fixing device is tilted (owing to a tilted circle forming an ellipse).
Optimising the shape of the longitudinal backplate helps to reduce the depth of cavity that needs to be provided behind the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling for a given length of the longitudinal backplate.
The longitudinal backplate may have any suitable and desired shape and size, e.g. for being inserted through a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling along the length of the longitudinal backplate. Preferably the cross section of the longitudinal backplate, in a plane parallel to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends longitudinally and the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate, is bounded by an ellipse. Thus, preferably, the cross section on the side of the longitudinal backplate opposite to the side from which the plug portion projects (e.g. opposite the flat face of the longitudinal backplate) has a rounded shape (e.g. along a centre line of the fixing device in the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends longitudinally) formed from an arc of an ellipse (e.g. an arc extending part-way between the vertex and co-vertex of the ellipse).
It will be appreciated that the action of the sleeve of the tool in orienting the fixing device into a position in which it is able to be screwed back into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, may also help, in some embodiments of the fixing device, to allow the length of the longitudinal backplate to be reduced. This is because the sleeve of the tool is used to orient the fixing device relative to the hole (from the position in which it was inserted through the hole), instead of pulling the fixing device back towards the hole in order to catch the end of the longitudinal backplate on the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling so to orient 9 -the fixing device appropriately, e.g. as required for the fixing device disclosed in WO 2018/007811 Al. Therefore, in at least some embodiments of the present invention, the longitudinal backplate may not need to extend far enough to perform this function, such that its length may be shorter.
Such a shorter longitudinal backplate and, for example, an elliptical cross-section may help, in some embodiments of the fixing device, to allow the fixing device to be used for walls or ceilings in which there is a limited void behind the wall or ceiling, e.g. such as external walls (e.g. un-drillable lintels) or dot and dab installations.
Preferably the plug portion comprises an aperture for receiving a fastener. Preferably the aperture extends into (e.g. through) the plug portion. Preferably the aperture extends in a direction parallel to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate. Preferably the aperture extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends longitudinally.
The fixing device is capable of being pushed along the direction of the length of the longitudinal backplate through a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
The hole through which the fixing device can be pushed in this way has a diameter that is greater than or equal to the diameter of the minimum bounding circle of the cross section of the fixing device through the plug portion in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends longitudinally.
Such that the plug portion may be secured in the hole, preferably the cross section of the plug portion (e.g. excluding the screw thread) in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate has minimum bounding circle (this minimum bounding circle is the smallest circle that encloses (this cross section of) the plug portion and thus the smallest circular hole into which the plug portion is able to be inserted) having a diameter that is greater than or equal to the diameter of the minimum bounding circle (this latter minimum bounding circle is the smallest circle that encloses (this latter cross section of) the fixing device and thus the smallest circular hole through which the fixing device can be inserted in along the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends) of the cross section of the fixing device through the plug portion in a plane perpendicular -10 -to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends longitudinally. Preferably the fixing device is capable of being pushed in a direction along the length of the longitudinal backplate through a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling having a cross section substantially equal to the minimum bounding circle of the cross section of the plug portion in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate.
The system (and thus the tool and the fixing device) of the present invention is suitable for use with (i.e. for attaching an item to) any suitable and desired type of suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Suspended plasterboard (or "stud partition") walls or ceilings are constructed from plasterboard that is attached to a timber frame. This therefore forms a void behind the plasterboard, e.g. between the rear face of the plasterboard and whatever structure to which the timber frame is attached, e.g. a solid wall or another suspended plasterboard. It is this void that allows the fixing device of the present invention to be pushed fully through the hole in the plasterboard such that the plug portion can then be screwed back so to be secured in the hole.
The hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling may be any suitable and desired hole. Preferably the shape and size of the hole is (e.g. chosen or formed to be) suitable for securing the plug portion in the hole. For example, the shape and size of the hole may be substantially the same shape and size as the plug portion of the fixing device, such that the plug portion is able to be, e.g. secured, in the hole.
Preferably the hole is a cylindrical hole, e.g. having a circular cross section.
Preferably the axis of rotation of the cylindrical hole is perpendicular to the plane in which the plasterboard lies. The hole may have any suitable and desired size. In a preferred embodiment the circular cylindrical hole has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the minimum bounding circle for the perimeter of the cross section of the plug portion. In one embodiment the circular cylindrical hole has a diameter between 10 mm and 25 mm, e.g. 12 mm, 16 mm or 20 mm.
The hole may be provided in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling in any suitable and desired way. In a preferred embodiment the hole is drilled in the plasterboard. Therefore, preferably the method comprises drilling a (e.g. circular) hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
Preferably the plug portion is substantially cylindrical. The shape and size of the plug portion may be substantially the same shape and size as the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Thus, in one embodiment the diameter of the plug portion (in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the plug portion extends from the longitudinal backplate) is between 10 mm and 25 mm, e.g. 12 mm, 16 mm or 20 mm.
The plug portion may be arranged to receive a fastener in any suitable and desired way. Preferably the plug portion comprises an aperture for receiving a fastener (e.g. a screw or bolt). Preferably the aperture extends in a direction parallel to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate.
Preferably the plug portion projects (and thus the aperture extends) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends.
The aperture for the fastener may be provided in any suitable and desired way. Preferably the aperture extends parallel to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate, e.g. parallel to the cylindrical axis of the plug portion (when the plug portion comprises a cylinder). Preferably the aperture is at the centre of the plug portion, e.g. at the centre of the minimum bounding circle round the cross section of the plug portion. Preferably the aperture is collinear with the cylindrical axis of the plug portion (when the plug portion comprises a cylinder).
Preferably the aperture extends all the way through the plug portion. Preferably the aperture extends all the way through the plug portion and through the longitudinal backplate. In one embodiment the aperture comprises a thread. In one embodiment the aperture is arranged to receive a self-tapping fastener, e.g. the aperture may be straight sided, i.e. may not be threaded. Thus preferably the fastener is a threaded fastener, e.g. a bolt or a screw. Preferably the aperture is arranged to receive an ISO metric M4, M6 or M8 screw thread, e.g. preferably the aperture has a diameter of 4 mm, 6 mm or 8 mm.
-12 -Preferably the screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion has a handedness that is opposite to the handedness of the fastener that is to be secured in the aperture of the fixing device. Thus when the aperture of the fixing device is threaded, preferably the screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion has a handedness that is opposite to the handedness of the screw thread of the threaded aperture. Typically such fasteners (e.g. bolts or screws) may have a right-handed screw thread and thus preferably the screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion is left-handed. Thus when the aperture of the fixing device is threaded, preferably the screw thread of the threaded aperture is right-handed.
Providing the screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion with a handedness that is opposite to the handedness of the fastener that is to be secured in the aperture of the fixing device helps to retain the fixing device in the hole in the plasterboard wall, e.g. because screwing a fastener (having an opposite handedness) into the aperture of the fixing device will only act to further secure the fixing device against the rear face of the plasterboard, i.e. once the longitudinal backplate is fully engaged with the rear face of the plasterboard any further rotation of the fixing device in the hole is substantially prevented. This helps to negate the need to provide any further features on the device (e.g. anti-rotational barbs) to prevent rotation of the device, e.g. when the fastener is inserted (screwed) into the aperture of the fixing device.
The plug portion may be arranged in any suitable and desired way to receive a tool for positioning the plug portion relative to (e.g. securing the plug portion in) the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Preferably the tool is removable from the plug portion. Thus preferably the method comprises the step of attaching the tool to the plug portion, e.g. before the (end of the longitudinal backplate of the) fixing device is inserted into a hole in the plasterboard. Preferably the method comprises the step of removing the tool from the plug portion, e.g. after the tool has been used to secure the plug portion in the hole.
The plug portion comprises an (e.g. planar) outer face distal from the longitudinal backplate. Preferably the outer face lies in a plane substantially parallel to the plane (e.g. of the face) of the longitudinal backplate from which the plug portion projects.
-13 -Preferably the plug portion comprises a rim extending at least partially around the centre of the plug portion, e.g. at least partially surrounding the aperture for receiving a fastener. Thus preferably the rim projects from the longitudinal backplate. Preferably the outer face of the plug portion comprises the distal edge of the rim (distal) from the longitudinal backplate.
In a preferred embodiment, the plug portion of the fixing device is arranged to receive the (second end of the) extended member of the tool. The aperture in the fixing device for receiving a fastener could also be arranged to receive the second end of the extended member of the tool. However, preferably the (e.g. rim of the) plug portion comprises a recess (e.g. hole) arranged to receive the (second end of the) extended member of the tool, e.g. the (second end of the) extended member is arranged to be inserted into the recess. This facilitates quick and easy attachment and detachment of the tool to and from the fixing device. Preferably the recess is cylindrical. Preferably the recess has a circular cross section. Preferably the diameter of the recess (i.e. the diameter of the circular cross section) is between 3 mm and 5 mm, e.g. (approximately) 4 mm.
The recess (e.g. hole) may extend (e.g. from an inward facing surface of the plug portion) at least partially (e.g. fully) through (e.g. the rim) to an outward facing surface of the plug portion. Thus the recess (e.g. hole) may extend at least partially (e.g. fully) through the rim extending around the plug portion. Preferably the rim has a thickness (e.g. in the radial direction from the aperture) of between 3 mm and 5mm, e.g. (approximately) 4 mm. This helps to provide the required friction between the fixing device and the tool, as well as the necessary strength for manipulating the fixing device with the tool, so that the tool can be retained in the recess and the fixing device can be positioned (e.g. rotated).
Preferably the plug portion (e.g. the rim of the plug portion) comprises a slot (e.g. diametrically opposite the recess) to allow access for the end of the tool to be inserted into the recess. Preferably the slot extends e.g. from an inward facing surface of the plug portion) at least partially (e.g. fully) through (e.g. the rim) to an outward facing surface of the plug portion. Preferably the slot is terminated by a (e.g. thinner) part of the wall of the plug portion. Providing a wall at this location helps to increase the length of the perimeter wall of the plug portion such that any -14 -lateral movement of the plug portion in the hole, e.g. when the tool is removed from the recess opposite the slot, is reduced and also when the fixing device is installed in a non-vertical plane.
To allow the depth (the dimension in the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate) of the plug portion to be maximised (to help maximise the security of the plug portion in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, and thus the loading on the fixing device) and to aid the insertion of the fixing device into and through the hole, preferably the plug portion comprises a notch (extending in the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends) in the face of the plug portion (distal from the longitudinal backplate) arranged to accommodate the tool, e.g. such that the tool does not project from (e.g. lies flush with) the face of the plug portion when the tool is attached to the plug portion and oriented (relative to the plug portion) in the direction approximately parallel to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends. When the plug portion comprises a rim, preferably the notch extends through the rim.
Thus preferably the plug portion comprises a notch, e.g. as outlined above, to accommodate the extended member of the tool for when the fixing device is pushed through the hole in the plasterboard into the void behind the plasterboard.
Preferably the notch is cylindrical (having a constant cross section extending in the second direction), e.g. with a U-shaped cross section. Thus preferably the base of the notch is semi-circular; this may help to accommodate one of the screw threads passing below the notch. Preferably the notch has a depth (i.e. in the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate, from the face of the plug portion) of between 3 mm and 6 mm, e.g. approximately 4 mm or 5 mm. As discussed below, the (e.g. varied) depth of the notch may affect the (e.g. length and/or position of) screw thread when it is located on the plug portion in the vicinity of the notch.
In a preferred embodiment, the depth of the notch varies through the wall of the plug portion. This helps to accommodate the (e.g. main body portion of the) extended member of the tool, e.g. in the embodiments for which the longitudinal backplate does not lie completely parallel to the direction in which the extended member is extended when the extended member is folded into the notch On such -15 -embodiments, the direction in which the longitudinal backplate is extended is at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to the direction in which the extended member is extended, for example). The variable depth notch also helps to increase the surface area on the outer wall of the plug portion that is available for the screw thread, thus helping to avoid the screw thread being split by the notch.
The screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion may have any suitable and desired pitch (thread angle). The pitch of the screw thread may be used to set the amount of rotation required to install the fixing and may allow an unbroken thread to be provided on (e.g. at each location around the outer wall) the plug portion (particularly, for example, on the side of the plug portion where the notch may be provided), thus helping to balance the threads on each side of the fixing. The unbroken and thus balanced screw threads may also be facilitated by the semicircular or U-shaped notch and/or the variable depth of the notch through the wall of the plug portion.
In a preferred embodiment the screw thread has a pitch of between 20 degrees and degrees, e.g. between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, e.g. approximately 30 degrees. The relatively steep pitch of the screw thread helps to aid the self-tapping of the screw thread into the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and helps to lock the (e.g. longitudinal backplate of the) fixing device against the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling by stopping the turning of the fixing device when the longitudinal backplate of the fixing device contacts the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The relatively steep pitch of the screw thread also helps to prevent the fixing device from being pushed out of the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling once it has been installed because it avoids cracks parallel to the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling from forming that could splinter off.
Preferably the fixing is arranged (e.g. the screw thread is configured) such that the angle through which the fixing is rotated to screw the screw thread into the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling (e.g. from the screw threads contacting the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling to the longitudinal backplate coming into contact (flush) with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling) is between 65 degrees and 85 degrees, e.g. between 70 degrees and 80 -16 -degrees, e.g. approximately 75 degrees. This helps to set the amount of rotation required to install the fixing to that which can be accomplished by a single turn of a user's wrist when using the tool.
In preferred embodiments, the rotation of the fixing device into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling is terminated by the pressure between the longitudinal backplate and the rear face of the plasterboard. This helps to lock the fixing device into position owing to the relatively high friction between the longitudinal backplate and the rear face of the plasterboard that is generated by the pressure of the rotation being terminated.
The screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion may have any suitable and desired number of threads. In a preferred embodiment the screw thread comprises a plurality of (e.g. four) independent (e.g. non-overlapping) threads. The one or more threads of the screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion may extend all the way from the longitudinal backplate to the front face of the plug portion. In a preferred embodiment the one or more threads of the screw thread on the outer wall of the plug portion are (e.g. each) spaced from the longitudinal backplate (e.g. by between approximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm) and/or from the front face of the plug portion (e.g. by approximately 1.4 mm).
The former helps to retain the integrity of the rear face of the plasterboard when the fixing device is installed. The latter helps to locate the plug portion of the fixing device in the hole in the plasterboard before it is screwed into the hole. However, owing to the sleeve on the tool helping to secure the fixing device to the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling before it is screwed into the plasterboard, the spacing of the screw thread from the front face of the plug portion may be reduced and thus provides more space for a relatively steep thread pitch. This additional space over which the screw thread is provided also helps the screw threads to be located closer to the front face of the plug portion, such that they penetrate deeper into the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This helps to increase the security of the fixing device in the plasterboard, such that it makes it more difficult to push out the fixing device.
-17 -The tool is, e.g., long enough to retain hold of the end of the tool (opposite from the end attached to the plug portion) when the fixing device is (and has been) pushed along the length of the longitudinal backplate through the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The tool is also long enough to slide the sleeve of the tool between the first and second positions. In a preferred embodiment the tool is between 50 mm and 200 mm in length, e.g. approximately 90 mm, 100 mm or 150 MM.
In a preferred embodiment the extended member of the tool (as well as comprising a first end and a second end) comprises a main body portion extended between the first end and the second end.
Preferably the (e.g. main body portion of the) tool is longitudinally extended, i.e. having a length greater than a width and a depth. This helps the tool to manipulate the fixing device through a relatively small hole in the plasterboard, while being held on the other side of the plasterboard by the first end of the tool. Preferably the tool has a cross sectional area (in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the tool is longitudinally extended) that is less than the cross sectional area of the hole (and thus less than or equal to the cross sectional area of the minimum bounding circle of the cross section of the plug portion in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate).
Preferably the (e.g. main body portion of the) extended member of the tool has a cross sectional area On a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the tool is longitudinally extended) that is less than the cross sectional area of the notch in the plug portion. Preferably the sleeve of the tool has a cross sectional area On a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the tool is longitudinally extended) that is less than cross sectional area of the hole (and thus less than or equal to the cross sectional area of the minimum bounding circle of the cross section of the plug portion in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate). Thus preferably the tool, when attached to the plug portion and oriented to a position in which the fixing device is to be passed through the hole, does not substantially increase the cross sectional area of the fixing device through the plug portion (in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the tool is longitudinally extended).
-18 -The first (handle) end of the tool may be provided in any suitable and desired way to allow a user to manipulate the tool. Preferably first end and the main body portion of the extended member of the tool extend substantially perpendicularly to each other. In one embodiment the first end and the main body portion of the extended member are configured substantially in an "L" shape, e.g. when the extended member is made from a length of wire. Such a shape enables installation of the fixing device in both right or left handed corners, even when there is little room to manipulate the tool.
In a preferred embodiment the extended member (and thus the main body portion and the first and second ends) of the tool is made as a single part (e.g. integrally formed from a single piece of wire).
The second end of the extended member may be configured to be inserted into the recess of the fixing device in any suitable and desired way. The length of the second end and, e.g., the bend between the second end and the main body portion of the extended member of the tool may be shaped and sized to determine the fit of the end of the tool in the recess of the plug portion.
To aid the tool in being able to push the fixing device through a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, preferably the tool and/or the plug portion are arranged so that the extended member of the tool attaches to the plug portion in a pivoting manner, e.g. such that the plug portion rotates about the second end of the tool about an axis extending perpendicular to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends and to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate. This allows the tool to be aligned towards the direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends (and thus the tool to be flattened against the plug portion, e.g. the extended member of the tool located in the notch of the plug portion) so that the fixing device may be pushed through the hole along the length of the longitudinal backplate and then to be rotated relative to the fixing device so that the plug portion may be positioned relative to (screwed back into) the hole. The pivoting attachment at the same time allows a substantial torque to be applied to the fixing when the fixing device is rotated about the second end of the tool into the position for screwing the fixing device into the hole.
-19 -The pivoting attachment of the extended member of the tool to the plug portion may be provided in any suitable and desired way. In a preferred set of embodiments, the second end of the tool has a shape that is complementary to the recess in the plug portion. Thus preferably the second end of the extended member of the tool is cylindrical. Preferably the second end of the extended member of the tool has a circular cross section. Preferably the diameter of the second end of the extended member of the tool (i.e. the diameter of the circular cross section) is between 3 mm and 5 mm, e.g. (approximately) 4 mm. This helps to provide a friction fit of the tool in the recess. Preferably the second end of the extended member of the tool has a rounded, bevelled or mitred (e.g. at 45 degrees) tip. This helps to insert the second end of the extended member of the tool into the recess.
In a preferred set of embodiments, the (e.g. extended member of the) tool comprises a length of (e.g. metal) wire, e.g. having a diameter between 3 mm and 5 mm, e.g. (approximately) 4 mm. Preferably the (e.g. extended member of the) tool is made from (e.g. coated mild or low grade stainless) steel. Such a (e.g. extended member of the) tool is particularly simple to manufacture, quick and easy to use, and cost effective.
Preferably the second end of the extended member of the tool comprises the end of the wire. Preferably the second end of the extended member of the tool is bent (e,g, at an angle of approximately 90 degrees) relative (e.g. perpendicular) to the extended member of the tool. Preferably the second end of the extended member comprises a compression swage (e.g. on opposite sides of the second end). This helps to provide an interference fit between the second end of the extended member and the recess in the plug portion (particularly, for example, when the fixing device is made from a glass filled polymer), which helps to prevent the fixing device from sliding off the second end of the tool during installation. The compression swage may, for example, be between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm compression on a 4 mm diameter end of the tool.
The sleeve, which is slidably mounted on the extended member, may be provided in any suitable and desired way. The sleeve (e.g. along with the swage at the second end of the extended member) helps to prevent the fixing device from sliding -20 -off the second end of the extended member. In particular, the sleeve helps to reduce (e.g. prevent) lateral movement of the extended member relative to the fixing device once the sleeve and the plug portion of the fixing device are located in the hole in the plasterboard.
In one embodiment the sleeve is (substantially) cylindrical, e.g. having a circular outer cross section, for the majority of its length (in the direction along which the sleeve is slidably mounted on the extended member). This helps to allow the sleeve to be pushed through and rotated in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Preferably the length of the sleeve is greater than the maximum dimension (e.g. diameter) of the outer cross section (in a direction perpendicular to the length of the sleeve).
Preferably the maximum dimension (e.g. diameter) of the outer cross section of the sleeve is substantially equal to the maximum dimension (e.g. diameter) of the (e.g. minimum bounding circle of the) plug portion (and thus as the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling). This helps to align the plug portion with the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and reduce (e.g. prevent) any lateral movement of the fixing device as the fixing device is being screwed into position. Thus, in one embodiment the maximum dimension (e.g. diameter) of the sleeve in a direction perpendicular to the length of the sleeve is between 10 mm and 25 mm, e.g. 12 mm, 16 mm or 20 mm.
In one embodiment the sleeve has a length (along the direction in which the sleeve is slidably mounted) of at least 30 mm, e.g. at least 40 mm, e.g. approximately 42 mm. This length enables the sleeve to pass through the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling (e.g. even for plasterboards of double thickness (e.g. two 15 mm boards)), to provide clearance for the length of the longitudinal backplate behind the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and for the sleeve to protrude a distance from the front face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, e.g. to allow the sleeve to be moved into the second position.
The sleeve may be slidably mounted on the extended member in any suitable and desired way, such that the sleeve may be moved from the first position to the second position. Preferably the sleeve comprises a (e.g. longitudinally extended) -21 -cylindrical aperture through which the extended member of the tool passes. Preferably the cylindrical aperture extends along the length of the sleeve, e.g. along the axis of the cylinder of the sleeve. In a preferred embodiment the sleeve comprises (and is formed as) two separate halves, which are joined together around the extended member to form the sleeve. This allows the two halves of the sleeve to be fabricated separately and then connected together.
Preferably the sleeve is divided into the two halves along a plane that extends along the length of (and, e.g., contains the cylindrical axis of) the sleeve. Thus preferably each half of the sleeve defines at least part (e.g. half) of the cylindrical aperture of the sleeve, e.g. each half of the sleeve comprises a channel that forms the cylindrical aperture when the two halves of the sleeve are connected together.
Preferably the two halves of the sleeve are arranged to snap fit together. Thus preferably the two halves of the sleeve comprise a snap fit joint, e.g. one half of the sleeve comprises one or more protrusions and the other half of the sleeve comprises one or more apertures arranged to receive and mate with the one or more protrusions respectively. Preferably the sleeve is arranged such that once the two halves of the sleeve have been connected together, they cannot (easily) be unclipped from each other.
The sleeve may be arranged in any suitable and desired way such that when the sleeve of the tool is slid along the extended member into the second position, the sleeve engages with the fixing device and positions the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion. In a preferred embodiment the sleeve comprises a chamfered edge at the end of the sleeve that (e.g. first) engages with the (e.g. longitudinal backplate of the) fixing device as the sleeve is slid along the extended member into the second position. This helps to initiate the movement (rotation) of the fixing device into the position in which the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion.
Preferably the fixing device is moved (rotated) by the sleeve from a position in which the longitudinal backplate extends in a direction at an acute angle (nearly parallel) to the direction in which the extended member extends and the sleeve slides, to a position in which the longitudinal backplate extends in a direction -22 -perpendicular to the direction in which the extended member extends and the sleeve slides along the extended member.
Preferably the angle of the chamfer is between 50 degrees and 60 degrees (e.g. approximately 55 degrees) to the direction in which the extended member extends and the sleeve slides.
In a preferred embodiment the sleeve comprises a protrusion from (e.g. a curved tip on) the end of the sleeve that engages with the fixing device and positions the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion. The protrusion helps to act on the (e.g. rim of the) plug portion to move (rotate) the fixing device into the position in which the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion, e.g. further to the initial movement by the chamfered end of the sleeve. Preferably the protrusion is arranged to project into the centre of the plug portion (e.g. within the rim of the plug portion). Preferably the protrusion is positioned on the opposite side of the central aperture in the sleeve from the chamfered end of the sleeve. Preferably the curved side of the protrusion faces the chamfered end of the sleeve and/or the aperture in the sleeve.
In the preferred embodiment, when the protrusion comprises a curved tip, the curved tip helps to provide a variable angle of attack on the fixing device as the fixing device is rotated into position. As the fixing device is rotated relative to the sleeve, the angle of the curved tip that may be required to produce the necessary moment around the pivot point (e.g. the circular recess in the plug portion) may vary considerably. For example, a more lateral force may be required initially (thus preferably the curved tip comprises a sharp distal tip). Preferably the curved tip comprises a curve having an arc having a radius of curvature between 7.5 mm and 15 mm.
A smaller radius helps to provide a sharper curved tip that may be more efficient initially but may become less effective towards the end of the rotation of the fixing device about the tool, and thus a compromise may be required. Preferably the distance by which the curved tip projects from the end of the main portion of the sleeve is greater than the distance by which the curved tip extends radially at the point where the curved tip joins to the main portion of the sleeve. Thus preferably -23 -the average slope of the curve (i.e. the chord) of the curved tip is between 40 and 45 degrees from the direction in which the sleeve slides from the first position to the second position. One of more (e.g. all) of these features of the curved tip help to cause rotation of the fixing device, even when the fixing device is relatively stiff when attached to the tool.
Preferably the inside edge of the rim on the outer face of the plug portion is chamfered so to engage with the (e.g. curved side of the) protrusion on the end of the sleeve. This helps to avoid a double point of contact with the protrusion when the plug portion is being moved into the position in which the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion and thus helps the smooth movement (rotation) of the fixing device into this position. The curved side of the protrusion (preferably arranged on the side of the protrusion that contacts the plug portion) helps to optimise the action of the protrusion on the plug portion to aid the movement of the fixing device into the position in which the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion.
The protrusion and/or the chamfered edge on the end of the sleeve thus facilitate the movement of the fixing device into the position where it is ready to be screwed back into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, from the position in which it was pushed through the hole, e.g. without having to rely on the end of the longitudinal backplate engaging with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This also helps, in some embodiments, the length of the longitudinal backplate to be reduced (e.g. for use in applications in which the cavity behind the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling is restricted). It will be appreciated that when the length of the longitudinal backplate is reduced below a certain length, the plug portion may engage with rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling before the end of the longitudinal backplate, thus hampering movement of the fixing device into the required position (e.g. were it not for the provision of the sleeve on the tool).
Preferably the end of the sleeve proximal to the first end of the extended member comprises a (e.g. polygonal, e.g. hexagonal) rim that projects from the (e.g. cylindrical main body of the) sleeve. Preferably the rim projects beyond the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and thus helps to prevent loss of the tool -24 -into the cavity behind the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Providing a polygonal (e.g. hexagonal) rim helps to provide grip for a user when securing (e.g. rotating) the sleeve in the second position.
The sleeve may be formed in any suitable and desired way, and thus may be made from any suitable and desired material. In one embodiment (e.g. each half of) the sleeve is integrally formed. Preferably the sleeve is made of plastic, e.g. acetal or nylon. In one embodiment the sleeve comprises glass fill, e.g. in the plastic. In a particularly preferred embodiment the sleeve is made of nylon (e.g. polyamide 66 or polyphthalamide (PPA)) with glass fill. The sleeve may comprise any suitable and desired fraction of glass fill. In one embodiment the material of the sleeve comprises between 20% and 65% glass fill, e.g. 50% glass fill. This helps to provide a sleeve (and, e.g., the protrusion thereof) which is strong and stiff. Thus preferably the sleeve is made from the same material as the fixing device. Preferably (e.g. each half of) the sleeve is integrally moulded.
When the sleeve is moved into the second position, such that it positions the fixing device so that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion, preferably the fixing device is positioned such that the end of the sleeve (proximal to the second end of the extended member of the tool) is flush with the outer face of the plug portion. Preferably, when the sleeve is in the second position, the fixing device is moved into the position in which it is to screwed into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Thus preferably, when the sleeve is in the second position, the fixing device is positioned such that the longitudinal backplate of the fixing device extends in a direction parallel to the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling (e.g. such that the outer face of the plug portion is parallel to the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and the longitudinal backplate is oriented relative to the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling in the same way as it will be when screwed into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling).
Preferably, when the sleeve is in the second position (and the plug portion has been moved into position to be screwed into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling), the sleeve (e.g. partially) projects into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This helps to locate the plug portion in the correct -25 -position for screwing into the hole and to reduce (e.g. prevent) any lateral movement of the fixing device as the fixing device is being screwed into position.
The sleeve is then secured in the second position, e.g. to retain the fixing device in this position, relative to the tool, while it is being screwed into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Thus preferably the tool is arranged to (and the method comprises) retain(ing) the fixing device with the longitudinal backplate extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the sleeve slides along the extended member, when the sleeve is in the second position.
The sleeve may be secured in the second position in any suitable and desired way, such that it is prevented from being moved back towards the first position. In a preferred embodiment the extended member comprises a detent that engages with the sleeve to secure the sleeve in the second position. Preferably the sleeve is arranged to be rotated (and the method comprises rotating the sleeve) to secure it in the second position on the extended member, e.g. to engage the detent on the extended member against the sleeve. Thus preferably the sleeve is slid into the second position on the extended member and then rotated in the second position about the extended member to secure the sleeve. Preferably the sleeve is rotated by approximately 90 degrees to secure it in the second position. Preferably the sleeve is rotated anticlockwise (when viewed from the first end of the extended member) to secure the sleeve in the second position. This is preferably the opposite rotational direction as the tool is rotated to screw the fixing device into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Thus, if the user forgets to rotate the sleeve to secure it in the second position, the sleeve is arranged to rotate about the extended member when the extended member is rotated to screw the fixing device into the hole in the plasterboard, thus securing the sleeve (e.g. automatically) in the second position.
Preferably the detent engages with the end (e.g. plate) of the sleeve proximal to the first end of the extended member. Preferably the detent is located on the extended member of tool such that it is aligned with the end of the sleeve proximal to the first end of the extended member when the sleeve is in the second position. This helps to set the second position of the sleeve and to retain the sleeve in the second position.
-26 -Preferably the detent on the extended member comprises a lug that projects from the (e.g. main body portion of the) extended member. Preferably the sleeve comprises a complementary groove for receiving the lug of the extended member.
Preferably the groove lies along the perimeter of (and extends in the same direction as) the cylindrical aperture through which the extended member of the tool passes. Thus preferably the groove, along with the cylindrical aperture, is formed in (e.g. each half of) the sleeve.
The groove in the sleeve allows the lug of the extended member to slide along the groove as the sleeve is moved between the first and second positions. When the sleeve reaches the second position, preferably the lug emerges from the groove and thus can be engaged with the end (e.g. plate) of the sleeve proximal to the first end of the extended member, to secure the sleeve in the second position. The groove and lug also help to keep the (e.g. chamfered end and/or protrusion of the) sleeve aligned relative to the (e.g. bent second end of the extended member and thus the recess in the plug portion of the) fixing device such that the sleeve is able to position the fixing device relative to the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling for screwing into the hole, when the sleeve is moved into the second position.
Preferably the (e.g. end (e.g. plate) of the) sleeve comprises a stop arranged to engage with the lug on the extended member and prevent the sleeve from being rotated further than the stop around the extended member. Preferably the stop is circumferentially spaced (around the aperture through the sleeve) from the groove in the sleeve, e.g. by approximately 90 degrees (clockwise). Preferably the (e.g. end (e.g. plate) of the) sleeve comprises a stop (e.g. arranged on the anticlockwise side of the groove) arranged to prevent the sleeve from being rotated in the opposite direction (e.g. clockwise) about the extended member.
Preferably the (e.g. end (e.g. plate) of the) sleeve comprises a ramp arranged to engage with the lug of the extended member when the sleeve is rotated about the extended member, when the sleeve is in the second position. Thus, preferably the ramp extends around perimeter of the aperture through the sleeve (e.g. from the groove towards the stop) and, e.g., increases in height (away from the (e.g. end -27 - (e.g. plate) of the) sleeve) as the sleeve is rotated (and thus, e.g., as the lug is rotated towards the stop). This helps to clamp the sleeve against the plug portion of the fixing device when the sleeve is secured in the second positon. It will be appreciated that this helps to retain the alignment of the fixing device as it is screwed into the hole in the plasterboard, so that the risk of the fixing device becoming misaligned as the screw threads first bite into the rear face of the plasterboard is greatly reduced (e.g. prevented).
The clamping pressure exerted by the sleeve against the plug portion of the fixing device helps to prevent lateral movement of the fixing device relative to the sleeve.
By preventing lateral movement of the tool relative to the fixing device once the sleeve has been moved into the second position, such that, for example, the hole in the suspended plasterboard has enveloped both the plug portion of the fixing device and the end of the sleeve, this helps to keep the fixing device aligned with the hole as the fixing device is screwed into the plasterboard.
In one embodiment, the (e.g. rim of the) plug portion comprises an inner wall that is arranged to engage with the protrusion on the end of the sleeve (proximal to the second end of the extended member) when the sleeve is secured (e.g. rotated) in the second position. This helps, along with the swage on the first end of the extended member, to reduce (e.g. prevent) any lateral movement of the fixing device relative to the tool. The protrusion may be mounted on a (e.g. shallow) plinth, e.g. that is arranged to fit (e.g. substantially match the surface area) within the inner wall of the plug portion of the fixing device. This helps to reduce (e.g. eliminate) the lateral movement of the fixing device relative to the sleeve.
The tool as outlined herein is considered novel and inventive in its own right and thus when viewed from a further aspect the invention provides a tool for installing a fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, wherein the tool comprises: an extended member, wherein the extended member comprises a first end for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end for attaching to the fixing device, and a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the extended member, wherein the sleeve is slidable between a first position proximal to the first end of the extended member and a second position proximal to the second end of the extended member; -28 -wherein the extended member comprises a detent arranged to engage with the sleeve when the sleeve is in the second position such that the sleeve is prevented from being slid along the extended member towards the first end.
It will be appreciated that this aspect can (and preferably does) include one or more (e.g. all) of the optional and preferable features outlined herein.
To use the system of the present invention, preferably the method comprises orienting (e.g. rotating) the (longitudinal backplate of the) fixing device relative to the extended member of the tool so that the longitudinal backplate extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane in which the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling lies (e.g. such that the longitudinal backplate extends in a direction substantially parallel to (e.g. collinear with) the (e.g. central) axis of the (e.g. cylindrical) hole through the plasterboard (through which the fixing device is to be inserted)). Preferably the method also comprises arranging (e.g. rotating) the tool relative to the fixing device such that it lies (e.g. in the direction in which it is longitudinally extended) in a direction substantially parallel direction in which the longitudinal backplate extends (e.g. substantially collinear with the longitudinal backplate). Preferably the method also comprises (when the plug portion comprises a notch) locating the tool in the notch. This helps the tool to lie flush with the plug portion and to substantially not increase its orthogonal projection. Thus preferably the method comprises positioning the sleeve in the first position on the extended member.
The fixing device may be pushed (e.g. by the tool) fully through the hole (i.e. along the length of the longitudinal backplate) and into a void behind the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling in any suitable and desired way. Preferably the method comprises inserting (e.g. using the tool) one end of the longitudinal backplate into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The tool is retained hold of (and remains attached to the plug portion) while the fixing device is pushed fully through the hole in the plasterboard.
This then allows the tool to be used to position the plug portion relative to the hole (i.e. to move the sleeve into the second direction). The sleeve is then secured in the second position. Preferably the method comprises rotating the sleeve about the -29 -extended member to secure the sleeve in the second position. Preferably the sleeve is rotated when the detent emerges from the end of the sleeve when the sleeve is in the second position.
When this has been done, the orientation of the longitudinal backplate, in a plane parallel to the plane of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling may be any suitable and desired orientation. When the fixing device is being installed in a suspended plasterboard ceiling, the orientation of the longitudinal backplate may not be important. However, when the fixing device is being installed in a suspended plasterboard wall, preferably the method comprises orienting (e.g. using the tool to orient) the longitudinal backplate such that the direction of the longitudinal backplate is approximately 75 degrees away from vertical. This helps to align the longitudinal backplate vertically once the fixing device has been screwed into the hole, such that the load that is able to be placed on the fixing device may be maximised.
Once the plug portion has been, e.g., aligned with a hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, the tool is used to screw the plug portion back into the hole to secure the plug portion in the hole to allow the aperture to receive a fastener. The method preferably then comprises detaching the tool from the plug portion. Preferably the method also comprises inserting a fastener into the aperture for attaching an item to a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. Thus preferably the method comprises attaching an item to the fastener in the aperture.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures la and lb show a fixing device suitable for use as part of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a tool to install the fixing device shown in Figure 1, which is provided for the purposes of reference only; Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d show a fixing device suitable for use as part of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 shows a system according to an embodiment of the present invention; -30 -Figure 5 shows part of the tool for use as part of the system shown in Figure 4; and Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show another part of the tool for use as part of a system shown in Figure 4.
Suspended plasterboard (or "stud partition") walls constructed from plasterboard attached to a timber frame require different fixing devices to attach items to them compared to solid walls. This is because the fixing is attached solely to the plasterboard (unless the very restricted positions of the timber frame are used to screw into) and thus cannot rely on, e.g., bricks behind the plasterboard to secure the fixing owing to the void behind the plasterboard. Conventional wall plugs are therefore inadequate in plasterboard as they work loose when pressure is applied to them.
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described that provide a system for installing fixing devices suitable for attaching items to a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
Figures la and lb show perspective views of a fixing device 1 suitable for use, with a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, as part of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fixing device 1 includes a longitudinal backplate 2 that is substantially flat on a side from which a plug portion 4 projects and is curved on its opposite side. The ends of the longitudinal backplate 2 are also rounded. The plug portion 4 is configured to fit into a hole that has been cut in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, such that the longitudinal backplate 2 comes into contact with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion 4 is secured in the hole.
The fixing device 1, which is integrally moulded from nylon having 50% glass fill, has an aperture 6 that extends in a first direction through the longitudinal backplate 2 and the centre of the plug portion 4. The aperture 6 is designed to receive a bolt such that it can be fastened to the fixing device 1, e.g. once the fixing device 1 has been secured in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. This allows an item to be attached to the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling via the fixing device 1.
-31 -The plug portion 4 is substantially cylindrical having a cross section (in a plane perpendicular to the first direction) that is circular (centred on the aperture 6) but with two flat opposite sides that are collinear with the edges of the longitudinal backplate 2. Two segments of a circle project perpendicularly from each of the flat sides of the plug portion 4 form an integral vapour barrier 7.
The plug portion 4 has a rim 8 around the entrance to the aperture 6, which creates an opening to the aperture 6 that is shaped to accommodate the tool that is used to install the fixing device 1 in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, as will be explained below. On one of the flat sides of the plug portion 4, the rim 8 has a circular recess 12 that extends through the rim 8 in a direction both perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction (in which the longitudinal backplate 2 extends). The circular recess 12 is shaped to receive the end of the tool that is used to install the fixing device 1.
On the opposite side of the plug portion 4, the rim 8 has a slot 13 that extends through the rim 8. This slot 13 provides access for the end of the tool to be inserted into the circular recess 12. The rim 8 also has a radially extending notch 10 therethrough which again is shaped to accommodate the tool. The base of the notch 10 sits above the base of the opening to the aperture 6.
The two rounded sides of the plug portion 4 each have an external screw thread 11 (having one shorter portion and one longer portion on each side) projecting therefrom. The longer portion of the screw thread 11 on the rounded side of the plug portion 4 through which the notch 10 extends is interrupted by the notch 10. The screw threads 11 are left handed and allow the plug portion 4 to be screwed into and retained in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d show plan, side and perspective views of a fixing device 101 according to another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of the fixing device 101 shares a number of common features with the embodiment shown in Figures la and lb -32 -The fixing device 101 shown in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d, which is made from nylon with a 50% glass fill, has a longitudinal backplate 102 that has elliptical rounded ends and an elliptical cross section (in a plane parallel to the direction in which the longitudinal backplate 102 extends longitudinally and the direction in which the plug portion 104 projects from the longitudinal backplate 102).
The plug portion 104 has a circular base which provides an integral vapour barrier. On one side of the plug portion 104 a circular recess 112 extends through the wall of the plug portion 104. The circular recess 112 is shaped to receive the end of the tool that is used to install the fixing device 101. A notch 110 also extends through the wall of the plug portion 104 to accommodate the tool.
The plug portion 104 has external screw threads 111. The screw threads 111 are arranged at a greater angle than the screw threads of the fixing device shown in Figures la and 1 b. The steeper pitch of the screw threads 111 helps to aid the self-tapping of the fixing device 101 into the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and helps to lock the longitudinal backplate 102 of the fixing device 101 against the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The relatively steep pitch of the screw threads 111 also helps to prevent the fixing device 101 from being pushed out of the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling once it has been installed. As can also be seen, particularly in Figure 3d, the screw thread 111 below the notch 110 is unbroken, thus enabling a longer screw thread 111 to be provided.
The plug portion 104 also has an aperture 106 that extends in a first direction through the longitudinal backplate 102 and the centre of the plug portion 104. The aperture 106 is designed to receive a bolt such that it can be fastened to the fixing device 101.
Figure 4 shows a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system includes a tool 100 which is attached to the fixing device 101 shown in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d. The tool 100 is to be used for installing the fixing device 101 in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The tool 100 includes an extended member 131 (shown in more detail in Figure 5) and sleeve 141 (shown in -33 -more detail in Figures 6a, 6b and 6c). The sleeve 141 is slidably mounted on the extended member 131.
Figure 5 shows the extended member 131 of the tool 100 shown in Figure 4. The extended member 131 is made from a single length of steel wire. The extended member 131 has a main body portion 132 and a handle portion 133 that is bent substantially perpendicularly to the main body portion 132. The other end 134 of the tool, which is configured to attach to the fixing device, is bent substantially perpendicularly to the main body portion 132. As shown in Figure 4, the fixing device 101 is attached to the tool 100 by the end 134 of the extended member 131 being inserted into the circular recess 112 in the plug portion 104 of the fixing device 101. A compression swage at the end 134 of the extended member 131 helps to retain the fixing device 101 attached to the end 134 of the tool 100.
The main body portion 132 of the extended member 131 comprises a lug 135 that is stamped in and projects from the main body portion 132. The interaction of the lug 135 with the sleeve 141 of the tool 100 and its function will be described below.
Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show the sleeve 141 of the tool 100 shown in Figure 4 (Figure 6a shows a perspective view of the sleeve 141, Figure 6b shows a side view and Figure 6c shows a view of the hexagonal end plate 143 of the sleeve 141). The sleeve 141, which is made from nylon with 20% -50% glass fill, has a cylindrical main body portion 142. The sleeve 141 is formed from two halves that clip together. This allows the sleeve 141 to be attached to the extended member 131, as shown in Figure 4. The two halves of the sleeve 141 together define a cylindrical aperture 146 that extends through the whole length of the sleeve 141. The main body portion 132 of the extended member 131 extends through the cylindrical aperture 146, as shown in Figure 4.
A groove 147 is defined in the side, and runs along the length, of the cylindrical aperture 146. The groove 147 accommodates the lug 135 of the main body portion 132 of the extended member 131.
The sleeve 141 has a hexagonal end plate 143 that prevents the sleeve 141 from being pushed through the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling (e.g. -34 -the hole has a cross sectional area approximately the same as the cross sectional area of the main body of the sleeve 141 and the hexagonal end plate 143 extends beyond the perimeter of the hole). Two stops 148, 149 project from the hexagonal end plate 143 and are configured to engage with the lug 135 of the extended member 131 when the lug 135 emerges from the groove 147, as will be explained further below.
A ramp 150 is provided on the hexagonal end plate 134. The ramp 150 extends around the perimeter of the aperture 146 from the groove 147 around, and increasing in height, to the stop 148 remote from the groove 147.
At the other end of the sleeve 141 from the hexagonal end plate 143, the sleeve 141 has a chamfered edge. As will be described below, this helps to engage with the fixing device 101 when the tool 100 is used to install the fixing device. At this end of the sleeve 141, a curved tip 145 protrudes from the end of the sleeve 141.
The curved tip 145 of the sleeve 141 is configured to engage with the plug portion 104 of the fixing device 101, as will also be described below.
Operation of the system according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described, for installing the fixing device 101 shown in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d using the tool 100 shown in Figure 4, with reference to Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 4, 5, 6a and 6b.
First a hole is drilled all the way through a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling to which an item (e.g. a fixture or fitting) is to be attached.
The sleeve 141 of the tool 100 is rotated such that the lug 135 is aligned with the groove 147 in the sleeve 141. This allows the sleeve 141 to be slid along the main body portion 132 of the extended member 131 away from the end 134 to which the fixing device 101 is attached and towards the handle portion 133 of the extended member 131. The end 134 of the extended member 131 of the tool 100 is inserted into the circular recess 112 in the fixing device 101. The fixing device 101 is rotated about the end 134 of the extended member 131 such that the main body portion 132 of the extended member 131 is located in the notch 110 in the plug portion 104 of the fixing device 101.
-35 -The tool 100 is then used to push the fixing device 101 through the hole drilled in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and into the void behind it. When the fixing device 101 is fully in the void, the sleeve 141 is slid along the extended member 131. The chamfered end 144 of the sleeve 141 is the first part of the sleeve 141 to contact the fixing device 101. The chamfered end 144 acts on the longitudinal backplate 102 of the fixing device 101. This acts to rotate the fixing device 101 about the tool 100 (i.e. rotates the end 134 of the extended member 131 in the circular recess 112).
The curved tip 145 then catches the wall of the plug portion 104 to rotate the fixing device 101 further about the tool 100, until the end of the sleeve 141 is flush with the outer face of the plug portion 104. In this position, the flat face of the longitudinal backplate 102 of the fixing device 101 is parallel with the rear face of the plasterboard.
When the sleeve 141 has been slid this far along the extended member 131, this causes the lug 135 to emerge from and protrude beyond the end plate 143 of the sleeve 141. To lock the sleeve 141 in this position, the sleeve is rotated anticlockwise (from the perspective of the user looking at the end plate 143) until the lug 135 contacts the stop 148. The ramp 150 around the perimeter of the cylindrical aperture 146, which increases in height from the groove 147 to the stop 148, contacts one side of the lug 135 and acts to bias the sleeve 141 towards the plug portion 104 of the fixing device 101.
Once the sleeve 141 has been rotated to this position, the sleeve 141 is clamped tightly against the fixing device 101, and the part of the cylindrical main body 142 of the sleeve 141 is within the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling into which the fixing device is to be installed. This helps to prevent lateral movement of the fixing device 101 relative to the sleeve 141 as the fixing device 101 is installed.
The fixing device 101 can then be manipulated using the handle portion 133 of the tool 100 to pull the fixing device 101 back towards the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling to engage the four ends of the screw threads 111 on the external wall of the plug portion 104 with the rear face of the plasterboard. The handle portion 133 -36 -of the tool 100 is then rotated clockwise (from the perspective of the user looking at the plasterboard) to screw the plug portion 104 of the fixing device 101 into the hole in the plasterboard. The stop 148 on the sleeve 141 of the tool 100 prevents the lug 135 from moving, relative to the sleeve 141, and thus retains the positions of the sleeve 141 and the fixing device 101 relative to each other.
The tool 100 is rotated until the flat face of the longitudinal backplate 102 comes into contact with the rear face of the plasterboard. Owing to the pitch of the screw threads 111, this requires a rotation of the tool 100 through approximately 75 degrees. The rotation is terminated by the pressure between the longitudinal backplate 102 and the rear face of the plasterboard. This acts to lock the fixing device 101 into position owing to the relatively high friction between the longitudinal backplate 102 and the rear face of the plasterboard that is generated by the pressure of the rotation being terminated.
Once the fixing device 101 has been screwed into position in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, the tool 100 can be removed from the fixing device 101. To do this, first the sleeve 141 is rotated clockwise until the lug 135 of the extended member 131 comes into contact with the stop 149 adjacent to the groove 147 in the sleeve 141. This aligns the lug 135 with the groove 147. It will be appreciated that the clockwise rotation of the sleeve 141 will not dislodge the fixing device 101 installed in the hole in the plasterboard, because the rotation is relative to the extended member 131 that remains static, having completed the installation of the fixing device 101. Additionally, owing to the orientation of the screw threads 111 on the fixing device 101, any resulting clockwise friction moment owing to the rotation and unlocking of the sleeve 141 (as the lug 135 travels down the ramp 150) will only serve to tighten the fixing device 101 in the hole.
With the lug 135 aligned with the groove 147, the sleeve 141 can be slid along the extended member 131 towards the handle portion 133, away from the fixing device 101. This brings the sleeve 141 clear of the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. The end 134 of the extended member 131 of the tool 100 is then able to be removed from the circular recess 112 and withdrawn from the hole in the plasterboard, leaving the fixing device 101 installed.
-37 -An item can then be attached to the fixing device 101 (and thus to the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling) by screwing a bolt through into the threaded central aperture 106 of the fixing device 101. Owing to the orientation of the thread in the aperture 106 (such that the bolt is screwed clockwise into the fixing device 101), the screwing of the bolt into the aperture 106 will again not dislodge the fixing device 101 installed in the hole in the plasterboard, as any clockwise rotation will only serve to tighten the fixing device 101 in the hole.
The tool 100 may then be reused to install another fixing device 101 in another hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling. It will be appreciated that, for example, the tool 100 may be used to install the fixing device 1 shown in Figures la and lb. It will be seen from the above that in at least preferred embodiments, the system of the present invention facilitates the installation of a fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling in an easy and repeatable manner. The sleeve on the tool, which is able to be secured in the second position, helps to retain alignment of the plug portion with respect to the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, while the fixing device is being screwed into position. This helps to align the longitudinal backplate of the fixing device with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, such that it is more likely that the longitudinal backplate engages flush with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling once the plug portion has been secured in the hole.

Claims (20)

  1. -38 -Claims 1. A system for installing a fixing device, the system comprising: a fixing device comprising a longitudinal backplate, and a plug portion for securing in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and for receiving a fastener, wherein the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate and the plug portion comprises an outer face distal from the longitudinal backplate, and wherein an outer wall of the plug portion comprises a screw thread, wherein the longitudinal backplate is arranged to engage with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole; and a tool for installing the fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, the tool comprising an extended member, wherein the extended member comprises a first end for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end for attaching to the fixing device, and a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the extended member, wherein the sleeve is slidable between a first position proximal to the first end of the extended member and a second position proximal to the second end of the extended member; wherein the system is arranged such that, when the fixing device is attached to the second end of the extended member of the tool and the sleeve of the tool is slid along the extended member into the second position, the sleeve engages with the fixing device and positions the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion; and wherein the sleeve is arranged to be secured in the second position such that the sleeve is prevented from being slid along the extended member towards the first end when the sleeve has been secured in the second position.
  2. 2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plug portion comprises a recess arranged to receive the second end of the extended member of the tool.
  3. 3. The system as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the extended member of the tool comprises a longitudinally extended main body portion between the first end and the second end.
  4. -39 - 4. The system as claimed in claim 1, 2 01 3, wherein the sleeve of the tool has a cross sectional area in a plane perpendicular to a direction in which the sleeve is longitudinally extended that is less than or equal to the cross sectional area of a minimum bounding circle of the cross section of the plug portion in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate.
  5. 5. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first end and the main body portion of the extended member of the tool extend substantially perpendicularly to each other.
  6. 6. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extended member of the tool is integrally formed from a single piece of wire.
  7. 7. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second end of the extended member comprises a compression swage.
  8. 8. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool and/or the plug portion are arranged such that the extended member of the tool attaches to the plug portion in a pivoting manner.
  9. 9. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve comprises a cylindrical aperture that extends along the length of the sleeve through which the extended member of the tool passes.
  10. 10. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve comprises a chamfered edge at the end of the sleeve that engages with the fixing device as the sleeve is slid along the extended member into the second position.
  11. 11. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve comprises a protrusion from the end of the sleeve that engages with the fixing device and is arranged to position the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion.
  12. -40 - 12. The system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the protrusion is arranged to project into the centre of the plug portion.
  13. 13. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the end of the sleeve proximal to the first end of the extended member comprises a rim that projects from the sleeve.
  14. 14. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve is arranged to be rotated to secure it in the second position on the extended member.
  15. 15. The system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extended member comprises a detent that engages with the sleeve to secure the sleeve in the second position.
  16. 16. The system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the detent on the extended member comprises a lug that projects from the extended member and the sleeve comprises a complementary groove for receiving the lug of the extended member.
  17. 17. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the sleeve comprises a stop arranged to engage with the lug on the extended member and prevent the sleeve from being rotated further than the stop around the extended member.
  18. 18. The system as claimed in claim 16 or 17, wherein the sleeve comprises a ramp arranged to engage with the lug of the extended member when the sleeve is rotated about the extended member, when the sleeve is in the second position.
  19. 19. A method of installing a fixing device in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling using a tool, wherein the fixing device comprises a longitudinal backplate, and a plug portion for securing in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and for receiving a fastener, wherein the plug portion projects from the longitudinal backplate and the plug portion comprises an outer face distal from the longitudinal backplate, and wherein an outer wall of the plug portion comprises a screw thread, wherein the longitudinal backplate is arranged to engage with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling when the plug portion is secured in the hole; -41 -and the tool comprises an extended member, wherein the extended member comprises a first end for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end for attaching to the fixing device, and a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the extended member, wherein the sleeve is slidable between a first position proximal to the first end of the extended member and a second position proximal to the second end of the extended member; the method comprising: attaching the second end of the extended member of the tool to the fixing device and inserting the fixing device into a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and into a void behind the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling; sliding the sleeve of the tool along the extended member from the first position to the second position to engage the sleeve with the fixing device and position the fixing device such that the sleeve contacts the outer face of the plug portion; securing the sleeve in the second position to prevent the sleeve from being slid along the extended member towards the first end when the sleeve has been secured in the second position; using the tool to position the plug portion of the fixing device relative to the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling such that the screw thread contacts the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling; and rotating the tool to screw the screw thread into the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling such that the plug portion is secured in the hole in the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling and the longitudinal backplate engages with the rear face of the suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling.
  20. 20. A tool for installing a fixing device in a hole in a suspended plasterboard wall or ceiling, wherein the tool comprises: an extended member, wherein the extended member comprises a first end for a user to manipulate the tool and a second end for attaching to the fixing device, and a sleeve that is slidably mounted on the extended member, wherein the sleeve is slidable between a first position proximal to the first end of the extended member and a second position proximal to the second end of the extended member; -42 -wherein the extended member comprises a detent arranged to engage with the sleeve when the sleeve is in the second position such that the sleeve is prevented from being slid along the extended member towards the first end.
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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080253860A1 (en) * 2005-03-21 2008-10-16 Cobra Fixations Cie Ltee - Cobra Anchors Co., Ltd. Anchor Assembly for Fastener
US20170314600A1 (en) * 2014-10-24 2017-11-02 Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Toggle fixing and method of mounting a toggle fixing
WO2018007811A1 (en) * 2016-07-05 2018-01-11 Grapplefix Limited Fixing device
US20180372139A1 (en) * 2017-06-21 2018-12-27 Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Toggle fixing
US20190107136A1 (en) * 2017-10-11 2019-04-11 Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Toggle fixing

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080253860A1 (en) * 2005-03-21 2008-10-16 Cobra Fixations Cie Ltee - Cobra Anchors Co., Ltd. Anchor Assembly for Fastener
US20170314600A1 (en) * 2014-10-24 2017-11-02 Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Toggle fixing and method of mounting a toggle fixing
WO2018007811A1 (en) * 2016-07-05 2018-01-11 Grapplefix Limited Fixing device
US20180372139A1 (en) * 2017-06-21 2018-12-27 Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Toggle fixing
US20190107136A1 (en) * 2017-10-11 2019-04-11 Fischerwerke Gmbh & Co. Kg Toggle fixing

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