GB2588594A

GB2588594A - A resilient wall tie

Info

Publication number: GB2588594A
Application number: GB1915107.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Arbabi Ryan; Gowers Phil
Original assignee: Farrat Isolevel Ltd
Current assignee: Farrat Isolevel Ltd
Priority date: 2019-10-18
Filing date: 2019-10-18
Publication date: 2021-05-05
Anticipated expiration: 2039-10-18
Also published as: WO2021074621A1; GB201915107D0; GB2588594B

Abstract

A wall tie with a pair of opposed engagements assemblies (12 fig.1) clamped to a vibration isolating central block 11 and extending in different directions. The engagement assemblies are clamped independently of one another, there may be not contact between them. The central block may be a cuboid with filleted edges, it may be solid or of mixed cell construction, it may also be resilient with minimal compression characteristics. The engagement assemblies may have a one-piece construction and may have the same shape and configuration. The wall tie may have a central block engagement assembly comprising two spaced apart portions to receive the central block(s) each portion may comprise two coplanar arms 18 and a third offset arm (17 fig.2). The arms may comprise lateral wings (21 fig.2) to secure the central block. The engagement assemblies may be configured to lock relative to one another if the central block were to fail structurally.

Description

A RESILIENT WALL TIE Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates to wall ties used in building and construction. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention concerns a resilient wall tie to provide support between spaced apart structures while reducing transmission of structure borne noise and vibration.

Background to the Invention

Resilient wall ties are available to provided structural support between spaced apart walls while reducing transmission of structure borne noise and vibration.

The wall ties enable stud or brick/block walls to be mechanically tied together without rigidly connecting them, with the provision of a plurality of resilient portions between two connecting portions that reduces vibration transfer across the wall tie.

Many conventional resilient wall ties have a pair of opposed tie ends that are attached to a respective wall with one a plurality of resilient portions provided between portions of the tie ends Normally the wall ties and the plurality of resilient portions are connected to one another by passing an elongate bolt through a part of each of the wall ties and the plurality of resilient portions. This is typically used to connect the two sides of the wall tie and also to locate the resilient portions between the two sides of the wall tie The elongate bolt provides a medium through which vibration can be transmitted as well as to locate the resilient portions Further, the configuration of the conventional wall ties means that the bolt bears the bulk of any load caused by relative movement of the respective walls or wall portions.

Some conventional wall ties do not use a bolt in order to overcome the performance issues but in these cases, as the two sides of the wall tie are connected indirectly, the two sides of the wall tie can only bear load in one or possibly two axes of direction at most.

Embodiments of the present invention seek to overcome/amel other disadvantages and/or to provide an improved resilient wall tie. ora e these or

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a resilient wall tie comprising at least one vibration isolating central block, and a pair of opposed engagement assemblies mounted relative to the central block and extending in different directions from the central block, each engagement assembly clamped to the central block independently of each other engagement assembly.

Providing a resilient wall tie with these features allows isolation of the engagement assemblies from one another, with the only connection between the engagement assemblies being that they are both clamped to the central block, which, due to being an vibration isolating central block, will resist and preferably greatly reduce transmission of structure borne noise and vibration through the wall tie but allow loading to occur through the wall tie in three axes of direction This results in a wall tie which is both structurally superior to conventional wall ties and has improved transmission reduction characteristics.

The resilient wall tie of the present invention may be used with any types of structures including, but not limited to, plasterboard, masonry or steel column and any combination of these structures In an embodiment, the engagement assemblies are wall or panel engagement assemblies, each configured to engage a structure, or to be engaged with a structure, such as via attachment to the structure, to attach the respective structures to one another structurally, yet maintaining any one or more of vibration, acoustic and/or impact isolation of the structures from one another. The engagement assemblies may be referred to as tie ends.

The respective tie ends in a pair may be configured to at least temporarily lock the tie ends together in a situation where a fire for example, melts or otherwise adversely affects the central block.

One or more of the engagement assemblies may be associated with an adapter to allow for different types of connection with different types of structure and/or with one or more components of a fire safety restraint system.

The resilient wall tie of the present invention includes at least one vibration isolating central block. The at least one vibration isolating central block is configured to reduce or substantially prevent any vibration transmission from the engagement assembly on one side of the central block to the engagement assembly to the other engagement assembly. The vibration will typically be from air borne sound or structure borne noise and the at least one vibration isolation central block will preferably at least minimise the transmission of vibration through the wall tie.

Typically, a single vibration isolating central block is provided. The central block may be formed from one or more different portions. The central block may be formed from one or more different materials.

The central block is preferably shaped The central block will typically be cuboid A rectangular cuboid shaped central block is particularly preferred The preferred cuboid shape preferably provides a number of faces and a number of edges relative to which the pair of engagement assemblies can be mounted. In particular, the preferred cuboid shape provides a number of corner edges and adjacent surfaces that can be used to clamp each of the engagement assemblies relative to the central block, in three axes of direction.

A preferred central block is provided with arcuate transitions between the respective surfaces, at the corner edges. Angle transitions may be provided instead.

In a preferred form, the central block is provided with six faces, eight vertices and 12 edges. The faces of the central block are preferably rectangular. The faces of the central block are preferably provided in opposed pairs, which are parallel to one another. Typically, the area of opposite faces in the preferred central block is the same.

The pair of engagement assemblies are typically mounted to the central block. The engagement assemblies are preferably attached to the central block independently of one another. Each engagement assembly holds the central block independently of 30 each other engagement assembly.

There will preferably be no contact between the respective engagement assemblies when attached to the block. Preferably, the only connection between the respective engagement assemblies of the resilient wall tie of the present invention is that both wall engagement assemblies are attached to the same central block This will preferably minimise relative movement of the engagement assemblies but also minimise transmission of vibration.

The central block is preferably an vibration isolation central block. The vibration isolating central block may absorb vibration. The central block will typically be resilient although with minimal deflection characteristics, particularly in compression. A preferred material of construction is one or more polymeric materials.

An elastomeric material is particularly preferred.

The central block may be manufactured from one or more natural rubbers, synthetic rubbers or combinations thereof The material characteristics of the central block will preferably be chosen for the loading characteristics required in the particular use of the resilient wall tie For example, an elastomeric material such as natural rubber is available in a variety of grades, typically related to density. The optimum density for the central block will preferably be chosen according to the required loading characteristics of the wall tie. An appropriate thickness of material will be used for the central block.

Typically, elastomeric materials such as natural rubbers are available in different material types with the characteristics of the material dependent upon the method used to form the elastomeric material and/or the constituents therein Appropriate knowledge of elastomer technology including natural and synthetic materials will allow delivery of very precise performance characteristics in the at least one central block, relating to, for example, dynamic stiffness, critical damping, and/or controlled load deflection.

Farrat TM Verlimber or a similar material is an example of a material that is suitable for the central block.

The central block may be solid or hollow. The central block may be provided with one or more openings into and/or through the central block. The one or more openings may extend into or through the central block in any one or more of the three main axes of the preferred rectangular cuboid shape.

The resilient wall tie of the present invention includes a pair of opposed engagement assemblies mounted relative to the central block and extending in different directions from the central block, each engagement assembly clamped to the central block independently of each other engagement assembly.

The engagement assemblies will preferably be made of an appropriate material to allow attachment of the engagement assemblies to a wall or panel or other structure. A metal material is particularly preferred. The engagement assemblies are typically of one-piece construction. The engagement assemblies are preferably shaped by pressing or bending an appropriate metal blank into the desired shape.

The engagement assemblies will each typically have a wall engagement portion extending in different directions relative to the central block. The wall engagement portions can extend substantially oppositely to one another or perpendicular to one another, or may extend in the same direction but from opposite sides of the central

block, for example.

In one embodiment, the engagement assemblies will have the same shape and configuration. In other embodiments, the engagement assemblies may have different configurations appropriate to allow connection of the respective engagement assembly to a respective structure In an embodiment, at least one of the engagement assemblies will include an attachment portion or assembly. The attachment portion will typically allow the respective engagement assembly to be attached to a wall, panel or structure and will be configured to allow this attachment. The attachment portion may be or include an attachment flange. Each attachment flange will typically be configured depending on the construction of the wall, panel or structure to which the attachment flange is to be attached.

The shape of the respective attachment portions may depend upon the angle required between the respective walls, panels or structures with which the resilient wall tie is used and/or the nature and orientation of the respective structures.

The attachment portion may engage with a separate member or assembly that is mounted to a structure. An engagement member or assembly may be provided on the attachment portion. In an embodiment, the engagement assembly includes a tongue member. The tongue member preferably extends from one end of the attachment portion. The tongue member is preferably located at an opposite end to the central block engagement assembly. The tongue member is preferably offset from the plane of the attachment portion. A stepped profile is preferred.

Where provided, the separate member or assembly (mounting buckle) that is mounted to a structure preferably comprises an attachment or engagement portion to attach to or engage with, the structure or a means to attach to the structure. For example, where the resilient wall tie is configured to be bolted to a structure, the mounting buckle preferably comprises a flange with an opening therethrough to bolt to a structure. Where the resilient wall tie is configured to be embedded in or cast into a masonry block, the mounting buckle preferably comprises a number of flanges extending therefrom to present an enlarged surface area in different directions to be embedded in or cast into a masonry block. Where the resilient wall tie is configured to be clipped to a structure such as a Unistrut TM channel, the mounting buckle preferably comprises a shaped engagement assembly to engage with a portion of the Uni strut TM channel.

In an embodiment, a portion of the mounting buckle will include an opening.

A slot opening is preferred. A transversely extending slot opening is particularly preferred. Preferably the opening received the tongue member of the attachment portion. This preferably allows the attachment portion to be releasably mounted to or engaged with, the mounting buckle. Preferably, the tongue member is inserted into the opening with the attachment portion being substantially transverse to the mounting buckle and then the attachment portion is rotated until it is parallel to the mounting buckle, locking the tongue member within the opening.

The mounting buckle may include one or more resilient arms Preferably, the or each resilient arm will be temporarily deformed during passage of a part of the attachment portion. An abutment surface is preferably provided on the or each resilient arm to abut a portion of the attachment portion to lock the attachment portion to the mounting buckle such that deformation of the or each resilient arm is required to release the attachment portion The attachment portion may be provided with one or more laterally extending abutment members. In use, the one or more laterally extending abutment members are preferably positioned to abut the one or more resilient arms of the mounting buckle.

Each engagement assembly (tie end) will typically comprise a central block engagement assembly which is provided relative to an attachment portion.

The central block engagement assembly preferably includes at least two opposed portions. The at least two opposed portions will preferably be spaced apart from one another. The central block will typically be received between the at least two opposed portions.

In an embodiment, each of the at least two opposed portions comprise an arm. Each arm will typically be a shaped arm including portions extending at different angles to one another to abut/engage different parts of the central block. The portions of each shaped arm will typically extend in abutment to at least two surfaces of the central block Portions of the preferred shaped arm will typically be elongate Portions of the preferred shaped arms will preferably extend in abutment across at least a portion of at least two surfaces of the central block.

Preferably, each of the arms of each engagement assembly will brace the engagement assembly against movement in at least two directions relative to the central block. Together, the preferred opposed arms of each engagement assembly will abut all six faces of the preferred cuboid central block, at least to some degree.

In an embodiment, each engagement assembly preferably comprise three arms. Typically, two arms, a first arm and a spaced apart second arm are provided relative to one of the surfaces of the preferred central block, spaced from an offset arm which is provided relative to an opposite surface of the preferred central block.

The first arm and second arm of each engagement assembly are preferably spaced apart laterally from one another as well as both being spaced from the offset arm. The first arm and second arm are typically coplanar with one another. The first arm and second arm are typically located toward either end of the central block. The offset arm will typically be provided on an opposite side of the central block. The offset arm will typically be provided between the spaced apart first arm and second arm. This configuration preferably means that the respective arms of two engagement assemblies can be mounted to the same central block on opposite sides of the central block, such that all six arms (the three arms on one engagement assembly and the three arms on the upper engagement assembly) are spaced from one another without any contact between any of the arms.

Preferably, the coplanar first arm and second arm, and the offset arm of each respective engagement assembly typically abut the two opposed largest rectangular faces on the preferred cuboid central block.

Each of the arms of an engagement assembly are preferably planar, or have one or more planar portions. In this configuration, the arms typically have at least one abutment surface to abut at least one surface of the central block. The arms are typically configured to maximise the at least one abutment surface area between the arm and the central block in order to increase the security of the clamping between the respective engagement assembly and central block.

The first arm and second arm of each engagement assembly preferably have the same configuration but are mirror opposites. Each first arm and second arm is typically L-shaped Each first arm and second arm preferably includes a first portion extending relative to the engagement portion and a second portion extending substantially perpendicularly to the first portion. There will preferably be an arcuate transition between the first portion and the second portion.

The first portion of each first arm and second arm will preferably abut the second largest surface of the central block, on one side of the central block. The first portion will typically abut the central block over the height of the second largest surface.

The second portion of each first arm and second arm preferably extends at least part way across the largest surface of the central block, on one side of the central block. Each second portion of each first arm and second arm is preferably spaced from the opposite second largest surface Each first arm and second arm will preferably comprise a lateral wing. The lateral wing of one of the first arm and second arm of an engagement assembly will extend in one direction and the lateral wing of the other of the first arm and second arm of the engagement assembly will extend in the opposite direction. Preferably, a portion of each lateral wing abuts the smallest surface of the central block. The lateral wing of one of the first arm and second arm of an engagement assembly abuts the smallest surface of the central block at one end of the central block and the lateral wing of the other of the first arm and second arm of the engagement assembly abuts the smallest surface of the central block at the opposite end of the central block.

Each lateral wing will typically extend from the second portion of each first arm and second arm. Preferably, the lateral wing will preferably extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the second portion of each first arm and second arm Each lateral wing may include an arcuate transition from the second portion of the first arm and second arm Each lateral wing may include an abutment wall Preferably, the abutment wall extends from the arcuate transition.

The lateral wing is preferably located at or toward a free end of the second portion of each first arm and second arm. Each lateral wing preferably extends only partway along the length of the second portion of each first arm and second arm.

In an embodiment, a lateral wing is provided on the second portion of a first arm or a second arm only. The tie ends may be manufactured in pairs such that the first arm of one tie end and the second arm of the other tie end in a pair comprises a lateral wing but the other of the respective arms does not. Where two tie ends are mounted to a central block, this will preferably leave a side entry located on one end of the pair of tie ends without lateral wings.

In a preferred configuration, each of the first arm and second arm, including the lateral wing preferably abuts three, mutually orthogonal, adjacent faces of the central block. The first arm and second arm including the lateral wing preferably abuts three, mutually orthogonal, adjacent faces of the central block, at opposite ends of the central block In this preferred configuration, the including the lateral wing taken together abuts 4 of the 6 faces of the preferred central block. l0

The offset arm of each of the engagement assemblies preferably abuts the remaining two of the 6 faces of the preferred central block.

The offset arm of each of the engagement assemblies preferably has an annodated shape or S-shape. The offset arm will preferably extend relative to the engagement portion of the engagement assembly. The offset arm will preferably comprise a first portion which is parallel to, but spaced from the second portion of the respective including the lateral wing. The first portion of the offset arm preferably abuts the largest face of the central block, on the opposite of the central block to the second portion of the including the lateral wing.

The first portion of the offset arm will typically extend across the width of the largest face of the central block which it abuts.

An arcuate transition may be provided an end of the first portion opposite to the engagement portion The arcuate transition will preferably form a hook or catch to engage a corner edge of the central block.

An enlarged hook or catch member may be provided. The enlarged hook or catch may include an outwardly angled portion A second portion may be provided on the offset arm. Where provided, it is preferred that the second portion is relatively short portion. The second portion of the offset arm preferably extends substantially parallel to, but be spaced from, the first portions of the respective first arms. The second portion may include a wall portion extending substantially transversely to the first portion of the offset arm.

The offset arm of each engagement assembly (tie end) is preferably spaced from the respective first arm and second arm of the engagement assembly longitudinally as well as transversely.

The central block is preferably clamped between the second portions of the respective first arm and second arm and the first portion of the offset arm relative to the opposed largest surfaces of the preferred central block in a first axis. The central block is preferably clamped between the first portions of the respective first arm and second arm and the second portion of the offset arm relative to opposed second largest surfaces of the preferred central block in a second axis. The central block is preferably clamped Ii between the respective lateral wings of respective first arm and second arm relative to the opposed smallest surfaces of the preferred central block in a third axis. The first axis, second axis and third axis are preferably mutually orthogonal.

Each of the respective engagement assemblies in a pair is preferably clamped to the preferred central block in this way. The respective arms of the respective engagement assemblies preferably abut the central block on opposite surfaces. The arms of each respective engagement assembly in the pair preferably abut the central block on all 6 faces of the central block.

The first arm and second arm of each engagement assembly preferably abut the central block on opposite surfaces to the offset arm of the engagement assembly. This will typically brace movement of the offset arm against the first arm and second arm.

In use, the offset arm will normally be deformed to allow the central block to be inserted between the first arm and second arm and offset arm of the engagement assembly. The engagement assemblies will normally be attached to the central block one at a time, and from different sides of the central block In an embodiment, the two engagement assemblies are attached to the central block independently from one another, with all portions of the engagement assemblies separated from each other so that there is no direct contact between any portion of the two engagement assemblies.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure I is an axonometric view of a resilient wall tie of an embodiment.

Figure 2 is an axonometric view of the resilient wall tie illustrated in Figure 1 with the central block rendered transparent.

Figure 3 is an axonometric view of the resilient wall tie illustrated in Figure 1 with the tie ends rendered transparent.

Figure 4 is an axonometric view of a tie end of the resilient wall tie illustrated in Figure 1 Figure 5 is a side view of the tie end illustrated in Figure 4, Figure 6 is an end view of the tie end illustrated in Figure 4.

With reference in to the accompanying Figures, a resilient wall tie according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated.

The resilient wall tie 10 illustrated in Figure 1 in particular comprises an vibration isolating central block 11, and a pair of opposed engagement assemblies 12 mounted relative to the central block 11 and extending in different directions from the central block 11. As shown, each engagement assembly 12 is clamped to the central block 11 independently of each other engagement assembly 12.

According to the illustrated embodiment, a single vibration isolating central block 11 is provided, although the central block may be formed from one or more different portions or one or more different materials.

The central block 11 shown in the Figures is a rectangular cuboid shaped central block. A cuboid shape provides a number of faces and a number of edges relative to which the pair of engagement assemblies 12 can be mounted. In particular, the preferred cuboid shape provides a number of corner edges and adjacent surfaces that can be used to clamp each of the engagement assemblies 12 relative to the central block 11, in three axes of direction.

The illustrated central block II is provided with arcuate transitions between the respective surfaces, at the corner edges.

In the illustrated form, the central block 11 is provided with six faces, eight vertices and 12 edges. The faces of the central block 11 are all rectangular, provided in opposed pairs, with each of the opposed surfaces in a pair being parallel to one another.

The opposite faces in the preferred central block 11 have the same area.

The engagement assemblies 12 are attached to the central block 11 independently of one another with each engagement assembly 12 clamping the central block 11 independently of each other engagement assembly 12.

In the illustrated embodiment, there is no contact between the respective engagement assemblies 12 when attached to the central block 11 The respective engagement assemblies are only connected relative to one another through their respective connection to same central block 11.

The vibration isolating central block 11 may be vibration absorbent. The central block 11 of the illustrated embodiment is resilient although with minimal deflection characteristics, particularly in compression.

The central block is preferably manufactured from a natural rubber. Farrat TM Verlimber or a similar material is an example of a material that is suitable for the central 10 block.

The central block 11 may be solid as shown in Figure 1 or hollow as shown in Figure 3.

The engagement assemblies 12 are made of an appropriate material to allow attachment of the engagement assemblies 12 to a wall or panel or other structure. A metal material is particularly preferred. The engagement assemblies are typically of one-piece construction, formed by pressing or bending an appropriate metal blank into the desired shape.

As best seen in Figures 4 to 6, the engagement assemblies 12 each have a wall attachment portion 13, which in use and when two engagement assemblies are attached to the same central block 11 as in Figure 1, extend in substantially opposite directions to one another.

In the illustrate embodiment, the engagement assemblies 12 have the same shape and configuration.

The attachment portion 13 allows the respective engagement assembly 12 to be attached to a wall, panel or structure (not shown) and is configured to allow this attachment. The attachment portion 13 illustrated is an attachment flange. Each attachment flange 13 is a planar flange which can be attached to a structure using elongate fasteners or embedded in mortar in a block wall for example.

The attachment flange 13 shown is provided at an outer end of an angled transition plate 14 which spaces the attachment flange from the central block engagement assembly 15 In the illustrated embodiment, each block engagement assembly 15 comprises three arms. A first arm 16 and a coplanar, spaced apart second arm 16' are provided relative to one of the surfaces of the central block 11, spaced from an offset arm 17 which is provided relative to an opposite surface of the central block 11 The first arm 16 and second arm 16' of each engagement assembly 12 are spaced apart laterally from one another as well as both being spaced from the offset arm 17.

The first arm 16 and second arm 16' are coplanar with one another. As shown in Figures Ito 3, the first arm 16 and second arm 16' are located toward either end of the central block 11. The offset arm 17 is provided on an opposite side of the central block 11 to the first arm 16 and second arm 16' and between the spaced apart first arm 16 and second arm 16'. This configuration means that the respective arms of two engagement assemblies 12 can be mounted to the same central block 11, on opposite sides of the central block 11, such that all six arms (the three arms on one engagement assembly and the three arms on the upper engagement assembly) are spaced from one another without any contact between any of the arms as shown in Figures 1 to 3.

In the illustrated configuration, the first arm 16 and second arm 16' and offset arm 17 of each respective engagement assembly 12 abut the opposed largest rectangular faces on the cuboid central block 11.

Each of the first arm 16 and second arm 16' and offset arm 17 of each engagement assembly 12 are planar, haying at least one abutment surface to abut at least one surface of the central block 11. The arms are typically configured to maximise the abutment surface area between the arm and the central block 11 in order to increase the security of the clamping between the respective engagement assembly 12 and central block 11.

As shown, the first arm 16 and second arm 16' of each engagement assembly 12 have the same configuration but are mirror opposites

IS

Each first arm 16 and second arm 16' is L-shaped including a first portion 18 extending from the transition plate 14 and a second portion 19 extending substantially perpendicularly to the first portion 18. There is an arcuate transition 20 between the first portion 18 and the second portion 19.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the first portion 18 of each first arm 16 and second arm 16' abuts the second largest surface of the central block 11, on one side of the central block 11. The first portion 18 abuts the central block 11 over the height of the second largest surface The second portion 19 of each first arm 16 and second arm 16' extends at least part way across the largest surface of the central block 11, on one side of the central block 11. Each second portion 19 of each first arm 16 and second arm 16', is preferably spaced from the opposite second largest surface which is abutted by the offset arm 17.

Each first arm 16 and second arm 16' also includes a lateral wing 21. The lateral wing 21 of one of the first arm 16 and second arm 16' of the engagement assembly 12 extends in one direction and the lateral wing 21 of the other of the first arm 16 and second arm 16' of the engagement assembly 12 extends in the opposite direction. The lateral wing 21 of one of the first arm 16 and second arm 16' of the engagement assembly 12 abuts the smallest surface of the central block 11 at one end of the central block 11 and the lateral wing 21 of the other of the first arm 16 and second arm 16' of the engagement assembly 12 abuts the smallest surface of the central block 11 at the opposite end of the central block 11.

Each lateral wing 21 extends from the second portion 19 of each first arm 16 and second arm 16'. As illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, each lateral wing 21 includes an arcuate transition 22 from the second portion 19 of the first arm 16 and second arm 16'.

Each lateral wing 21 includes a short planar abutment wall 23 extending from the arcuate transition 22.

In the illustrated configuration, each of the first arm 16 and second arm 16' including the lateral wings 21 therefore abuts three, mutually orthogonal, adjacent faces of the central block 11 as illustrated in Figure 1, at opposite ends of the central block 11. In this preferred configuration, the two first arm 16 and second arm 16' and the lateral wings 21 of each engagement assembly 12 taken together, abut 4 of the 6 faces of the illustrated central block 11 The offset arm 17 of each of the engagement assemblies 12 preferably abuts the remaining two of the 6 faces of the illustrated central block I. The offset arm 17 of each of the engagement assemblies 12 has an annodated or S-shape. The offset arm 17 of the illustrated embodiment extends from the transition plate 14 of the engagement assembly 12. The offset arm 17 of an engagement assembly 12 includes a first portion 24 which is parallel to, but spaced from the second portion 19 of the respective first arms 16 of the engagement assembly 12 as shown in Figure4 to 6 in particular. The first portion 24 of the offset arm 17 abuts one of the largest faces of the central block 11, on the opposite side of the central block 11 to the second portion 19 of the first arm 16.

The first portion 24 of the offset arm 17 extends across the width of face of the central block 11 which it abuts.

An arcuate transition hook 25 is provided an outer free end of the first portion 24, opposite to the engagement flange 13 to engage the corner edge of the central block 11.

The offset arm 17 of each engagement assembly 12 (tie end) is spaced from the respective first arm 16 and second arm 16' of the engagement assembly 12 longitudinally as well as transversely, with a gap 26 between the respective first arm 16 and second arm 16' and offset arm 17.

As shown in Figure 1, the central block 11 is clamped between the second portions 19 of the respective first arm 16 and second arm 16' and the first portion 24 of the offset arm 17 relative to the opposed largest surfaces of the central block 11 in one axis. The central block 11 is also clamped between the first portions 18 of the respective first arm 16 and second arm 16' and the arcuate transition hook 25 of the offset arm 17 relative to opposed second largest surfaces of the central block 11 in a second axis. The central block 11 is clamped between the respective lateral wings 21 of respective first arms 17 relative to the opposed smallest surfaces of the central block 11 in a third axis.

Each of the respective engagement assemblies 12 in the pair is clamped to the central block 11 in this way but with the respective first arm 16 and second arm 16' and offset arm 17 of the respective engagement assemblies 12 abutting the central block 11 on opposite surfaces. The first arm 16 and second arm 16' and offset arm 17 of both respective engagement assemblies 12 abut the central block 11 on all 6 faces of the central block 11.

In use, the offset arm 17 will normally be deformed to allow the central block 11 to be inserted between the first arm 16 and second arm 16' and offset arm 17 of the engagement assembly 12. The engagement assemblies 12 are normally be attached to the central block 11 one at a time, and from different sides of the central block 11.

In the various embodiments illustrated in Figures 7 to 20, the respective engagement assemblies 12 in a pair are configured to at least temporarily lock the tie ends together in a situation where the structural integrity of the central block 11 is adversely affected such as melting during a fire for example In these various embodiments illustrated in Figures 7 to 20, one of the engagement assemblies 12 is shown associated with an adapter or mounting buckle 70 to allow for different types of connection with different types of structure.

As shown in Figures 7 to 20, the mounting buckle 70 comprises an attachment or engagement portion to attach to or engage with, the structure or a means to attach to the structure.

For example, in Figures 7 to 10, a resilient wall tie 10 is shown bolted to a surface. In this configuration, the mounting buckle 70 comprises a flange 71 with an opening 72 therethrough to receive the bolt 73 to bolt the resilient wall tie 10 to a structure.

In Figures 11 to 14, a resilient wall tie 10 is shown with a part of the mounting buckle 70 embedded in a masonry block 74. In this configuration, the mounting buckle 70 comprises a number of flanges 75 extending therefrom to present an enlarged surface area in different directions, to be embedded in or cast into the masonry block 74.

In Figures 15 to 18, the resilient wall tie 10 is shown clipped to a Unistrut TM channel 75. In this configuration, the mounting buckle comprises a shaped engagement assembly 77 to engage with a portion of the Uni strut TM channel 75 as illustrated in Figure 16 in particular.

As shown in Figures 7 to 20, the mounting buckle 70 is associated with the attachment portion of an engagement assembly 12. The engagement assembly 12 in all three embodiments is substantially the same configuration. An engagement tongue 78 is provided on the attachment portion. The tongue 78 extends from one end of the attachment portion, opposite to the central block engagement assembly. As shown in Figure 14 in particular, the tongue 78 is offset from the plane of the attachment portion with a stepped profile.

A portion of the respective mounting buckle 70 includes a slot opening 79 preferably extending transversely. In use, the opening 79 receives the tongue member allowing the attachment portion of an engagement assembly 12 to be releasably mounted to or engaged with, the mounting buckle 70. As shown in Figures 19 and 20 in particular, the tongue 78 is inserted into the opening 79 with the engagement assembly 12 being substantially transverse to the mounting buckle 70 and then the engagement assembly 12 is rotated until it is parallel to the mounting buckle 70, locking the tongue member 78 within the opening 79.

The mounting buckle 70 illustrated in each of the three embodiments, includes a pair of resilient arms 80. The arms 80 will be temporarily deformed during passage of a part of the engagement assembly 12 during the rotation. An abutment surface is provided on the end of each resilient arm 80 to abut the engagement assembly 12 to lock the engagement assembly 12 the mounting buckle 70 such that deformation of the resilient arms 80 is required to release the engagement assembly 12.

The engagement assembly 12 is also provided with two pairs of laterally extending abutment members 81 In use, the laterally extending abutment members 81 are positioned to abut one of the resilient arms 80 of the mounting buckle or one of a pair of support members 82 provided on the engagement assembly 12.

In these embodiments, the lateral wing 21 is located at or toward a free end of the second portion of each first arm and second arm Each lateral wing 21 extends only partway along the length of the second portion of each first arm and second arm.

A lateral wing 21 is provided on the second portion of only one of the first arm or a second arm of an engagement assembly 12. The engagement assemblies 12 are then preferably manufactured in pairs such that the first arm of one engagement assembly 12 and the second arm of the other engagement assembly 12 in a pair includes a lateral wing but the other of the respective arms of the engagement assembly 12 does not. Where two engagement assembly 12 are mounted to a central block 11, this will leave a side entry located on one end of the pair of engagement assemblies 12 without lateral wings 21 such as that shown in Figures 7 and 8.

An enlarged hook or catch 83 is provided. The enlarged hook or catch 83 include an outwardly angled portion.

From the embodiments illustrated in Figures 7 to 20, it can be seen that if the central block is melted, for example by fire, the respective engagement assemblies 12 will lock to one another, providing a failsafe configuration, providing at least temporary support between the adjacent structures The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only.

Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMSA resilient wall tie comprising at least one vibration isolating central block, and a pair of opposed engagement assemblies mounted relative to the central block and extending in different directions from the central block, each engagement assembly clamped to the central block independently of each other engagement assembly.
2. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 1 wherein a single vibration isolating central block is provided.
3. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 2 wherein the central block is rectangular cuboid shaped with six faces and twelve edges.
4. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 3 wherein the central block is provided with an arcuate transition between the respective faces, at the edges.
5. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the faces of the central block are provided in opposed pairs which are parallel to one another.
IS 6. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein there is no contact between the respective engagement assemblies when attached to the central block.
7. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the central block is resilient with minimal compression characteristics.
8. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the central block has a compact, mixed cell construction.
9. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the central block is solid.
10. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the engagement assemblies have a one-piece construction.
11. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the pair of engagement assemblies have the same shape and configuration.
12. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the engagement assemblies comprises an attachment portion or assembly configured to allow the at least one engagement assembly to be attached to a wall, panel or structure
13. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 12 wherein the attachment portion comprises an attachment flange.
14. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a central block engagement assembly comprising at least two spaced apart opposed portions to receive the at least one central block therebetween.
15. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 14 wherein the central block engagement assembly comprises three arms, a first arm and coplanar, spaced apart second arm and an offset arm spaced from the first arm and second arm.
16. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 15 wherein the offset arm is provided between the spaced apart first arm and second arm
17. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 15 or claims 16 wherein the first arm and second arm of each engagement assembly are L-shaped.
18. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 17 wherein each first arm and second arm comprises a first portion and a second portion extending perpendicularly to the first portion.
19. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 18 wherein each first arm and second arm comprises a lateral wing, the lateral wing of one of the first arm and second arm of an engagement assembly extending in one direction and the lateral wing of the other of the first arm and second arm of the engagement assembly extending in an opposite direction.
20. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 19 wherein the lateral wing of one of the first arm and second arm of an engagement assembly abuts a surface of the central block and the lateral wing of the other of the first arm and second arm of the engagement assembly abuts a surface of the central block at an opposite side of the central block.
2 I. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20 wherein the lateral wing extends perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of each first arm and second arm.
22. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 21 wherein the offset arm of each of the engagement assemblies has a hook or catch at a free end thereof to engage a corner edge of the central block on an opposite side to the first arm and the second arm.
23. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 22 wherein the offset arm comprises a first portion which is parallel to, but spaced from the second portion of the respective first arm and second arm.
24. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 23 wherein the central block is clamped between the second portions of the respective first arm and second arm and the first portion of the offset arm relative to opposed largest surfaces of the central block in a first axis, between the first portions of the respective first arm and second arm and the second portion of the offset arm relative to opposed second largest surfaces of the central block in a second axis and between the respective lateral wings of respective first arm and second arm relative to the opposed smallest surfaces of the preferred central block in a third axis.
25. A resilient wall tie as claimed in claim 24 wherein the first axis, second axis and third axis are mutually orthogonal.
26. A resilient wall tie as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein if the structural integrity of the central block 11 is adversely affected causing collapse, the pair of opposed engagement assemblies lock relative to one another.