KR20090031497A - Fire rated wall structure - Google Patents

Abstract

A fire rated wall structure includes a channel-shaped top track and bottom track each having male protrusions formed along their side walls. The wall structure further includes at least one stud member interconnecting the top and bottom tracks. The stud member comprises a stationary portion and a slip extension slidably nested within the stationary portion. Female recesses are formed in a terminus end of each of the slip extension and stationary portion and are adapted to nest with male protrusions of the top and bottom tracks. A slot formed within the slip extension accommodates fasteners initiated from a panel member and which passes through the stationary portion side wall and extends into the slot to allow relative sliding motion between the slip extension and the stud member. A top overcap disposed in overlapping relation to the top track includes a male protrusion for slidingly bearing against the panel member.

Description

Firewall structure {FIRE RATED WALL STRUCTURE}

Cross Reference to Related Application

This application is incorporated by reference in U.S. Pat. No. 8, 2006, the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Provisional Application No. 60 / 780,099, filed May 14, 2002, entitled U.S. Provisional Application No. 09 / 979,214, and dated June 7, 2005, entitled U.S. Structural Member with Gripping Shape and Its Joining Device. Claims Provisional Application No. 11 / 146,534.

Report on Government Supported Research / Development

Not applicable

The invention can generally be used in the construction of wall assemblies, such as joining systems, more particularly partitioning walls and non-load bearing curtain walls, and is essentially a number of building codes. A single-formed firewall structure, configured to meet fire protection regulations based on

In building structures, conventional wall fabrication techniques use upper and lower headers spaced apart from one another. The upper and lower headers are attached to the ceiling and floor portions of the building structure and are interconnected with a plurality of stud members spaced apart and parallel to each other. Typically the stud member is connected to the upper and lower headers using mechanical fasteners such as nails, screws, and the like. Framing, including upper and lower headers and stud members, may be of wood or metallic structure. Thereafter, panels such as drywall, gypsum board, sheetrock and the like are installed on opposite sides of the framework to complete the basic wall structure. Unfortunately, traditional wall structures have several drawbacks, which include the time-consuming nature of these traditional wall construction methods and the high cost thereby.

Steel systems typically use lightweight steel stud members that are generally channel shaped or U-shaped. The stud member is attachable at opposite ends to the horizontally oriented top and bottom plate members. In addition, the upper and lower plate members are fixed to the building structure adjacent to the ceiling and the floor. In this regard, the steel system comprises a series of spaced apart steel stud members that include wall plates that engage the upper and lower plate members and attach to opposite sides of the steel system.

In a conventional structural methodology, the framework can be arranged and assembled on the ground in such a way that the upper and lower plate members are spaced apart. The stud member is then connected to the upper and lower plates by engaging the ends of the stud using screws or other suitable fasteners. Since the steel system depends on the fasteners for interconnecting the stud members to the upper and lower plate members, the framework systems are generally structurally weak when the stud members first engage the upper and lower plate members prior to installation of the fasteners. The framing system does not gain sufficient strength until the wallboard is attached to the frame, providing insufficient rigidity until the fastener is inserted.

Another method of securing the stud members to the upper and lower plates requires the use of tabs and slot arrangements, wherein the tabs disposed on the extreme ends of the upper and lower plates engage with corresponding slots in the stud member. Such engagement is facilitated by manually pushing the tab (ie, using a hammer) such that the tab is reoriented in an angled orientation with respect to the stud member to lock the stud member against the upper and lower plates. Unfortunately, this method of interconnecting the stud members to the upper and lower plates requires additional material to form the upper and lower plates. In addition, reorienting or bending the tab to the locked position is relatively time consuming as it requires additional labor. The method of tabs and slots connecting the stud members to the upper and lower plates is generally effective for securing these members, but the amount of time spent bending the tabs, a total of four times for each stud member, is due to this type of steel system. It represents an important drawback that hinders its full use.

Other methods of constructing steel systems with stud members and upper and lower plates require the use of cooperating formations in each component. This formation consists of an interlocking stud member and a fixed notch formed in the wall of the plate. To facilitate positioning of the stud member, the wall of the plate member includes an inverted lip formed at the position where the stud member engages with the upper and lower plate members. Unfortunately, the additional materials required to form these ribs require the use of fastening clips that increase overall material costs and further increase labor and assembly costs. Another disadvantage with this connection methodology is the low strength of the framework system due to the minimum amount of engagement between the mating components. More specifically, limited engagement between the mating components minimizes the overall resistance of the framework system to rotation, torsion and separation of the stud member and the upper and lower plate members.

Another problem with the steel system of the prior art is that it results in height irregularities from floor to ceiling. More specifically, in the construction structure, coarse concrete finishing and / or irregularities in the height of the ceiling structure are time-consuming work of cutting and assembling individual stud members for assembly between the ceiling and floor mounted upper and lower plates. need. Ideally, the spacing between the floor and ceiling structures is constant such that the stud members are approximately the same height. However, spacing irregularities often occur and the stud member must be custom assembled. In addition, windows and / or doors installed in many wall structures require stud members to be cut and assembled based on trial and error to accommodate specific window sizes and door sizes.

As mentioned above, the prior art joining methods result in a functionally suitable steel frame system, but these prior art joining systems suffer from significant drawbacks which are time consuming and tedious to assemble. In addition, the properties of the tab and / or slot bonding system limit the coupling of the stud to a predetermined position along the upper track. This limited shape is unacceptable in many applications such as, for example, drywall installations, and free positioning is required to overcome the measurement discrepancies often encountered by retailers in such installations. This measurement mismatch can be the result of a rough and incorrect injection of the concrete wall.

In addition, prior art bonding systems have other significant drawbacks regarding impracticality for applications with varying ceiling to floor measurements. In this state, studs with joined ends are typically produced in a continuous (i.e., set amount) of a predetermined length such that a change in ceiling height renders such studs unusable. In addition, in the construction methods of the prior art, studs of set height with joined ends are not suitable for use due to changes in ceiling height as previously indicated. Since these studs have custom assembled studs and self-joining mechanisms, retailers are tedious to connect these individual studs to the upper and lower tracks as required for the structural integrity of the walls and also to allow electrical wiring and the like to be assembled. Go through time-consuming tasks.

Unfortunately, when assembling the wiring, the studs can be moved from their original positions. In the case of prior art firewalls, the top track typically incorporates a longer than standard flange to hold the combined studs. These studs are intentionally cut short, allowing contraction or movement downwards as well as expansion to the top of the studs when exposed to heat. Unfortunately, this system does not allow relative movement between the stud and the track. Because of this, the studs must remain unfastened and are supported only between the track flanges, which are relatively weak wall structures, which must be heavily depended on the wall plate for load-carrying support. do. In addition, studs are often temporarily connected to very similar standard wall structures to allow assembly of electrical wiring and other fixtures.

The steel frame system of the prior art has a further disadvantage with regard to the fire resistance of the inner wall. More specifically, many building codes include fire protection regulations that require the interior of a building to be able to suppress heat, smoke and flames. In this regard, the wall structure is preferably structured to prevent heat, smoke and flames from moving to adjacent spaces or spaces. Movement of smoke, heat and / or flames may impair the safety of the occupants and / or the occupant's property. The fire rating is given in terms of duration or time that the wall must be able to suppress the fire and its effect of moving to adjacent parts of the building. Conventional fire resistance can be expressed in terms of time increments such as 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours and more, and is typically imposed on specific areas of building structures, including wall structures made of steel systems.

One disadvantage with respect to the fire resistance of wall structures made of steel systems is that the metallic structures expand in excessive amounts under the influence of heat, as compared to the amount of expansion of the wallboard under the influence of the same heat. An expansion imbalance between the steel plate system and the wall plate covering the frame system may create cracks or gaps in the wall structure. This gap may occur at the joint between the wall structure or another location of the wall structure and the ceiling. In addition, gaps may occur due to breakage or collapse of the wall plate when the steel frames tension the wall plate.

The difference in expansion of the steel system and the wallboard is the result of the difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion. More specifically, since the metal has a larger coefficient of thermal expansion than the wallboard, the temperature increase in space causes the steel in the vertical stud member to expand to a greater extent than the expansion of the wallboard. A further disadvantage with conventional wall structures is that the wall against changes in ceiling height as a result of building movement and / or precipitation of building foundations as may be caused by creeping or seismic activity of the loading beam over time. Stiffness or inadequate properties of the structure. The same drawbacks described above with regard to the relative motion between the framework system and the wallboard appear in building precipitation or ceiling movement.

As is apparent, there is a need in the prior art for wall structures that are formed essentially to provide the desired fire resistance despite the differences in the mechanical properties (ie, the coefficient of thermal expansion) of the components that make up the steel structure and make the wall structure. More specifically, the steel frame, which is the foundation of the wall structure, includes expansion joints that allow the steel frame to move dynamically in response to heat and / or building movement without compromising the integrity of the wallboard covering the steel frame. There is a need in the art for a firewall structure that prevents harmful vapors, smoke, flames and / or heat from moving through the cavities or cracks created in the wallboard. Eventually, the firewall structure and, at the same time, importantly, a firewall structure that integrates a self-tightening mechanism that allows for quick and economical assembly of the wall structure using minimal techniques and which can accommodate non-uniformity of floor and / or ceiling heights. There is a need in the prior art.

The above-mentioned drawbacks and shortcomings with respect to the steel frame system of the prior art are specifically addressed and solved by the firewall structure of the present invention. More specifically, the wall structure of the present invention includes a telescopic joint, which allows the relative vertical movement of the metal component of the steel frame and the nonmetal panel member fixed to the steel frame.

In a broad sense, the wall structure includes one or more stud members and upper and lower tracks. The upper and lower tracks are preferably spaced parallel to each other and can be mounted to the ceiling and floor of the building. One or more stud members are interconnected to the upper and lower tracks. As is well known in the building construction art, stud members are generally provided at spaced intervals along the upper and lower tracks to provide a means for connecting panel members such as drywall to the wall structure.

Each upper and lower track has a generally channel shaped cross section with opposing ends. Each top and bottom track also includes a planar web defined by a pair of opposing longitudinal edges. A pair of opposing and inwardly directed male protrusions are formed integrally extending continuously along each longitudinal edge. Preferably the male projections have a V-shaped cross section. Each upper and lower track further comprises a pair of substantially flat sidewalls, which are preferably integrally formed and extend outwardly from each male projection. Preferably the sidewalls are oriented perpendicular to the web. In addition, the upper and lower tracks are preferably oriented so that their side walls face each other.

The stud members of the wall structure can be configured to be laterally interconnected to the upper and lower tracks and are generally oriented perpendicular to these tracks. Similar to the shape of the upper and lower tracks, the stud member may have a channel-shaped cross section with a pair of opposing ends. Importantly, the stud member includes a telescopic mechanism, which includes a slip extension that slidably engages the fixed portion. In this regard, the stud member comprises a slip extension and a fixation. As mentioned earlier, the telescopic mechanism is configured to allow for changes in the length of the stud member. More specifically, the telescopic mechanism allows the stud member to be stretched or shortened to accommodate the change in spacing that occurs between the upper and lower tracks in the installed wall structure. Such changes may occur during different heating and / or cooling of the non-metallic structures of the metal structures comprising the upper and lower tracks and the stud members and the panel members typically comprising drywall and / or gypsum board and the like.

Each slip extension and fixation preferably has a channel-shaped cross section with opposing ends. The detailed shape is incorporated into one or more of the ends of each of the slip extension and the fixture to facilitate engagement with the upper and lower tracks. More specifically, the one or more ends of the slip extension and the fixture include a pair of opposing and inwardly directed female recesses formed on the sidewalls of the slip extension and the fixture. Each female recess preferably has a V-shaped cross section that is complementary to the V-shaped cross section of the male projection. Accordingly, the female recess is configured to receive respective male projections formed in the upper and lower tracks. Mechanical fasteners may be additionally installed to interconnect the ends of the stud members to the upper and lower tracks. In addition, the web of fixture may include one or more openings, which are sized and formed to receive use conduits to provide a means for routing electrical wiring, tubing, and the like through wall structures.

The wall structure may further comprise an elongated upper overcap that is fixedly bonded to the upper track. Preferably the upper overcap has a channel-shaped cross section comprising a substantially flat planar web, the planar sidewall extending vertically outward from the web. The pair of opposing male protrusions is preferably integrally formed on the side wall of each upper overcap. The male protrusion extends continuously along the length of the side wall, and is preferably formed to have a V-shaped cross section. The upper overcap is preferably formed such that at least one of its sidewalls is disposed at least partially overlapping the sidewall of the upper track and spaced apart from the sidewall. Ideally, the upper overcap is formed such that the male projections are placed in contact with the outer surface of the panel member to provide a sealing bond together. Preferably the upper overcap is formed of a single structure, wherein the web, sidewalls and male projections are integrally formed.

Importantly, the stud member is formed to allow expansion and contraction of the wall structure due to the inclusion of slots formed in the slip extension. More specifically, the slot is formed in at least one of the side walls of the slip extension, and the fastener is formed to extend into the slot so that relative sliding movement between the slip extension and the fixing portion can occur freely. The panel member may be mounted to be connected to the fixing portion and the lower track. Importantly, the panel members are placed in a non-connective overlapping relationship with respect to the upper track and the slip extension to provide their relative motion between the panel member and the slip extension and the upper track.

In this regard, the panel member may be secured to the wall structure using a plurality of fasteners extending into the sidewalls of the fastening portion and the lower track. One or more fasteners extend through the panel member into the sidewall of the fixture and pass through the slot. As mentioned earlier, the slots formed in the slip extension allow relative slide movement between the slip extension and the stud member so that the stud member can be stretched and shortened to accommodate the change in the gap between the upper and lower tracks. . This change in spacing can occur due to heat caused by the fire as a result of the difference in coefficient of thermal expansion between the metal component (ie including upper and lower tracks and stud members) and the nonmetal component (ie panel member).

Other features of the present invention will become more apparent with reference to the drawings.

1 is a view showing a perspective view of a firewall structure of the present invention and a stud member disposed on an end thereof,

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a wall structure and a stud member comprising a slip extension and a fixture, a top track and a bottom track, further comprising a panel member secured to the bottom track and the fixture It is a figure to show,

3 is an exploded perspective view of the wall structure showing the interconnection of the stud member, the upper and lower tracks, and the panel member;

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the wall structure taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2 and the attachment of the fastening and slip extensions to the upper and lower tracks, further showing a fastener for securing the panel member. ,

5 is a partial plan view of a wall structure showing a slot formed in the slip extension and showing a fastener extending through the fixing portion of the stud member and entering the slot of the overlapping portion of the stud member;

FIG. 6 is a diagram further showing a partially exploded perspective view of the wall structure and an upper overcap mounted in an overlapping relationship to the upper track, FIG.

7 is a partially exploded perspective view of a wall structure showing a stud overcap as may be mounted on a stud member, FIG.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial side view of the upper overcap mounted on the upper track and a gap formed between the upper edge of the panel member and the upper overcap, FIG.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged partial side view of a wall structure showing an upper overcap having a pair of V-shaped male protrusions formed to sealally press a panel member; FIG.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wall structure showing the interconnection of a stud overcap mounted to the stud member and further showing an opening formed in the sidewall of the stud overcap and through which the fastener can extend; FIG.

FIG. 11 is a partial plan view of the wall structure showing the relative position of the stud overcap and the stud overcap on the stud member and further showing the relative position of the opening of the stud overcap relative to the slot formed in the slip extension, FIG.

12 shows a side view of the wall structure and the relative position of the stud overcap relative to the fastening and slip extensions of the stud member.

Referring now to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, but are not intended to limit, various aspects of the present invention, a firewall structure 10 is shown in the drawings, which is essentially a wall structure 10 due to a fire occurring within the building. It is configured to compensate for the expansion or contraction of the overall height of the wall structure 10 as may occur when it is heated. Advantageously, the wall structure 10 of the present invention takes into account the relative slide motion between the panel member 62 covering the wall structure 10 and the top of the steel frame that the panel member 62 abuts. Accordingly, the top of the wall structure 10 can be expanded with respect to the panel member 62.

Referring in more detail to FIGS. 1-3, a firewall structure 10 is shown having the essential components shown in a perspective view. More specifically, the wall structure 10 generally includes an upper track 16 and a lower track 14 disposed parallel to each other. 1 to 3 further illustrate a single stud member 34 oriented transversely to the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 and interconnecting the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. Although only a single stud member 34 is shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, the upper and lower tracks are arranged at predetermined intervals, such as 16 " and 24 ", with a plurality of stud members 34 as in conventional wall construction practice. Note that they are spaced centrally along (16, 14). Advantageously, due to the unique structural shape provided at the opposing terminus ends 26 of the stud member 34 and the mating features formed in the respective upper and lower tracks 16, 14, the studs The member 34 may be conveniently located at any position along the upper and lower track 16, 14 members.

The particular interconnection of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 and the stud member 34, each of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety, is a jointly owned U.S. Patent application No. 09 / 979,214 and titled "Structural member having a gripping shape and a joining device accordingly" are co-owned U.S. Pat. It is shown and described in patent application Ser. No. 11 / 146,534. More specifically, the co-owned patent application described above is specific to the above-described shape formed on the end portion 26 of the stud member 34 and along the sidewalls 24 of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. Opening the bite shape, the stud member 34 can initially engage the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 without using fasteners 64 such as screws. Then, when aligning and positioning the stud member 34 in the desired position, the upper and lower tracks 16 and 14 and through the side walls 24 of the stud member 34 to permanently connect these components. Fastener 64 may extend.

As can be appreciated, the wall structure 10 of the present invention can be configured for the manufacture of various types of building walls, such as dividing walls and no-load supporting curtain walls. However, various other types of walls can be constructed using the wall structure 10 of the present invention. In this regard, the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 can be configured to be positioned along the surface, respectively, such as along one of the floor and the ceiling, respectively. As mentioned earlier, the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 are preferably arranged parallel and spaced apart from each other, with the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 respectively opposing opposite ends 26. It has a channel-shaped cross section. In more detail, each of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 comprises a planar and substantially flat web 18, which is defined by a pair of opposing and parallel longitudinal edges 22.

A pair of opposing, parallel and inwardly directed male projections 28 are formed integrally and extend continuously along each longitudinal edge 22. Although male projections 28 may be provided in any cross sectional shape, each male projection 28 preferably has a V-shaped cross section as best seen in FIG. 4. In this regard, each male projection 28 includes upper and lower inclined surfaces 30 and 32 which jointly form a V-shaped notch. In addition, each of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 further includes a pair of substantially flat and planar sidewalls 24, which sidewalls are preferably integrally formed and one of each male projection 28. Extend outwards. As can be seen in FIG. 4, the sidewalls 24 are generally oriented perpendicular to the web 18.

With respect to the relative orientation of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14, as shown in FIGS. 1-4 and 10, the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 have a lower sidewall 24 of the upper track 16. Is oriented toward the side wall 24 of the track 14. In this orientation, the stud member 34 can be conveniently installed in the channeled cross section of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. As mentioned earlier, the stud member 34 is configured to be transversely interconnected to the upper and lower tracks 16, 14, with the stud member 34 being adapted to the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. It may be oriented in an angular orientation of but is preferably arranged in a perpendicular relationship to the upper and lower tracks. In addition, like the upper and lower tracks 16 and 14, the stud member 34 has a channel-shaped cross section with a pair of opposing ends 26.

As best seen in FIG. 3, the stud member 34 includes a telescopic joint 12 in the form of a telescopic mechanism 36, which telescopic mechanism is at least partially within the fixing portion 46. And a slip extension 38 that is settled and slidably received. In this regard, the slip extension 38 and the fixture 46 both include a stud member 34. Due to the nature of the slip extension 38 slidable within the fixing portion 46, the stud member 34 is configured to take into account changes in the length of the stud member 34. More specifically, the telescopic mechanism 36 is configured such that the stud member 34 can be stretched or shortened to adjust the change in the gap between the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. As mentioned earlier, this change in spacing can occur due to the heating of the wall structure 10, which also heats the steel frame comprising the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 and the stud member 34. And swelling.

In this regard, this heating of the wall structure 10 results in a difference in the amount by which the length of the metal wall structure 10 increases with respect to the increase in the length of the panel member 62 covering the metal wall structure 10. As is well known, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the metal is different from that of the wallboard material on which the panel member 62 is constructed. More specifically, commonly used panel members 62, such as drywall and gypsum board, have a very low coefficient of thermal expansion. Thus, when heating the wall structure 10, the metal structure increases in length more than the panel member 62. Including the telescopic mechanism 36 in the stud member 34 allows the panel member 62 to remain permanently attached to the bottom of the wall structure 10 and to be only slidable relative to the top of the wall structure 10. These different heatings are adjusted so that the metal structure can increase in length while being placed.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-5 in more detail, a stud member 34 including a slip extension 38 and a fixture 46 is shown. As mentioned earlier, the slip extension 38 is essentially formed to be slidably received in the fixture 46. Slip extension 38 and fixture 46 are each configured to have a channel-shaped cross section and each has opposing ends 26. One of the ends 26 of the slip extension 38 is configured to be secured to the upper track 16. Likewise, one of the ends 26 of the fixing part 46 is configured to be fixed to the lower track 14. However, the arrangement of the slip extension 38 and the fastening 46 described above is such that the slip extension 38 can be connected to the lower track 14 while the fastening 46 can be connected to the upper track 16. , Can be changed.

For these detailed configurations, the slip extension 38 and the anchor 46 generally comprise a substantially flat and planar web 18, each of which has a pair of opposed and parallelly arranged longitudinals. Defined by the directional edge 22. A pair of substantially flat and planar sidewalls 24 that extend generally perpendicularly outward from the web 18 along the longitudinal edge 22 are integrally formed with the web 18. Each sidewall 24 forms a pair of opposing side edges 68, which are oriented generally perpendicular to the longitudinal edge 22. A pair of inwardly directed flanges 42 may be provided on each sidewall 24 of the slip extension 38 and the fixture 46.

As best seen in FIG. 3, one or more side edges 68 of slip extension 38 include a pair of opposing, parallel and inwardly directed female recesses 52. The female recess 52 of the slip extension 38 is formed in the side wall 24 along the lateral edge 68. Each female recess 52 has a generally V-shaped cross section, which cross section is configured to receive one of the male projections 28 formed in the upper and / or lower tracks 16, 14, respectively. Likewise, the one or more end portions 26 of the fastening portion 46 include opposing and inwardly directed female recesses 52 of one phase formed along the lateral edges 68. Each female recess 52 formed in the fixing portion 46 preferably has a V-shaped cross section, which also receives one of the male projections 28 of the upper and / or lower tracks 16, 14, respectively. It is configured to. Co-owned U.S. As disclosed in more detail in patent application 09 / 979,214, stud member 34 engages and interlocks upper and lower tracks 16, 14 due to the occlusal engagement of male projection 28 and female recess 52. Configured to connect.

Referring now briefly to FIGS. 4 and 12, a side view of a wall structure 10 is shown where a plurality of stopper features 50 are formed on the web 18 of the fixture 46. The stopper shape 50 is generally shown in a V-shape and is spaced apart from each other. The stopper shape 50 is formed to engage the slip extension 38 of the stud member 34 to maintain the desired axial or longitudinal arrangement for the slip extension. Preferably, the stopper shape 50 is a web 18 as a swelling protrusion extending inwardly to engage the web 18 of the slip extension 38 and / or the lower end 26 of the slip extension 38. It is formed integrally with However, it should be noted that the stopper shape 50 may be further formed on the slip extension 38 or on both the slip extension 38 and the fixture 46. Also shown in FIG. 3 is a tab 40, which is the end 26 of the slip extension 38 to aid in the manually slidable movement of the slip extension 38 within the fixture 46. It may be formed on the lower end of the).

Referring briefly to FIGS. 4, 8, 9 and 12, there are shown male projections 28 formed in the side walls 24 of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. Also shown is a female recess 52 formed in the end portion 26 of the fixing portion 46. As shown, the male projections 28 and the female recesses 52 each have a V-shaped cross section, which is made and formed to a size that is placed inside each other. Fasteners 64, such as self-tapping sheet metal screws, or other suitable fasteners 64 extend through male projections 28 into female recesses 52 to allow stud members 34. ) Is permanently connected to the upper and lower tracks (16, 14). Advantageously countersunk screws are preferably used to provide a smooth, coplanar, unclosed surface on which the panel member 62 can be mounted to the wall structure 10. In contrast, the V-shaped cross section of the male projection 28 and the female concave portion 52 facilitates such coplanar mounting of the screws to complete the assembly of the steel frame portion of the wall structure 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, 5-7, and 11, a slip extension 38 is shown that includes slots 44 formed in one or more sidewalls 24. Importantly, the slot 44 has a fastener 64 (ie, a sheet metal screw) extending therein so that it can be secured between the fixing portion 46 and the slip extension 38 of the stud member 34. It is formed so as not to disturb the relative sliding movement. As can be seen in FIG. 5, slot 44 may be a generally elliptical cut formed in the center of sidewall 24 of slip extension 38. However, it is contemplated that slot 44 may include any number of cutouts formed in sidewall 24. For example, slot 44 may have a generally rectangular or square shape or a generally round shape.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, a fastener 64 securing the top of the panel member 62 to the non-movable fixing portion 46 of the stud member 34 is inserted through the center position of the slot 44. do. Accordingly, the top of the wall structure 10 including the top track 16 and the slip extension 38 can move downward relative to the fixture 46 as may occur at extreme low temperatures. Likewise, the upper track 16 and the slip extension 38 can move upwards without affecting the panel member 62. This upward movement may occur during extreme heating of the metal structure, such as may occur by a fire at or near the location of the wall structure 10 therein.

Referring now to FIG. 5 in more detail, the slip extension 38 can have any length, and the slot 44 can have a total length of about 8 "while the slot 44 can have a length of about 2.5". Slot 44 may be positioned at a distance of about 1.5 "from the end 26 of the lower portion of slip extension 38. However, overall length of slot extension 38 and slot 44 are extensive. It can be provided in various sizes and relative positions. With regard to the mounting of the panel member 62 to the wall structure 10, the fastener 64 is connected to the lower track along the lower edge of the panel member 62 through the wall member. May be inserted into the side wall 24 of the fastener 64. Similarly, the fastener 64 may extend into the side wall 24 of the fixing part 46 through the panel member 62.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1, 5-7, 10 and 11, the uppermost fastener of the fastener 64 for securing the wall panel to the wall structure 10 extends through the slot 44. To be located. Installing the fastener 64 into the slip extension 38 above or below the position of the slot 44 is the lower part of the wall structure 10 (ie, the fixing part 46 and the lower track 14). This will prevent the free movement of the top of the wall structure 10 (ie, the slip extension 38 and the top track 16) relative to the wall structure 10. In this regard, the upper edge of the panel member 62 is merely arranged in a connectionless and overlapping manner with respect to the slip extension 38 and the upper track 16. As a result, the wall structure 10 causes the slip extension 38 and the upper track 16 to move relative to the panel member 62, as may occur during heating of the wall structure 10, such as in a fire. Can be. Because of this, the slot 44 allows relative sliding movement between the slip extension 38 and the stud member 34 so that the stud member 34 can change the gap between the upper and lower tracks 16 and 14. It can be stretched or reduced to accommodate it.

Referring now to FIGS. 6, 8 and 9, a wall structure 10 is shown having an elongated upper overcap 58 that can be secured in an overlapping relationship to the upper track 16. The upper overcap 58, which is constructed similarly to the above with respect to the upper and lower tracks 16, 14, comprises a web 18, the web having a pair of side walls extending generally outwardly generally perpendicular thereto. 24). Each sidewall 24 includes one or more long male projections 28 formed along the sidewall 24 on the edge of the sidewall opposite the longitudinal edge 22 of the web 18. The male projection 28 is preferably oriented inward and is integrally formed with the side wall 24 of the upper overcap 58. The male projections 28 are generally V-shaped and extend continuously along each of the longitudinal edges 22.

As best seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the male projection 28 is formed on the side wall 24 of the upper overcap 58 and overlaps the upper track 16 and / or panel member 62. E. Extends downward. Importantly, the overlapping relationship between the panel member 62 and the upper overcap 58 provides fire protection to the wall structure 10. More specifically, this fire protection is improved due to the male projections 28 of the upper overcap 58. More specifically, the male projection 28 is configured to slidably support the outer surface of the panel member 62 to prevent the passage of smoke and / or heat along the top of the wall structure 10. Preferably, the male projections 28 of the web 18, the sidewalls 24 and the upper overcap 58 are integrally formed such that the upper overcap 58 comprises a unitary structure of generally long shape.

In addition, the sidewalls 24 of the upper overcap 58 are spaced apart so that the male projections 28 can support the outer surface of the panel member 62 mounted on opposite sides of the wall structure 10. . An alternative form of the upper overcap 58 is shown in FIG. 9, wherein the side wall 24 includes a pair of male protrusions 28 formed on the side wall 24. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the male projections 28 are generally V-shaped in cross section, arranged in a side-by-side arrangement and extending continuously along the length of the sidewalls 24 of the upper overcap 58. As mentioned earlier, the upper overcap 58 is sized such that the male protrusions 28 of the one or more upper overcaps 58 can slidably support the outer surface of the panel member 62. Is formed.

Referring again to FIGS. 6, 8, and 9, the panel member 62 includes an upper edge, which is preferably spaced apart from the web 18 of the upper overcap 58. As a result, a gap 70 is formed between the upper edge of the panel member 62 and the web 18 of the upper overcap 58. Advantageously, this gap 70 permits the retraction of the stud member 34 relative to the lower track, as may occur during extreme drops in temperature. The gap 70 thus prevents contact between the panel member 62 and the upper overcap 58, which would otherwise cause buckling and / or damage to the panel member 62 resulting in wall structure 10. The sealing property of may be impaired. Any gap 70 may be provided, but preferably the gap 70 is about ¾ "between the web 18 of the upper overcap 58 and the upper edge of the panel member 62. Wall structure 10 Fire resistance can be further improved by installing composite 60 in gap 70. Although any composite 60 can be used, composite 60 preferably allows adequate expansion of the steel structure and Fire resistant or flame retardant composite 60 to resist.

As can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the upper overcap 58 comprises a substantially flat planar web 18, which forms a pair of opposing and parallel longitudinal edges 22. . Preferably, a pair of substantially flat planar sidewalls 24 integrally formed with the web 18 extend outwardly vertically from the web 18. The upper overcap 58 further includes a pair of parallel and opposing inwardly directed male protrusions 28, which are integrally formed on each sidewall 24. These male projections 28 extend continuously along the sidewalls 24 spaced apart about each longitudinal edge 22. As mentioned earlier, each male projection 28 preferably has a V-shaped cross section.

Preferably the upper overcap 58 is formed such that one or more sidewalls 24 at least partially overlap the top track 16 and the sidewalls 24. In addition, the upper overcap 58 preferably defines a width between the side walls 24 suitable for the width across the opposing panel members 62 installed on each side of the wall structure 10. More specifically, the upper overcap 58 preferably includes a panel member 62 with the male protrusions 28 of the sidewalls 24 and the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 so as to provide a seal of the wall structure 10. Is formed to slidably support the outer surface.

Referring now to FIGS. 7, 10 and 11, a wall structure 10 is shown that may further include a stud overcap 54 and the stud overcap is mounted to the fixture 46 of the stud member 34. Can be. As can be seen in the figure, the stud overcap 54 is preferably arranged in a non-connected overlap with respect to the slip extension 38, for example a mechanical fastener 64 (ie a sheet metal screw). It is only connected to the fixture 46. Stud overcap 54 includes web 18, which has a pair of sidewalls 24 extending vertically outward therefrom. In this regard, the stud overcap 54 is generally a channel-shaped cross section. The stud overcap 54 is connected to the stud member 34 at the fixture 46, more particularly by utilizing one or more mechanical fasteners 64 to close the side wall 24 of the stud overcap 54. It may be interconnected to the sidewalls 24 of the fixture 46 of the stud member 34.

The stud overcap 54 may further include an opening 56 shown in FIGS. 7, 10, and 11 as a generally square cutout. Although any shape may be provided for the opening 56, the opening 56 preferably has a fastener 64 passing through the sidewall 24 of the fastening 46 and extending into the slot 44. Sized and placed. Thus, the stud overcap 54 can be securely mounted to the stud member 34 without disturbing the relative axial movement of the slip extension 38 in the fixture 46. Accordingly, the adjacent panel member 62 inserts the fastener 64 through the panel member 62 into the portion of the side wall 24 adjacent to the stud member 34, thereby providing the panel member 62 shown in FIG. Can be fastened to.

The assembly and operation of the firewall structure 10 is now described with reference to the drawings. The upper and lower tracks 16, 14 are first arranged spaced apart from each other. In this regard, the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 may be located along a flat surface, such as a floor, in dimensions between the ceiling and the floor on which the wall structure 10 should be assembled. Alternatively, the upper track 16 and the lower track 14 may be mounted along the ceiling and the floor, respectively, generally in a straight line with each other. Mechanical fasteners 64 may extend through the webs 18 of the upper and lower tracks 16 and 14 into the floor and ceiling, respectively, to secure the upper and lower tracks 16 and 14 to the floor and ceiling. .

When assembling and installing the stud member 34, one of the slip extensions 38 can be slidably inserted into one of the fixing portions 46, such that the opposite ends 26 of the stud member 34 are slidable. The female recess 52 formed in the) may engage the male projection 28 formed along the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. Preferably, the stud member 34 is oriented in a generally transverse or vertical arrangement with respect to the upper and lower tracks 16, 14. Due to the sliding characteristics of the slip extension 38 with respect to the fastening 46, the stud member 34 can adjust the specific spacing between the upper and lower tracks 16, 14, resulting in structural defects and / or building settling. It can accommodate changes in ceiling height and floor as may be caused.

More specifically, the telescopic mechanism 36 integrated into each stud member 34 allows for expansion and contraction of the slip extension 38 relative to the fixture 46, thereby raising the height from floor to ceiling. The length of the stud member 34 is adjusted to fit. When installing the stud member (s) 34 on the upper and lower tracks 16, 14, the jointly owned U.S. As described in detail in application 09 / 979,214, a mechanical fastener 64, such as a self-tapping sheet metal screw, is inserted into an area adjacent to the male projection 28, such that the sidewalls of the upper and lower tracks 16, 14 are The 24 can be fixed to the side wall 24 of the stud member 34 at its opposite end 26.

Preferably, the upper overcap 58 is disposed in generally contacting relationship with the upper track 16 such that each web 18 is in contact engagement. The panel member 62 is then secured to the side wall 24 of the lower track 14 via a plurality of spaced fasteners 64. Likewise, the fastener 64 extends through the panel member 62 and into the side wall 24 of the fixing part 46, so that the panel member 62 is non-movable to the lower track 14 and the stud member 34. Can be attached. In addition, one or more mechanical fasteners 64 can extend through the panel member 62 and pass through the sidewalls 24 of the fastening portion 46 such that the fasteners 64 can be secured to the slip extensions 38. It extends into the formed slot 44.

Ideally, the panel member 62 is preferably made and formed to a size such that its upper edge is spaced apart from the web 18 of the upper overcap 58. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a gap 70 formed between the web 18 of the upper overcap 58 and the upper edge of the panel member 62 may allow the fire protection composite 60 to be inserted therein. It is to ensure that. Preferably this fire protection composite 60 further includes elasticity to accommodate the relative motion between the upper overcap 58 and the upper edge of the panel member 62. In addition, the upper overcap 58 preferably has a width such that the male projections 28 formed along the sidewalls 24 of the upper overcap 58 can be placed in continuous contact with the panel member 62.

Optionally, stud overcap 54 may be installed on stud member 34 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 10 prior to installing panel member 62. In such a device, the opening 56 of the stud overcap 54 is preferably aligned with the slot 44 formed in the slip extension 38, extending through the opening 56 into the slot 44. 64 does not interfere with the relative movement between the fixed portion 46 and the slip extension 38 of the stud member 34.

As shown in FIG. 2, the protrusions 20 may optionally be provided on the web 18 of the lower track 14. Such protrusions 20 may be in the form of knurls or bumps formed on the exposed side of the web 18, preferably with the upper and / or lower end 26 of the stud member 34. It is formed to act as an interlocking gripping shape. The protrusions 20 may be punched from the bottom side of the web 18, but other metal forming methods may be used to make the protrusions. Co-owned U.S., entitled “Structural Members Having Gripping Shapes and Their Bonding Devices”. As better described in application 11 / 146,534, such protrusions 20 may be configured for sliding, sleeping and / or general movement of the upper or lower end 26 of the stud member 34. It is formed to prevent migration. In this regard, it is contemplated that this protrusion 20 may be further formed in the web 18 of the upper track 16. The height, size, spacing and number of protrusions 20 per unit can be adjusted to provide the desired frictional and gripping effects between the stud member 34 and the upper and lower tracks 16, 14.

Further modifications and improvements of the present invention may also be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, specific components of the parts shown and described herein are intended to represent only specific embodiments of the invention, and should not serve as a limitation of alternative devices within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (21)

As a firewall structure, An upper track and a lower track disposed parallel to each other and spaced apart; At least one stud member transversely oriented in said upper and lower tracks, said at least one stud member including a fixing portion and a slip extension slidably placed within said fixing portion, A web having a pair of side walls each extending vertically outward and a pair of male protrusions formed along each of the side walls, The slip extension and the fixing portion each have a web having a pair of sidewalls extending vertically outward, each sidewall having a female recess formed in one of the opposing ends of the sidewall, the female recess An additional portion configured to receive each number of projections of the upper track and the lower track, The slip extension has a slot formed at its side wall, and the slot receives a fastener extending through the side wall of the fixing portion and allowing the relative sliding movement between the slip extension and the stud member to extend into the slot; Formed so that the stud member can be extended and shortened to accommodate a change in the gap between the upper track and the lower track. Firewall structure. The method of claim 1, And a panel member movably attached to the lower track and the fixing portion, wherein the panel member is disposed in a non-connected overlapping manner with respect to the slip extension and the upper track so that the slip extension and the upper part to the panel member are disposed. Further comprising a panel member to allow movement of the track Firewall structure. The method of claim 1, And a fastener extending through the panel member and into the side wall of the fixing part and the lower track. Firewall structure. The method of claim 3, wherein At least one fastener extending through the slot extending through the panel member into the sidewall of the fixing part; Firewall structure. The method of claim 1, Further comprising an elongated upper overcap secured to said upper track, said upper overcap having a web having a pair of sidewalls extending vertically outwardly from said upper overcap, each said sidewall defining said sidewall. Having male projections formed along Firewall structure. The method of claim 5, wherein The web, sidewalls and male protrusions of the upper overcap are integrally formed such that the upper overcap includes a single structure. Firewall structure. The method of claim 5, wherein The side walls of each of the upper overcaps have a pair of male protrusions arranged in a side by side arrangement Firewall structure. The method of claim 5, wherein And a panel member removably mounted to the fixing portion and the lower track, wherein the panel member is disposed in a non-connected overlapping manner in the upper track and the slip extension so that the slip extension and the upper track are connected to the panel member. To move freely The upper overcap is formed and formed to a size such that one or more of the number of protrusions of the upper overcap slidably supports the panel member. Firewall structure. The method of claim 8, The panel member is sized and formed such that its upper edge is spaced apart from the web of the upper overcap to form a gap therebetween. Firewall structure. The method of claim 9, The gap is about ¾ inch Firewall structure. The method of claim 9, Further comprising a composite disposed between the gaps Firewall structure. The method of claim 11, wherein The composite is fire retardant Firewall structure. The method of claim 1, And a stud overcap connectably mountable to the fixing portion and disposed in a non-connection overlapping manner to the slip extension portion, The stud overcap having a pair of sidewalls extending vertically outward from the web, wherein at least one of the stud overcap sidewalls and the sidewalls of the fixture are interconnected Firewall structure. The method of claim 13, The stud overcap having an opening formed in at least one of its sidewalls, The openings are sized and arranged complementary to the slots to receive fasteners extending through the sidewalls of the fixing part and extending into the slots; Firewall structure. The method of claim 1, The male projections and the female recesses each have a V-shaped cross section that is made and formed to a size that is placed inside each other. Firewall structure. The method of claim 1, The web of the fixture has one or more openings that are sized and formed to receive a use conduit. Firewall structure. As a firewall structure, Long upper and lower tracks and And at least one stud member configured to be interconnected transversely perpendicularly to said upper and lower tracks, said at least one stud member having a channel-shaped cross section and a pair of opposing ends, Wherein each of the upper and lower tracks is configured to be disposed along a surface and spaced apart in parallel to each other, wherein each of the upper and lower tracks has a channel-shaped cross section and opposite ends, wherein the upper and lower tracks are: A planar web formed by a pair of opposed and parallel longitudinal edges, A pair of opposing, parallel and inwardly directed male projections extending continuously and integrally formed along each said longitudinal edge, each projection having a V-shaped cross section, and A pair of substantially flat planar sidewalls extending outwardly from and integrally formed from each of the male protrusions perpendicular to the web, the upper and lower tracks being arranged such that the sidewalls of the upper track face the sidewalls of the lower track; Further comprises a pair of substantially flat planar sidewalls oriented, The stud member is Further comprising a telescopic mechanism comprising a slip extension which allows the stud member to be stretched and shortened to accommodate a change in the gap between the upper and lower tracks and which is at least partially seated within the fixture; Each slip extension and fixture has a channel-shaped cross section and opposing ends, one of each of the slip extension and the fixture is secured to one or more of the upper and lower tracks, each slip extension and Fixed part, A substantially flat planar web formed by a pair of opposed and parallel longitudinal edges; A pair of substantially flat planar sidewalls extending vertically outwardly and integrally formed from the web along the longitudinal edges, each pair of opposing pairs oriented generally perpendicularly to the longitudinal edges; A pair of substantially flat planar sidewalls forming a sidewall; And A pair of substantially flat planar flanges extending inwardly perpendicular from each said sidewall and coplanar with each other, The slip extension has a slot formed in at least one of the sidewalls, the fastener is made and formed to a size that extends into the slot such that the slot allows relative sliding movement between the fixture and the slip extension; , The fixing portion has a plurality of stopper shapes formed on the web and spaced apart from each other, the stopper shape being formed to engage the slip extension to maintain a desired axial position of the slip extension relative to the fixing portion. The stopper shape is integrally formed with the web as a swelling protrusion extending inwardly from the web, Each of the slip extensions and fixings has a pair of opposing, parallel and inwardly directed female recesses formed in the sidewall along the lateral edge of one of the terminations, wherein each of the female recesses is the top and Having a V-shaped cross section configured to receive each male projection of the lower track Firewall structure. The method of claim 17, And a panel member movably mounted to the lower track and the fixing portion, wherein the panel member is disposed in a non-connected overlapping manner with respect to the slip extension and the upper track such that the slip extension and the upper track are connected to the panel member. To go to Firewall structure. The method of claim 17, And a plurality of fasteners extending through the panel member and into the side walls of the fixing part and the lower track. Firewall structure. The method of claim 17, And further comprising a long upper overcap having a channel-shaped cross section and superimposed securely to the web of the upper track, wherein the upper overcap is: A substantially flat planar web formed by a pair of opposed and parallel longitudinal edges, the substantially flat planar web being disposed in mating contact with the web of the upper track; A pair of substantially flat planar sidewalls extending vertically outwardly from said web and integrally formed thereon; And A pair of opposing, parallel and inwardly directed male protrusions integrally formed on each of the sidewalls and continuously spaced apart with respect to each of the longitudinal edges along the sidewalls, the male protrusions forming a V-shaped cross section. And a male protrusion, wherein the upper overcap is formed such that at least one of the sidewalls at least partially overlaps the sidewall of the upper track. Firewall structure. The method of claim 20, The web, sidewalls and male protrusions are integrally formed such that the upper overcap includes a single structure. Firewall structure.

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