MXPA97000864A - Mounting bracket for te panels - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fastener assembly for securing portions of a first panel to an underlying support structure, the fastener assembly comprising a first member comprising a base and first and second channel members laterally displaced, each being of the first and second channel members interconnected with the base, it being possible to join the first member to one of the first panel and the underlying support structure, a second member comprising a platform and a first and second leg members laterally displaced, each one of the first and second leg members are slidably interconnected with the first and second channel members, respectively, it being possible to join the first member to the other of the first panel and the underlying support structure, and an element to allow the first member moves in relation to the second member in a direction that is generally parallel to the first and following channel members when the first and second support members are attached to the first panel and the support structure underlies

Description

MOUNTING BRACKET FOR ROOF PANELS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to roofs formed from panels and, more particularly, to a fastener for slidingly interconnecting a roof panel with an underlying support structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A popular type of metal roof is generally known in the industry as a stable seam metal roof. In a stable seam metal roof, the longitudinal edges of the individual metal panels have relatively complex configurations that allow for an interlocking relationship with an adjacent panel and formed in a similar manner. The interlock region extends upward from the ceiling to define a "stable seam" that runs parallel to the roof spacing. A plurality of fasteners are secured to each of the stable seams at separate locations and interconnected with the underlying support structure. Based on the type of interlocking relationship between the adjacent panels used in stable seam ceilings, the panels are able to slide relative to each other to some degree and the substructure along the seam to suit, for example, the thermal expansion and contraction. Despite the benefits of the operation of stable seam roofs, the panels themselves are relatively expensive and the labor costs to install these types of roofs is relatively high since specially trained installers are used. Another type of metal roof is commonly known in the industry as an anidable / trapezoidal roof / face fastened / fastened through (henceforth "nestable roofs"). The panels for forming nestable roofs generally have ribs or crowns of varying configurations that run parallel to the spacing of the roof with a lower base or portion of slab between them. These types of metal panels are typically made of very thin gauge metal in a variety of widths and lengths and are significantly less expensive than stable seam roof panels as there are no complex configurations on the longitudinal edges of the panels. That is, the adjacent panels are merely placed in overlapping relationship and secured to the substructure. In relation to this, these types of metal panels have traditionally been installed by fastening the panels directly to the substructure by driving screws or something similar directly through one or more of the portions of the base or slab of each panel. As a result, installation costs are significantly lower than those associated with stable seam roofs since specially trained installers are not required. Although economic considerations favor nestable roofs over stable seam roofs, performance considerations still favor stable roof seams. That is, due to the way in which the nestable roofs are installed, the anidable roof does not adequately take into account thermal expansion and contraction. That is, there is resistance to the movement of the individual panels on an anidable roof in a direction parallel to the roof spacing, mainly where the individual panels are nailed to the substructure in the manner mentioned above. Consequently, these types of movements have a tendency to produce fractures or tears in the panels where they are nailed to the substructure and can also damage the substructure itself. Therefore, the potential to develop undesirable spills is relatively significant in nestable roofs. This is compounded by the fact that the bonding locations (ie, the base portion or slab of the panel that is the bottom of the panel) is in the roof drainage plane. Based on the above, there is a need for a metal panel ceiling system of an intermediate price, primarily one that has some of the operating attributes of a stable seam roof with respect to expansion / contraction capabilities, as well as some of the economic attributes of an anidable roof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide a fastener for securing a roof panel to an underlying support structure that allows the roof panel to move longitudinally relative to the support structure ( for example, parallel to the roof spacing) to compensate, for example, the thermal expansion and contraction of the roofing panel. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fastener for securing a roof panel to an underlying support structure in which the vertical extension thereof is adjustable / variable to a certain degree. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fastener for securing a roof panel to an underlying support structure that suits a wide variety of roofing panels and supporting structures. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fastener for securing a roof panel to an underlying support structure that is economical to manufacture and install. The fastener assembly of the present invention generally includes first and second members that are slidably interconnected, the first member being connectable to the roof sub / support structure and the second member being connectable to the panel. The portions of the first and second members that are joined with the underlying support structure and the panel, respectively, are vertically deployed and are preferably placed symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal central axis to increase the strength characteristics of the fastener assembly. In one embodiment, the aforementioned first member includes a base having first and second laterally displaced channel members interconnected therewith, and the second member includes a platform having first and second laterally displaced leg members interconnected with and extending away. of the platform to provide the mentioned vertical displacement between the first and second members. At least a portion of the first and second leg members are slidably interconnected with the first and second channel members, respectively, to form a fastener assembly to secure portions of a panel in a sliding relationship with an underlying support structure. The base may include one or more holes to facilitate attachment to the underlying support structure with convenient fasteners, such as screws.

Each of the first and second channel members of the aforementioned first member preferably includes a first portion interconnected with the base along substantially the entire length of the base and these first portions extend away from the base at an angle . In addition, each of the first and second channel members preferably includes a second portion interconnected with the first corresponding portion by a generally U-shaped end and the second portions extending from the generally U-shaped end and back towards the base. . Accordingly, each corresponding first and second portions and the intermediate U-shaped end collectively define a channel to provide an interlocking relationship with the second member. Preferably, the angle between each of the first and second channel members and the base is an acute angle. In order to facilitate the aforementioned interlocking between the first and second members, each of the first and second leg members of the second member preferably includes a first portion interconnected with the platform along substantially the total length of the platform and these first portions extend away from the platform and towards the base at an angle. Each of the first and second leg members further preferably includes a second portion interconnected with the first corresponding portion by a generally U-shaped end and these second portions extend away from the base and back towards the platform. In consecuense, each corresponding first and second portion and the intermediate U-shaped end collectively define a channel to provide an interlocking relationship with the first member. That is, each second portion of the first and second leg members of the second member is placed within one of the channels defined by the first and second portions of the first and second channel members of the first member. Since the uppermost end of the channels of the first member is closed by the generally U-shaped end mentioned, the first and second members can not be separated (vertically) in the absence of excessive force. The fastener assembly of the present invention may include one or more features to facilitate the installation of the metal roof. For example, one or more notches or the like may be formed on the aforementioned base of the first member which is again directly attached to the substructure. These notches can be used to align the base and thus the fastener assembly on the roof by placing the notches on a line of chalk previously placed on the roof. Moreover, one or more projections may be formed on the lower surface of the base of the first member. These projections can be used to "light" the base on the underlying support structure until it is more permanently attached with the aforementioned fasteners, or they can be used to center the base and thus the fastener assembly on an installation strip placed between the base. fastener assembly and the main support structure (for example a plywood cover). The fastener assembly may include a guide for longitudinally centering the second member on the first member. The fastener assembly of the present invention can further provide a limitation on the range of relative sliding movement between the first and second members. For example, a groove or channel may be formed in one of the first and second members, and a projection may be formed in the other of the first and second members and placed within the groove or channel. However, preferably there is no such limitation on the amount of relative movement between the first and second members. In this case, it may be desirable to otherwise limit the amount of movement of certain panels that is parallel to the roof spacing. Based on the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the fastener assembly of the present invention is particularly suitable for installing an anidable roof and improving the operation thereof. That is, due to the slidable interconnection provided by the fastener assembly of the present invention, the operation of the anidable roof is improved on the same roof installed by conventional techniques.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fastener assembly in accordance with the present invention and a type of roof panel that can be installed therewith. Figure 1A is an end view of the roof panel of Figure 1. Figure 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the fastener assembly of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly of the Figure 1 taken along line 3-3. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the lower part of the fastener assembly of Figure 1. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the lower part of the fastener assembly of Figure 1 incorporating two extending positioning projections down. Figures 6A-B are views of another fastener assembly according to the present invention.

Figures 7A-D are end profiles of various different configurations of fastener assemblies according to the present invention. Figure 8A is a perspective view of a portion of the plurality of fastener assemblies of Figure 1 placed in a substantially flat underlying support structure. Figure 8B is a side view of the fastener assembly of Figure 8A. Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of a fastener assembly of Figure 8A, taken along the line C-C, with a ribbed roof panel attached to the fastener assembly. Figure 9A is a perspective view of a plurality of the sets of fasteners of Figure 1 placed on an underlying support structure employing laterally mounted intermediate strips. Figure 9B is a side view of the fastener assembly of Figure 9A. Figure 9C is a cross-sectional view of a fastener assembly of Figure 9A, taken along the line C-C, with a ribbed roof panel attached to the fastener assembly. Figure 10A is a perspective view of a portion of the plurality of fastening assemblies of Figure 1 installed on an existing ribbed metal roof structure. Figure 10B is a side view of the fastener assembly of Figure 10A; and Figure 10C is a cross-sectional view of a fastener assembly of Figure 10A, taken along the line C-C, with the ribbed roof panel attached to the fastener assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings that help to illustrate its various characteristics. Generally, the present invention is a mounting fastener for installing a roof from convenient panels on an appropriate substructure, such as an existing metal roof, a substantially flat roof (eg, wood, metal), open structures, or a cover that has laterally extending strips installed on it. Although the mounting fasteners of the present invention can be used in the installation of a variety of panel configurations, a type of panel that can particularly realize the benefits offered by the present invention is illustrated in Figures 1 and 1A and is generally used to form a type of anidable roof previously identified. The panel 160 is made of metal and has longitudinally extending crosspieces 162 and alternating ribs 164. The ribs 164 are generally trapezoidal in shape, having first and second opposed sloping walls 167, 168 and a substantially flat peak 170. Typically, the panels 160 are installed on the roof so that the cross members 162 and the ribs 164 run parallel to the spacing from the roof (ie, from the roof peak to the eaves). Moreover, when installed with the mounting fasteners of the present invention, the panels 160 can move in this same direction due, for example, to thermal expansion / contraction so that the ceiling formed of panels 160 actually works to a certain extent. grade as a stable seam roof. A fastener assembly 10 in accordance with the principles of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 1-4 and as mentioned is for joining roofing panels to an appropriate substructure 180 (Figure 1). Initially, it can be seen that the fastener assembly 10 is designed to desirably connect with the panels 160 and to allow the panel 160 to move longitudinally or axially at least up to a certain degree. In this regard, the fastener assembly 10 generally includes a first member 20 and a second member 80 which are slidably interconnected, the first member 20 being secured to the substructure 180 and the second member being secured to the panel 160. As shown in FIG. mentioned and referring to Figure 2, the first member 20 is secured to the underlying support structure. In this regard, the base 22 includes a hole 38 disposed substantially at the center of the base 22 to receive a fastener, such as a screw or the like, although it will be appreciated that more fasteners could certainly be used and that no holes are necessarily required. previously perforated. Moreover, the first member 20 and the second member 80 are slidably interconnected to allow longitudinal / axial relative movement therebetween. This sliding interconnection is facilitated in part by the first and second channel members 50, 60, respectively, of the first member 20. The first channel member 50 extends from the first side 30 of the base 22 along substantially the length of the first member 20. Similarly, the second channel member 60 extends from the second side 32 of the base 22 along substantially the entire length of the first member 20. The first and second channel members 50, 60 they are structured to provide a vertical interlock, still with a longitudinally slidable connection with the second member 840. Related to this, the first and second channel members 50, 60 include the first portions 52, 62, respectively, which extend upwards. from the base 22, generally towards the central axis 28 at an angle 58, 68, respectively, and which have substantially U-shaped ends. The first and the second members of channel 50, 60 further include second portions 54, 64, respectively, which extend back down towards base 22 away from central axis 28 so that inverted channels 56, 66 are formed (ie, projecting downwards ), substantially U-shaped by the first portions 52, 62 and the second portions 54, 64. The base 22 of the first member 20 is substantially rectangular, having a length defined by the distance between a first edge 24 and a second edge 26 along the longitudinal axis 28, and a width defined by the distance between a first. side 30 and a second side 32 of the base 22 along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 28. In the described mode, the base 22 measures approximately 8.89 centimeters in length (3.5") and 3.81 centimeters in width (1.5") . Moreover, the first portions 52, 62 of the first and second channel members 50, 60 respectively, extend upward from the base 22 approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5"), and the second portions 54, 64 of the first and second members of channel 50, 60, respectively, extend downward approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25"). Moreover, the inner angle 58, 68 between the base 22 and the channel members 50, 60, respectively, measures approximately 60 degrees. However, the angles 58, 68 can vary from about 90 degrees to about 30 degrees and still provide characteristics of sufficient strength. Regardless of the presentation the specific dimensions and configurations for the first member 20 herein, it will be appreciated that the size and / or the various relative orientations may be modified in accordance with the requirements of a particular roofing design. However, preferably the first member 20 maintains a substantially symmetrical configuration. The first member 20 and the second member 80 are slidably interconnected, with the panel 160 directed secured to the second member 80, more particularly its peak 170, by one or more convenient fasteners (Figures 8, 9, and 10). In this regard, the first leg member 100 of the second member 80 extends from the first side 90 of the platform 82 along substantially the entire length of the platform 82, and the second leg member 110 extends from the second side 92 of platform 82 along substantially the entire length of platform 82. Each of the first and second leg members 100, 110 has a first portion 102, 112, respectively, which extends downward to from the platform 82 at an angle and has a substantially U-shaped end. Moreover, each of the first and second leg members 100, 110, further include a second portion 104, 114, respectively, extending upwardly. approximately towards the platform 82. Accordingly, the first portions 102, 112 and the second portions 104, 114 collectively define substantially U-shaped channels 106, 116, respectively. The platform 82 of the second member 80 is substantially rectangular and thus have a length defined by the distance between a first edge 84 and a second edge 86 and a width defined by the distance between a first side 90 and a second side 92 of the platform 82. In the embodiment described, platform 82 measures approximately 7.62 centimeters (3") in length and 1.9 centimeters in width (0.75") Moreover, the first portions 102, 112 of the first and second leg members 100, 110, respectively, extend downward from the platform 82 approximately 2.54 centimeters (1.0"), the second portions 104, 114 of the first and second leg members 100, 110, respectively, extend upwards approximately 0.635 centimeters (0.25") to the platform 82, and the interior angles 108, 118 between the platform 82 and the leg members 100, 110 measure approximately 120 degrees However, the angles 108, 118 may vary from about 150 degrees to about 90 degrees, although an obtuse angle is preferred, but the presentation of the specific dimensions and configurations for the second member 80 herein will be appreciated that the sizes and / or different relative orientations can be modified according to the requirements of a particular roof design, however, preferably the second or member 80 maintains a substantially symmetric configuration. The fastener assembly 10 is slidably engaged by engaging the respective U-shaped channels of the first member 20 and the second member 80. As illustrated in Figure 3, when the first member 20 and the second member 80 are interconnected in a manner slidable, the second portions 54, 64 of the first and second channel members 54, 64 are in contact with portions of the leg members 100, 110 resulting in a slight frictional force (e.g., around 2.5 kilograms) between portions of the outer surfaces of the leg members 100, 110 and the inner surfaces of the channel members 50, 60. This frictional force facilitates securing the fastener assembly 10 in place. Conveniently, the lower part of the leg members 100, 110 are also substantially in contact with the base 22 when the fastener assembly 10 is in a normal position, as illustrated in Figure 3, or when the fastener assembly 10 is under positive load, as the weight of the roof panel, as illustrated in Figures 8C, 9C, or 10C. Therefore, the weight of the roof panel, as well as snow, ice or other debris on the roof panel, can be distributed substantially evenly between the first and second leg members 100, 110 to provide a strong structure and stable. That is, due to the symmetrical configuration of the fastener assembly 10, the forces can be substantially evenly distributed and the fastener assembly 10 also provides a desired degree of stability. It should be noted that the interlocking channel structure of the described fastener assembly 10 also allows limited relative movement in a vertical direction between the first member 20 and the second member 80. More particularly, the interlocking channel structure defines two upper recesses 120 , 122 and two lower recesses, 124, 126 permitting a limited relative vertical movement between the first member 20 and the second member 80. This feature provides a roof panel secured with a fastener assembly 10 of the present invention a limited range. of vertical movement, allows the fastener assembly 10 to be used with roof panels of different heights and / or compensates for certain degrees of variations during installation. In the described embodiment, the mentioned holes measure approximately 0.32 centimeters (0.125"), although it should be appreciated that the size of the holes may vary according to different design requirements When the fastener assembly 10 is assembled, it is substantially symmetrical with respect to to its central axis 28 for securing portions of the roof panel 160 to the underlying support structure 180. Moreover, the base 22 of the first member 20 and the platform 82 of the second member 80 are moved to a predetermined degree. of bra set 10, the base 22 of the first member 20 and the platform 82 of the second member 80 are each disposed substantially completely in the first and second reference planes that are displaced by a predetermined amount, which is approximately the height of the rib 164 of the panel 160 (the distance of a plane containing the crossbar 162 and the peak 170). The first member 20 and the second member 80 are each preferably integrally formed (i.e., of unitary construction), and thus are preferably formed of a relatively light coated steel (eg of size 22 to 18) using a combination of Stationary presses and rollers to form bends in the steel. However, it can be appreciated that the fastener assembly 10 can be formed of other materials, such as aluminum or rigid plastic, depending on the particular requirements of the fastener assembly. In addition, alternate manufacturing processes consistent with other such materials may be employed, such as extrusion or molding to form the fastener assembly 10. The fastener assembly 10 may also include various alignment or positioning features to facilitate installation. For example, referring to Figures 2, the base 22 of the first member 20, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, may include two triangular notches 34, 36, each having a point centered on the central axis 28. notches 34, 36 allow the user to align the first member 20 along a predetermined longitudinal axis, such as the chalk line, on the underlying support structure. In Figure 5, the fastener assembly 10 includes two substantially triangular shaped wedges 40, 42 that are cut / punched along two sides of the base 22 and bent in a generally downward direction. A corner of each triangular hole in the base 22 is positioned on the central axis 28. These triangular downwardly extending wedges 40, 42 can be used to "light" the first member 20 to an underlying support structure as a plywood sub-roof pulling or pushing wedges 40, 42 into the plywood sub-roof or other structure. Alternatively, the downwardly extending triangular wedges 40, 42 can be used to position the first member so that the fastener assembly 10 is longitudinally centered in a laterally extending roof installation strip, as illustrated in FIG. Figures 9A and 9B and as will be discussed in more detail below. In this case, the installation strip would be comfortably received between the two wedges 40, 42. It will be appreciated that this longitudinal centering of the fastener assembly 10 on the roof strip could be achieved with a single projection suitably placed downward as a wedge. . The fastener assembly 10 of the present invention can also be configured to limit the amount of relative axial movement between the first member 20 and the second member 80, such as by including a locking groove and stopping assembly 130. Referring to Figures 2 and 3 and in relation to this, a slot 132 extending longitudinally in the second portion 114 of the leg member 110 is cut. An outwardly projecting stop 134 may be formed in the first portion 62 of the leg member 60. This stop 134 would then be received within the slot 132 to limit the range of motion between the first member 20 and the second member 80. A similar arrangement (e.g., a stop and a receiving cavity of corresponding size) may be in fact it is preferably used to center the second member 80 on the first member 20 for the initial installation. Notwithstanding the above, preferably the fastener assembly 10 does not limit the amount of relative movement between the first member 20 and the second member 80. In this case, it may be desirable to limit / otherwise restrict the movement of one or more of the panels (e.g., by nailing certain of the roof panels to the substructure). Another way to limit the range of motion between the two members of the fastener assembly of the present invention is illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B in the alternative configuration of the fastener assembly 10"presented in Figure 7B.The embodiment described in the Figure 6A has a first slot 142 cut in the first member 20 and a second slot 144, cut in the second member 80. As illustrated in Figure 6B, a screw or other fastener can be pulled through the slots after the The fastener assembly has been assembled to limit longitudinal relative movement between the first member 20 and the second member 80. Further configurations of fastening assemblies according to the principles of the present invention are illustrated in Figures 7A-D. The upper part of the second member 80 can be configured to match the profile of the particular metal panel that is being installed. first member 80 may be configured in a similar manner to match the profile of the underlying support structure. The fastening assemblies of the present invention can be installed in a variety of ways, including for example using a substantially planar support structure 180 as a deck of plywood. Figure 8A is a perspective view of a plurality of sets of fasteners 10 according to the present invention placed on a support structure 180. In a method of employing the fastener assemblies 10 to secure a roof panel to a structure of Underlying support 180, sets of fasteners 10 are assembled at the site of construction. In this method, the sets of fasteners 10 are placed first by tracing a gis line 184 to define a longitudinal axis in the sub-ceiling and then using the notches 34, 36 in the base 22 to align the first member 20 with the longitudinal axis defined by the chalk line 184. The first member 20 is then secured to the sub-roof 180 by pulling a screw or other fastener through the hole 38 in the base 22 as discussed previously. The second member 80 is slidably attached to the first member 20 and can be centered therein using the above-mentioned type of stopping and the receiving cavity assembly. This process is repeated until the appropriate number of sets of fasteners 10 are placed in substantial longitudinal alignment on the sub-roof 180, as illustrated in Figure 8A. A ceiling panel with ribs 160 can then be placed over the portion of the sub-roof 180 and secured to the fastener assemblies 10 using screws or other appropriate fasteners. Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of a fastener assembly of Figure 8A, taken along the line CC, after a metal roof panel 160 has been secured to the fastener assembly 10. As illustrated in Figure 8C, a screw secures the first member 20 to the plywood sub-roof 180. The roof panel 160 is secured to the platform 82 of the second member 80 using a self-tapping metal screw or other similar fastener. Conveniently, the roof panel 160 is secured to the fastener 10 along a peak 170 of the panel 160, which reduces the possibility of water spillage through the roof panel 160. The described embodiment of the fastener 10 measures approximately 2.22. centimeters (0.875") in height which provides a slight gap (ie, approximately 0.32 centimeters (0.125")) between the cross member 162 of a roof panel and the sub-roof 180. When the roof panel 160 is under load, As by snow, ice, or other debris, the panel can be bent so that the cross members 162 can contact the sub-roof 180, thereby enabling the sub-roof 180 to directly support portions of the panel 160. The fastening assemblies of the present invention can also be installed using laterally extending installation strips. Figure 9A is a perspective view of a plurality of sets of fasteners 10 according to the present invention placed on a portion of a support structure 180 employing laterally disposed strips 182. As previously discussed, a chalk line may be used. to define a longitudinal axis in the support structure 180. Moreover, when beams 182 are employed, preferably one or more of the downwardly projecting wedges described above 40, 42 are used to center the fastener assembly 10 in the Strip 182. However, first member 20 of each fastener assembly 10 is secured to strip 182 using a screw or other conventional fastener. The fastener assembly 10 is then assembled and the roof panel 160 secured therein as discussed above. Figure 9B is a side view of the fastener assembly of Figure 4 mounted on a strip 182. As illustrated in Figure 8B, the first and second downwardly extending triangular wedges 40, 42 are disposed adjacent to the first and second. sides of the strip 182 respectively. The downwardly extending wedges 40, 42 facilitate centering the fastener assembly 10 on the strip 182 and contribute to securing the fastener assembly 10 on the strip 182. As illustrated in Figure 9B, there is a gap between the bottom part of the fastener assembly 10 and the sub-roof 182. This configuration can be employed when it is desirable to have air space between the roof panel and the support structure either by venting the sub-roof cover or when insulation is required between the roof panel and the roof panel. roof 160 and support structure 180. Figure 9C is a cross-sectional view of a fastener assembly of Figure 9A, taken along line 2-2 after a metal roof panel has been secured. 160 to the fastener assembly 10. As illustrated in Figure 9C, a screw secures the first member 20 to the strip 182. The roof panel 160 is secured to the platform 82 of the second member 80 using a self-locking metal screw. scado or other similar fastener. As previously discussed, the roof panel 160 is secured to the fastener 10 along a peak 170 of the panel, which reduces the possibility of water spillage through the roof panel. In addition, there is a slight gap (e.g., approximately 0.32 centimeters) between the cross member 162 of a roof panel 160 and the strip 182. Therefore, when the roof panel 160 is under load, the panel can be folded in a manner that the crosspieces 162 can be brought into contact with the strips 182, allowing the strips 182 to directly support portions of the panel 160. The fastener assemblies of the present invention can also be used to install a metal roof over an existing metal roof. Figures 10A to 10C illustrate the use of a fastener assembly according to the present invention for mounting a metal roof panel with ribs 160 directly on top of an existing metal panel roof 190. This method may be desirable to save time and expense of removing the existing metal roof 190 to expose the sub-roof 180. This method employs a fastener assembly 10 of substantially the same configuration as the described fastener assembly but approximately twice the height. The first member 20 of each fastener is mounted to a cross member 192 of an existing roof using a screw or other fastener to secure the fastener to the sub-roof 180 below the existing roof panel 190. A metal roof panel with rib 160 is placed over the fasteners 10 as illustrated in Figure 10C and secured to the fasteners 10 using screws or other similar fasteners. As illustrated in Figure 10C, the upper metal roof panel 160 is secured to the platform 82 of the fastener assembly 10 along the peak of the roof panel 170. Additionally, when the upper roof panel 160 is secured to the lower roof 190 as * illustrated in Figure 10C, portions of the cross member 162 of the top panel may be supported by portions of the peaks 200 of the bottom panel 190 when the top roof panel 160 is under load. The above description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. In addition, the description is not intended to limit the invention to the form described herein. Accordingly, variations and modifications commensurate with the above teachings, and the skill and knowledge of the pertinent art, are within the scope of the present invention. For example, although not illustrated, the mounting fasteners of the present invention may also be used when a metal roof is installed in an open substructure, such as a frame. The embodiments described hereinbefore further attempt to explain better known ways of practicing the invention and allow others skilled in the art to use the invention in this, or other embodiments and with various modifications required by the particular applications or uses of the present invention. It is intended that the appended claims consider including alternative modalities to the extent permitted by the prior art.

Claims (43)

1. CLAIMS l. A fastener assembly for securing portions of a first panel to an underlying support structure, the fastener assembly comprising: a first member comprising a base and first and second channel members laterally displaced, each of the first and second members being channel interconnected with the base, it being possible to join the first member to one of the first panel and the underlying support structure; a second member comprising a platform and first and second leg members laterally displaced, each of the first and second leg members interconnected with and extending away from the platform, wherein a portion of the first and second leg members are interconnected in a sliding manner with the first and second channel members, respectively, it being possible to join the first member to the other of the first panel and the underlying support structure; and an element for allowing the first member to move relative to the second member in a direction that is generally parallel to the first and second members and channel when the first and second support members are attached to the first panel and the support structure underlying.
2. 2. The fastener assembly of the claim 1, which further comprises an element for placing the first member in a previously determined relation with respect to the support structure before the union of the first member with the support structure.
3. 3. The fastener assembly of the claim 2, wherein the positioning element comprises a notch in the base of the first member.
4. 4. The fastener assembly of the claim 2, wherein the base has a first and second ends and a central longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends, the first and second members being movable relative to each other in a direction that coincides with the axis, and the The positioning element comprises a first and a second groove on the first and second ends, respectively, substantially along the axis.
5. The fastener assembly of claim 2, wherein the positioning element comprises a projection extending from a lower surface of the base, the first and second channel members being on an upper surface of the base.
6. The fastener assembly of claim 2, wherein the positioning element comprises first and second longitudinally displaced projections extending from a lower surface of the base, the first and second channel members being on an upper surface of the base .
7. The fastener assembly of claim 1, further comprising an element for securing the first member to the underlying support structure.
8. The fastener assembly of claim 7, wherein the securing element comprises a hole in the base member, the hole being positioned substantially along a longitudinal central axis of the fastener assembly.
9. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the base is disposed substantially entirely in a first plane and the first and second channel members extend upwardly away from the end of the base and are arranged at an acute angle with respect to to the foreground.
10. The fastener assembly of claim 1, each of the first and second channel members comprises a first portion interconnected with and extending upwardly away from the base, and a second portion interconnected with the first portion and extending downwardly. to the base to define a channel between the first and second portions.
11. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the base includes first and second sides that are substantially parallel to a longitudinal central axis of the fastener assembly, the first and second channel members being positioned on the first and second. sides, respectively, and along substantially the entire length of the first and second sides, respectively.
12. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the platform is disposed substantially entirely of a first plane and the first and second leg members are each disposed at an obtuse angle relative to the first plane.
13. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the platform is substantially arched.
14. 14. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the platform is substantially planar.
15. 15. The fastener assembly of the claim 1, each of the first and second leg members comprises a first portion interconnected with and extending downwardly away from the platform toward the base and a second portion interconnected with the first portion and extending upward toward the platform to define a channel between the first and second portions.
16. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein portions of the first and second channel members are frictionally joined together with portions of the first and second leg members, respectively.
17. 17. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein portions of the first and second leg members contact portions of the base.
18. 18. The fastener assembly of claim 1, further comprising an element for providing a previously determined range of relative movement between the first and second members in the direction generally parallel to the first and second channel members.
19. The fastener assembly of claim 18, wherein the element to be provided comprises a groove in one of the first channel member and the first leg member and a projection in the other of the first channel member and the first leg member .
20. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the fastener assembly has a longitudinal central axis, the first and second members are substantially symmetrically positioned above the longitudinal central axis, the first and second members are vertically offset.
21. 21. A fastener assembly for interconnecting a roof panel and an underlying support structure, the fastener assembly comprising: a first member having a longitudinal axis, wherein the first member can be secured to the underlying support structure; a second member that slidably joins the first member in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein a portion of the second member moves from the first member, is placed substantially symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis, and Can insure the roofing panel; and an element for allowing the first member to move relative to the second member in a direction that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis when the first and second support members are joined to the roof panel and the underlying support structure, respectively.
22. 22. The fastener assembly of the claim 21, further comprises element for placing the first member in a previously determined relation with respect to the support structure before the union of the first member with the support structure.
23. 23. The fastener assembly of the claim 22, wherein the positioning element comprises a notch in the first member.
24. The fastener assembly of claim 22, wherein the first member comprises a base having first and second ends and a central longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends, the first and second movable ends being one with respect to to the other in a direction coinciding with the axis, the elements for positioning comprise first and second notches in the first and second ends, respectively, substantially along the axis.
25. 25. The fastener assembly of the claim 22, wherein the positioning element comprises a projection extending from a lower surface of the first member.
26. 26. The fastener assembly of claim 22, wherein the positioning element comprises first and second longitudinally displaced projections extending from a lower surface of the first member.
27. 27. The fastener assembly of claim 21 further comprises an element for securing the first member to the underlying support structure.
28. 28. The fastener assembly of claim 27, wherein the securing element comprises a hole in the first member., the hole being positioned substantially along a central, longitudinal axis of the fastener assembly.
29. 29. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the first member comprises a base and the first and second channel members laterally offset, and wherein the second member comprises a platform and first and second leg members laterally offset, the first and second leg members interconnected with and extending downward and away from the platform, wherein a portion of the first and second leg members are slidably connected to the first and second channel members, respectively.
30. 30. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein the base of the first member is disposed substantially completely in a first plane and the first and second channel members extend upward away from the base and are arranged at an acute angle. in relation to the first plane.
31. 31. The fastener assembly of claim 29, the first and second channel members each comprising a first portion interconnected with and extending upwardly away from the base, and a second portion interconnected with the first portion and extending downwardly toward the base portion. basis to define a channel between the first and second portions.
32. 32. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein the base includes first and second sides that are substantially parallel to a central, longitudinal axis of the fastener assembly, the first and second channel members being positioned on the first and second sides. , respectively, and along substantially the entire length of the first and second sides, respectively.
33. 33. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein the platform is disposed substantially entirely in a first plane and the first and second leg members are each disposed at an obtuse angle relative to the first plane.
34. 34. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein the platform is substantially arcuate.
35. 35. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein the platform is substantially planar.
36. 36. The fastener assembly of the claim 29, each of the first and second leg members comprises a first portion interconnected with and extending downwardly away from the platform and a second portion interconnected with the first portion and extending upward toward the platform to define a channel between the first and second. portions.
37. 37. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein portions of the first and second channel members frictionally join portions of the first and second leg members, respectively.
38. 38. The fastener assembly of claim 29, wherein portions of the first and second leg members contact portions of the base.
39. 39. The fastener assembly of claim 29 further comprises an element for providing a predetermined range of relative movement between the first and second members in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis, wherein the element to be provided comprises a groove in one. of the first channel member and the first leg member and a projection on the other of the first channel member and first leg member.
40. 40. The fastener assembly of claim 21, further comprising an element for providing a predetermined amount of relative movement between the first and second members in a direction that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.
41. 41. The fastener assembly of claim 40, the element for providing comprises a first cut longitudinally disposed along a portion of the second member and a first stop member in the first member and extending through the cut, in where the first detention and cutting member cooperate to limit relative movement between the first and second members.
42. 42. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the first and second members are each of metal.
43. 43. The fastener assembly of claim 21, wherein the first and second members are each metal.