US20070227089A1 - Apparatus and method for joining building components - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for joining building components Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070227089A1 US20070227089A1 US11/395,580 US39558006A US2007227089A1 US 20070227089 A1 US20070227089 A1 US 20070227089A1 US 39558006 A US39558006 A US 39558006A US 2007227089 A1 US2007227089 A1 US 2007227089A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- building component
- channel
- engagement structure
- joint
- building
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 12
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910000838 Al alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
- B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
- B64D11/00—Passenger or crew accommodation; Flight-deck installations not otherwise provided for
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/61—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other
- E04B1/6108—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other the frontal surfaces of the slabs connected together
- E04B1/6112—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other the frontal surfaces of the slabs connected together by clamping, e.g. friction, means on lateral surfaces
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/61—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other
- E04B2001/6195—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other the slabs being connected at an angle, e.g. forming a corner
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/05—Separate connectors or inserts, e.g. pegs, pins, keys or strips
- E04F2201/0594—Hinge-like connectors
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/07—Joining sheets or plates or panels with connections using a special adhesive material
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T50/00—Aeronautics or air transport
- Y02T50/40—Weight reduction
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a joint apparatus for facilitating the assembly of building components such as panels, hinge assemblies, latch assemblies, door stops, and other structural elements. These building components may be installed within a commercial aircraft. A building component is secured to the joint apparatus using adhesive or snap fit locking engagement. In addition, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for coupling and supporting building components in planar or angular relation.
- Structural joint connectors have use in a variety of manufacturing and building applications to create many different products.
- the connectors have numerous functions that include joining panels and various different building components during production.
- a variety of different connectors have been developed to interconnect structural elements.
- a lightweight and compact joint apparatus provides a secure structural connection for building components such as wall panels and hinge assemblies while reducing the amount of labor hours required during assembly.
- the joint apparatuses and methods provide a rigid connection for a variety of building components.
- a small, lightweight, and sturdy apparatus that connects two adjacent panels or joins a panel with another distinctive building component includes a channel with an engagement structure that allows building components to connect without the need of mechanical fasters.
- the joint apparatus may interlock with a portion of each of the adjacent panels to secure them together. It is also a feature of this invention to provide a novel method of ensuring that a solid structural joint results.
- a snap fit locking engagement secures each building component to the joint apparatus. Slots and engagement structures along with a consistently designed coupling enhance the strength of a joint.
- FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the joint apparatus with a single building component.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a joint apparatus embodiment similar to that illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a joint apparatus coupling two building components.
- FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a joint apparatus and two building components.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a joint apparatus and two building components at a corner.
- FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the joint apparatus illustrated in FIG.5 .
- FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a joint apparatus and two building components.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a joint apparatus with two building components at a corner.
- FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8
- FIG. 1 shows a partial view of a joint apparatus 10 which includes a channel 12 formed by an engagement structure 14 .
- An engagement structure 14 may include a first retaining element 16 to enhance the strength of a coupling between the joint apparatus and a building component 20 such as a panel, a hinge assembly, or a door stop installed in aircraft interiors.
- the embodiment comprises an engagement structure 14 that may include a first retaining element 16 and a second retaining element 18 that are configured to engage with an insert structure 24 of a building component 20 that has a planar surface 26 such as a panel 22 .
- Retaining elements 16 , 18 may configured to engage with a panel 22 that has a complementary configured insert structure 24 .
- the joint apparatus 10 is small and lightweight and has the strength to couple building component 20 . It may be fabricated from an aluminum alloy material such as 7075 or 2024 .
- the retaining element 16 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes a treated surface 27 with serrations 30 to enhance the rigidity of the coupling such that a channel 12 can secure a building component 20 without the use of additional mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc.
- a substance used for bonding such as adhesive 32 may also be applied to a retaining element 16 prior to contact with an insert structure 24 of a building component 20 .
- the serrations 30 are approximately 0.010 inch deep to ensure proper bonding.
- the size of a joint apparatus and method used to install a building component may be adapted to satisfy strength requirements and minimize the dimensions of the component.
- the size of retaining elements 16 , 18 described in the embodiment along with method of joining, characteristics of an adhesive 32 , and use of serrations 30 enhance the strength of the joint and eliminate the need for a building component, such as a panel, with a thickness greater than 1 inch. This can result in a significant reduction in size and weight in order to satisfy requirements for products such as aircraft interiors.
- the length of the retaining elements 16 , 18 are approximately 0.50 inch in order to retain a building component 20 that is approximately 0.50 inch wide.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a joint apparatus 10 with an engagement structure 14 .
- An engagement structure includes retaining elements 16 , 18 and serrations 30 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates a joint apparatus 10 that couples first and second building components 20 , 21 .
- the joint apparatus 10 illustrated in FIG. 4 includes channels 12 , 13 .
- Each channel includes an engagement structure 14 with retaining elements 16 , 18 to join more than one building component such as panels 22 , 23 .
- a retaining element 16 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 includes serrations 30 to enhance the bond strength of an adhesive 32 which is applied prior to coupling an insert structure 20 to a joint apparatus 10 .
- the assembly of FIG. 4 is exemplary only, and the joining apparatus disclosed and/or claimed herein may be used to connect numerous other building components such as hinge assemblies, latches, and stops.
- FIG. 5 Another alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 5 which includes a joint apparatus 10 coupling two building components 20 , 21 at a corner.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a joint apparatus 10 that includes a first channel 12 and a second channel 13 that bridge two building components 20 , 21 at an angle.
- a first channel 12 includes an engagement structure 14 comprising a first retaining element 16 and a second retaining element 18 .
- An adhesive 32 is applied over serrations 30 , which extend from a retaining element before a building component such as a panel 22 is inserted into a channel 12 and supported by an engagement structure 14 .
- a retaining elements 16 , 18 are configured to engage with a building apparatus 22 that has a complementary configured insert structure 24 .
- the embodiment in FIG. 6 also includes a decorative layer and/or protective rub strip 42 that is attached to a joint apparatus 10 .
- the embodiment includes a projection 44 extending from a joint apparatus 10 that secure a rub strip 42 to a joint apparatus 10 .
- a rub strip 42 has a structural extension 46 and a retainer cavity 48 that is compatible with a projection 44 in order to provide a means of snap fit fastening. This is created to ensure quick disassembly and installation in order to accomplish maintenance, repairs, or modifications.
- FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a joint apparatus 10 that includes a first channel 12 and a second channel 13 that couple two building components 20 , 21 .
- a first channel 12 includes an engagement structure 14 comprising a first retaining element 16 and a second retaining element 18 .
- An adhesive 32 is applied over serrations 30 which extend from a retaining element before a building component such as a panel 22 is inserted into a channel 12 and supported by an engagement structure 14 .
- the second channel 13 includes an engagement structure 14 with retaining elements 28 , 29 to secure a second building component 21 .
- a building component 21 may be a jamb element 34 such as a door stop 33 , hinge assembly or latch assembly.
- Retaining elements 28 , 29 illustrated in the embodiment include a slot 35 to secure a door stop 33 to a joint assembly 10 .
- Door stop 33 includes a coupling member 38 that fits into an engagement structure 14 . Upon insertion of a coupling member 38 , a flange 40 on a coupling member 38 snap-fits into slots 35 located along an engagement structure 14 .
- the snap-fit connection is accomplished once the flange 40 is snugly fit into the slots 35 in order to secure a building component 21 onto a joint apparatus 10 without the use of mechanical fasteners.
- a flange 40 on an engagement structure may be used to fit into a slot 35 on a coupling portion 38 of a building component 21 in order to snap-fit upon insertion.
- Each embodiment may include a universal retaining element, 29 .
- a retaining element 29 comprises a treated surface with serrations 30 for use when joining a building component that does not include a coupling member 38 with a flange 40 .
- Serrations 30 enhance rigidity to allow a channel 13 to secure a building component that does not include a flange 40 .
- the embodiment includes an adhesive that is applied over serrations 30 , before a building component 21 such as a panel 22 is inserted into a channel 13 and supported by an engagement structure 28 , 29 .
- a decorative layer and/or protective rub strip 42 may be attached to a joint apparatus 10 .
- the apparatus illustrated in the embodiment includes projections 44 extending from an engagement structure 14 that secure a rub strip 42 to a joint apparatus 10 .
- Rub strip 42 includes a structural extension 46 and a retainer cavity 48 that is compatible with a projection 44 in order to provide a means of snap fit fastening. This is created to ensure quick disassembly and installation in order to accomplish maintenance, repairs, or modifications.
- FIG. 8 A joint apparatus 10 that couples two building components, 20 , 21 at a corner is illustrated in FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 9 is a cross section illustration of an embodiment of the invention that includes use of a joint apparatus 10 connecting building components 20 , 21 at a corner.
- a joint apparatus includes two channels 12 , 13 , a first connector 50 , and a second connector 51 .
- a first connector 50 may be attached to retaining elements 18 , 28 at an angle.
- a second connector 51 may be fabricated with a curved surface 53 and attached to retaining elements 16 , 29 in parallel.
- the first channel 12 includes an engagement structure 14 comprising a first retaining element 16 and a second retaining element 18 .
- An adhesive 32 is applied over serrations 30 , which extend from a retaining element 16 before a building component 20 such as a panel 22 is inserted into a channel 12 and supported by a engagement structure 14 .
- the use of serrations and adhesive enhance the strength of the joint and eliminate the need for mechanical fasteners such as bolts, screws, nails, rivets or pins.
- the second channel 13 includes an engagement structure 14 with retaining elements 28 , 29 to secure a second building component 21 .
- a building component may be a jamb element 34 such as a hinge assembly 36 , door stop, or latch assembly.
- Hinge assembly 36 includes a coupling member 38 that fits into a engagement structure 14 .
- a coupling member 38 Upon insertion of a coupling member 38 , a flange 40 extending from a coupling portion 38 snap-fits into slots 35 located along an engagement structure 14 .
- the snap-fit connection allows a flange 40 to snugly fit into slots 35 and secure hinge assembly 36 to a joint apparatus, 10 without the use of mechanical fasteners such as a screw, bolt, nail pin, or rivet.
- flanges on an engagement structure 14 can be used to fit into slots 35 on a coupling portion 38 of a building component 21 in order to snap-fit upon insertion.
- a retaining element 29 comprises a treated surface with serrations 30 for use when joining a building component that does not include a coupling member 38 with a flange 40 .
- Serrations 30 enhance rigidity to allow a channel 13 to secure a building component that does not include a flange 40 .
- the embodiment includes an adhesive that is applied over serrations 30 , before a building component 21 such as a panel 22 is inserted into a channel 13 and supported by an engagement structure 28 , 29
- a joint apparatus may also include a decorative layer and/or protective rub strip 42 that is attached to a joint apparatus 10 .
- a joint apparatus illustrated in the embodiment includes projections 44 extending from an engagement structure 14 that secure rub strip 42 to a joint apparatus 10 .
- Rub strip 42 has a structural extension 46 and a retainer cavity 48 that is compatible with a projection 44 in order to provide a means of snap fit fastening. This is created to ensure quick disassembly and installation in order to accomplish maintenance, repairs, replacement, or modifications.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
- Joining Of Building Structures In Genera (AREA)
Abstract
A joint apparatus and method of assembly is disclosed for connecting building components such as panels, door jamb assemblies, windows and other structures. The apparatus includes an engagement structure with retaining elements that couple building components without the need for mechanical fasteners. The retaining element may contain serrations on which an adhesive is applied before a panel or other building component is secured to the joint apparatus. Other building components such as hinge assemblies include coupling members with a flange. The slots along a retaining element allows coupling members to snap fit into the joint apparatus once a flange is secured into the slots in order to lock the components.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to a joint apparatus for facilitating the assembly of building components such as panels, hinge assemblies, latch assemblies, door stops, and other structural elements. These building components may be installed within a commercial aircraft. A building component is secured to the joint apparatus using adhesive or snap fit locking engagement. In addition, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for coupling and supporting building components in planar or angular relation.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- Structural joint connectors have use in a variety of manufacturing and building applications to create many different products. The connectors have numerous functions that include joining panels and various different building components during production. A variety of different connectors have been developed to interconnect structural elements.
- Existing devices used to secure panels and other components include the use of an extrusion with flanges designed to fit along a panel edge. Mechanical fasteners are commonly installed through the flange and into the panel in order to strengthen the joint. Other connectors that include straps, angles, edges, and end fittings with a greater thickness or different material are used to enhance the strength of joints. For example aircraft industries have created aluminum connectors to join walls, panels, and barriers for aircraft interiors.
- In aerospace applications, size and weight considerations are paramount. Many existing structural components were created to decrease weight, size, or the amount of material required while providing sufficient strength to ensure an effective joint. In addition, the amount of labor hours required to assemble the components must also be considered in order to minimize manufacturing costs. Accordingly, there is a continuing need in the art for building components that are lightweight, size efficient, cost effective, and easy to assemble.
- According to one aspect of the invention, a lightweight and compact joint apparatus provides a secure structural connection for building components such as wall panels and hinge assemblies while reducing the amount of labor hours required during assembly.
- According to another aspect of the invention, the joint apparatuses and methods provide a rigid connection for a variety of building components. A small, lightweight, and sturdy apparatus that connects two adjacent panels or joins a panel with another distinctive building component includes a channel with an engagement structure that allows building components to connect without the need of mechanical fasters. The joint apparatus may interlock with a portion of each of the adjacent panels to secure them together. It is also a feature of this invention to provide a novel method of ensuring that a solid structural joint results.
- According to another aspect, a snap fit locking engagement secures each building component to the joint apparatus. Slots and engagement structures along with a consistently designed coupling enhance the strength of a joint.
- Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the joint apparatus with a single building component. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a joint apparatus embodiment similar to that illustrated inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a joint apparatus coupling two building components. -
FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a joint apparatus and two building components. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a joint apparatus and two building components at a corner. -
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the joint apparatus illustrated inFIG.5 . -
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a joint apparatus and two building components. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a joint apparatus with two building components at a corner. -
FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 8 - The foregoing and other advantages and features of the invention, and the manner in which the same are accomplished, will become more readily apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred and exemplary embodiments, and which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 shows a partial view of ajoint apparatus 10 which includes achannel 12 formed by anengagement structure 14. Anengagement structure 14 may include afirst retaining element 16 to enhance the strength of a coupling between the joint apparatus and abuilding component 20 such as a panel, a hinge assembly, or a door stop installed in aircraft interiors. The embodiment comprises anengagement structure 14 that may include afirst retaining element 16 and asecond retaining element 18 that are configured to engage with aninsert structure 24 of abuilding component 20 that has aplanar surface 26 such as apanel 22. Retainingelements panel 22 that has a complementary configuredinsert structure 24. - The
joint apparatus 10 is small and lightweight and has the strength to couplebuilding component 20. It may be fabricated from an aluminum alloy material such as 7075 or 2024. - The
retaining element 16 in the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 includes a treatedsurface 27 withserrations 30 to enhance the rigidity of the coupling such that achannel 12 can secure abuilding component 20 without the use of additional mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, etc. - A substance used for bonding, such as adhesive 32, may also be applied to a
retaining element 16 prior to contact with aninsert structure 24 of abuilding component 20. Theserrations 30 are approximately 0.010 inch deep to ensure proper bonding. The size of a joint apparatus and method used to install a building component may be adapted to satisfy strength requirements and minimize the dimensions of the component. - The size of retaining
elements serrations 30 enhance the strength of the joint and eliminate the need for a building component, such as a panel, with a thickness greater than 1 inch. This can result in a significant reduction in size and weight in order to satisfy requirements for products such as aircraft interiors. The length of theretaining elements building component 20 that is approximately 0.50 inch wide. -
FIG. 2 illustrates ajoint apparatus 10 with anengagement structure 14. An engagement structure includes retainingelements serrations 30. -
FIG. 3 illustrates ajoint apparatus 10 that couples first andsecond building components - The
joint apparatus 10 illustrated inFIG. 4 includeschannels engagement structure 14 withretaining elements panels retaining element 16 in the embodiment shown inFIG. 4 includesserrations 30 to enhance the bond strength of anadhesive 32 which is applied prior to coupling aninsert structure 20 to ajoint apparatus 10. The assembly ofFIG. 4 is exemplary only, and the joining apparatus disclosed and/or claimed herein may be used to connect numerous other building components such as hinge assemblies, latches, and stops. - Another alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in
FIG. 5 which includes ajoint apparatus 10 coupling twobuilding components -
FIG. 6 illustrates ajoint apparatus 10 that includes afirst channel 12 and asecond channel 13 that bridge twobuilding components first channel 12 includes anengagement structure 14 comprising afirst retaining element 16 and asecond retaining element 18. Anadhesive 32 is applied overserrations 30, which extend from a retaining element before a building component such as apanel 22 is inserted into achannel 12 and supported by anengagement structure 14. A retainingelements building apparatus 22 that has a complementary configuredinsert structure 24. - The embodiment in
FIG. 6 also includes a decorative layer and/orprotective rub strip 42 that is attached to ajoint apparatus 10. The embodiment includes aprojection 44 extending from ajoint apparatus 10 that secure arub strip 42 to ajoint apparatus 10. Arub strip 42 has astructural extension 46 and aretainer cavity 48 that is compatible with aprojection 44 in order to provide a means of snap fit fastening. This is created to ensure quick disassembly and installation in order to accomplish maintenance, repairs, or modifications. - Another alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in
FIG. 7 which is a cross sectional view of ajoint apparatus 10 that includes afirst channel 12 and asecond channel 13 that couple twobuilding components first channel 12 includes anengagement structure 14 comprising afirst retaining element 16 and asecond retaining element 18. An adhesive 32 is applied overserrations 30 which extend from a retaining element before a building component such as apanel 22 is inserted into achannel 12 and supported by anengagement structure 14. - The
second channel 13 includes anengagement structure 14 with retainingelements second building component 21. Abuilding component 21 may be ajamb element 34 such as adoor stop 33, hinge assembly or latch assembly. Retainingelements slot 35 to secure adoor stop 33 to ajoint assembly 10.Door stop 33 includes acoupling member 38 that fits into anengagement structure 14. Upon insertion of acoupling member 38, aflange 40 on acoupling member 38 snap-fits intoslots 35 located along anengagement structure 14. The snap-fit connection is accomplished once theflange 40 is snugly fit into theslots 35 in order to secure abuilding component 21 onto ajoint apparatus 10 without the use of mechanical fasteners. In another embodiment, aflange 40 on an engagement structure may be used to fit into aslot 35 on acoupling portion 38 of abuilding component 21 in order to snap-fit upon insertion. - Each embodiment may include a universal retaining element, 29. In addition to a
slot 35, a retainingelement 29 comprises a treated surface withserrations 30 for use when joining a building component that does not include acoupling member 38 with aflange 40.Serrations 30 enhance rigidity to allow achannel 13 to secure a building component that does not include aflange 40. The embodiment includes an adhesive that is applied overserrations 30, before abuilding component 21 such as apanel 22 is inserted into achannel 13 and supported by anengagement structure - Referencing
FIG. 7 in some of the embodiments, a decorative layer and/orprotective rub strip 42 may be attached to ajoint apparatus 10. The apparatus illustrated in the embodiment includesprojections 44 extending from anengagement structure 14 that secure arub strip 42 to ajoint apparatus 10.Rub strip 42 includes astructural extension 46 and aretainer cavity 48 that is compatible with aprojection 44 in order to provide a means of snap fit fastening. This is created to ensure quick disassembly and installation in order to accomplish maintenance, repairs, or modifications. - A
joint apparatus 10 that couples two building components, 20, 21 at a corner is illustrated inFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 9 is a cross section illustration of an embodiment of the invention that includes use of ajoint apparatus 10 connectingbuilding components channels first connector 50, and asecond connector 51. Afirst connector 50, may be attached to retainingelements second connector 51 may be fabricated with acurved surface 53 and attached to retainingelements - The
first channel 12 includes anengagement structure 14 comprising afirst retaining element 16 and asecond retaining element 18. An adhesive 32 is applied overserrations 30, which extend from a retainingelement 16 before abuilding component 20 such as apanel 22 is inserted into achannel 12 and supported by aengagement structure 14. The use of serrations and adhesive enhance the strength of the joint and eliminate the need for mechanical fasteners such as bolts, screws, nails, rivets or pins. - The
second channel 13 includes anengagement structure 14 with retainingelements second building component 21. A building component may be ajamb element 34 such as ahinge assembly 36, door stop, or latch assembly. -
Hinge assembly 36 includes acoupling member 38 that fits into aengagement structure 14. Upon insertion of acoupling member 38, aflange 40 extending from acoupling portion 38 snap-fits intoslots 35 located along anengagement structure 14. The snap-fit connection allows aflange 40 to snugly fit intoslots 35 andsecure hinge assembly 36 to a joint apparatus, 10 without the use of mechanical fasteners such as a screw, bolt, nail pin, or rivet. In another embodiment, flanges on anengagement structure 14 can be used to fit intoslots 35 on acoupling portion 38 of abuilding component 21 in order to snap-fit upon insertion. - In addition to a
slot 35 or aflange 40, a retainingelement 29 comprises a treated surface withserrations 30 for use when joining a building component that does not include acoupling member 38 with aflange 40.Serrations 30 enhance rigidity to allow achannel 13 to secure a building component that does not include aflange 40. The embodiment includes an adhesive that is applied overserrations 30, before abuilding component 21 such as apanel 22 is inserted into achannel 13 and supported by anengagement structure - With continued reference to
FIG. 9 , in other embodiments a joint apparatus may also include a decorative layer and/orprotective rub strip 42 that is attached to ajoint apparatus 10. A joint apparatus illustrated in the embodiment includesprojections 44 extending from anengagement structure 14 thatsecure rub strip 42 to ajoint apparatus 10.Rub strip 42 has astructural extension 46 and aretainer cavity 48 that is compatible with aprojection 44 in order to provide a means of snap fit fastening. This is created to ensure quick disassembly and installation in order to accomplish maintenance, repairs, replacement, or modifications. - Those skilled in the art will understand that the preceding exemplary embodiments of the invention provide the foundation for numerous alternatives and modifications thereto. These other modifications are also within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to that precisely as shown and described above.
Claims (22)
1. A joining apparatus for use with a building component having an insert structure, a channel, an engagement structure disposed in said channel such that the building component is securable in the channel without the use of additional mechanical fasteners.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the engagement structure includes a first retaining element configured to engage with a building component having a planar surface.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the engagement structure includes a second retaining element that is configured to engage with a building component having a complementary configured insert structure.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of channels each having an engagement structure disposed therein.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the treated surface includes serrations.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the thickness of the building component is less than 1 inch.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an adhesive disposed on the engagement structure.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the channel is configured to receive an aircraft building component.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a rub strip.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a structural projection that allows a complementary configured rub strip retainer cavity to join with said joint apparatus.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the building component is an aircraft interior building component.
12. A joining apparatus comprising: a channel with an engagement structure; and a building component including a coupling portion that is configured to engage with the channel such that the resultant joined apparatus is free from mechanical fasteners.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the building component includes a jamb element.
14. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the building component includes a panel.
15. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the coupling portion of the building component includes an insert.
16. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the coupling portion of the building component includes an insert that is configured to adjoin with the engagement structure which includes a complimentary configured slots.
17. The joining apparatus of claim 12 that includes a rub strip.
18. The joining apparatus of claim 12 that includes a structural projection that allows a complementary configured retainer cavity on a rub strip to join with said joint apparatus.
19. The joining apparatus of claim 12 wherein the building component is an aircraft interior structure.
20. A method of assembling an interior of an aircraft, the method comprising: providing a joint apparatus, attaching a building component to the joint apparatus without the use of mechanical fasteners.
21. The method of claim 20 further comprising applying an adhesive to a surface of the building component prior to inserting said building component into a channel.
22. A method of assembling an interior of an aircraft, the method comprising: engaging a joint apparatus with a building component such that the resulting joined structure is free of mechanical fasteners.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/395,580 US20070227089A1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
US12/619,597 US8245467B2 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2009-11-16 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/395,580 US20070227089A1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
Related Child Applications (1)
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US12/619,597 Division US8245467B2 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2009-11-16 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
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US11/395,580 Abandoned US20070227089A1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
US12/619,597 Active US8245467B2 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2009-11-16 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
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US12/619,597 Active US8245467B2 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2009-11-16 | Apparatus and method for joining building components |
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US20100176242A1 (en) * | 2007-03-22 | 2010-07-15 | Airbus Operations Gmbh | Gap Covering Device |
WO2011048196A3 (en) * | 2009-10-22 | 2011-09-01 | Greiner Tool.Tec Gmbh | Profile system, extrusion tool for producing the profile system, and method for producing the profile system |
US20160017605A1 (en) * | 2014-07-18 | 2016-01-21 | Herve Bottin | Wall panel connecting system for modular building units |
US20170080670A1 (en) * | 2015-09-17 | 2017-03-23 | The Boeing Company | Panel and Associated Closeout Method |
US20180031154A1 (en) * | 2016-07-26 | 2018-02-01 | Robert Jeffrey Kupferberg | Compression seal groove connector |
US20180118347A1 (en) * | 2016-10-26 | 2018-05-03 | Airbus Operations Gmbh | Cabin monument for an aircraft |
US20200149270A1 (en) * | 2018-11-08 | 2020-05-14 | mfPHD, LLC | Monolithic Corner |
CN113775064A (en) * | 2021-10-11 | 2021-12-10 | 和能人居科技(天津)集团股份有限公司 | Vibration reduction connecting structure of box plate type building, box plate type steel structure building and construction method of box plate type steel structure building |
US11505948B2 (en) | 2018-11-08 | 2022-11-22 | mfPHD, LLC | Wall system |
US11873644B2 (en) | 2021-09-01 | 2024-01-16 | mfPHD, LLC | Modular wall units having front panels with aesthetic designs covering a window for modular wall systems |
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US9089964B2 (en) * | 2013-07-17 | 2015-07-28 | Chin-Shun Cheng | Tool box |
USD772434S1 (en) * | 2014-09-24 | 2016-11-22 | Robert Meske | Architectural accent |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20160017605A1 (en) * | 2014-07-18 | 2016-01-21 | Herve Bottin | Wall panel connecting system for modular building units |
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US10155355B2 (en) * | 2015-09-17 | 2018-12-18 | The Boeing Company | Panel and associated closeout method |
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US10422126B2 (en) * | 2016-07-26 | 2019-09-24 | Robert Jeffrey Kupferberg | Compression seal groove connector |
US20180118347A1 (en) * | 2016-10-26 | 2018-05-03 | Airbus Operations Gmbh | Cabin monument for an aircraft |
US10556686B2 (en) * | 2016-10-26 | 2020-02-11 | Airbus Operations Gmbh | Cabin monument for an aircraft |
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US20200149270A1 (en) * | 2018-11-08 | 2020-05-14 | mfPHD, LLC | Monolithic Corner |
US11505948B2 (en) | 2018-11-08 | 2022-11-22 | mfPHD, LLC | Wall system |
US11542703B2 (en) | 2018-11-08 | 2023-01-03 | mfPHD, LLC | Corner assembly |
US11572698B2 (en) | 2018-11-08 | 2023-02-07 | mfPHD, LLC | Backplate arrangements for modular wall systems and installation methods |
US11608645B2 (en) | 2018-11-08 | 2023-03-21 | mfPHD, LLC | Gap cover apparatus for modular wall systems and installation methods |
US11873644B2 (en) | 2021-09-01 | 2024-01-16 | mfPHD, LLC | Modular wall units having front panels with aesthetic designs covering a window for modular wall systems |
CN113775064A (en) * | 2021-10-11 | 2021-12-10 | 和能人居科技(天津)集团股份有限公司 | Vibration reduction connecting structure of box plate type building, box plate type steel structure building and construction method of box plate type steel structure building |
Also Published As
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US8245467B2 (en) | 2012-08-21 |
US20100095624A1 (en) | 2010-04-22 |
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