US20190177973A1 - Panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure - Google Patents
Panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20190177973A1 US20190177973A1 US15/834,352 US201715834352A US2019177973A1 US 20190177973 A1 US20190177973 A1 US 20190177973A1 US 201715834352 A US201715834352 A US 201715834352A US 2019177973 A1 US2019177973 A1 US 2019177973A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- jaw
- panel
- blocks
- panel mount
- abutment surface
- Prior art date
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- Abandoned
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- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 claims description 15
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000009182 swimming Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001154 acute effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2/76—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal
- E04B2/78—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame members as far as important for securing wall panels to a framework with or without the help of cover-strips
- E04B2/7854—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame members as far as important for securing wall panels to a framework with or without the help of cover-strips of open profile
- E04B2/789—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame members as far as important for securing wall panels to a framework with or without the help of cover-strips of open profile of substantially U- or C- section
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2/7401—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using panels without a frame or supporting posts, with or without upper or lower edge locating rails
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
- E04F11/1834—Connections therefor with adjustable angle, e.g. pivotal connections
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H4/00—Swimming or splash baths or pools
- E04H4/14—Parts, details or accessories 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
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2002/7496—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge using wedges to level or hold the partition in place
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
- E04F2011/1823—Connections therefor between balustrade filling members, e.g. balusters or panels, and horizontal or sloping balustrade members
Definitions
- the present application generally relates to panel mounts and, in particular, panel mounts for securing a panel to an adjoining structure.
- Panels may be secured to adjoining structures using panel mounts having a pair of jaws.
- a panel may be positioned at a desirable panel orientation, and two or more fasteners may be introduced between a panel surface and a respective jaw of a panel mount for securing the panel between the pair of jaws.
- the panel may be secured perpendicular to an un-level pool deck surface along an edge of the swimming pool using the panel mount.
- a panel mount user may manipulate the two or more fasteners whilst orienting the target panel.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount having a panel installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application
- FIG. 2 illustrates an side elevation view of a jamming device, in accordance with an example of the present application
- FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate front elevation views of the jamming device of FIG. 2 , in accordance with an example of the present application
- FIG. 4 illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount of FIG. 1 , where the panel and the clamp may be secured at a second angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application;
- FIG. 5 illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount of FIG. 1 , where the panel and the clamp may be secured at a third angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application;
- FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a clamp, in accordance with an example of the present application
- FIG. 7 illustrates a panel mount base, in accordance with an example of the present application.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount having a panel installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application
- FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C illustrate partial views of panel mount bodies illustrating respective first jaw and first clamp plate, in accordance with examples of the present application
- FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view of a second clamp plate and a jamming device, in accordance with an example of the present application.
- FIG. 11 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount mounted to an adjoining structure via a jaw of the panel mount body, in accordance with an example of the present application.
- Panel mounts for panels, such as glass panels, wood panels, plastic panels, or concrete panels.
- Panel mounts may be configured for securing a panel to an adjoining structure.
- Some example panel mounts may facilitate panel orientation adjustments without requiring access to both sides of the panel or panel mount.
- the present application describes a panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure.
- the panel mount includes a body including a first jaw and a second jaw defining an elongate slot open in a longitudinal direction, the first jaw including a first abutment surface facing the elongate slot; a clamp positioned within the elongate slot for receiving the panel, the clamp including: a first clamp plate having a second abutment surface abutting the first abutment surface, an angular orientation of the clamp within the elongate slot being altered when the second abutment surface slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface; and a second clamp plate between the first clamp plate and the second jaw, the second clamp plate including a non-planar surface having a plateau and facing the second jaw; and a jamming device between the non-planar surface and the second jaw, the jamming device including a pair of blocks and an adjustment member for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks, wherein the jamming device urges
- the terms “comprises” and “comprising” are intended to be inclusive and open ended, and not exclusive. Specifically, when used in the specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” and variations thereof mean the specified features, steps, or components are included. These terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps, or components.
- exemplary means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration”, and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other configurations disclosed herein.
- the terms “about”, “approximately”, and “substantially” are meant to cover variations that may exist in the upper and lower limits of the ranges of values, such as variations in properties, parameters, and dimensions. In a non-limiting example, the terms “about”, “approximately”, and “substantially” may mean plus or minus 10 percent or less.
- the term “and/or” is intended to cover all possible combinations and sub-combinations of the listed elements, including any one of the listed elements alone, any sub-combination, or all of the elements, and without necessarily excluding additional elements.
- the phrase “at least one of . . . or . . . ” is intended to cover any one or more of the listed elements, including any one of the listed elements alone, any sub-combination, or all of the elements, without necessarily excluding any additional elements, and without necessarily requiring all of the elements.
- Roller or building drawings may include plans for installing panels, such as glass panels, wood panels, plastic panels, or concrete panels, atop adjoining structures.
- a panel mount having a pair of jaws may secure a panel atop an adjoining structure.
- two or more fasteners may be introduced between a surface of the panel and a respective jaw of the panel mount.
- manipulation of multiple panel mount fasteners whilst orienting the panel for altering the panel orientation may be required. That is, a collaborative effort of two or more persons may be required for manipulating the multiple panel mount fasteners whilst orienting the panel.
- adjustable panel mounts facilitating less onerous adjustment steps may be desired.
- any adjustments to panel orientations may require simultaneous manipulation of the fasteners and manipulation of the panel for achieving the desired panel orientation. It may also be cumbersome to remove fasteners or other materials inserted between jaws and the panel. Further, it may be necessary to manipulate, by trial-and-error, the plurality of fasteners for adjusting or securing a panel at a desirable orientation within the panel mount. Thus, existing panel mounts may not be suitable for making granular panel orientation adjustments.
- blueprints may specify plumb installation of panels atop a level adjoining structure.
- a panel installed plumb may be installed parallel to the force of gravity and may be installed substantially perpendicular to the adjoining structure.
- a panel installed plumb may transfer forces substantially downward providing maximum load bearing capacity.
- panel mounts pre-configured with a 90 degree joint may be used for installing panel mounts plumb atop adjoining structures. However, when the adjoining structures are not substantially level, panels secured using pre-configured panel mounts may not be installed plumb. It such cases, it may be desirable to adjust a panel orientation; however, if the panel mounts include pre-configured 90 degree joints, panel orientations may not be adjustable. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide panel mount devices to address challenges associated with existing panel mounts.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount 100 having a panel 170 installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application. An edge of the panel 170 may be received and secured between jaws of the panel mount 100 .
- the panel mount 100 includes a body 110 having a first jaw 112 and a second jaw 114 defining an elongate slot 190 open in a longitudinal direction 192 .
- the elongate slot 190 may open in an upward direction.
- the longitudinal direction 192 may be in a downward or sideways direction.
- the panel mount 100 may be installed from a building ceiling and the longitudinal direction may be a downward direction.
- the longitudinal direction may be in a direction perpendicular to the vertically oriented wall (e.g., sideways).
- the longitudinal direction 192 may correspond to a direction from an inner cavity of the panel mount to an area adjacent the opening of the elongate slot 190 .
- the panel mount 100 may include a base portion 142 for coupling the first jaw 112 and the second jaw 114 to form a U-shaped body.
- the base portion 142 may include a recessed portion 144 for receiving a fastener for securing the panel mount 100 to an adjoining structure 102 .
- the panel mount 100 may be secured to the adjoining structure 102 in any other way or may be secured to the adjoining structure 102 via the first jaw 112 or the second jaw 114 .
- the panel mount 100 may include a concave plate 118 having a first abutment surface 116 .
- the concave plate 118 may be positioned adjacent the first jaw 112 and may be removable. In some examples, the concave plate 118 may be adhered to the first jaw 112 . In some other examples, the first abutment surface 116 facing the elongate slot 190 may be integrated into the first jaw 112 . That is, the concave plate 118 may be integrated with the first jaw 112 .
- the first abutment surface 116 may face the elongate slot 190 and may be a substantially concave surface.
- the first abutment surface 116 may include two concave surface portions and a planar surface portion intermediate the two concave surface portions.
- the first abutment surface 116 may include a first concave surface portion 120 a having a first radius of curvature R 1 , a second concave surface portion 120 b having a second radius of curvature R 2 , and a planar surface portion 120 c intermediate the first concave surface portion 120 a and the second concave surface portion 120 b .
- the first abutment surface 116 may include the first concave surface portion 120 a , the second concave surface portion 120 b , and the planar surface portion 120 c .
- the first radius of curvature R 1 may be substantially the same as or may be different than the second radius of curvature R 2 .
- the panel mount 100 may include a clamp 130 positioned within the elongate slot 190 for receiving the panel 170 .
- the clamp 130 may include a first clamp plate 132 and a second clamp plate 136 .
- the second clamp plate 136 may be between the first clamp plate 132 and the second jaw 114 .
- a clamp base (not illustrated) may couple the first clamp plate 132 to the second clamp plate 136 .
- the clamp base may be a planar base for receiving a panel edge.
- the first clamp plate 132 may include a second abutment surface 134 .
- the second abutment surface 134 may be a convex surface configured to interface with the first abutment surface 116 . At least a portion of the second abutment surface 134 may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 116 .
- the second abutment surface 134 may be a convex surface complementary to and abutting the first abutment surface 116 .
- the angular orientation of the panel 170 may be altered such that the panel 170 may be secured and oriented in a position that may not be parallel to the first jaw 112 or the second jaw 114 .
- angular orientation adjustments may be made when at least a portion of the second abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 116 for securing the panel 170 plumb.
- the first abutment surface 116 includes a concave surface having concave surface portions and a planar surface portion.
- the second abutment surface 134 may be configured complementary to the first abutment surface 116 .
- the second abutment surface 134 may include two convex surface portions and a planar portion intermediate the two convex surface portions such that the second abutment surface 134 may be complementary to the first abutment surface 116 .
- abutment surfaces need not be complementary and may be configured such that the second abutment surface 134 may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 116 .
- abutment surfaces may not be complementary if radii of surface curvature do not correspond or if the general shape of respective abutment surfaces do not correspond.
- the second clamp plate 136 may be between the first clamp plate 132 and the second jaw 114 and may include a non-planar surface 138 having a plateau 140 a .
- the non-planar surface 138 may face the second jaw 114 .
- the non-planar surface 138 having the plateau 140 a may be a convex surface.
- the plateau 140 a may be a surface on the convex surface that may face the second jaw 114 and locations on the plateau 140 a may be nearest to the second jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the convex surface.
- the plateau may be a vertex, a point or a peak location of the non-planar surface such that the vertex, the point, or the peak location may be nearest to the second jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the non-planar surface of the second clamp plate 136 .
- the non-planar surface 138 having a plateau 140 a may be a concave surface facing the second jaw 114 , where the plateau 140 a may be furthest from the second jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the concave surface.
- An example where the non-planar surface 138 may be a concave surface will be described with reference to FIG. 8 .
- the non-planar surface 138 having a plateau 140 a may include a combination of two planar surfaces such that: (i) the plateau 140 a may be a vertex where two planar surfaces intersect; (ii) one planar surface is oriented at an obtuse angle from another planar surface; and (iii) the plateau 140 a may be nearest to the second jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the non-planar surface 138 .
- An example where the non-planar surface may be a combination of two planar surfaces will be described with reference to FIG. 10 .
- Other configurations for the non-planar surface 138 having a plateau or vertex may also be contemplated.
- the panel mount 100 may include a jamming device 150 between the non-planar surface 138 and the second jaw 114 .
- the jamming device 150 may include a pair of blocks and an adjustment member 156 for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks.
- the adjustment member 156 may be a threaded screw having threads along at least a portion of the adjustment member 156 .
- the threaded screw may include a socket formation at a first end 158 for rotating the adjustment member 156 using, for example, an Allen or hex key, a drill bit, or screw driver tip, or the like.
- the socket formation at the first end 158 may be accessible via an opening of the elongate slot and may be accessible from a single side of the panel mount 100 . It will be appreciated that access to the socket formation at the first end 158 may allow a panel mount user to manipulate the jamming device 150 for urging the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 .
- the pair of blocks may include a first block 152 and a second block 154 .
- the blocks may be wedge-shaped blocks.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an elevation view of the blocks, and the wedge-shaped blocks may have a side profile that is substantially trapezoidal in shape. When the wedge-shaped block is viewed from the side profile, the wedge-shaped block may include a first end with a narrower profile than a second end.
- the wedge-shaped blocks may have a side profile that is substantially triangular in shape.
- the blocks may have a side profile that is substantially rectangular in shape. Other shapes for the blocks may be contemplated.
- the blocks may be oriented such that a first end of one block having a narrower profile may be adjacent to a first end of the other block having a narrower profile.
- the blocks may be oriented to provide a concave-like surface facing the non-planar surface 138 .
- the adjustment member 156 may be rotated about a longitudinal axis such that the blocks may be advance along the adjustment member 156 and such that the blocks may be positioned to abut the non-planar surface 138 .
- the blocks may be wedged between the second clamp plate 136 and the second jaw 114 and may urge the clamp 130 against the first abutment surface 116 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates a side elevation view of a jamming device 250 , in accordance with an example of the present application.
- the jamming device 250 includes a pair of blocks, including a first block 252 and a second block 254 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the blocks and the blocks may have a side profile that is substantially trapezoidal in shape.
- the blocks may include a first wedge end 262 A with a narrower profile than a second wedge end 262 B.
- the blocks may be oriented such that a first wedge end 262 A of one block may be adjacent to a first wedge end of the other block.
- the blocks may be oriented to provide a concave-like surface facing the non-planar surface 138 ( FIG. 1 ) of the panel mount 100 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the jamming device 250 may include an adjustment member 256 configured to interface with the first block 252 and the second block 254 .
- the adjustment member 256 may be a threaded screw having threads along a portion of the adjustment member 256 and may include a socket formation at a first end 258 or a second end 260 for receiving, for example, a hex or Allen key, drill bit or screw driver tip or the like.
- Each of the first block 252 and the second block 254 may include a threaded through-hole oriented along a longitudinal direction.
- the longitudinal direction may be along a vertical axis of the blocks.
- the threaded through-hole may be configured to interface with the adjustment member 256 .
- One of the blocks may have threads opposite in direction to the other of the blocks such that, upon rotation of the adjustment member 256 about a longitudinal axis of the adjustment member 256 , each of the blocks may advance along the adjustment member 256 in a direction opposite the other of the blocks.
- the adjustment member 256 may be rotated such that the first block 252 may be advanced, in a longitudinal direction, closer or father away from the second block 254 .
- the adjustment member 256 may include a first threaded portion 264 having threads in a first direction complementary to threads of the threaded through-hole in the first block 252 .
- the adjustment member 256 may also include a second threaded portion 266 having threads in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.
- the second threaded portion 266 may have threads complementary to threads of the threaded through-hole in the second block 254 . Accordingly, rotation of the adjustment member 256 may alter a width between the first block 252 and the second block 254 or apparent surface area of the concave-like surface facing the non-planar surface 138 .
- FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate front elevation views of the jamming device of FIG. 2 .
- Relative distances between the first block 252 and the second block 254 are illustrated.
- the distance between first block 252 and the second block 254 may decrease and the apparent surface area of the concave-like surface facing the non-planar surface 138 ( FIG. 1 ) may decrease (compare, for example, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B ). That is, because the distance between the first block 252 and the second block 254 is decreased, the apparent surface area facing the non-planar surface 138 ( FIG. 1 ) of the concave-like surface may decrease.
- the jamming device 350 may abut the non-planar surface 138 and may gradually urge the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 ( FIG. 1 ).
- changes in distance between the first block 352 and the second block 354 may be associated with whether and to what degree the jamming device 150 ( FIG. 1 ) may urge the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 and the second jaw 114 .
- FIG. 1 To illustrate, reference is made again to FIG. 1 .
- the jamming device 150 may be positioned longitudinally within the elongate slot 190 and between the non-planar surface 138 and the second jaw 114 such that the blocks may be on substantially opposing sides of the plateau 140 a .
- the first block 152 may be adjacent a first non-planar surface portion 140 b and the second block 154 may be adjacent a second non-planar surface portion 140 c .
- the combination of block movements may cause exertion of force by the blocks to the non-planar surface 138 for urging the clamp 130 against the first abutment surface 116 .
- the panel 170 received within the clamp 130 , may be pinched or held within the clamp 130 at a current angular orientation.
- the angular orientation of the panel 170 may correspond to the angular orientation of the clamp 130 within the elongate slot 190 when the jamming device 150 urges the clamp 130 against the first abutment surface 116 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount of FIG. 1 where the panel 170 and the clamp 130 may be secured at a second angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application.
- the second angular orientation may be different than a first angular orientation of the panel 170 illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- the first angular orientation of the panel illustrated in FIG. 1 may be a panel orientation substantially parallel to the first jaw 112 or the second jaw 114 .
- the second angular orientation may be an angular orientation offset from the first angular orientation by an acute angle within the elongate slot.
- the jamming device 150 may include an adjustment member 156 ( FIG. 1 ) for adjusting a distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 .
- the jamming device 150 may be movable or re-positioned longitudinally and between the non-planar surface 138 and the second jaw 114 .
- the clamp 130 may not be urged against the first abutment surface 116 and the clamp 130 may also be movable or re-positioned within the elongate slot 190 .
- the angular orientation of the panel 170 may be adjusted.
- the angular orientation of the panel 170 may be altered when at least a portion of the second abutment surface 134 of the first clamp plate 132 slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 116 of the first jaw 112 such that the panel 170 may effectively tilt towards the first jaw 112 or the second jaw 114 .
- the panel 170 may be tilted towards the first jaw 112 as the second abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally “downward” towards a base of the body 110 .
- the adjoining structure may be an un-level surface and it may be desirable to alter the angular orientation of the panel 170 to achieve plumb installation of the panel 170 atop the adjoining structure.
- the second abutment surface 134 may be configured to slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 116 , adjustments to the panel 170 orientation may be made.
- a panel mount user may alter the panel orientation by manually tilting the panel 170 towards the first jaw 112 or the second jaw 114 .
- the jamming device 150 may be configured to urge the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 for securing the panel 170 and the clamp 130 at the desired angular orientation.
- the adjustment member 156 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of that adjustment member 156 such that one of the blocks may advance towards the other of the blocks (e.g., decreasing distance between the blocks). As the distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 decreases, the blocks may abut the non-planar surface 138 . The first block 152 and the second block 154 may abut the non-planar surface 138 on opposing sides of the plateau 140 a .
- the jamming device 150 in effect, fills in the gaps between the first jaw 112 and the second jaw 114 and secures the panel 170 at the desired angular orientation.
- FIG. 5 illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount of FIG. 1 where the panel 170 and the clamp 130 may be secured at a third angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application.
- the third angular orientation may be different that the first angular orientation (illustrated in FIG. 1 ) and may be different than the second angular orientation (illustrated in FIG. 4 ).
- the panel 170 may be tilted towards the second jaw 114 .
- the panel 170 may be tilted towards the second jaw 114 when the second abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally “upward” away from the base of the body 110 . It may be desirable to adjust the angular orientation of the panel 170 between the first jaw 112 and the second jaw 114 when plumb installation of the panel 170 to an un-level adjoining surface may be desirable. In some examples, it may be desirable to adjust the angular orientation of the panel 170 between the first jaw and the second jaw 114 to position the panel 170 at any other desired orientation relative to adjacent building structures.
- a panel mount user may alter the panel orientation by manually tilting the panel 170 towards the second jaw 114 .
- the jamming device 150 may urge the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 for securing the panel 170 and the clamp 130 at the desired angular orientation.
- the adjustment member 156 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of that adjustment member 156 such that one of the blocks may advance towards the other of the blocks. As the distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 decreases, the blocks may abut the non-planar surface 138 . Decreasing the distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 may cause the blocks to fill the gaps between the first jaw 112 and the second jaw 114 for securing the panel 170 at the desired angular orientation.
- the jamming device 150 may be movable or re-positioned longitudinally between the non-planar surface 138 and the second jaw 114 .
- the angular orientation of the clamp 130 in each of FIGS. 1, 4 , and 5 may be different, and orientation of the plateau 140 a within the elongate slot 190 and relative to the second jaw 114 may differ as the angular orientation of the clamp 130 changes.
- the jamming device 150 may be movable or re-positioned longitudinally between the non-planar surface 138 and the second jaw 114 (e.g., when the first block 152 and the second block 154 may be sufficiently separated by the adjustment member 156 ) and may conform to changes in angular orientation of the clamp 130 , the clamp 130 of the panel mount 100 may be configured as desired. As will be apparent, distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 may be associated with whether the jamming device 150 urges the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 .
- the panel mount user may configure and secure the panel 170 at the desired angular orientation within the panel mount 100 by rotating the adjustment member 156 for either (i) increasing the distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 ; or (ii) decreasing the distance between the first block 152 and the second block 154 .
- a panel mount user may only require access to a side of the panel mount 100 where the jamming device 150 is located. That is, rotation of the adjustment member 156 may increase or decrease distance between blocks of the jamming device 150 and enable the panel mount user to adjust or secure panel orientation. Because adjustments to the jamming device 150 may correspond to operations for adjusting panel orientation, example panel mounts described herein may be desirable because a panel mount user need not have access to both jaws of the panel mount. Needing access to only one jaw may be desirable where panels may be installed along a surface edge that may be accessible on one side and inaccessible on another side. For example, when a panel/panel mount is installed at an edge of a swimming pool or at an edge of a high-rise building roof, it may be impractical for the panel mount user to access both sides of the panel mount.
- access to the adjustment member 156 may be from a “top” opening of the elongate slot 190 of the panel mount 100 .
- an aperture may be provided in the panel mount body 110 for accessing a second end 260 ( FIG. 2 ) of the adjustment member 156 for rotating the adjustment member 156 .
- the second clamp plate 136 may include a non-planar surface 138 that may be a convex or a concave surface.
- a convex surface may be a curved surface having a contour similar to an exterior of a circle or sphere facing the second jaw.
- the convex surface may be a series of planar surface portions that are joined to collectively extend outward (see e.g., non-planar surface 138 of FIG. 1 ).
- a concave surface may be a curved surface that curves inwards and having a contour similar to an interior of a circle or sphere facing the second jaw.
- the concave surface may be a series of planar surface portions that are joined to collectively extend inwards.
- the clamp 130 ( FIG. 1 ) may be secured in a desired orientation when the jamming device 150 is adjusted to abut the non-planar surface 138 , whether the non-planar surface 138 is a concave or convex surface, for urging the clamp 130 against the first jaw 112 .
- FIG. 6 is a front view of a clamp 630 , in accordance with an example of the present application.
- the clamp 630 may be positioned within an elongate slot 190 of the panel mount 100 of FIG. 1 .
- the clamp 630 may include a first clamp plate 632 and a second clamp plate 636 .
- the first clamp plate 632 may have a second abutment surface 634 adapted to abut the first abutment surface 116 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the second abutment surface 634 may be a convex surface.
- the second clamp plate 636 may include a non-planar surface 638 having a plateau or vertex.
- the non-planar surface 638 may face the second jaw 114 .
- the illustrated non-planar surface 638 may be similar to the convex-shaped non-planar surface 138 having the plateau 140 a of FIG. 1 .
- the clamp 630 may include a liner 680 .
- the liner 680 may include a first gripping surface 682 for affixing to a first attachment surface 662 of the first clamp plate 632 .
- the liner 680 may also include a second gripping surface 684 for affixing to a second attachment surface 664 of the second clamp plate 636 .
- the liner 680 may also include a liner base 642 coupling the first gripping surface 682 and the second gripping surface 684 to form a U-shaped liner.
- the liner base 642 may be constructed of pliable or flexible material such that the U-shaped liner is expandable or contractible for receiving variable thickness panels.
- the liner base 642 may be a corrugated base 686 coupling the first gripping surface 682 and the second gripping surface 684 .
- the corrugated base 686 may be constructed of pliable or flexible material and the corrugated base 686 may be compressed or stretched like accordion-like structure such that the corrugated base may be expandable or contractible for receiving panels of variable thickness. Further, the corrugated base may insulate or separate an edge of the panel from a base of the panel mount body 110 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the clamp 630 of FIG. 6 may be received within the elongate slot 190 of the panel mount 100 of FIG. 1 .
- the clamp 630 of FIG. 6 may be received within a panel mount body having a recessed slot sized for receiving the corrugated base 686 .
- a panel mount body 710 may include a first jaw 712 and a second jaw 714 defining an elongate slot 790 .
- the first jaw 712 may include a first abutment surface 716 facing the elongate slot 790 .
- the first abutment surface 716 may be integral to the first jaw 712 , in contrast to the first abutment surface 116 of FIG. 1 being separate from the first jaw 112 of FIG. 1 .
- the panel mount base 710 may include a base portion 794 for coupling the first jaw 712 and the second jaw 714 .
- the base portion 794 may include at least one aperture (not illustrated in FIG. 7 ) for receiving a fastener to secure the panel mount base 710 to an adjoining structure.
- the angular orientation of the clamp 630 may be altered when the second abutment surface 634 ( FIG. 6 ) slides longitudinally relative to a first abutment surface 716 .
- the first abutment surface is substantially concave and the second abutment surface is substantially convex and may have a plateau or vertex shaped profile.
- first abutment surface and second abutment surface shapes may be contemplated.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount 800 having a panel 870 installed therein, in accordance with another example of the present application.
- the panel mount 800 includes a body 810 including a first jaw 812 and a second jaw 814 defining an elongate slot open in a longitudinal direction.
- the first jaw 812 may include a first abutment surface 816 having a convex-shaped surface facing the elongate slot. Contrasting to the panel mount 100 of FIG. 1 , the panel mount 800 of FIG. 8 may not include a movable plate abutting the first jaw 812 .
- the panel mount 800 may include a clamp 830 positioned within the elongate slot for receiving the panel 870 .
- the clamp 830 may include a first clamp plate 832 and a second clamp plate 836 .
- the first clamp plate 832 may include a second abutment surface 834 and may be a substantially concave-shaped surface configured to interface and abut the first abutment surface 816 .
- the second abutment surface 834 may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 816 . When the second abutment surface 834 slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 816 , an angular orientation of the clamp 830 within the elongate slot 890 may be altered. Similar to the panel mount 100 of FIG.
- the angular orientation of the clamp 830 may be altered such that a panel may be secured in a position that may not be parallel to the first jaw 812 or the second jaw 814 .
- Such angular orientation adjustments may be desirable for installing the panel 870 plumb or in any other orientation atop an un-level adjoining structure.
- the second clamp plate 836 may be between the first clamp plate 832 and the second jaw 814 and may include a non-planar surface 838 having a plateau 840 .
- the non-planar surface 838 may be a concave surface facing the second jaw 814 .
- the plateau 840 may be a point or a surface portion on the concave surface that may face the second jaw 814 and may be furthest from the second jaw 814 as compared to any other point on the convex surface facing the second jaw 814 .
- the panel mount 800 may include a jamming device 850 between the non-planar surface 838 and the second jaw 814 .
- the jamming device 850 may include a pair of blocks and an adjustment member 856 for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks.
- the jamming device 850 may include rectangular blocks that may, when distanced from one another, urge the clamp 830 against the first jaw 812 .
- the distance between the blocks may increase when the adjustment member 856 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the adjustment member 856 .
- the adjustment member 856 increases the distance between the blocks, the blocks abut the non-planar surface 838 and urge the clamp 830 against the first jaw 812 .
- Example panel mounts described herein may be desirable because a panel mount user need not adjust multiple fasteners or adjustment members for urging the clamp 830 against the first jaw 812 .
- a panel mount user may rotate an adjustment member using, for example, a hex or Allen key, a drill bit, or a screw driver or the like in one hand for configuring the jamming device 850 to be movable or re-positioned longitudinally, while positioning the panel 870 at a desired panel orientation using another hand.
- the first abutment surface may be generally complementary to the abutting second abutment surface of the first clamp plate.
- the second abutment surface may be a substantially convex surface.
- the first abutment surface is a substantially convex surface (see e.g., FIG. 8 )
- the second abutment surface may be a substantially concave surface.
- the first abutment surface may not be complementary in shape to the second abutment surface.
- FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C illustrate partial elevation views of panel mounts, in accordance with exampless of the present application.
- FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C generally illustrate a first jaw of a panel mount body and a first clamp plate of a clamp, in accordance with examples of the present application.
- numerous features of the panel mount examples are omitted and only the first jaw and the first clamp plate are shown for illustrating an abutment interface between the first jaw and the first clamp plate.
- the first jaw 912 A may include a recessed slot 988 facing an elongate slot and a first abutment surface 916 A may include a surface contour of the recessed slot 988 .
- the recessed slot 988 may include a rectangular profile with an open end facing the elongate slot.
- the first clamp plate 932 A may include a second abutment surface 934 A, and the second abutment surface 934 A may be a convex-shaped surface. Accordingly, when the second abutment surface 934 A abuts the recessed slot 988 , as illustrated in FIG. 9A , the second abutment surface 934 A may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916 A at points of abutment between the first abutment surface 916 A and the second abutment surface 934 A. When the second abutment surface 934 A slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916 A, an angular orientation of a clamp associated with the first clamp plate 932 A may be altered.
- the first jaw 912 B may include a concave surface facing an elongate slot and a first abutment surface 916 B may include a surface contour being substantially concave in shape.
- the first clamp plate 932 B may be a rectangular block and may include a second abutment surface 934 B that may be rectangular-shaped. Accordingly, when the second abutment surface 934 B abuts the first abutment surface 916 B, as illustrated in FIG.
- the second abutment surface 934 B may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916 A at points of abutment between the first abutment surface 916 B and the second abutment surface 934 B, such that an angular orientation of a clamp associated with the first clamp plate 932 B may be altered.
- the first jaw 912 C may have a rectangular block shape and may include a first abutment surface 916 C having a rectangular-shaped surface.
- the first clamp plate 932 C may be a pyramid-like block having a second abutment surface 934 C having a triangular-shaped profile. Accordingly, when the second abutment surface 934 C abuts the first abutment surface 916 C, as illustrated in FIG. 9C , the second abutment surface 934 C may pivot or may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916 C at a point or points of abutment, such that an angular orientation of a clamp associated with the first clamp plate 932 C may be altered.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a second clamp plate 1036 and a jamming device 1050 of a panel mount, in accordance with another example of the present application.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a second clamp plate 1036 and a jamming device 1050 of a panel mount, in accordance with another example of the present application.
- numerous features of the panel mount are omitted and only the second clamp plate 1036 and the jamming device 1050 are illustrated.
- the second clamp plate 1036 may include a jamming surface 1038 that may include a combination of two planar surfaces. That is, the jamming surface 1038 may include two planar surface portions intersecting at a vertex 1040 a , where a first planar surface portion 1040 b intersects a second planar surface portion 1040 c at the vertex 1040 a .
- the first planar surface portion 1040 b may be oriented at an obtuse angle about the vertex 1040 a from the second planar surface portion 1040 c .
- the vertex 1040 a may be nearest to a second jaw (not illustrated in FIG. 10 ) as compared to any other point on the jamming surface 1038 .
- Other configurations of the jamming surface 1038 may be contemplated.
- the jamming surface 1038 may be a convex-shaped surface for interfacing with the jamming device 1050 .
- the jamming device 1050 may include a first block 1052 and a second block 1054 .
- the first block 1052 and the second block 1054 may have a side profile that is convex-shaped. That is, when the first block 1052 and the second block 1054 is viewed from the side profile, the surface facing the jamming surface 1038 may be a generally convex surface. It will be appreciated that other side profile shapes may be contemplated.
- the jamming device 1050 includes an adjustment member 1056 .
- Each of the blocks includes a through-hole such that the adjustment member 1056 is positioned through respective through-holes.
- the adjustment member 1056 may be a threaded screw including threads 1064 along at least a portion of the adjustment member 1056 .
- the first block 1052 may be configured to be stationary at a first block position along the adjustment member 1056 .
- the second block 1054 may include a threaded through-hole along a longitudinal axis of the second block 1054 , and the threaded through-hole may be complementary to the threads 1064 along at least a portion of the adjustment member 1056 such that the second block 1054 may advance along the adjustment member 1056 when the adjustment member 1056 is rotated about a longitudinal axis.
- the jamming device may also include a biasing member 1098 .
- the biasing member 1098 may be a spring positioned between the first block 1052 and the second block 1054 such that the biasing member 1098 biases each of the blocks in a direction opposite the other of the blocks. Accordingly, when the adjustment member 1056 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of the adjustment member 1056 , the second block 1054 may advance along the adjustment member 1056 nearer to or further away from the first block 1052 . In the example illustrated in FIG.
- the jamming device 1050 may abut the jamming surface 1038 and urge the clamp, associated with the second clamp plate 1036 , against the first jaw for securing a panel at a desired angular orientation.
- adjustment members of the jamming device described herein may be threaded screws.
- adjustment members of the jamming device may be a device for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks.
- the adjustment member may be an elongate rod and a pair of blocks may be configured on the elongate rod such that the rod may be manipulated to increase or decrease a distance between the blocks.
- Other devices for the adjustment member may be contemplated.
- FIG. 11 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount 1100 having a panel 1170 installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application.
- the panel mount 1100 includes a panel mount body 1110 having a first jaw 1112 and a second jaw 1114 .
- the panel mount 1100 may also include a clamp 1130 and a jamming device 1150 .
- the clamp 1130 and the jamming device 1150 may be similar to the clamp 130 and the jamming device 150 of FIG. 1 .
- the panel mount may be mounted to an adjoining structure 1102 via one of the first jaw 1112 or the second jaw 1114 .
- the panel mount 1100 may be mounted to the adjoining structure 1102 by the second jaw 1114 .
- the second jaw 1114 may include a first through-hole 1104 A and a second through-hole 1104 B for receiving fasteners for securing the panel mount 1100 to the adjoining structure 1102 .
- the panel mount 110 may also include an aperture 1146 in the panel mount body 1110 such that a panel mount user may access an adjustment member 1156 of the jamming device 1150 such that the adjustment member 1156 may be rotated about a longitudinal axis.
- Example panel mounts described herein may be desirable because example jamming devices may be positioned within and may not extend outside the elongate slot of the panel mounts. Accordingly, an adjustment member of the jamming devices may be hidden from view within the elongate slot. Access to the adjustment member may require access to (1) a volume of space adjacent the secured panel; and (2) adjacent the opening of the elongate slot or an aperture in a bottom portion of the panel mount body; however, access to the adjustment member need not require access to a volume of space adjacent either jaw or side of the panel mount.
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Abstract
A panel mount securing a panel to an adjoining structure. The panel mount includes a first and a second jaw defining an elongate slot. The first jaw includes a first abutment surface facing the elongate slot. The panel mount includes a clamp having a first and a second clamp plate within the elongate slot. The first clamp plate includes a second abutment surface abutting the first abutment surface. A clamp orientation may be altered when the second abutment surface slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface. The second clamp plate includes a non-planar surface having a plateau facing the second jaw. A jamming device between the non-planar surface and the second jaw includes a pair of blocks and an adjustment member for adjusting a distance between the blocks. The jamming device urges the clamp against the first jaw upon increasing or decreasing the distance between the pair of blocks.
Description
- The present application generally relates to panel mounts and, in particular, panel mounts for securing a panel to an adjoining structure.
- Panels may be secured to adjoining structures using panel mounts having a pair of jaws. A panel may be positioned at a desirable panel orientation, and two or more fasteners may be introduced between a panel surface and a respective jaw of a panel mount for securing the panel between the pair of jaws. For example, the panel may be secured perpendicular to an un-level pool deck surface along an edge of the swimming pool using the panel mount. To achieve a plumb or other desired panel orientation, a panel mount user may manipulate the two or more fasteners whilst orienting the target panel.
- Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show example embodiments of the present application, and in which:
-
FIG. 1 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount having a panel installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIG. 2 illustrates an side elevation view of a jamming device, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate front elevation views of the jamming device ofFIG. 2 , in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIG. 4 illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount ofFIG. 1 , where the panel and the clamp may be secured at a second angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIG. 5 illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount ofFIG. 1 , where the panel and the clamp may be secured at a third angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a clamp, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIG. 7 illustrates a panel mount base, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIG. 8 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount having a panel installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application; -
FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C illustrate partial views of panel mount bodies illustrating respective first jaw and first clamp plate, in accordance with examples of the present application; -
FIG. 10 illustrates a side elevation view of a second clamp plate and a jamming device, in accordance with an example of the present application; and -
FIG. 11 illustrates an elevation view of a panel mount mounted to an adjoining structure via a jaw of the panel mount body, in accordance with an example of the present application. - Similar reference numerals may have been used in different figures to denote similar components.
- Various examples and aspects of the present application will be described with reference to the details discussed herein. The following description and drawings are illustrative of the present application and are not to be construed as limiting the present application. Numerous details are described to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to provide a concise discussion of the embodiments of the present application.
- The present application describes panel mounts for panels, such as glass panels, wood panels, plastic panels, or concrete panels. Panel mounts may be configured for securing a panel to an adjoining structure. Some example panel mounts may facilitate panel orientation adjustments without requiring access to both sides of the panel or panel mount.
- In one aspect, the present application describes a panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure. The panel mount includes a body including a first jaw and a second jaw defining an elongate slot open in a longitudinal direction, the first jaw including a first abutment surface facing the elongate slot; a clamp positioned within the elongate slot for receiving the panel, the clamp including: a first clamp plate having a second abutment surface abutting the first abutment surface, an angular orientation of the clamp within the elongate slot being altered when the second abutment surface slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface; and a second clamp plate between the first clamp plate and the second jaw, the second clamp plate including a non-planar surface having a plateau and facing the second jaw; and a jamming device between the non-planar surface and the second jaw, the jamming device including a pair of blocks and an adjustment member for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks, wherein the jamming device urges the clamp against the first jaw upon increasing or decreasing the distance between the pair of blocks.
- Other aspects and features of the present application will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from a review of the following description of examples in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
- In the present application, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” are intended to be inclusive and open ended, and not exclusive. Specifically, when used in the specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” and variations thereof mean the specified features, steps, or components are included. These terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps, or components.
- In the present application, the term “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration”, and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other configurations disclosed herein.
- In the present application, the terms “about”, “approximately”, and “substantially” are meant to cover variations that may exist in the upper and lower limits of the ranges of values, such as variations in properties, parameters, and dimensions. In a non-limiting example, the terms “about”, “approximately”, and “substantially” may mean plus or minus 10 percent or less.
- In the present application, the term “and/or” is intended to cover all possible combinations and sub-combinations of the listed elements, including any one of the listed elements alone, any sub-combination, or all of the elements, and without necessarily excluding additional elements.
- In the present application, the phrase “at least one of . . . or . . . ” is intended to cover any one or more of the listed elements, including any one of the listed elements alone, any sub-combination, or all of the elements, without necessarily excluding any additional elements, and without necessarily requiring all of the elements.
- Architectural or building drawings may include plans for installing panels, such as glass panels, wood panels, plastic panels, or concrete panels, atop adjoining structures. A panel mount having a pair of jaws may secure a panel atop an adjoining structure. To secure and maintain a plumb or other desired panel orientation atop the adjoining structure, two or more fasteners may be introduced between a surface of the panel and a respective jaw of the panel mount. When the adjoining structure is un-level, manipulation of multiple panel mount fasteners whilst orienting the panel for altering the panel orientation may be required. That is, a collaborative effort of two or more persons may be required for manipulating the multiple panel mount fasteners whilst orienting the panel. Thus, adjustable panel mounts facilitating less onerous adjustment steps may be desired.
- Because fasteners may be required on both sides of the panel or because two or more fasteners may be required on each side of the panel, any adjustments to panel orientations may require simultaneous manipulation of the fasteners and manipulation of the panel for achieving the desired panel orientation. It may also be cumbersome to remove fasteners or other materials inserted between jaws and the panel. Further, it may be necessary to manipulate, by trial-and-error, the plurality of fasteners for adjusting or securing a panel at a desirable orientation within the panel mount. Thus, existing panel mounts may not be suitable for making granular panel orientation adjustments.
- In another example, blueprints may specify plumb installation of panels atop a level adjoining structure. A panel installed plumb may be installed parallel to the force of gravity and may be installed substantially perpendicular to the adjoining structure. A panel installed plumb may transfer forces substantially downward providing maximum load bearing capacity. In some examples, panel mounts pre-configured with a 90 degree joint may be used for installing panel mounts plumb atop adjoining structures. However, when the adjoining structures are not substantially level, panels secured using pre-configured panel mounts may not be installed plumb. It such cases, it may be desirable to adjust a panel orientation; however, if the panel mounts include pre-configured 90 degree joints, panel orientations may not be adjustable. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide panel mount devices to address challenges associated with existing panel mounts.
- Reference is made to
FIG. 1 , which illustrates an elevation view of apanel mount 100 having apanel 170 installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application. An edge of thepanel 170 may be received and secured between jaws of thepanel mount 100. - The
panel mount 100 includes abody 110 having afirst jaw 112 and asecond jaw 114 defining anelongate slot 190 open in alongitudinal direction 192. For ease of exposition, inFIG. 1 , theelongate slot 190 may open in an upward direction. Depending on an orientation of the adjoining structure, in some examples, thelongitudinal direction 192 may be in a downward or sideways direction. For example, thepanel mount 100 may be installed from a building ceiling and the longitudinal direction may be a downward direction. When thepanel mount 100 is installed on a vertically oriented wall, the longitudinal direction may be in a direction perpendicular to the vertically oriented wall (e.g., sideways). It will be appreciated that thelongitudinal direction 192 may correspond to a direction from an inner cavity of the panel mount to an area adjacent the opening of theelongate slot 190. - The
panel mount 100 may include abase portion 142 for coupling thefirst jaw 112 and thesecond jaw 114 to form a U-shaped body. In some examples, thebase portion 142 may include a recessedportion 144 for receiving a fastener for securing thepanel mount 100 to an adjoiningstructure 102. As will be apparent from other examples described herein, thepanel mount 100 may be secured to the adjoiningstructure 102 in any other way or may be secured to the adjoiningstructure 102 via thefirst jaw 112 or thesecond jaw 114. - The
panel mount 100 may include aconcave plate 118 having afirst abutment surface 116. Theconcave plate 118 may be positioned adjacent thefirst jaw 112 and may be removable. In some examples, theconcave plate 118 may be adhered to thefirst jaw 112. In some other examples, thefirst abutment surface 116 facing theelongate slot 190 may be integrated into thefirst jaw 112. That is, theconcave plate 118 may be integrated with thefirst jaw 112. - The
first abutment surface 116 may face theelongate slot 190 and may be a substantially concave surface. In some examples, thefirst abutment surface 116 may include two concave surface portions and a planar surface portion intermediate the two concave surface portions. As illustrated inFIG. 1 , thefirst abutment surface 116 may include a first concave surface portion 120 a having a first radius of curvature R1, a second concave surface portion 120 b having a second radius of curvature R2, and a planar surface portion 120 c intermediate the first concave surface portion 120 a and the second concave surface portion 120 b. That is, thefirst abutment surface 116 may include the first concave surface portion 120 a, the second concave surface portion 120 b, and the planar surface portion 120 c. The first radius of curvature R1 may be substantially the same as or may be different than the second radius of curvature R2. - The
panel mount 100 may include aclamp 130 positioned within theelongate slot 190 for receiving thepanel 170. Theclamp 130 may include afirst clamp plate 132 and asecond clamp plate 136. Thesecond clamp plate 136 may be between thefirst clamp plate 132 and thesecond jaw 114. In some examples, a clamp base (not illustrated) may couple thefirst clamp plate 132 to thesecond clamp plate 136. In some examples, the clamp base may be a planar base for receiving a panel edge. - The
first clamp plate 132 may include asecond abutment surface 134. In some examples, thesecond abutment surface 134 may be a convex surface configured to interface with thefirst abutment surface 116. At least a portion of thesecond abutment surface 134 may slide longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 116. For example, thesecond abutment surface 134 may be a convex surface complementary to and abutting thefirst abutment surface 116. When at least a portion of thesecond abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 116, an angular orientation of theclamp 130 within the elongate slot may be altered. As will be illustrated herein, the angular orientation of the panel 170 (and the angular orientation of the clamp 130) may be altered such that thepanel 170 may be secured and oriented in a position that may not be parallel to thefirst jaw 112 or thesecond jaw 114. When it is desirable to secure thepanel 170 plumb to an un-level adjoining structure, angular orientation adjustments may be made when at least a portion of thesecond abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 116 for securing thepanel 170 plumb. - In
FIG. 1 , thefirst abutment surface 116 includes a concave surface having concave surface portions and a planar surface portion. Thesecond abutment surface 134 may be configured complementary to thefirst abutment surface 116. For example, thesecond abutment surface 134 may include two convex surface portions and a planar portion intermediate the two convex surface portions such that thesecond abutment surface 134 may be complementary to thefirst abutment surface 116. Although the illustratedfirst abutment surface 116 and thesecond abutment surface 134 inFIG. 1 may be complementary, in some examples, the abutment surfaces need not be complementary and may be configured such that thesecond abutment surface 134 may slide longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 116. As will be illustrated in examples herein, abutment surfaces may not be complementary if radii of surface curvature do not correspond or if the general shape of respective abutment surfaces do not correspond. - The
second clamp plate 136 may be between thefirst clamp plate 132 and thesecond jaw 114 and may include anon-planar surface 138 having a plateau 140 a. Thenon-planar surface 138 may face thesecond jaw 114. InFIG. 1 , thenon-planar surface 138 having the plateau 140 a may be a convex surface. The plateau 140 a may be a surface on the convex surface that may face thesecond jaw 114 and locations on the plateau 140 a may be nearest to thesecond jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the convex surface. In some examples, the plateau may be a vertex, a point or a peak location of the non-planar surface such that the vertex, the point, or the peak location may be nearest to thesecond jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the non-planar surface of thesecond clamp plate 136. - In some other examples, the
non-planar surface 138 having a plateau 140 a may be a concave surface facing thesecond jaw 114, where the plateau 140 a may be furthest from thesecond jaw 114 as compared to any other point on the concave surface. An example where thenon-planar surface 138 may be a concave surface will be described with reference toFIG. 8 . - Other configurations of the
non-planar surface 138 may be contemplated. For example, thenon-planar surface 138 having a plateau 140 a may include a combination of two planar surfaces such that: (i) the plateau 140 a may be a vertex where two planar surfaces intersect; (ii) one planar surface is oriented at an obtuse angle from another planar surface; and (iii) the plateau 140 a may be nearest to thesecond jaw 114 as compared to any other point on thenon-planar surface 138. An example where the non-planar surface may be a combination of two planar surfaces will be described with reference toFIG. 10 . Other configurations for thenon-planar surface 138 having a plateau or vertex may also be contemplated. - The
panel mount 100 may include ajamming device 150 between thenon-planar surface 138 and thesecond jaw 114. Thejamming device 150 may include a pair of blocks and anadjustment member 156 for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks. In some examples, theadjustment member 156 may be a threaded screw having threads along at least a portion of theadjustment member 156. The threaded screw may include a socket formation at afirst end 158 for rotating theadjustment member 156 using, for example, an Allen or hex key, a drill bit, or screw driver tip, or the like. InFIG. 1 , the socket formation at thefirst end 158 may be accessible via an opening of the elongate slot and may be accessible from a single side of thepanel mount 100. It will be appreciated that access to the socket formation at thefirst end 158 may allow a panel mount user to manipulate thejamming device 150 for urging theclamp 130 against thefirst jaw 112. - The pair of blocks may include a
first block 152 and asecond block 154. In some examples, the blocks may be wedge-shaped blocks.FIG. 1 illustrates an elevation view of the blocks, and the wedge-shaped blocks may have a side profile that is substantially trapezoidal in shape. When the wedge-shaped block is viewed from the side profile, the wedge-shaped block may include a first end with a narrower profile than a second end. In some other examples, the wedge-shaped blocks may have a side profile that is substantially triangular in shape. In some other examples, the blocks may have a side profile that is substantially rectangular in shape. Other shapes for the blocks may be contemplated. - In
FIG. 1 , the blocks may be oriented such that a first end of one block having a narrower profile may be adjacent to a first end of the other block having a narrower profile. Thus, the blocks may be oriented to provide a concave-like surface facing thenon-planar surface 138. Theadjustment member 156 may be rotated about a longitudinal axis such that the blocks may be advance along theadjustment member 156 and such that the blocks may be positioned to abut thenon-planar surface 138. When the blocks abut thenon-planar surface 138, the blocks may be wedged between thesecond clamp plate 136 and thesecond jaw 114 and may urge theclamp 130 against thefirst abutment surface 116. - To illustrate features of the
jamming device 150, reference is now made toFIG. 2 , which illustrates a side elevation view of ajamming device 250, in accordance with an example of the present application. Thejamming device 250 includes a pair of blocks, including afirst block 252 and asecond block 254.FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the blocks and the blocks may have a side profile that is substantially trapezoidal in shape. From the side view, the blocks may include afirst wedge end 262A with a narrower profile than asecond wedge end 262B. InFIG. 2 , the blocks may be oriented such that afirst wedge end 262A of one block may be adjacent to a first wedge end of the other block. Thus, the blocks may be oriented to provide a concave-like surface facing the non-planar surface 138 (FIG. 1 ) of the panel mount 100 (FIG. 1 ). - The
jamming device 250 may include anadjustment member 256 configured to interface with thefirst block 252 and thesecond block 254. Theadjustment member 256 may be a threaded screw having threads along a portion of theadjustment member 256 and may include a socket formation at afirst end 258 or asecond end 260 for receiving, for example, a hex or Allen key, drill bit or screw driver tip or the like. - Each of the
first block 252 and thesecond block 254 may include a threaded through-hole oriented along a longitudinal direction. For ease of exposition, inFIG. 2 , the longitudinal direction may be along a vertical axis of the blocks. The threaded through-hole may be configured to interface with theadjustment member 256. One of the blocks may have threads opposite in direction to the other of the blocks such that, upon rotation of theadjustment member 256 about a longitudinal axis of theadjustment member 256, each of the blocks may advance along theadjustment member 256 in a direction opposite the other of the blocks. For example, theadjustment member 256 may be rotated such that thefirst block 252 may be advanced, in a longitudinal direction, closer or father away from thesecond block 254. - In some examples, the
adjustment member 256 may include a first threadedportion 264 having threads in a first direction complementary to threads of the threaded through-hole in thefirst block 252. Theadjustment member 256 may also include a second threadedportion 266 having threads in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction. The second threadedportion 266 may have threads complementary to threads of the threaded through-hole in thesecond block 254. Accordingly, rotation of theadjustment member 256 may alter a width between thefirst block 252 and thesecond block 254 or apparent surface area of the concave-like surface facing thenon-planar surface 138. - To illustrate, reference is now made to
FIGS. 3A and 3B , which illustrate front elevation views of the jamming device ofFIG. 2 . Relative distances between thefirst block 252 and thesecond block 254 are illustrated. When theadjustment member 256 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of theadjustment member 256, the distance betweenfirst block 252 and thesecond block 254 may decrease and the apparent surface area of the concave-like surface facing the non-planar surface 138 (FIG. 1 ) may decrease (compare, for example,FIG. 3A andFIG. 3B ). That is, because the distance between thefirst block 252 and thesecond block 254 is decreased, the apparent surface area facing the non-planar surface 138 (FIG. 1 ) of the concave-like surface may decrease. When the distance between the blocks decreases, the jamming device 350 may abut thenon-planar surface 138 and may gradually urge theclamp 130 against the first jaw 112 (FIG. 1 ). - Based on the foregoing description, in some examples, changes in distance between the first block 352 and the second block 354 may be associated with whether and to what degree the jamming device 150 (
FIG. 1 ) may urge theclamp 130 against thefirst jaw 112 and thesecond jaw 114. To illustrate, reference is made again toFIG. 1 . - In
FIG. 1 , thejamming device 150 may be positioned longitudinally within theelongate slot 190 and between thenon-planar surface 138 and thesecond jaw 114 such that the blocks may be on substantially opposing sides of the plateau 140 a. As illustrated inFIG. 1 , thefirst block 152 may be adjacent a first non-planar surface portion 140 b and thesecond block 154 may be adjacent a second non-planar surface portion 140 c. When theadjustment member 156 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of theadjustment member 156 for decreasing the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154, the combination of block movements may cause exertion of force by the blocks to thenon-planar surface 138 for urging theclamp 130 against thefirst abutment surface 116. When theclamp 130 is urged against thefirst abutment surface 116, thepanel 170, received within theclamp 130, may be pinched or held within theclamp 130 at a current angular orientation. The angular orientation of thepanel 170 may correspond to the angular orientation of theclamp 130 within theelongate slot 190 when thejamming device 150 urges theclamp 130 against thefirst abutment surface 116. - To illustrate an example of a panel angular orientation that may not be parallel to the
first jaw 112 or thesecond jaw 114, reference is now made toFIG. 4 , which illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount ofFIG. 1 where thepanel 170 and theclamp 130 may be secured at a second angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application. The second angular orientation may be different than a first angular orientation of thepanel 170 illustrated inFIG. 1 . For example, the first angular orientation of the panel illustrated inFIG. 1 may be a panel orientation substantially parallel to thefirst jaw 112 or thesecond jaw 114. The second angular orientation may be an angular orientation offset from the first angular orientation by an acute angle within the elongate slot. - As described, the
jamming device 150 may include an adjustment member 156 (FIG. 1 ) for adjusting a distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154. When theadjustment member 156 separates thefirst block 152 from thesecond block 154, thejamming device 150 may be movable or re-positioned longitudinally and between thenon-planar surface 138 and thesecond jaw 114. As may be appreciated, when thejamming device 150 is movable within theelongate slot 190, theclamp 130 may not be urged against thefirst abutment surface 116 and theclamp 130 may also be movable or re-positioned within theelongate slot 190. Thus, the angular orientation of thepanel 170 may be adjusted. For example, the angular orientation of thepanel 170 may be altered when at least a portion of thesecond abutment surface 134 of thefirst clamp plate 132 slides longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 116 of thefirst jaw 112 such that thepanel 170 may effectively tilt towards thefirst jaw 112 or thesecond jaw 114. - In
FIG. 4 , thepanel 170 may be tilted towards thefirst jaw 112 as thesecond abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally “downward” towards a base of thebody 110. In some examples, the adjoining structure may be an un-level surface and it may be desirable to alter the angular orientation of thepanel 170 to achieve plumb installation of thepanel 170 atop the adjoining structure. Because thesecond abutment surface 134 may be configured to slide longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 116, adjustments to thepanel 170 orientation may be made. A panel mount user may alter the panel orientation by manually tilting thepanel 170 towards thefirst jaw 112 or thesecond jaw 114. Upon achieving the desired angular orientation for thepanel 170, thejamming device 150 may be configured to urge theclamp 130 against thefirst jaw 112 for securing thepanel 170 and theclamp 130 at the desired angular orientation. - To configure the
jamming device 150 for urging theclamp 130 against the first jaw, theadjustment member 156 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of thatadjustment member 156 such that one of the blocks may advance towards the other of the blocks (e.g., decreasing distance between the blocks). As the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154 decreases, the blocks may abut thenon-planar surface 138. Thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154 may abut thenon-planar surface 138 on opposing sides of the plateau 140 a. In the present example, by decreasing the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154, thejamming device 150, in effect, fills in the gaps between thefirst jaw 112 and thesecond jaw 114 and secures thepanel 170 at the desired angular orientation. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 5 , which illustrates an elevation view of the panel mount ofFIG. 1 where thepanel 170 and theclamp 130 may be secured at a third angular orientation, in accordance with an example of the present application. The third angular orientation may be different that the first angular orientation (illustrated inFIG. 1 ) and may be different than the second angular orientation (illustrated inFIG. 4 ). - In the third angular orientation, the
panel 170 may be tilted towards thesecond jaw 114. As illustrated inFIG. 5 , thepanel 170 may be tilted towards thesecond jaw 114 when thesecond abutment surface 134 slides longitudinally “upward” away from the base of thebody 110. It may be desirable to adjust the angular orientation of thepanel 170 between thefirst jaw 112 and thesecond jaw 114 when plumb installation of thepanel 170 to an un-level adjoining surface may be desirable. In some examples, it may be desirable to adjust the angular orientation of thepanel 170 between the first jaw and thesecond jaw 114 to position thepanel 170 at any other desired orientation relative to adjacent building structures. - Similar to the example described with reference to
FIG. 4 , a panel mount user may alter the panel orientation by manually tilting thepanel 170 towards thesecond jaw 114. Upon achieving the desired angular orientation for the panel within theelongate slot 190, thejamming device 150 may urge theclamp 130 against thefirst jaw 112 for securing thepanel 170 and theclamp 130 at the desired angular orientation. - Similar to the example described with reference to
FIG. 4 , theadjustment member 156 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of thatadjustment member 156 such that one of the blocks may advance towards the other of the blocks. As the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154 decreases, the blocks may abut thenon-planar surface 138. Decreasing the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154 may cause the blocks to fill the gaps between thefirst jaw 112 and thesecond jaw 114 for securing thepanel 170 at the desired angular orientation. - As described, when the
adjustment member 156 separates thefirst block 152 from thesecond block 154, thejamming device 150 may be movable or re-positioned longitudinally between thenon-planar surface 138 and thesecond jaw 114. As may be apparent based on a comparison ofFIGS. 1, 4, and 5 , the angular orientation of theclamp 130 in each ofFIGS. 1, 4 , and 5 may be different, and orientation of the plateau 140 a within theelongate slot 190 and relative to thesecond jaw 114 may differ as the angular orientation of theclamp 130 changes. - Because the
jamming device 150 may be movable or re-positioned longitudinally between thenon-planar surface 138 and the second jaw 114 (e.g., when thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154 may be sufficiently separated by the adjustment member 156) and may conform to changes in angular orientation of theclamp 130, theclamp 130 of thepanel mount 100 may be configured as desired. As will be apparent, distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154 may be associated with whether thejamming device 150 urges theclamp 130 against thefirst jaw 112. The panel mount user may configure and secure thepanel 170 at the desired angular orientation within thepanel mount 100 by rotating theadjustment member 156 for either (i) increasing the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154; or (ii) decreasing the distance between thefirst block 152 and thesecond block 154. - Based on the panel mount examples described herein, a panel mount user may only require access to a side of the
panel mount 100 where thejamming device 150 is located. That is, rotation of theadjustment member 156 may increase or decrease distance between blocks of thejamming device 150 and enable the panel mount user to adjust or secure panel orientation. Because adjustments to thejamming device 150 may correspond to operations for adjusting panel orientation, example panel mounts described herein may be desirable because a panel mount user need not have access to both jaws of the panel mount. Needing access to only one jaw may be desirable where panels may be installed along a surface edge that may be accessible on one side and inaccessible on another side. For example, when a panel/panel mount is installed at an edge of a swimming pool or at an edge of a high-rise building roof, it may be impractical for the panel mount user to access both sides of the panel mount. - In the examples of
FIGS. 1, 4, and 5 , access to theadjustment member 156 may be from a “top” opening of theelongate slot 190 of thepanel mount 100. However, as will be illustrated in some examples of the present application, an aperture may be provided in thepanel mount body 110 for accessing a second end 260 (FIG. 2 ) of theadjustment member 156 for rotating theadjustment member 156. - It may be appreciated from the examples herein that the
second clamp plate 136 may include anon-planar surface 138 that may be a convex or a concave surface. For example, a convex surface may be a curved surface having a contour similar to an exterior of a circle or sphere facing the second jaw. In some other examples, the convex surface may be a series of planar surface portions that are joined to collectively extend outward (see e.g.,non-planar surface 138 ofFIG. 1 ). In some examples, a concave surface may be a curved surface that curves inwards and having a contour similar to an interior of a circle or sphere facing the second jaw. In some other examples, the concave surface may be a series of planar surface portions that are joined to collectively extend inwards. As will be appreciated, the clamp 130 (FIG. 1 ) may be secured in a desired orientation when thejamming device 150 is adjusted to abut thenon-planar surface 138, whether thenon-planar surface 138 is a concave or convex surface, for urging theclamp 130 against thefirst jaw 112. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 6 , which is a front view of aclamp 630, in accordance with an example of the present application. Theclamp 630 may be positioned within anelongate slot 190 of thepanel mount 100 ofFIG. 1 . - The
clamp 630 may include afirst clamp plate 632 and asecond clamp plate 636. Thefirst clamp plate 632 may have asecond abutment surface 634 adapted to abut the first abutment surface 116 (FIG. 1 ). As illustrated inFIG. 6 , thesecond abutment surface 634 may be a convex surface. - The
second clamp plate 636 may include anon-planar surface 638 having a plateau or vertex. When theclamp 630 is positioned within theelongate slot 190 of thepanel mount 100 ofFIG. 1 , thenon-planar surface 638 may face thesecond jaw 114. The illustratednon-planar surface 638 may be similar to the convex-shapednon-planar surface 138 having the plateau 140 a ofFIG. 1 . - The
clamp 630 may include aliner 680. Theliner 680 may include a firstgripping surface 682 for affixing to afirst attachment surface 662 of thefirst clamp plate 632. Theliner 680 may also include a secondgripping surface 684 for affixing to asecond attachment surface 664 of thesecond clamp plate 636. Theliner 680 may also include aliner base 642 coupling the firstgripping surface 682 and the secondgripping surface 684 to form a U-shaped liner. Theliner base 642 may be constructed of pliable or flexible material such that the U-shaped liner is expandable or contractible for receiving variable thickness panels. - In some examples, the
liner base 642 may be acorrugated base 686 coupling the firstgripping surface 682 and the secondgripping surface 684. Thecorrugated base 686 may be constructed of pliable or flexible material and thecorrugated base 686 may be compressed or stretched like accordion-like structure such that the corrugated base may be expandable or contractible for receiving panels of variable thickness. Further, the corrugated base may insulate or separate an edge of the panel from a base of the panel mount body 110 (FIG. 1 ). - As described above, the
clamp 630 ofFIG. 6 may be received within theelongate slot 190 of thepanel mount 100 ofFIG. 1 . In some examples, theclamp 630 ofFIG. 6 may be received within a panel mount body having a recessed slot sized for receiving thecorrugated base 686. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 7 , which illustrates apanel mount base 710, in accordance with an example of the present application. Apanel mount body 710 may include afirst jaw 712 and asecond jaw 714 defining anelongate slot 790. Thefirst jaw 712 may include afirst abutment surface 716 facing theelongate slot 790. Thefirst abutment surface 716 may be integral to thefirst jaw 712, in contrast to thefirst abutment surface 116 ofFIG. 1 being separate from thefirst jaw 112 ofFIG. 1 . Thepanel mount base 710 may include abase portion 794 for coupling thefirst jaw 712 and thesecond jaw 714. Thebase portion 794 may include at least one aperture (not illustrated inFIG. 7 ) for receiving a fastener to secure thepanel mount base 710 to an adjoining structure. - Similar to the
panel mount 100 ofFIG. 1 , the angular orientation of the clamp 630 (when received within theelongate slot 790 ofFIG. 7 ) may be altered when the second abutment surface 634 (FIG. 6 ) slides longitudinally relative to afirst abutment surface 716. - In examples illustrated and described with reference to
FIGS. 1, 4, and 5 , the first abutment surface is substantially concave and the second abutment surface is substantially convex and may have a plateau or vertex shaped profile. However, other first abutment surface and second abutment surface shapes may be contemplated. To illustrate, reference is now made toFIG. 8 , which illustrates an elevation view of apanel mount 800 having apanel 870 installed therein, in accordance with another example of the present application. - The
panel mount 800 includes abody 810 including afirst jaw 812 and asecond jaw 814 defining an elongate slot open in a longitudinal direction. Thefirst jaw 812 may include afirst abutment surface 816 having a convex-shaped surface facing the elongate slot. Contrasting to thepanel mount 100 ofFIG. 1 , thepanel mount 800 ofFIG. 8 may not include a movable plate abutting thefirst jaw 812. - The
panel mount 800 may include aclamp 830 positioned within the elongate slot for receiving thepanel 870. Theclamp 830 may include afirst clamp plate 832 and asecond clamp plate 836. Thefirst clamp plate 832 may include asecond abutment surface 834 and may be a substantially concave-shaped surface configured to interface and abut thefirst abutment surface 816. Thesecond abutment surface 834 may slide longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 816. When thesecond abutment surface 834 slides longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 816, an angular orientation of theclamp 830 within the elongate slot 890 may be altered. Similar to thepanel mount 100 ofFIG. 1 , the angular orientation of theclamp 830 may be altered such that a panel may be secured in a position that may not be parallel to thefirst jaw 812 or thesecond jaw 814. Such angular orientation adjustments may be desirable for installing thepanel 870 plumb or in any other orientation atop an un-level adjoining structure. - The
second clamp plate 836 may be between thefirst clamp plate 832 and thesecond jaw 814 and may include anon-planar surface 838 having aplateau 840. InFIG. 8 , thenon-planar surface 838 may be a concave surface facing thesecond jaw 814. Theplateau 840 may be a point or a surface portion on the concave surface that may face thesecond jaw 814 and may be furthest from thesecond jaw 814 as compared to any other point on the convex surface facing thesecond jaw 814. - The
panel mount 800 may include ajamming device 850 between thenon-planar surface 838 and thesecond jaw 814. Thejamming device 850 may include a pair of blocks and anadjustment member 856 for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks. In some examples, thejamming device 850 may include rectangular blocks that may, when distanced from one another, urge theclamp 830 against thefirst jaw 812. For example, the distance between the blocks may increase when theadjustment member 856 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of theadjustment member 856. When theadjustment member 856 increases the distance between the blocks, the blocks abut thenon-planar surface 838 and urge theclamp 830 against thefirst jaw 812. - Example panel mounts described herein may be desirable because a panel mount user need not adjust multiple fasteners or adjustment members for urging the
clamp 830 against thefirst jaw 812. A panel mount user may rotate an adjustment member using, for example, a hex or Allen key, a drill bit, or a screw driver or the like in one hand for configuring thejamming device 850 to be movable or re-positioned longitudinally, while positioning thepanel 870 at a desired panel orientation using another hand. - In the examples described herein, the first abutment surface may be generally complementary to the abutting second abutment surface of the first clamp plate. For example, when the first abutment surface is a substantially concave surface (see e.g.,
FIG. 1 ), the second abutment surface may be a substantially convex surface. Alternatively, when the first abutment surface is a substantially convex surface (see e.g.,FIG. 8 ), the second abutment surface may be a substantially concave surface. In some examples, however, the first abutment surface may not be complementary in shape to the second abutment surface. To illustrate, reference is now made toFIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C , which illustrate partial elevation views of panel mounts, in accordance with exampless of the present application. -
FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C generally illustrate a first jaw of a panel mount body and a first clamp plate of a clamp, in accordance with examples of the present application. For ease of exposition, numerous features of the panel mount examples are omitted and only the first jaw and the first clamp plate are shown for illustrating an abutment interface between the first jaw and the first clamp plate. - In
FIG. 9A , thefirst jaw 912A may include a recessedslot 988 facing an elongate slot and a first abutment surface 916A may include a surface contour of the recessedslot 988. For example, when the recessedslot 988 is shown from a side view, the recessedslot 988 may include a rectangular profile with an open end facing the elongate slot. - The
first clamp plate 932A may include asecond abutment surface 934A, and thesecond abutment surface 934A may be a convex-shaped surface. Accordingly, when thesecond abutment surface 934A abuts the recessedslot 988, as illustrated inFIG. 9A , thesecond abutment surface 934A may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916A at points of abutment between the first abutment surface 916A and thesecond abutment surface 934A. When thesecond abutment surface 934A slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916A, an angular orientation of a clamp associated with thefirst clamp plate 932A may be altered. - In
FIG. 9B , thefirst jaw 912B may include a concave surface facing an elongate slot and afirst abutment surface 916B may include a surface contour being substantially concave in shape. Thefirst clamp plate 932B may be a rectangular block and may include asecond abutment surface 934B that may be rectangular-shaped. Accordingly, when thesecond abutment surface 934B abuts thefirst abutment surface 916B, as illustrated inFIG. 9B , thesecond abutment surface 934B may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface 916A at points of abutment between thefirst abutment surface 916B and thesecond abutment surface 934B, such that an angular orientation of a clamp associated with thefirst clamp plate 932B may be altered. - In
FIG. 9C , thefirst jaw 912C may have a rectangular block shape and may include afirst abutment surface 916C having a rectangular-shaped surface. Thefirst clamp plate 932C may be a pyramid-like block having asecond abutment surface 934C having a triangular-shaped profile. Accordingly, when thesecond abutment surface 934C abuts thefirst abutment surface 916C, as illustrated inFIG. 9C , thesecond abutment surface 934C may pivot or may slide longitudinally relative to thefirst abutment surface 916C at a point or points of abutment, such that an angular orientation of a clamp associated with thefirst clamp plate 932C may be altered. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 10 , which illustrates asecond clamp plate 1036 and ajamming device 1050 of a panel mount, in accordance with another example of the present application. For ease of exposition, numerous features of the panel mount are omitted and only thesecond clamp plate 1036 and thejamming device 1050 are illustrated. - The
second clamp plate 1036 may include ajamming surface 1038 that may include a combination of two planar surfaces. That is, thejamming surface 1038 may include two planar surface portions intersecting at a vertex 1040 a, where a first planar surface portion 1040 b intersects a second planar surface portion 1040 c at the vertex 1040 a. The first planar surface portion 1040 b may be oriented at an obtuse angle about the vertex 1040 a from the second planar surface portion 1040 c. The vertex 1040 a may be nearest to a second jaw (not illustrated inFIG. 10 ) as compared to any other point on thejamming surface 1038. Other configurations of thejamming surface 1038 may be contemplated. For example, thejamming surface 1038 may be a convex-shaped surface for interfacing with thejamming device 1050. - The
jamming device 1050 may include afirst block 1052 and asecond block 1054. InFIG. 10 , thefirst block 1052 and thesecond block 1054 may have a side profile that is convex-shaped. That is, when thefirst block 1052 and thesecond block 1054 is viewed from the side profile, the surface facing thejamming surface 1038 may be a generally convex surface. It will be appreciated that other side profile shapes may be contemplated. - The
jamming device 1050 includes anadjustment member 1056. Each of the blocks includes a through-hole such that theadjustment member 1056 is positioned through respective through-holes. Theadjustment member 1056 may be a threadedscrew including threads 1064 along at least a portion of theadjustment member 1056. InFIG. 10 , thefirst block 1052 may be configured to be stationary at a first block position along theadjustment member 1056. Thesecond block 1054 may include a threaded through-hole along a longitudinal axis of thesecond block 1054, and the threaded through-hole may be complementary to thethreads 1064 along at least a portion of theadjustment member 1056 such that thesecond block 1054 may advance along theadjustment member 1056 when theadjustment member 1056 is rotated about a longitudinal axis. - The jamming device may also include a biasing
member 1098. InFIG. 10 , the biasingmember 1098 may be a spring positioned between thefirst block 1052 and thesecond block 1054 such that the biasingmember 1098 biases each of the blocks in a direction opposite the other of the blocks. Accordingly, when theadjustment member 1056 is rotated about a longitudinal axis of theadjustment member 1056, thesecond block 1054 may advance along theadjustment member 1056 nearer to or further away from thefirst block 1052. In the example illustrated inFIG. 10 , when thesecond block 1054 advances along theadjustment member 1056 nearer to thefirst block 1052, thejamming device 1050 may abut thejamming surface 1038 and urge the clamp, associated with thesecond clamp plate 1036, against the first jaw for securing a panel at a desired angular orientation. - Examples adjustment members of the jamming device described herein may be threaded screws. In some other examples, adjustment members of the jamming device may be a device for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks. For example, the adjustment member may be an elongate rod and a pair of blocks may be configured on the elongate rod such that the rod may be manipulated to increase or decrease a distance between the blocks. Other devices for the adjustment member may be contemplated.
- Reference is now made to
FIG. 11 , which illustrates an elevation view of apanel mount 1100 having apanel 1170 installed therein, in accordance with an example of the present application. Thepanel mount 1100 includes apanel mount body 1110 having afirst jaw 1112 and asecond jaw 1114. Thepanel mount 1100 may also include aclamp 1130 and ajamming device 1150. In some examples, theclamp 1130 and thejamming device 1150 may be similar to theclamp 130 and thejamming device 150 ofFIG. 1 . - In some examples, the panel mount may be mounted to an adjoining
structure 1102 via one of thefirst jaw 1112 or thesecond jaw 1114. InFIG. 11 , thepanel mount 1100 may be mounted to the adjoiningstructure 1102 by thesecond jaw 1114. Thesecond jaw 1114 may include a first through-hole 1104A and a second through-hole 1104B for receiving fasteners for securing thepanel mount 1100 to the adjoiningstructure 1102. - In
FIG. 11 , thepanel mount 110 may also include anaperture 1146 in thepanel mount body 1110 such that a panel mount user may access anadjustment member 1156 of thejamming device 1150 such that theadjustment member 1156 may be rotated about a longitudinal axis. - Example panel mounts described herein may be desirable because example jamming devices may be positioned within and may not extend outside the elongate slot of the panel mounts. Accordingly, an adjustment member of the jamming devices may be hidden from view within the elongate slot. Access to the adjustment member may require access to (1) a volume of space adjacent the secured panel; and (2) adjacent the opening of the elongate slot or an aperture in a bottom portion of the panel mount body; however, access to the adjustment member need not require access to a volume of space adjacent either jaw or side of the panel mount.
- Certain adaptations and modifications of the described embodiments can be made. Therefore, the above discussed embodiments are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive.
Claims (20)
1. A panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure, the panel mount comprising:
a body including a first jaw and a second jaw defining an elongate slot open in a longitudinal direction, the first jaw including a first abutment surface facing the elongate slot;
a clamp positioned within the elongate slot for receiving the panel, the clamp including:
a first clamp plate having a second abutment surface abutting the first abutment surface, an angular orientation of the clamp within the elongate slot being altered when the second abutment surface slides longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface; and
a second clamp plate between the first clamp plate and the second jaw, the second clamp plate including a non-planar surface having a plateau and facing the second jaw; and
a jamming device between the non-planar surface and the second jaw, the jamming device including a pair of blocks and an adjustment member for adjusting a distance between the pair of blocks, wherein the jamming device urges the clamp against the first jaw upon increasing or decreasing the distance between the pair of blocks.
2. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the jamming device is positioned longitudinally such that the blocks are on opposing sides of the plateau.
3. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the non-planar surface having the plateau includes a convex surface facing the second jaw.
4. The panel mount of claim 3 , wherein the jamming device urges the clamp against the first jaw when the distance between the pair of blocks decreases.
5. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the non-planar surface having the plateau includes a concave surface facing the second jaw.
6. The panel mount of claim 5 , wherein the jamming device urges the clamp against the first jaw when the distance between the pair of blocks increases.
7. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the plateau is a vertex.
8. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the adjustment member is a threaded screw,
and wherein each of the blocks includes a threaded through-hole and one of the blocks has threads opposite in direction to the other of the blocks such that, upon rotation of the adjustment screw about a longitudinal axis of the adjustment member, advancement of each of the blocks along the adjustment member is in a direction opposite the other of the blocks.
9. The panel mount of claim 8 , wherein the adjustment member includes:
a first threaded portion having threads in a first direction complementary to one of the blocks; and
a second threaded portion having threads in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction, the second threaded portion being complementary to another of the blocks.
10. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein each of the blocks includes a through-hole such that the adjustment member is positioned through the respective through-holes, and wherein the adjustment member is a screw including a threaded portion complementary to a through-hole in one of the blocks,
and wherein the jamming device further includes a biasing member between the pair of blocks such that the biasing member biases each of the blocks in a direction opposite the other of the blocks.
11. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein each of the blocks is a wedge-shaped block.
12. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the clamp further includes a liner including:
a first gripping surface for affixing to a first attachment surface of the first clamp plate;
a second gripping surface for affixing to a second attachment surface of the second clamp plate; and
a liner base coupling the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface to form a U-shaped liner.
13. The panel mount of claim 12 , wherein the liner base is a corrugated base coupling the first gripping surface and the second gripping surface.
14. The panel mount of claim 13 , wherein the body includes a base coupling the first jaw and the second jaw, and wherein the base includes a recessed slot for receiving at least a portion of the corrugated base.
15. The panel mount of claim 12 , wherein the liner includes pliable material such that the U-shaped clamp is expandable or contractible for receiving variable thickness panels.
16. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the first abutment surface includes at least one concave surface facing the elongate slot.
17. The panel mount of claim 16 , wherein the second abutment surface is a convex surface complementary to and abutting the first abutment surface.
18. The panel mount of claim 16 , wherein the at least one concave surface includes two concave surface portions and a planar surface portion intermediate the two concave surface portions.
19. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the first abutment surface facing the elongate slot is integrated in the first jaw.
20. The panel mount of claim 1 , wherein the first jaw includes a recessed slot having an opening facing the elongate slot, and wherein the first abutment surface includes a contour of the recessed slot, and wherein the second abutment surface is a convex surface abutting the recessed slot such that the second abutment surface may slide longitudinally relative to the first abutment surface at points of abutment between the first abutment surface and the second abutment surface.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/834,352 US20190177973A1 (en) | 2017-12-07 | 2017-12-07 | Panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/834,352 US20190177973A1 (en) | 2017-12-07 | 2017-12-07 | Panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure |
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US20190177973A1 true US20190177973A1 (en) | 2019-06-13 |
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US15/834,352 Abandoned US20190177973A1 (en) | 2017-12-07 | 2017-12-07 | Panel mount for securing a panel to an adjoining structure |
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US (1) | US20190177973A1 (en) |
Cited By (9)
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CN112031218A (en) * | 2019-12-16 | 2020-12-04 | 青岛长淮机械有限公司 | Adjusting component and glass clamp comprising same |
US10883274B1 (en) * | 2019-09-11 | 2021-01-05 | Vancouver Glazing Hardware Inc. | Horizontal panel alignment system |
US11156000B2 (en) * | 2017-07-21 | 2021-10-26 | Pure Vista Ltd | Panel support system and method |
US20220127847A1 (en) * | 2019-06-10 | 2022-04-28 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions Ltd. | A base assembly for a prefabricated wall system |
US20220127856A1 (en) * | 2020-10-22 | 2022-04-28 | Sb Ingenierie (Sas) | Device for securing a panel in a groove by tightening wedges arranged on one side of the panel |
EP4008850A1 (en) | 2020-12-07 | 2022-06-08 | Railingcompany BV | Device, system and installation method for mounting a panel |
US20220195734A1 (en) * | 2019-05-31 | 2022-06-23 | Sb Ingenierie | Arrangement for securing a panel in a rail by tightening outer wedges from an inner side of the panel |
US11459766B2 (en) * | 2019-12-05 | 2022-10-04 | R&B Wagner, Inc. | Leveling partition mounting system |
US20220333376A1 (en) * | 2019-11-29 | 2022-10-20 | Foshan YG Building Material Co.,Ltd. | Adjustable glass mounting groove |
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2017
- 2017-12-07 US US15/834,352 patent/US20190177973A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (14)
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US11598102B2 (en) * | 2017-07-21 | 2023-03-07 | Pure Vista Ltd | Panel support system and method |
US11156000B2 (en) * | 2017-07-21 | 2021-10-26 | Pure Vista Ltd | Panel support system and method |
US20220010559A1 (en) * | 2017-07-21 | 2022-01-13 | Pure Vista Ltd | Panel support system and method |
US11939775B2 (en) * | 2019-05-31 | 2024-03-26 | Sb Ingenierie | Arrangement for securing a panel in a rail by tightening outer wedges from an inner side of the panel |
US20220195734A1 (en) * | 2019-05-31 | 2022-06-23 | Sb Ingenierie | Arrangement for securing a panel in a rail by tightening outer wedges from an inner side of the panel |
US20220127847A1 (en) * | 2019-06-10 | 2022-04-28 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions Ltd. | A base assembly for a prefabricated wall system |
US11976464B2 (en) * | 2019-06-10 | 2024-05-07 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions Ltd. | Base assembly for a prefabricated wall system |
US10883274B1 (en) * | 2019-09-11 | 2021-01-05 | Vancouver Glazing Hardware Inc. | Horizontal panel alignment system |
US20220333376A1 (en) * | 2019-11-29 | 2022-10-20 | Foshan YG Building Material Co.,Ltd. | Adjustable glass mounting groove |
US11459766B2 (en) * | 2019-12-05 | 2022-10-04 | R&B Wagner, Inc. | Leveling partition mounting system |
CN112031218A (en) * | 2019-12-16 | 2020-12-04 | 青岛长淮机械有限公司 | Adjusting component and glass clamp comprising same |
US11939774B2 (en) * | 2020-10-22 | 2024-03-26 | Sb Ingenierie (Sas) | Device for securing a panel in a groove by tightening wedges arranged on one side of the panel |
US20220127856A1 (en) * | 2020-10-22 | 2022-04-28 | Sb Ingenierie (Sas) | Device for securing a panel in a groove by tightening wedges arranged on one side of the panel |
EP4008850A1 (en) | 2020-12-07 | 2022-06-08 | Railingcompany BV | Device, system and installation method for mounting a panel |
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