WO2006043068A1

WO2006043068A1 - Improvements in and relating to fasteners

Info

Publication number: WO2006043068A1
Application number: PCT/GB2005/004047
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stanley Jack Wootliff
Original assignee: Ninaclip Plc
Priority date: 2004-10-21
Filing date: 2005-10-20
Publication date: 2006-04-27
Also published as: GB0423393D0

Abstract

A fitting (60), method of fitting and kit of parts including a fitting are provided in which the fitting includes a first part (62) and a second part (72), the first part includes a first section (64), a second section (66) and a third section (68), the first section and second section has a joined state in which the first section is joined to the second section by one or more elements (86, 92), the first section and second section define a channel between them, the third section slidably receives at least a part of the first section and second section in their joined state, the second part includes one component (74) of a fastener, the first part and second part having a connected state, in the connected state, the second part being connected to the first part by an element (96) provided by the second section (66) of the first part (62).

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO FASTENERS

This invention concerns improvements in and relating to fasteners and particularly, but not exclusively in relation to fixings incorporating a fastener component.

In a variety of situations it is useful to be able to connect an item, such as a parasol, to a frame, such as that of a pushchair. To do so it is known to attach a fixing, in the form of a clamp to the frame, the clamp providing one part of a fastener, with the other part of the fastener provided on the item itself. An example of such an approach is provided in WO98/17922. Problems with the flexibility and effectiveness of such jaw type fixings exist.

According to a first aspect of the invention we provide a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the first part including a first section, a second section and a third section, the first section and second section having a joined state in which the first section is joined to the second section by one or more elements, the first section and second section defining a channel between them, the third section slidably receiving at least a part of the first section and second section in their joined state, the second part including one component of a fastener, the first part and second part having a connected state, in the connected state, the second part being connected to the first part by an element provided by the second section of the first part.

Preferably the second part is in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part, the plurality of potential positions for the second part differing from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the first aspect of the invention are set out herein, including those in the second and/or third and/or fourth and/or fifth aspects of the invention.

According to a second aspect of the present invention we provide a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the first part including a first section and a second section, the first section and second section having a joined state, the first section being joined to the second section by one or more elements in the joined state, the first section and second section defining a channel between them, the second part including one component of a fastener, the first part and second part having a connected state, in the connected state, the second part being connected to the first part by one or more elements, the second part being in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part, the plurality of potential positions for the second part differing from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the second aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the first and/or third and/or fourth and/or fifth aspects of the invention.

The first part may be of plastics and/or may be moulded. The first part may be substantially cubic in shape.

The first section may be in the form of a first piece which links two side pieces. The first section may be U-shaped. The side pieces may be parallel to one another. The first piece may be curved. The first piece may be provided with a curved outer profile, the first piece may be provided with a V-shaped inner profile. One or more recesses may be provided on the inside of the first section, preferably on the inside of the first piece. The recesses may be closed or may pass through the first section and/or first piece. The one or more recesses may be elongate. The one or more recesses may extend across the width of the first piece. The recesses may be parallel to one another.

The first section may be provided with one or more cooperating elements for the second section. The one or more cooperating elements maybe provided on the side pieces. The one or more cooperating elements may be provided on the side pieces at the distal ends their of relative to the first piece. The one or more cooperating elements may be in the form of one or more protrusions. The one or more cooperating elements may be rectangular in cross-section. The one or more cooperating elements may be flared. Preferably the width of the flare is greater away from the first section than adjacent to it. Preferably the one of more cooperating elements extend perpendicular to the extent of the side piece and/or first piece. The one or more cooperating elements may extend the foil depth of the side pieces.

The second section may be in the form of a block. The block may have a planar outer face. The block may have a V-shaped inner face. The second section is preferably provided with a threaded element, ideally the threaded element used to join the first part and second part.

The second section may be provided with one or more cooperating elements for the first section. The cooperating elements may be provided on the block, for instance one or more side walls thereof. The one or more cooperating elements may be in the form of one or more recesses. The one or more recesses may be rectangular in cross-section. The one or more cooperating elements may be flared. Preferably the width of the flare is less at the limit of the block than within it.

The second section may be received within the first section, preferably between the side pieces thereof.

The first section and second section may abut one another, at least in part, in the joined state, for instance the one or more cooperating elements of the first section may abut the one or more cooperating elements of the second section. Preferably the first section and second section enclose the frame around the entire extent of its circumference in the joined state. The first section and second section may form a closed ring about the channel in the joined state. Preferably the first section and second section are placed in the joined state by introducing the first section to the second section, and/or vice versa, from opposing sides of the frame and/or axis thereof and/or axis of the channel, ideally through a sliding motion.

Preferably two cooperating elements are used to join the first section and second section.

Preferably the first part includes a third section. The third section is preferably formed of a pair of opposing side walls. Preferably the opposing side walls are parallel to one another. Preferably the spacing of the of the third section side walls is greater than the spacing of the first section side pieces. Preferably the first section side pieces are slidably received within the spacing of the third section side walls. Preferably the third section side walls are joined to one another by link walls. Preferably the link walls are parallel to one another. Preferably the space between the side walls and link walls is open at one end, ideally so as to receive the first section and/or second section or parts thereof. Preferably the space has a square cross-section. The side walls and/or link walls may be joined by a base wall. Preferably the base wall closes off one end of the third section. The base wall may be provided with a through aperture, for instance to receive the threaded element of the second section.

The first section may define one part and preferably one half of the channel. The second section may define a second part and preferably a second half of the channel, particularly before the provision of the third section. The third section may define one part and preferably one half of the channel. Preferably the first section part of the channel is defined by four walls. Preferably the walls are planar. Preferably some or all of the walls are inclined relative to one another. Preferably the second section part of the channel is defined by two walls. Preferably the walls are planar. Preferably the walls are inclined relative to one another. Preferably no wall of the second section part is parallel to another. Preferably the third section part of the channel is defined by two, or more preferably, four walls. Preferably the walls are provided by edges of the third section. The third section part of the channel may be defined by two pairs of walls. The pairs may mirror one another. The pairs may be formed of two walls which are inclined relative to one another.

The first section channel defining part and/or the channel and/or the second section channel defining part and/or third section channel defining part may be provided with one or more pads and/or spacers and/or compressible elements. The one or more pads and/or spacers and/or compressible elements may be retained by the first section of the first part, and preferably by their cooperation with one or more recesses provided therein. These may assist the gripping of the frame. The first section channel defining part and/or the channel and/or the second section channel defining part and/or third section channel defining part may be provided with one or more ribs and/or ridges and/or grooves. These may assist the gripping of the frame.

The second part may include the one component of the fastener directly or by means of attachment to a further part which includes the one component of the fastener. The one component of the fastener maybe a female component thereof. The one component of the fastener maybe introduced to or have introduced to it the other component of the fastener along an axis. The axis may be perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first part.

The second part may be of plastics and/or may be moulded. The first part and second part may abut one another, at least in part, in the connected state. Preferably the first part and second part are placed in the connected state by introducing the second part to the first part. Preferably a component of the first part and a component of the second part cooperate with one another in the connected state. Preferably the component of the first part and of the second part have complimentary profiles. A projection of the second part may be received in a recess of the first part, but preferably a projection of the first part is received in a recess of the second part. A plurality of projections may be provided on one or both of the first part and second part, for instance in the form of teeth.

Preferably one or more cooperating components on the first part and /or second part restrict the potential positions the second part can have relative to the first in the connected state. One or more cooperating components on the first part and /or second part may resist the rotation of the second part relative to the first in the connected state. The outside base wall of the third section may be provided with teeth to so resist rotation.

The plurality of potential positions for the second part relative to the first may be evenly spaced relative to one another.

Preferably one element is used to join the first part and second part. The element is preferably releasable. Preferably the element is a threaded element, such as a screw. The threaded element preferably passes through the third section and/or second part or a part thereof. Preferably the threaded element engages with a knob.

According to a third aspect of the present invention we provide a method for attaching a fitting to a frame, the method comprising providing a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part and attaching the fitting to the frame.

Preferably the second part includes one component of a fastener. The method may include joining a first section and a second section of the first part together, preferably by a plurality of elements, such as cooperating elements. Preferably the first section and second section are joined together by sliding, preferably substantially along the axis of the frame received between them. The frame may be received in a channel defined between the first section and second section. One or more of the elements may extend between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and/or one or more elements may extend between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel, preferably in one or both cases by extending between the side pieces of the first section and the block of the second section. The method may include connecting the second part to the first part, preferably by a threaded element. The second part may be connected to the first part by means of a threaded element. The separation of the first part, particularly the second section thereof, and the second part may be reduced by tightening. Preferably the first section and second section are in fixed position relative to one another during tightening. Preferably the first section and/or second section move into the third section during tightening. Preferably the third section engages the frame during tightening. Preferably the first section engages the frame during tightening. The second part may be in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part. The plurality of potential positions may differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part about an axis of rotation.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the third aspect of the invention are set out herein, including those in the first and/or second and/or fourth and/or fifth aspects of the invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention we provide a method for attaching a fitting to a frame, the method comprising: providing a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the second part including one component of a fastener; joining a first section and a second section of the first part together by a plurality of elements, the frame being received in a channel defined between the first section and second section, one or more of the elements extending between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and one or more elements extending between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel, providing at least a portion of the first section and/or second section of the first part in a third section of the first part, connecting the second part to the first part by an element which passes through a third section of the first part, the second part being in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part, wherein the plurality of potential positions differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part about an axis of rotation. Various other features, options and possibilities for the fourth aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the first and/or second and/or third and/or fifth aspects of the invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention we provide a kit of parts, the kit of parts comprising an item, the item being provided with one or more of one component of a fastener and one or more fittings according to the first and/or second aspect of the invention, the second part of the fitting or fittings being provided with the other component of the fastener.

The item may be one or more of: a canopy, parasol, cover, rain-cover, rain-shield, rack of toys, tray, table or the like.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the fifth aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the first and/or second and/or third and/or fourth aspects of the invention.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention we provide a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the first part including a first section and a second section, the first section and second section having a joined state in which the first section is joined to the second section by a plurality of elements, the first section and second section define a channel between them, one or more of the elements extend between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and one or more elements extend between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel, the second part including one component of a fastener, the first part and second part having a connected state in which the second part is connected to the first part by a plurality of elements, the second part is in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part, wherein the plurality of potential positions differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part about an axis of rotation and, in the connected state, one or more of the elements extend between the second part and the first part to one side of the axis of rotation and one or more elements extend between the second part and the first part to the other side of the axis of rotation.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the sixth aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the seventh and/or eighth and/or ninth and/or tenth aspects of the invention.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention we provide a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part.

Preferably the first part includes a first section and a second section. The first section and second section may have a joined state. The first section may be joined to the second section by one or more, preferably by a plurality, of elements in the joined state. The first section and second section may define a channel between them. In the joined state, one or more of the elements may extend between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and/or one or more elements may extend between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel.

Preferably the second part includes one component of a fastener., The first part and second part may have a connected state, hi the connected state, the second part may be connected to the first part by one or more, preferably by a plurality, of elements. In the connected state, the second part may be in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part. The plurality of potential positions for the second part may differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part, preferably about an axis of rotation, hi the connected state, one or more of the elements may extend between the second part and the first part to one side of the axis of rotation and/or one or more elements may extend between the second part and the first part to the other side of the axis of rotation.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the seventh aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the sixth and/or eighth and/or ninth and/or tenth aspects of the invention. The first part may have a circular cross-section, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to and ideally along the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first. The first part may be of plastics and/or maybe moulded.

The first section and second section of the first part may have a circular cross- section, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to and ideally along the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first. The first section and second section may have the same or a different depth, preferably measured along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to and ideally along the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first.

The first section and second section may abut one another, at least in part, in the joined state. Preferably the first section and second section enclose the frame around the entire extent of its circumference in the joined state. The first section and second section may form a closed ring about the channel in the joined state. Preferably the first section and second section are placed in the joined state by introducing the first section to the second section, and/or vice versa, from opposing sides of the frame and/or axis thereof and/or axis of the channel.

Preferably four elements are used to join the first section and second section. Preferably the elements are evenly spaced radially and/or circumferentially on the first section and/or second section, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to and ideally along the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first. The elements are preferably releasable. Preferably the elements are screws. The screws may pass through the first section into the second section or vice versa. Preferably recesses are provided in the first and/or second section to receive the heads of the elements and/or screws.

The first section may define one part and preferably one half of the channel. The second section may define a second part and preferably a second half of the channel. Preferably the first section part of the channel is defined by three walls. Preferably the walls are planar. Preferably the walls are inclined relative to one another. Preferably no wall of the first section part is parallel to another. Preferably the second section part of the channel is defined by three walls. Preferably the walls are planar. Preferably the walls are inclined relative to one another. Preferably no wall of the second section part is parallel to another. The middle of the three walls of the first section part and the middle of the three walls of the second section part may be parallel to one another in the joined state.

The first section channel defining part and/or the channel and/or the second section channel defining part may be provided with one or more pads and/or spacers and/or compressible elements. These may assist the gripping of the frame. The first section channel defining part and/or the channel and/or the second section channel defining part may be provided with one or more ribs and/or ridges and/or grooves. These may assist the gripping of the frame.

Preferably the elements extend between the first section and the second section along axises, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first.

Preferably the same number of elements extend between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel as on the other. The number is preferably two on each side.

The second part may include the one component of the fastener directly or by means of attachment to a further part which includes the one component of the fastener. The one component of the fastener may be a female component thereof. The one component of the fastener may be introduced to or have introduced to it the other component of the fastener along an axis. The axis maybe perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first part.

The second part may have a circular cross-section, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to and ideally along the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first. The second part may be of plastics and/or may be moulded.

The first part and second part may abut one another, at least in part, in the connected state. Preferably the first part and second part are placed in the connected state by introducing the second part to the first part. Preferably a component of the first part and a component of the second part cooperate with one another in the connected state. Preferably the component of the first part and of the second part have complimentary profiles. A projection of the second part may be received in a recess of the first part, but preferably a projection of the first part is received in a recess of the second part. The projection may have a circular cross- section. The recess may have a circular cross-section. The projection may have a square cross-section. The recess may have a square cross—section. The references to cross-sections may be perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first. Preferably the projection has one or more faces on its side. Preferably the recess has one or more matching faces on its side. The projection may by a square faced projection which cooperates with a square faced recess. The projection may have four sides and/or the recess may have four sides. Preferably the sides are evenly angles relative to one another. Preferably the sides are at 90° to one another.

Preferably one or more cooperating components on the first part and /or second part restrict the potential positions the second part can have relative to the first in the connected state. One or more cooperating components on the first part and /or second part may resist the rotation of the second part relative to the first in the connected state.

The plurality of potential positions for the second part relative to the first may be evenly spaced relative to one another. Preferably four such positions are provided. Preferably the potential positions are 90° of rotation apart.

Preferably two elements are used to join the first part and second part. Preferably the elements are evenly spaced radially and/or circumferentially on the first part and/or second part, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to and ideally along the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first. The elements are preferably releasable. Preferably the elements are screws. The screws may pass through the first part into the second section, but preferably pass from the second part into the first part. Preferably recesses are provided in the first and/or second part to receive the heads of the elements and/or screws.

Preferably the elements extend between the first part and the second part along axises, particularly about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the channel and/or axis of the frame received and/or parallel to the axis of rotation of the second part relative to the first.

Preferably the same number of elements extend between the first part and the second part to one side of the axis of rotation as on the other. The number is preferably one on each side. According to an eighth aspect of the present invention we provide a method for attaching a fitting to a frame, the method comprising providing a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part and attaching the fitting to the frame.

Preferably the second part includes one component of a fastener. The method may include joining a first section and a second section of the first part together, preferably by a plurality of elements. The frame may be received in a channel defined between the first section and second section. One or more of the elements may extend between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and/or one or more elements may extend between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel. The method may include connecting the second part to the first part, preferably by a plurality of elements. The second part may be in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part. The plurality of potential positions may differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part about an axis of rotation. One or more of the elements may extend between the second part and the first part to one side of the axis of rotation and/or one or more elements may extend between the second part and the first part to the other side of the axis of rotation.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the eighth aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the sixth and/or seventh and/or ninth and/or tenth aspects of the invention.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention we provide a method for attaching a fitting to a frame, the method comprising: providing a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the second part including one component of a fastener; joining a first section and a second section of the first part together by a plurality of elements, the frame being received in a channel defined between the first section and second section, one or more of the elements extending between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and one or more elements extending between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel, connecting the second part to the first part by a plurality of elements, the second part being in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part, wherein the plurality of potential positions differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part about an axis of rotation, one or more of the elements extending between the second part and the first part to one side of the axis of rotation and one or more elements extending between the second part and the first part to the other side of the axis of rotation.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the ninth aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the sixth and/or seventh and/or eighth and/or tenth aspects of the invention.

According to a tenth aspect of the invention we provide a kit of parts, the kit of parts comprising an item, the item being provided with one or more of one component of a fastener and one or more fittings according to the first and/or second aspect of the invention, the second part of the fitting or fittings being provided with the other component of the fastener.

Various other features, options and possibilities for the tenth aspect of the invention are set out herein, including in the sixth and/or seventh and/or eighth and/or ninth aspects of the invention.

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the attachment of a second part of a fitting according to an embodiment of the invention to a first part already attached to one side of a frame;

Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the attachment of a second part of a fitting according to an embodiment of the invention to a first part already attached to another side of a frame; Figure 3 is disassembled view of the first part of Figure 1 and Figure 2;

Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the attachment of a second part of a fitting according to a second embodiment of the invention to a first part already attached to one side of a frame;

Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the attachment of a second part of a fitting according to a second embodiment of the invention to a first part already attached to another side of a frame;

Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the components of a fitting according to a third embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7 is the exploded perspective of Figure 6 from a different angle;

Figure 8 shows the components of the fitting of the Figure 6 embodiment;

Figure 9 shows the assembled fitting of Figure 6 in perspective from one viewpoint; and

Figure 10 shows the assembled fitting of Figure 6 in perspective from another viewpoint.

It is known to attach one component of a fastener to a frame using a clamp of the type shown in Figure 2 of WO98/17922. In such a case, a pair of articulated jaws are pi votally joined together. The separation of the jaws is controlled using a screw threaded member which spans the gap between the jaws. The inner surfaces of the jaws are curved to correspond in profile to a range of tube diameters with which they are intended to cooperate.

Such a clamp is intended to be left on the frame from day to day, whilst the one component of the fastener, the male component as illustrated in WO98/17922, is introduced to and removed from the other component as the need arises to attach or remove an item connected to the male component. The other component is fixed to the clamp. The item may be a parasol, rain-cover or the like, particularly in the context of a pushchair or the like. In other case, the item may be a canopy for attachment to the frame of an item of furniture. The content of WO98/17922 is incorporated herein by reference, particularly as it relates to the design and construction of the fastener, the manner of introduction and removal and items connected to it.

Problems exist in the operation of the above mentioned type of clamp and other clamp forms used to connect to frames, particularly nursery equipment frames such as push- chairs. In practice, the range of frame diameters varies substantially and this makes it difficult for the clamp to accommodate the full range of sizes. Problems in accommodating the full range of frame cross-sections also apply, particularly in the context of oval cross-sections. The construction of the clamp also means that much of the tightening force is dissipated by the time the frame contacting locations are reached. Attempts to tighten the clamp further can result in the clamp breaking.

The present document provides a number of different embodiments of fittings designed to address some or all of the above mentioned problems with prior art fittings. Figures 1 through 5 illustrate such a fitting, but the preferred fitting is described first, with reference to Figures 6 to 13.

In Figure 6 the overall fitting 60 is shown in an exploded view which shows the fitting 60's components. A first part 62 is here formed of four components. These are first section 64, second section 66, third section 68 and compressible pad 70. A second part 72 provides one component 74 of the fastener, in this case the female component. The insertion and removal axis of the fastener can be positioned as desired by virtue of the second part 72 being separate from the first part 62.

The first section 64 of the first part 62 is formed from a first piece 76 which links a first side piece 78 and a second, parallel, side piece 80. The outside of the first piece follows a generally curved profile in the course of its passage from the first side piece 78 to the second side piece 80. The curve is broken by a series of recesses 82 which pass through the first piece 76 to the inner surface 84 thereof. This inner surface 84 is generally V-shaped in profile between the first side piece 78 and second side piece 80. Towards the distal ends of the side pieces 78, 80, relative to the first piece 76, each side arm is provided with a cooperating element 86 in the form of a protrusion.

During assembly around a frame, the first section 64 is positioned, with the second section 66 removed, such that the frame is between the side pieces 78, 80. The spacing of the side pieces 78, 80 and their length are sufficient to accommodate a wide range of frame cross- section sizes and shapes. In such a position, the second section 66 is introduced to the joined state relative to the first section, by sliding the second section 66 into place. This can occur from above or below.

The second section 66 is in the form of a block 88 which on each side wall 90 is provided with a recess 92 designed to receive and cooperate with the cooperating elements 86 on the side pieces 78, 80 of the first section 64. The outside 93 of the block is generally planar. The inner surface 94 of the block 88 is generally V-shaped. Attached to the block 88 is a threaded element 96.

Once the second section 66 has been joined to the first section 64 through the above mentioned sliding motion, the fitting is tightened onto the frame in the following manner. Firstly, the third section 68 is introduced and slid into position. The third section 68 is formed of a pair of opposing side walls 98 which are connected to opposing link walls 100. A base 102 completes the cup like third section 68. The third section 68 is open at the front to receive the combined first section 64 and second section 68 by virtue of the opening 104 being greater in size than the outer profile of the first section 64 and second section 66 combination. A snug fit for the combination on the opening 104 is preferred. The base 102 is provided with a through aperture (not shown) to facilitate the passage of the threaded element 96.

The outside 93 of the block is provided with a series of teeth (not shown) which cooperate with opposing teeth 106 on the second part 72.

The second part 72 is in the form of a disc piece 108 which is provided with the teeth 106. A through aperture 109 in the disc piece 108 allows the threaded element 96 to pass there through. The disc piece 108 is connected to the female component 110 of the fastener. The female component is of the type and configuration described in WO98/17922.

As a component of the second part 72 a knob 112 is provided. This has an outer profile 114 which is readily turned by a user in either direction. On the inside profile 116 a threaded bore 118 is provided which receives the end of the threaded element 96.

Tightening of the knob 112 reduces the distance between the block 88 and the knob 112. Because of the cooperation of the cooperating elements 86 on the first section 66 with the second section, the first section is also pulled towards the knob 112. Once the inner surface 84 (or compressible pad provided thereon) of the first section 64 abuts the frame then the knob 112 is in effect pulled towards the frame. This motion causes the knob 112 to tighten against the disc piece 108 and push the teeth 106 thereon into cooperation with the teeth on the third section 68. This clamps the second part 72 in the desired orientation. The tightening also causes the first section 64 and second section 66 combination to be pulled further and further into the third section 68. Eventually the edge 114 of the third section is pulled so close to the first section 64 that the edge engages with the frame. As a result firm tightening of the fitting on the frame is provided. Furthermore, this is achieved for a very wide range of frame sizes and cross-sectional shapes.

As well as the above described preferred embodiment of the invention, other embodiments are possible. These include the following.

The fitting of the present invention is illustrated by the embodiment of Figure 1. The fitting 1 is formed of a first part 3 and second part 5. The first part 3 is formed in two sections 7 and 9 which are shown connected together in Figure 1. In this assembled form, the sections 7 and 9 sandwich between them the frame 11. The frame 11 shown is of circular cross- section, but the invention is applicable to other shapes, such as oval, square or the like. The sections 7 and 9 are fastened together by four screws 13 which pass through holes in the section 7 and engage with the section 9. The use of four screws 13 evenly spaced around the sections 7 and 9 and spaced evenly relative to the frame 11 means that a high level of force can be applied to keep the two sections 7 and 9 together and to keep the resultant first part 3 in position relative to the frame 11. The desired level of grip on the frame 11 by the fitting 1 is thus provided.

The internal configuration of the channel which receives the frame 11 in use is shown schematically in Figure 3. The channel part 15 of the channel 17 defined by section 7 is in the form of first wall 19, second wall 21 and third wall 23. The channel part 25 of the channel 17 defined by section 9 is also in the form of first wall 27, second wall 29 and third wall 31. This configuration of the channel parts 15 and 25 means that whatever the shape of the frame 11 there are always four points of contact between the frame 11 and the channel 17. As a result, the desired grip level in respect of a wide variety of shapes and sizes of frame 11 can be achieved.

Whilst the first part 3 of the fitting 1 provides the desired gripping of the frame 11, the second part 5 provides one component 33 of the fastener. The insertion and removal axis of the fastener can be positioned as desired by virtue of the second part 5 being separate from the first part 3. In the embodiment shown, the second part 5 is orientated relative to the first part at one of four possible positions and then fixed in position by two screws 35 which pass through holes 36 in the second part 5 and engage with the first part 3. Pre-positioned holes 37 are provided in the first part 3 to receive the screws. If desired, greater flexibility in positioning can be provided by allowing the screws 35 to be screwed into any location on the first part 3 and/or by allowing the screws 35 to be screwed through any part of the second part 5. However, in most situations a limited number of positions is sufficient, gives easier, more consistent alignment for the user and allows a neater more reliable screw operation.

This structure for the fitting 1 also allows the same fitting 1 to be used equally well on either "hand" of frame 11. Thus in Figure 1, the frame 11 is the right hand frame 11 of a pushchair as viewed from the front. This means the fitting 1 enables the second part 5 to be provided outside the profile of the pushchair. This means the fitting 1 does not interfere with the folding of the pushchair from a use position to a storage position and vice versa. At the same time, the Figure 2 illustration shows that the same first part 3 can be used on the left hand frame 11, together with the same second part 5, but with the second part 5 in the desired position on the outside and with the desired and matching orientation for the component of the fastener. Simply rotating a fitting formed by a fixed first part and second part would mean the component of the fastener would not have the desired orientation. Consistent presentation of the orientation of the component of the fastener is important to give the desired position for the item and is particularly important where multiple fasteners are used to connect the same item to the frame, such as with a rain-cover, for instance.

As can be seen in Figure 1, to assist in the alignment of the second part 5 on the first part 3, the first part 3 is provided with a protruding square cross-sectioned peg 37. As can be seen in Figure 2, this is intended to cooperate with a square cross-sectioned recess 39 in the second part 5. The number of sides of the shape of the peg 37 and/or recess 39 can be varied to define the number of possible orientations of the second part 5 relative to the first part 3. The rotational position of the peg 37 and/or recess 39 about its axis can be used to define the rotational position of the second part 5, and hence the fastener and item it connects to, relative to the frame 11. The size of the peg 37 and recess 39 combination can be increased in terms of its depth and/or width so as to increase the load bearing capacity of the peg 37 and recess 39 combination compared with the screws 35.

In the Figure 4 and 5 embodiment, a circular peg 41 and recess 43 are used so as to allow full variation in the orientation. The screws 45 for connecting the second part 5 to the first part 3 are received in grooves 49 in this case. Within the grooves 49, the screw head engages with a reduction in the groove width, with the screw body passing through a reduced width through groove 51 and into engagement with first part 3.

Claims

1. A fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the first part including a first section, a second section and a third section, the first section and second section having a joined state in which the first section is joined to the second section by one or more elements, the first section and second section defining a channel between them, the third section slidably receiving at least a part of the first section and second section in their joined state, the second part including one component of a fastener, the first part and second part having a connected state, in the connected state, the second part being connected to the first part by an element provided by the second section of the first part.

2. A fitting according to claim 1 in which the first section is in the form of a first piece which links two side pieces and the first section is U-shaped.

3. A fitting according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the first section is provided with one or more cooperating elements for the second section.

4. A fitting according to claim 4 in which one or more cooperating elements are provided on the side pieces at the distal ends their of relative to the first piece.

5. A fitting according to claim 3 or claim 4 in the one or more cooperating elements are flared, with the width of the flare greater away from the first section than adjacent to it.

6 A fitting according to any preceding claim in which the second section is provided with a threaded element, the threaded element being the element which joins the first part and the second part.

7. A fitting according to any preceding claim in which the second section is provided with one or more cooperating elements for the first section.

8. A fitting according to any preceding claim in which the one or more cooperating elements of the first section abut the one or more cooperating elements of the second section.

9. A fitting according to any preceding claim in which the third section is formed of a pair of opposing side walls, the side walls are joined to one another by link walls and the first section side pieces are slidably received within the spacing of the third section side walls.

10. A fitting according to claim 10 in which the side walls and/or link walls are joined by a base wall, the base wall closes off one end of the third section and the base wall is provided with a through aperture for receiving the element of the second section.

11. A fitting according to any preceding claim in which the first section defines one part of the channel and the third section defines one part of the channel, the channel receiving the frame in use.

12. A fitting according to any preceding claim in which the second part includes one component of the fastener directly or by means of attachment to a further part which includes the one component of the fastener, the one component of the fastener being a female component thereof or a male component thereof.

13. A fitting according to any preceding claim in which a component of the first part and a component of the second part cooperate with one another in the connected state and the component of the first part and of the second part have complimentary profiles.

14. A fitting according to claim 13 in which a projection of the second part is received in a recess of the first part or in which a projection of the first part is received in a recess of the second part.

15. A method for attaching a fitting to a frame, the method comprising: providing a fitting, the fitting including a first part, a second part and a third part; joining a first section and a second section of the first part together, with the frame received in a channel defined between the first section and second section; connecting the second section of the first part to the second part using an element provided by the second section of the first part; reducing the separation of the first part and the second part by tightening, the first section and/or second section move into the third section during tightening; the second part including one component of a fastener.

16. A method for attaching a fitting to a frame, the method comprising: providing a fitting, the fitting including a first part and a second part, the second part including one component of a fastener; joining a first section and a second section of the first part together by a plurality of elements, the frame being received in a channel defined between the first section and second section, one or more of the elements extending between the first section and the second section to one side of the channel and one or more elements extending between the first section and the second section to the other side of the channel, providing at least a portion of the first section and/or second section of the first part in a third section of the first part, connecting the second part to the first part by an element which passes through a third section of the first part, the second part being in one of a plurality of potential positions relative to the first part, wherein the plurality of potential positions differ from one another in terms of the rotational position of the second part relative to the first part about an axis of rotation.

17. A kit of parts, the kit of parts comprising: an item, the item being provided with one or more of one component of a fastener; and one or more fittings according to any of claims 1 to 14, the second part of the fitting or fittings being provided with the other component of the fastener.

18. A kit of parts according to claim 17 in which the item is one or more of: a canopy, parasol, cover, rain-cover, rain-shield, rack of toys, tray, table.