STRUCTURAL SOFFIT RESTRAINT ARRANGEMENTS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to arrangements for restraining structures from overhead structural soffits. More particularly, this invention relates to connectors for restraining structures from overhead structural soffits and arrangements for restraining suspended ceilings and partition walls.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Exposed-grid ceilings (Tee Ceilings) with lay-in panels are made from ceiling panels/tiles that rest in a square/rectangular grid made of interlocking inverted T-shaped profiles (runners). The ceiling grid is supported by the structural soffit with suspension hangers (typically metal rods). Such ceilings may be restrained by bracing in the plenum space, i.e. ‘back-bracing’. Back-bracing is typically achieved by fixing the ceiling grid to an assembly of a vertical post and splayed ties or angled struts which are in turn fixed to an overhead structural soffit.

Furthermore, seismic restraint of a ceiling relies upon ‘diaphragm action’ to transfer earthquake actions to bracing elements. The spacing between braced member runs (brace lines) in a seismic-resilient suspended ceiling is often limited by the degree of diaphragm action that the ceiling can provide. This could, for instance, mean bracing every main runner in the case of exposed-grid ceilings. Such congested bracing, however, occupies the plenum space and may obstruct building service runs.

Further, partitions are typically built using metal studs with gypsum wallboard sheathing. Partitions are typically designed to withstand out-of-plane loads from wind, earthquake and/or body impact. Partitions may be constructed full-height (i.e. extending from floor-to-floor) or partial-height (i.e. extending to the ceiling but not to the structural soffit above). In the case of partial-height construction, the partition must be laterally supported independently from the ceiling by bracing to the structural soffit above, otherwise, the partition may damage the ceiling to which it is attached.

As such, an isolation/separation gap is required to avoid unwanted load swaps (structural interaction) between the ceiling and the partition. In cases where the finished height of the partition extends beyond the ceiling level, the isolation gap is typically provided by a floating/sliding connection at the ceiling perimeter trim/channel as shown herein in FIG. 56. In cases where the ceiling runs over the partition, isolation/separation is typically provided by drilling a large hole through the ceiling lining and offsetting the bracing members from the ceiling using a ‘mounting plinth’ such as that which is disclosed in AU 2018204147 A1 (12 Jun. 2018) to Evans et al. and shown herein in FIG. 58.

Such mounting plinths consist of a bearing member at the top, a mounting member at the base and a spacing member (sleeve) in between, that separates the bearing and mounting members from each other. The mounting member (typically a metal plate) is fixed to the top of the partition’s top-plate (head track) typically by screw-fastening. This type of installation is generally used in retrofit scenarios, where there is no access to the partition cavity as the partition is enclosed by sheathing.

The present invention seeks to provide ways to overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Current ceiling restraint arrangements can be improved by providing more flexibility in construction to avoid clashes with services in the plenum space by using flexible bracing ties such as metal wire that can be adjusted at various angles and utilizing swivelable bracing assemblies that can be oriented in various directions; greater ease of installation by having the option of using lightweight bracing ties such as metal wire, especially where there is a large ceiling suspension height, whilst maintaining the optionality of utilizing cantilevered restraining posts or rigid bracing struts such as metal studs which generally require a smaller bracing footprint and less occupy the plenum space in comparison to splayed ties; and more structural stability and strength by way of symmetry, concentric bracing and more robust connections.

Furthermore, a problem with mounting plinth arrangements for restraining partition walls is that the mounting baseplate obstructs the free deferential movements between the partition and ceiling, which is crucial especially in an earthquake or wind event, and as such, defeats the purpose of the isolation gap between the partition bracing and ceiling. Further, current practices cater for heavy rigid bracing members only (typically wall studs) to connect the partition to the structural soffit above. This can be problematic, especially when the ceiling drop is too high, as the installation of a long heavy member may prove challenging in practice. The solution provided addresses the above deficiencies.

There is provided herein arrangements and connectors for vertically and laterally restraining structures (such as a suspended ceiling or partition wall) from overhead structural soffits.

The connectors connect the structure to vertical restraining posts and/or angled bracing ties and/or angled bracing struts in a concentric and symmetrical manner.

The connector comprises a horizontal midsection between an upper bracing bracket and a lower structure joiner.

The upper bracing bracket extends up from the horizontal midsection and comprises a pair of upright parallel restraining post-engaging flanges extending from opposite sides of the horizontal midsection. The upper bracing bracket further comprises a quadrant of angled brace-engaging tabs extending upwardly and outwardly respectively from four sides of the horizontal midsection.

The upper bracing bracket may take the form of a standard upper bracing bracket such as given in FIGS. 16 and 21, a semi-heavy-duty upper bracing bracket such as given in FIGS. 66 and 72, or a heavy-duty upper bracing bracket such as given in FIGS. 9 and 11, and wherein the standard upper bracing bracket can accommodate flexible bracing ties (e.g. metal wires) in either orthogonal direction in transverse plane; the semi-heavy-duty upper bracing bracket can accommodate bracing ties in either orthogonal direction as well as rigid bracing struts (e.g. metal studs) on two sides; and, the heavy-duty upper bracing bracket can accommodate both bracing ties and/or bracing struts in either orthogonal direction.

Furthermore, the heavy-duty upper bracing bracket can accommodate stronger and stiffer post assemblies, for example, double C-shaped sections made from the same components used in a partition or ceiling, assembled in a web-to-web or lip-to-lip configuration (as shown in FIG. 55). Alternatively, other heavy-duty profiles like jamb-studs (as shown in FIG. 64) or square/rectangular hollow sections can be utilized as a vertical restraining post.

The lower structure joiner may be configured for engaging a variety of structure fixtures, including ceiling structural rails, including those of T-shaped sections, top cross rail, furring channel and C-shaped sections, and partition wall head tracks.

Specifically, the lower structure joiner may take the form of the Tee-type joiner given in FIG. 12, the top cross rail-type joiner given in FIG. 27, the furring channel-type joiner given in FIG. 29 and the Cee-type joiner given in FIG. 54, all of which are preferably transversely biaxially symmetrical (i.e., symmetric with respect to both the X and Y axes of the transverse/horizontal plane) to avoid any undesirable actions such as torsion and bending that are caused by eccentricities.

The connectors are connectable directly to either flexible and/or rigid angled bracing members in either orthogonal direction as well as to a central vertical restraining post. Furthermore, the vertical restraining post can be removed when two counter-angled (‘V’ formation) bracing struts are used as shown in FIG. 70, or the angled bracing members can be removed when the vertical restraining post is rigidly fixed to the overhead structural soffit (i.e. inverted cantilever).

The post-engaging flanges, brace-engaging tabs and the lower structure joiner are preferably transversely biaxially symmetric, such that, in use, lateral and vertical loads are transferred from the structure through a concentric focal point of the connector defined by the concentricity and symmetry of the post-engaging flanges, brace-engaging tabs and the lower structure joiner. This concentricity and symmetry avoids imbalanced load transfer between the structure and the vertical restraining post, angled bracing struts and/or angled bracing ties which could induce torsion, bending, warpage or other structural imbalances.

Further preferably, to avoid or reduce eccentricities, the angled brace-engaging tabs may locate inwards as far in as is practically possible toward the centroid of the connector whilst yet remaining just beyond edges of the vertical restraining post if installed. In other words, opposing brace-engaging tabs between the post-engaging flanges substantially commence from between adjacent side edges of the post-engaging flanges.

The upper bracing bracket and the lower structure joiner may be integrally formed from a single sheet of metal. This fixed-type connector may include the fixed T-shaped runner-type connector shown in FIG. 7, the fixed top cross rail-type connector shown in FIG. 23, the fixed furring channel-type connector shown in FIG. 37 and the fixed C-shaped channel-type connector shown in FIG. 45, and wherein, in all of these, the lower structure joiner is transversely biaxially symmetric with respect to the upper bracing bracket to avoid any undesirable actions such as torsion and bending that are caused by eccentricities. The fixed-type connector provides an economic solution for applications where a cantilevered restraining post is in use without angled bracing members or where service clashes are not a major concern and bracing can be relatively easily connected transversely orthogonally (i.e. with respect to a transverse plane) with respect to ceiling structural rails.

The connector may be a swivel-type connector wherein the horizontal midsection is formed by the upper bracing bracket comprising an upper horizontal plate and the lower structure joiner comprising a lower horizontal plate and wherein the upper and lower horizontal plates are swivelably jointed at a central pivot point. For example, the connector may comprise the swivelable Tee-type connector shown in FIGS. 14 and 16, the swivelable top cross rail-type connector shown in FIG. 32, the swivelable furring channel-type connector shown in FIG. 41 and the swivelable Cee-type connector shown in FIG. 54, all of which maintain structural symmetry even when the brace assembly is positioned in a transversely non-orthogonal orientation with respect to the ceiling structural rails. As such, using the swivel-type connector, bracing may be arranged to avoid service clashes in congested plenum spaces.

Preferably, the tabs extend from edges of the continuous horizontal midsection so as to not compromise the structural integrity thereof. Even for the swivel-type connector, the horizontal midsection comprises only a relatively small aperture not substantially compromising the structural integrity thereof.

As such, when compared to current market offerings, either flexible bracing ties and/or rigid bracing struts can be used in either orthogonal direction in a transverse plane, in a concentric arrangement by a connector being transversely biaxially symmetric in either a fixed or swivelable manner. The concentric and symmetrical bracing arrangement eliminates (or significantly reduces) detrimental effects due to eccentric loading such as torsion/bending of the structure. The central vertical post makes it possible to use flexible bracing ties as the post functions as a concentric compression strut. The brace-engaging tabs provide for a positive connection to angled flexible bracing ties as well as angled rigid bracing struts in either transverse orthogonal direction in a concentric manner.

The use of lightweight flexible bracing is particularly important where there are large suspension heights and handling and installing heavy rigid bracing can prove challenging. The use of angled bracing struts will generally reduce the bracing footprint and occupy less plenum space in comparison to splayed bracing ties, as only two angled struts will be required rather than four splayed ties. The use of angled bracing struts also makes it possible to remove the vertical post to avoid service clashes where required. Furthermore, the angled bracing members can be removed when the vertical restraining post is rigidly fixed to the overhead structural soffit, to further avoid service clashes where required.

The swivelability of the connector helps to avoid clashes between angled bracing members and building services in the plenum space, whilst the fixed-type connector option allows for a more economic design, for example, where service clashes are not a major concern or where a cantilevered restraining post is in use without angled bracing members.

The connector may be used for vertically and laterally restraining Tee-grid ceilings concentrically and symmetrically in either direction of the ceiling with either flexible and/or rigid bracing members in either a fixed or swivelable manner, whilst having the optionality of removing either the vertical restraining post or angled bracing members.

In contrast to conventional bracing methods, where bracing members are offset from one another, in the present arrangement, bracing elements concentrically define a focal point so to eliminate (or significantly reduce) any eccentricity-induced stress resultants such as torsion and/or bending in the structure.

Furthermore, when compared to current market offerings, the present connector is structurally symmetrical, even when swivelled, and as such eliminate (or significantly reduce) undesirable torsional and/or flexural loads in the ceiling.

Furthermore, either lightweight flexible bracing ties can be used, which is particularly important where there are large suspension heights, or rigid bracing struts can be used where a smaller bracing footprint is required to avoid clashes with building services.

Further, the Tee-type joiner is coupled swivelably to the upper bracing bracket to avoid clashes with services in the plenum space. Also, the vertical restraining post can be removed when two counter-angled (‘V’ formation) bracing struts are used, or the angled bracing members can be removed when the vertical post is rigidly fixed to the overhead structural soffit, so to further avoid service clashes.

The fixed-type connector provides an economic solution, for example, where service clashes are not a major concern or where a cantilevered restraining post is in use without angled bracing members. The bracket is also directly connectable to other supporting members, such as strongback members disclosed herein.

Furthermore, when compared to current market offerings, the continuous longitudinal profile of the Tee-type joiner provides greater structural stiffness and strength. Also, the T-shaped ceiling runner is clamped between the joiner legs as well as being screw-fixed in a multiple-shear and multiple-pull-out configuration, giving a stronger connection. The joiner press-fits over the ceiling runner. The inclined lips and stress-relief perforations allow for easier press-fitting.

The connector may be used for extending the distance spacing between braced member runs (brace lines) in ceiling applications using elongate strongback members and wherein the connectors are connectable to ceiling structural rails in either a fixed or swivelable manner, and connectable directly to either flexible or rigid bracing members concentrically and symmetrically in either direction of the ceiling in either a fixed or swivelable manner, whilst having the optionality of removing either the vertical restraining post or angled bracing members, and wherein the connector is capable of concentrically transferring both lateral and vertical loads that are received through a focal point from adjoining members, i.e. the strongback and ceiling structural rails.

The strongback can be coupled swivelably to either the bracing assembly and/or ceiling grid to avoid clashes with services in the plenum space. Either lightweight flexible bracing ties can be used, which is especially beneficial where there are large ceiling drops, or rigid bracing struts can be used, where a reduced bracing footprint is required to free up the plenum space for building services. All components and sub-assemblies are symmetrical in either direction of the ceiling, and adjoining members concentrically transfer both lateral and vertical loads through a focal point, all of which in an effort to mitigate detrimental torsional and/or flexural stresses on the structure in an earthquake event or, for instance, under wind uplift.

The connector may also be used for bracing partial-height partition walls to a structure above via either flexible or rigid bracing members which allows for separation of the partition from an over-passing ceiling, without obstruction, including when the partition is fully lined/enclosed (i.e. the wall cavity is inaccessible).

This application resolves the mounting baseplate issue in that a flush connection is provided by using a cavity anchor rather than a screw-fixed mounting baseplate, thereby creating a clear isolation gap with no obstructions between the partition bracing and the ceiling. Further, the use of a cavity anchor provides a singular solution for both new constructions and retrofitting existing constructions where the partition wall is fully lined/enclosed.

The concentric vertical post makes it possible to use bracing ties (e.g. wire) as the post functions as a compression strut. The use of lightweight flexible bracing ties is particularly advantageous where there is a large distance between the partition top-plate and the structural soffit to which it is braced, as handling and installing heavy rigid bracing (e.g. metal studs) can prove challenging.

Furthermore, angled bracing members can be installed on either or only one side of the partition. The optionality of installing rigid bracing struts on only one side of the partition reduces the bracing footprint and chance of obstructing service runs in the plenum space, while a V-formation of the bracing struts (as shown in FIG. 70) will allow for the removal of the vertical post and allow for services to run parallel and directly above the wall. Also, the angled bracing members can be removed when the vertical restraining post is rigidly fixed to the overhead structural soffit, to further avoid service clashes where required.

Furthermore, the present connector can accommodate either a single standard stud (as shown in FIG. 69), a double stud (made from the same kind used in the partition), a heavy-duty jamb stud (as shown in FIG. 64) or a square/rectangular hollow section to create a heavy-duty vertical restraining post.

The present connector allows for either in-plane and out-of-plane bracing of the wall.

As such, as can be appreciated from the above, the present arrangements may allow for a concentric and symmetrical bracing arrangement that can utilize either lightweight flexible tension-only bracing ties and/or rigid tension/compression bracing struts in either direction in either a fixed or swivelable manner, capable of concentrically transferring both lateral and vertical loads that are received through a focal point from adjoining members, up to the overhead structural soffit, whilst having the optionality of removing either the vertical restraining post or angled bracing members.

The present arrangements may allow for a concentric and symmetrical bracing arrangement for exposed-grid type ceilings that can utilize either lightweight flexible tension-only bracing ties and/or rigid tension/compression bracing struts in either direction of the ceiling in either a fixed or swivelable manner, capable of concentrically transferring both lateral and vertical loads that are received through a focal point from the adjoining ceiling structural rail, up to the overhead structural soffit, whilst having the optionality of removing either the vertical restraining post or angled bracing members.

It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that other ceiling types may be braced in the similar manner by adopting the appropriate lower structure joiner of the connector.

The present arrangements may allow for a configurable bracing strongback to extend the distance spacing between brace lines in suspended ceilings; the distance between the brace lines typically being limited by the inadequacy of a ceiling diaphragm. The bracing strongback is configurable in the sense that it can be installed either orthogonally or non-orthogonally with respect to the ceiling structural rails in a transverse plane to avoid service clashes in the plenum space, as well as the bracing assembly itself, which is swivelably orientable. The bracing arrangement again is concentric and symmetrical and can utilize either lightweight flexible tension-only bracing ties and/or rigid tension/compression bracing struts in either direction of the ceiling in either a fixed or swivelable manner and capable of concentrically transferring both lateral and vertical loads that are received through a focal point from the adjoining strongback, up to the structural soffit, whilst having the optionality of removing either the vertical restraining post or angled bracing members.

. Alternatively, the strongback may be connected to and supported by other structures such as abutting walls (i.e. perimeter bracing), rather than being back-braced to the overhead structural soffit.

The present arrangements may allow for a concentric and symmetric bracing arrangement for partial-height partitions that can utilize either lightweight flexible tension-only bracing ties and/or rigid tension/compression bracing struts on either side of the wall in either out-of-plane and/or in-plane directions without obstructing the free lateral movement of the over-passing ceiling, for instance, in an earthquake or wind event. The method of connection, which utilizes a cavity anchor, provides a singular solution for both new constructions and retrofitting existing constructions where the partition wall is fully lined/enclosed.

As such, with the foregoing in mind, according to one aspect, there is provided an arrangement for restraining a structure from an overhead structural soffit, the arrangement comprising: a connector for connecting the structure to at least one of a vertical restraining post, angled bracing strut and angled bracing tie, the connector comprising: a horizontal midsection; an upper bracing bracket extending up from the horizontal midsection the upper bracing bracket comprising: a pair of upright parallel restraining post-engaging flanges extending from opposite sides of the horizontal midsection; a quadrant of angled brace-engaging tabs extending upwardly and outwardly respectively from four sides of the horizontal midsection, a lower structure joiner which engages the structure, wherein: the upper bracing bracket and the lower structure joiner substantially coincide at the horizontal midsection; and the post-engaging flanges, brace-engaging tabs and the lower structure joiner may be all transversely biaxially symmetric with respect to a concentric focal point.

The horizontal midsection may be formed by the upper bracing bracket comprising an upper horizontal plate and the lower structure joiner comprising a lower horizontal plate and wherein the upper and lower horizontal plates, may be swivelably joined at a central pivot point coincident with the focal point.

The central pivot point may be formed by at least one of the upper bracing bracket and the lower structure joiner comprising a stud which engages the horizontal plate of the upper bracing bracket or horizontal plate of the lower structure joiner and which extends through a corresponding central aperture of the other of the upper bracing bracket and the lower structure joiner.

The horizontal midsection may be formed by a horizontal plate and wherein the upper bracing bracket and the lower structure joiner may be integrally formed with the horizontal plate.

The lower structure joiner may comprise side plates extending from opposite sides of the horizontal plate between the post-engaging flanges.

The structure may comprise a suspended ceiling comprising a plurality of ceiling panels resting in a rectangular grid of interlocking inverted T-shaped ceiling runners, each runner comprising lateral feet, a neck and a widened head and wherein the structure joiner converges in from opposite edges of the horizontal midsection to parallel side plates which lie flat against either side of the neck.

The lower structure joiner may comprise an upper widened section formed by angled sides which angle in from the horizontal midsection to the parallel side plates and which defines a gap therein to accommodate the head of the runner therein.

Lower edges of the parallel side plates may flare outwardly.

The lower structure joiner may comprise stress relief perforations at least one of between the horizontal midsection and the angled sides and along the horizontal midsection.

The horizontal midsection may narrow in from the restraining post-engaging flanges to the opposite edges of the horizontal midsection.

The structure may comprise a suspended ceiling comprising a rectangular grid of structural ceiling rails and wherein the arrangement comprises: a pair of connectors connected to a respective pair of ceiling rails by lower structure joiners thereof; an elongate strongback member spanning between the pair of connectors; a further connector connecting the strongback member to a vertical ceiling post wherein the lower structure joiner of the further connector connects to the strongback member at a point between the pair of connectors and wherein the vertical restraining post may be connected between the post-engaging flanges of the further connector and wherein the further connector may be braced with at least one of the angled bracing ties and angled bracing struts connected to the angled brace-engaging tabs of the further connector.

The horizontal midsection of the pair of connectors may be formed by the upper bracing bracket of the pair of connectors comprising an upper horizontal plate and the lower structure joiner of the pair of connectors comprising a lower horizontal plate and wherein the upper and lower horizontal plates, may be swivelably joined at a central pivot point and wherein the elongate strongback member extends non-orthogonally between the respective pair of ceiling rails in transverse plane.

The strongback member may be affixed between the respective post-engaging flanges of the pair of connectors.

The further connector may comprise at least one of a stud or bolt which inserts through an aperture of the strongback member.

The pair of ceiling rails may comprise inverted T-shaped ceiling runners, each runner comprising lateral feet, a neck and a widened head and wherein the lower structure joiner converges in from opposite sides of the horizontal midsection to parallel side plates which lie flat against either side of the neck.

The structure may comprise a partial-height partition wall comprising a partition wall top plate and wherein the lower structure joiner may comprise a fastening stem having a spacer sleeve and a cavity anchor inserted therethrough and wherein the lower distal end of the fastening stem extends through the top plate and wherein the cavity anchor thereof engages under the top plate.

The fastening stem may comprise a shaft and a spacer sleeve thereabout.

The shaft may comprise a threaded upper end comprising a nut that engages the upper bracing bracket and presses against the spacer sleeve to pull the cavity anchor in opposition and engage the lower distal end of the cavity anchor up against the underside of the partition wall top plate.

A wide aperture having a diameter substantially larger than that of the fastening stem may be formed within a ceiling board lying over the top plate and wherein the fastening stem extends through the wide hole and wherein the connector engages the top plate such that there may be no obstructions formed around the fastening stem on an upper surface of the top plate.

The cavity anchor may comprise a catch rotatably engaged through 90° to a distal end of the shaft wherein, when in rotational alignment with the shaft, allows the distal end of the shaft to be inserted through an aperture of the partition wall top plate and wherein when out of rotational alignment with the shaft defines adjacent upper bearing surfaces which engage under the partition wall top plate.

A pair of the brace-engaging tabs may be punched from the restraining post-engaging flanges.

The lower structure joiner may comprise side plates extending from opposite sides of the horizontal plate and wherein a pair of angled brace-engaging tabs may be punched from the lower structure joiner.

The arrangement may comprise a transversely orthogonal arrangement of angled bracing struts and may be without a vertical restraining post.

The arrangement may comprise a vertical restraining post which may be rigidly fixed to the overhead structural soffit and may be without angled bracing struts and angled bracing ties.

At least one of the vertical restraining post, angled bracing strut and angled bracing tie may not be orthogonal with respect to the lower structure joiner in transverse plane.

The brace-engaging tabs each may comprise a preformed aperture therein.

The brace-engaging tabs may be each longitudinal and each may comprise a series of preformed apertures in longitudinal alignment therewith.

A pair of the brace-engaging tabs may be punched from the restraining post-engaging flanges.

Opposing brace-engaging tabs between the post-engaging flanges may substantially commence from between adjacent side edges of the post-engaging flanges.

The brace-engaging tabs may extend from edges of the horizontal midsection and wherein the horizontal midsection may be substantially continuous therebetween.

The side plates may comprise preformed apertures therethrough for affixation of metal screws therethrough to engage the neck.

The at least one of the stud or bolt may be held with a nut.

The ceiling may comprise top cross rails and lower furring channels and the strongback member may be a top cross rail and the lower structure joiner may comprise side plates defining a gap therebetween to accommodate a top cross rail therein.

The side plates may comprise inwardly projecting V-shaped rails which engage within indentations formed within the sides of the top cross rail.

Lower edges of the side plates may flare outwardly.

The ceiling may comprise top cross rails and lower furring channels and wherein the lower structure joiner may comprise side plates which engage within a furring channel.

The top plate may transition to each side plate to form a chamfer that engages under inner sides of top rails of the furring channel.

Lower edges of the side plates may transition inwardly.

The ceiling may comprise top cross rails and lower furring channels and wherein the strongback member may be C-shaped in cross section and wherein the lower structure joiner may comprise parallel side plates that engage around a lower furring channel.

The parallel side plates may deviate inwardly at bends to define upper inner channels which accommodate outer edges of the top rails of the furring channel.

Each parallel side plate may flare outwardly at a lower edge thereof.

The side plates may comprise preformed apertures therein through which metal screws engage sides of the furring channel.

The ceiling structural rails may comprise C-shaped channels and wherein the strongback member may be C-shaped in cross section and wherein the lower structure joiner engages a C-shaped channel.

The lower structure joiner may comprise side plates that extend outwardly to engage against inner sides of the C-shaped channel.

Each side plate may flare inwardly at a lower edge thereof.

The horizontal midsection may transition to the side plates by shoulders forming an outer chamfer which engages under the inner sides of top rails of the C-shaped channel.

The lower structure joiner may comprise side plates that extend downwardly and orthogonally from the horizontal top plate to engage against outer sides of the C-shaped channel.

Each side plate may flare outwardly at a lower edge thereof.

The cavity anchor may comprise a distal end of the shaft being split into splices and wherein a tapered toggle forces the splices apart to engage under the partition wall top plate.

The tapered toggle may be engaged to an inner shaft having upper tightening nuts, which, when turned, splits the splices.

Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows a suspended ceiling arrangement in accordance with the prior art;

FIG. 2 shows a conventional ceiling back-bracing using angled bracing struts in accordance with the prior art;

FIG. 3 shows an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing comprising a vertical restraining post and angled bracing struts using a swivel-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 4 shows a conventional ceiling back-bracing using angled bracing ties in accordance with the prior art;

FIG. 5 shows a top plan view of a fixed Tee runner-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 6 shows an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using the fixed Tee-type connector of FIG. 5 and angled bracing ties in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 7 shows an isometric view of the fixed Tee-type connector of FIG. 5 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 8 shows a side view of the fixed Tee-type connector of FIG. 5 with a Tee ceiling runner fixed therein in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 9 shows a top plan view of a heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket of a swivel-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 10 shows a side view of a swivelable Tee-type lower structure joiner with a Tee ceiling runner fixed therein in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 11 shows an isometric view of the swivelable heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket of FIG. 9 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 12 shows an isometric view of the swivelable Tee-type lower structure joiner of FIG. 10 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 13 shows an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using a swivelable Tee-type connector and angled bracing ties in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 14 shows an isometric view of the swivelable Tee-type connector used in FIG. 13, having the heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket of FIG. 11 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 15 shows an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using a Cee channel-type strongback in an orthogonal configuration relative to a Tee-grid type ceiling grid in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 16 shows an isometric view of a swivelable Tee-type connector, having a standard-type upper bracing bracket in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 17 shows a detailed view of the orthogonal intersection between the strongback and Tee ceiling runner of FIG. 15 using the fixed Tee-type connector of FIG. 7 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 18 shows an overview of an orthogonal strongback bracing arrangement for a Tee-grid type ceiling with a swivelable restraining post and angled bracing ties in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 19 shows an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using a Cee-type strongback in a non-orthogonal configuration relative to a Tee-type ceiling grid using the swivelable Tee-type connector of FIG. 16 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 20 shows an overview of a non-orthogonal strongback bracing arrangement for a Tee-grid type ceiling with a swivelable vertical restraining post and angled bracing struts in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 21 shows a top plan view of the swivelable standard-type upper bracing bracket of FIG. 16 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 22 shows a non-orthogonal strongback bracing arrangement for a Tee-grid type ceiling with a swivelable vertical restraining post and angled bracing ties in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 23 shows an isometric view of a fixed top cross rail-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 24 shows a side view of the fixed top cross rail-type connector of FIG. 23 with a ceiling top cross rail fixed therein in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 25 shows an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using a top cross rail-type strongback in a non-orthogonal configuration relative to the ceiling grid, which is made of top cross rails and lower furring channels in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 26 shows a top plan view of the fixed top cross rail-type connector of FIG. 23 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 27 shows an isometric view of a swivelable top cross rail-type structure joiner in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 28 shows a side view of the swivelable top cross rail-type structure joiner of FIG. 27 press-fit from under a ceiling top cross rail fixed therein in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 29 shows an isometric view of a swivelable furring channel-type structure joiner in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 30 shows the top cross rail-type structure joiner of FIG. 27 and the furring channel-type structure joiner of FIG. 29 swivelably joined to each other in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 31 shows an orthogonal top cross rail-type strongback bracing arrangement with a vertical restraining post and angled bracing ties connected to the fixed top cross rail-type connector of FIG. 23 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 32 shows an isometric view of a swivelable top cross rail-type connector, having a semi-heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 33 shows a ceiling top cross rail and lower furring channel connected to their respective structure joiners in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 34 shows an orthogonal top cross rail-type strongback bracing arrangement with a vertical restraining post, and an angled bracing strut, and angled bracing ties connected to the swivelable top cross rail-type connector of FIG. 32 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 35 shows a non-orthogonal top cross rail-type strongback bracing arrangement with a swivelable vertical restraining post and angled bracing struts in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 36 shows a side view of the swivelable top cross rail-type structure joiner of FIG. 27 press-fit over a ceiling top cross rail fixed therein in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 37 shows an isometric view of a fixed furring channel-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 38 and 39 show an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using a Cee channel-type strongback in an orthogonal configuration relative to the ceiling grid, which is made of top cross rails and lower furring channels in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 40 shows a detailed view of the orthogonal intersection between the Cee channel-type strongback and ceiling furring channel of FIG. 39 using the fixed furring channel-type connector of FIG. 37 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 41 shows an isometric view of a swivelable furring channel-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 42 and 43 show a non-orthogonal Cee channel-type strongback arrangement for a ceiling made of top cross rails and lower furring channels in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 44 shows a detailed view of the non-orthogonal intersection between the Cee channel-type strongback and ceiling furring channel of FIG. 43 using the swivelable furring channel-type connector of FIG. 41 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 45 shows an isometric view of a fixed Cee channel-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 46 shows a side view of the fixed Cee-type connector of FIG. 45 connected to a Cee channel-type ceiling rail in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 47 and 55 show an arrangement for ceiling back-bracing using a Cee channel-type strongback in a non-orthogonal configuration relative to the ceiling grid, which is also made of the same type of Cee channel as the strongback in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 48 shows a top plan view of the fixed Cee-type connector of FIG. 45 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 49 shows a detailed view of a swivelable connection between an upper bracing bracket and a Cee-type strongback in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 50 and 52 show an orthogonal Cee-type strongback arrangement for a ceiling made of the same type of Cee channel as the strongback in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 51 shows a detailed view of the orthogonal intersection between the Cee-type strongback and Cee-type ceiling rail of FIGS. 50 and 52 using the fixed Cee-type connector of FIG. 45 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 53 shows a detailed view of the non-orthogonal intersection between the Cee-type strongback and Cee-type ceiling rail of FIGS. 47 and 55 using the swivelable Cee-type connector of FIG. 54 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 54 shows an isometric view of a swivelable Cee-type connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 56 shows a conventional partial-height partition wall back-bracing using angled bracing struts in accordance with the prior art, wherein the partition height exceeds the ceiling level;

FIG. 57 shows an arrangement for partial-height partition wall back-bracing comprising a vertical restraining post and angled bracing ties using a connector in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 58 shows a conventional partial-height partition back-bracing using angled bracing struts in accordance with the prior art, where a ceiling runs over the top of the partition and a mounting plinth is used for separating the partition bracing from the ceiling;

FIG. 59 shows a side view of a toggle-type cavity anchor in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 60 shows an isometric view of a partition-type connector, having a heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket and a lower fastening stem comprising a spacer sleeve and a toggle-type cavity anchor in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 61 shows an exploded view of the partition-type connector of FIG. 66 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 62 shows an exploded view of the partition-type connector of FIG. 60 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 63 shows a side view of an expansion-type cavity anchor in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 64 and 65 show a back-bracing arrangement for a partial-height partition wall comprising a vertical restraining post and an angled bracing strut on one side of the partition in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 66 shows an isometric view of a partition-type connector, having a semi-heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket and a lower fastening stem comprising a spacer sleeve and the expansion-type cavity anchor of FIG. 63 in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 67 shows an isolation gap between a partition-type connector and a suspended ceiling in accordance with an embodiment;

FIGS. 68, 69 and 71 show back-bracing arrangements for a partial-height partition comprising a vertical restraining post and angled bracing ties on either side of the partition wall in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 70 shows a back-bracing arrangement for a partial-height partition wall without a vertical restraining post and counter-angled bracing struts on either side of the partition in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 72 shows a top plan view of a semi-heavy-duty-type upper bracing bracket of a swivel-type connector in accordance with an embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Arrangements for restraining a structure (such as a suspended ceiling 113 or partition wall 128) from a structural soffit comprises a connector 100 for connecting the structure to at least one of vertical restraining posts 121, angled bracing struts 123 and angled bracing ties 122 from the structural soffit.

With reference to FIG. 7, the connector 100 comprises a horizontal midsection 104 and an upper bracing bracket 105 extending up from the horizontal midsection 104.

The upper bracing bracket 105 comprises a pair of upright parallel restraining post-engaging flanges 106 extending from opposite sides of the horizontal midsection 104. The post-engaging flanges 106 may comprise screw fix apertures 129 preformed therethrough.

The upper bracing bracket 105 further comprises a quadrant of angled brace-engaging tabs 107 extending upwardly and outwardly respectively from four sides of the horizontal midsection 104.

The brace-engaging tabs 107 may be smaller than the post-engaging flanges 106 and may comprise preformed apertures 129 therethrough through which metal screws may be inserted to engage angled bracing struts 123 or through which angled bracing ties 122 may be tied off.

The upper bracing bracket 105 may take the standard form as shown in FIGS. 7 and 21 wherein each tab 107 comprises a single preformed aperture 129 and are much smaller as compared to the adjacent post-engaging flanges 106, or the semi-heavy-duty form as shown in FIGS. 66 and 72 or the heavy-duty embodiment given in FIGS. 9 and 11 wherein one or more of the angled brace-engaging tabs 107 of the semi-heavy-duty or heavy-duty embodiments may be wider and/or longer than those shown in FIG. 7 and may have more than one preformed aperture 129, and wherein the post-engaging flanges 106 may also be wider than those given in FIG. 7. For the semi-heavy duty and heavy-duty upper bracing brackets 105, the brace-engaging tabs 107 may be designed to attach to angled bracing struts 123 as well as angled bracing ties 122. Further, in the case of the heavy-duty upper bracing bracket 105, the post-engaging flanges 106 may be designed to accommodate a double stud, jamb stud or square/rectangular hollow section as a vertical restraining post 121.

In accordance with the semi-heavy-duty embodiment as best shown in FIGS. 66 and 72, the post-engaging flanges 106 and corresponding angled brace-engaging tabs 107 may be similar to that of the standard upper bracing bracket 105, however, the opposing angled brace-engaging tabs 107 on either non-post-engaging edge of the horizontal midsection 104 may have a width being more than a quarter or approximately half the width of the horizontal midsection 104. Furthermore, in accordance with this embodiment, the more robust angled brace-engaging tabs 107 may comprise a plurality of preformed apertures 129 preferably arranged transversely across the width of the tab 107, especially useful for inserting a plurality of metal screws into angled bracing struts 123.

In accordance with the heavy-duty embodiment as best shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, the post-engaging flanges 106 may be approximately twice the width of the flange of a standard C-shaped profile used in the ceiling or partition structural frame and the angled brace-engaging tabs 107 may be approximately half the length of the post-engaging flanges 106 and may furthermore have a width being more than a quarter or approximately half the width of the post-engaging flanges 106. Furthermore, in accordance with this embodiment, the more robust angled brace-engaging tabs 107 may comprise a plurality of preformed apertures 129 preferably arranged longitudinally there along, especially useful for inserting a plurality of metal screws into angled bracing struts 123.

The connector 100 further comprises a lower structure joiner 108 for engaging the structure. The lower structure joiner 108 may take a variety of configurations as will be described in further detail hereunder, including the Tee-type joiner given in FIG. 12, the top cross rail-type joiner given in FIG. 27, the furring channel-type joiner given in FIG. 29 and the Cee-type joiner given in FIG. 54.

In a preferred embodiment, the upper bracing bracket 105 is transversely biaxially symmetric with the lower structure joiner 108 wherein the upper bracing bracket 105 and the lower structure joiner 108 are biaxially symmetric in both the X and Y axes (defining a transverse plane) such that, in use, lateral and vertical loads are transferred from the structure through a concentric focal point of the connector defined by the concentricity and symmetry of the post-engaging flanges 106, brace-engaging tabs 107 and the lower structure joiner 108.

Where the connector 100 is the fixed-type connector comprising the horizontal plate 112, the horizontal plate 112 itself may be biaxially symmetric with the post-engaging flanges 106 and the brace-engaging tabs 107 such that load is concentrically transferred therethrough from the lower structure joiner to the upper bracing bracket. Where the connector 100 is the swivel-type connector, the upper bracing bracket 105 and lower structure joiner 108 may be biaxially symmetric with respect to the central pivot point 131 such that load is concentrically transferred therethrough.

Furthermore, lower ends of the upper bracing bracket 105 and the lower structure joiner 108 substantially coincide at the horizontal midsection so that the upper bracing can be closely connected to the structure, thereby reducing or avoiding bending force which may be experienced by an otherwise more vertically elongate connection.

With reference to FIG. 9, the post-engaging flanges 106 may be symmetric about a midline or midpoint 130 of the horizontal midsection 104 therebetween. Furthermore, each opposing pair of brace-engaging tabs 107 may also be symmetric about the midline or midpoint 130. With reference to the embodiment of FIG. 5 wherein the horizontal midsection 104 is not square, opposing pairs of brace-engaging tabs 107 may similarly be symmetric about the midline or midpoint 130 therebetween.

The embodiment of FIG. 7 shows wherein the connector 100 is a fixed-type connector 100. In accordance with this embodiment, the horizontal midsection 104 is formed by a horizontal plate 112 and wherein the upper bracing bracket 105 and the lower structure joiner 108 are integrally formed with the horizontal plate 112 and wherein the lower structure joiner 108 is transversely biaxially symmetric with the upper bracing bracket 105. In accordance with this embodiment, the connector 100 may be press formed from a continuous sheet of metal.

Furthermore, a first pair of angled brace-engaging tabs 107 may be punched from the post-engaging flanges 106 and a second pair of angled brace-engaging tabs 107 may be punched from side plates of the lower structure joiner 108.

FIG. 16 shows an embodiment wherein the connector 100 is a swivel-type connector 100 wherein the horizontal midsection 104 is formed by the upper bracing bracket 105 comprising an upper horizontal plate 109 and the lower structure joiner 108 comprising a lower horizontal plate 110 and wherein the upper and lower horizontal plates 109, 110 are swivelably coupled at a central pivot point 131. With reference to FIG. 12, the central pivot point 131 may be formed by the lower structure joiner 108 comprising a self-clinching threaded stud 136 which engages the horizontal plate 110 of the lower bracing bracket 108 and extends up through a central aperture 137 of the horizontal plate 109 of the upper bracing bracket 105 and which is secured with a nut 138 in the manner shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 1 shows a first arrangement wherein the structure comprises a suspended ceiling 113 and, more particularly, to an exposed-grid ceiling comprising a plurality of ceiling panels 114 resting on a rectangular grid of interlocking inverted T-shaped ceiling runners 115. With reference to FIG. 10, each runner 115 comprises lateral feet 116, a vertical neck 117 and a widened head 118. The ceiling runner 115 is typically made from roll formed steel or extruded aluminium.

FIGS. 2 and 4 show prior art arrangements of restraining the runners 115 when a vertical restraining post 121 is screw-fixed with metal screws 132 through distal end thereof to a neck 117 of a runner 115. FIG. 2 shows an embodiment wherein the vertical restraining post 121 is restrained with angled bracing struts 123 connected directly thereto and FIG. 4 shows wherein the runners 115 are braced using angled bracing ties 122 connected around the head 118 through the neck 117 of the runner 115.

FIG. 7 illustrates a Tee-type joiner wherein the lower structure joiner 108 thereof is suited for connecting to inverted T-shaped ceiling runners 115.

Specifically, with reference to FIG. 10, the lower structure joiner 108 converges in from opposite edges of the horizontal midsection 104 to parallel side plates 119 which lie flat against either side of the neck 117. The parallel side plates 119 may comprise preformed apertures 129 therethrough through which metal screws 132 may be engaged to perform in a multiple-shear and multiple-pull-out manner.

The lower structure joiner 108 may comprise an upper widened section 133 formed by angled sides 134 which angle in from the horizontal midsection 104 to the parallel plates 119 and which defines a gap 135 therein to accommodate the head 118 of the runner 115 therein.

The horizontal midsection 104 may narrow in from the restraining post-engaging flanges 106 to the opposite edges of the horizontal midsection 104 to form a narrow joiner 108 suited for the T-shaped ceiling runners 115.

As further shown in FIG. 10, lower edges of the parallel side plates 119 may flare outwardly such that the lower structure joiner 108 may be press-fit over the head 118 of the runner 115 to engage the runner 115.

As shown in FIG. 12, the lower structure joiner 108 may comprise stress relief perforations 176 between the horizontal midsection 104 and the angled sides 134 to assist with this press-fit engagement. The angled sides 134 and/or parallel side plates 119 may further comprise a longitudinal stress relief perforation 176 therealong. As shown in FIG. 7, the cut-outs formed by punching out the brace-engaging tabs 107 from the side plates of the lower structure joiner 108 may also serve as stress relief perforations 176.

FIG. 6 shows the first arrangement wherein the lower structure joiner 108 of the connector 100 of FIG. 7 engages either side of a runner 115 and which is attached thereto by metal screws 132. Furthermore, the upright parallel restraining post-engaging flanges 106 of the upper bracing bracket 105 of the connector 100 are screw-fixed engaged to either side of a vertical restraining post 121 similarly using metal screws 132.

The vertical restraining post 121 may be braced by bracing ties 122 tied to respective angled brace-engaging tabs 107 as shown in FIG. 6. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the vertical restraining post 121 may be braced by angled bracing struts 123 screw-fixed engaged to the angled brace-engaging tabs 107. The embodiment of FIG. 3 shows wherein the connector 100 comprises the heavy-duty brace-engaging tabs 107 as described above with reference to FIGS. 9 and 11 and wherein a plurality of metal screws 132 are engaged through the preformed apertures 129 thereof to more securely engage the angled bracing struts 123.

Furthermore, the embodiment of FIG. 3 shows wherein the connector 100 is a swivel-type connector 100 wherein the upper bracing bracket 105 is rotated with respect to the lower structure joiner 108 such that the angled bracing struts 123 extend non-orthogonally with respect to the runners 115 in a transverse plane.

FIG. 13 shows an embodiment wherein the connector 100 is similarly a swivel-type connector 100 but wherein bracing ties 122 are connected to one of the preformed apertures 129 of the angled brace-engaging tabs 107 such that the angled bracing ties 122 can similarly extend non-orthogonally with respect to the runners 115 in a transverse plane.

FIGS. 15 - 55 shows a second arrangement wherein the structure comprises a suspended ceiling 113 comprising a rectangular grid of ceiling structural rails 139.

The ceiling structural rails 139 may include the aforedescribed inverted T-shaped runners 115, top cross rails 140 as shown in FIG. 25, lower furring channels 141 as also shown in FIG. 25 and/or C-shaped channels 142 as shown in FIG. 47.

With reference to FIG. 18, this second arrangement comprises at least one pair of connectors 100A connected to respective ceiling rails 139 by the lower structure joiners 108 thereof.

An elongate strongback member 120 spans between the connectors 100. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the strongback member 120 is affixed between respective post-engaging flanges 106 of the pair of connectors 100A in the manner shown in more detail in FIGS. 15 and 17.

With reference to FIG. 18, this second arrangement may further comprise one or more further connectors 100B connecting the strongback member 120 to vertical restraining posts 121 wherein the further connector 100B may be swivelably connected directly to the strongback 120 wherein the lower structure joiner 108 takes the form of a self-clinching threaded stud 136 (as best shown in FIG. 49) which engages the horizontal plate 109 of the upper bracing bracket 105 and which inserts through an aperture of the strongback 120 and which is held with a nut 138. Alternatively, the lower structure joiner 108 may take the form of a standard bolted connection used to swivelably connect the further connector 100B to the strongback 120.

The vertical restraining post 121 may be connected between the post-engaging flanges 106 of the further connector 100B in the manner shown in more detail in FIG. 22. Preferably, at least two further connectors 100B are employed to enhance stability.

In the manner shown in FIG. 15, the angled bracing struts 123 may be connected to the brace-engaging tabs 107 of the further connector 100B. In the manner shown in FIG. 22, angled bracing ties 122 may be connected to the brace-engaging tabs 107 of the further connector 100B.

Alternatively, the strongback member 120 may be connected to and supported by other structures such as abutting walls (i.e. perimeter bracing), rather than being back braced to the overhead structural soffit.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the connectors 100 may be fixed-type connectors 100 such that the strongback member 120 extends orthogonally with respect to the ceiling rails 139 in transverse plane.

However, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 20, the connectors 100 may be swivel-type connectors 100 such that the strongback member 120 extends non-orthogonally with respect to the ceiling rails 139 in transverse plane.

The embodiments given in FIGS. 15 - 22 show wherein the lower structure joiner 108 is the Tee-type joiner shown in FIG. 7 which is configured for engaging inverted T-shaped runners 115.

FIGS. 23 - 36 show embodiments for suspended ceilings 113 comprising top cross rails 140 and lower furring channels 141 and wherein the strongback member 120 is a top cross rail 140.

It should be noted that the top cross rail-type strongback arrangement as shown in FIG. 25 can be distinguished from the Cee channel-type strongback arrangement as shown in FIGS. 18 and 47 wherein the further connector 100B connects directly to the Cee channel-type strongback 120 via a bolted connection as shown in FIG. 49, whereas in the case of a top cross rail-type strongback 120, the further connector 100B is connected to the top cross rail-type strongback 120 via a top cross rail-type lower structure joiner 108. Also, the top cross rail-type strongback 120 is connected differently to the lower furring channel 141, as the typical connector 100 is not used. Instead, a top cross rail-to-furring channel connector as shown in FIG. 30 may be used that is made from a top cross rail-type joiner 108 and a furring channel-type joiner 146. This contrasts to a Cee channel-type strongback 120, as a Cee channel-type strongback 120 connects to a lower ceiling structural rail 139 via a connector 100.

FIG. 23 shows an embodiment of the fixed type connector 100 wherein the lower structure joiner 108 of the connector 100 is a top cross rail-type joiner comprises side plates 143 defining a gap 145 therebetween to accommodate a top cross rail 140 therebetween in the manner shown in FIG. 24 and which comprise inwardly projecting V-shaped rails 144 which engage within indentations formed within the sides of the top cross rail 140 and provide a positive connection between the side plates 143 and the top cross rail 140.

The V-shaped rails 144 of the top cross rail-type joiner 108 may be designed to press-fit from either the top or bottom of the top cross rail 140 as best shown in FIGS. 36 and 28, respectively.

The V-shaped rails 144 may comprise preformed apertures 129 therein through which metal screws 132 may be used to engage sides of the top cross rail 140.

Lower edges of the side plates 143 may flare outwardly to allow the structure joiner 108 to be press-fit over the top cross rail 140.

As further shown in FIG. 23, the lower structure joiner 108 may comprise stress relief perforations 176 between the horizontal midsection 104 and the side plates 143 to assist with this press-fit engagement. The cut-outs formed by punching out the brace-engaging tabs 107 from the side plates 143 may also serve as stress relief perforations 176.

As such, the connector 100 may be used to connect a vertical restraining post 121 to a top cross rail-type strongback 120 with metal screws 132 in the manner shown in FIG. 31.

FIGS. 27 and 36 show the top cross rail-type structure joiner 108 of the swivel type connector 100 shown in FIGS. 32 and 34 similarly comprising the side plates 143 defining a gap 145 therebetween and the inwardly projecting V-shaped rails 144 for positively engaging a top cross rail 140 therein, and outwardly flared lower edges and stress relief perforations 176 to assist with press-fitting the structure joiner 108 over the top cross rail 140.

FIG. 29 illustrates an inner furring channel-type joiner 146 comprising a top plate 147 and side plates 148 which can be used to engage within a furring channel in the manner shown in FIG. 33. The top plate 147 may comprise an aperture 149 therein. The top plate 147 may transition to each side plate 148 to form a chamfer 154 that engages under the inner sides of top rails 153 of a furring channel 140 in the manner shown in FIG. 33. Furthermore, lower edges 155 of the side plates 148 may transition inwardly to navigate the bottom corners 156 of the furring channel 141 also in the manner shown in FIG. 33 and to allow press-fit engagement into the furring channel 141.

FIG. 30 shows wherein the top cross rail-type joiner 108 of the swivel type connector 100 is connected to the inner furring channel-type joiner 146 in a swivelable manner wherein the self-clinching threaded stud 136 of the top cross rail-type joiner 108 is inserted through the aperture 149 of the furring channel-type joiner 146 and secured with a nut 138.

As such, in the manner shown in FIG. 33, the interconnected furring channel-type joiner 146 and top cross rail-type structure joiner 108 may be used to connect a top cross rail-type strongback 120 and lower furring channel 141 together, including wherein the swivelability thereof allow the top cross rail-type strongback 120 and the lower furring channel 141 to be connected orthogonally in transverse plane in the manner shown in FIG. 34 or non-orthogonally in transverse plane in the manner shown in FIG. 35.

FIGS. 37 - 44 show embodiments for suspended ceilings 113 comprising a grid of top cross rails 140 and lower furring channels 141 and wherein the strongback member 120 is a C-shaped channel.

FIG. 37 shows a fixed-type connector 100 wherein the lower structure joiner 108 is a furring channel-type joiner 108 suited to engage around a furring channel 141 in the manner shown in FIG. 40. In this embodiment, the lower structure joiner 108 comprises parallel side plates 150 that deviate inwardly from the horizontal plate 112 at bends 151 that define upper inner channels 152 therein that accommodate outer edges of the top rails 153 of the furring channel 141 in the manner shown in FIG. 40.

The side plates 150 may comprise preformed apertures 129 therein through which metal screws 132 may be used to engage sides of the furring channel 141.

Lower edges of the side plates 150 may flare outwardly to allow the structure joiner 108 to be press-fit over the furring channel 141.

As further shown in FIG. 37, the lower structure joiner 108 may comprise stress relief perforations 176 between the horizontal plate 112 and the side plates 150 to assist with this press-fit engagement. The cut-outs formed by punching out the brace-engaging tabs 107 from the side plates 150 may also serve as stress relief perforations 176.

As such, using the fixed-type connector 100 of FIG. 37, a C-shaped strongback member 120 may be used to engage a furring channel 141 orthogonally in transverse plane in the manner shown in FIGS. 38 - 40. Alternatively, the connector 100 of FIG. 37 could be a swivel-type connector 100 as shown in FIG. 41, allowing a C-shaped strongback 120 engage a furring channel 141 non-orthogonally in transverse plane, as shown in FIGS. 42 - 44.

FIG. 41 shows a swivel-type connector 100 wherein the lower structure joiner 108 comprises the inner furring channel-type joiner 146 described previously with reference to FIG. 29.

As such, in the manner shown in FIG. 44, the connector 100 may be used to connect a C-shaped strongback member 120 and a furring channel 141 wherein the lower structure joiner 108 engages within the furring channel 141 in the aforedescribed manner. Metal screws 132 may pierce the sides of the furring channel 141 to engage the lower structure joiner 108 within the furring channel 141.

As shown in FIG. 42, the connector 100 of FIG. 41 may be used to non-orthogonally connect a C-shaped strongback member 120 and a furring channel 141 in transverse plane.

FIGS. 45 - 55 show in embodiments for a ceiling 113 wherein the ceiling structural rails 139 comprise upper and lower C-shaped channels 142 and wherein the strongback member 120 is also a C-shaped channel 142. The C-shaped channels 142 may be connected together in an orthogonal grid using interchange clips 159.

FIG. 45 shows a connector 100 suited for this arrangement wherein the lower structure joiner 108 is an inner C-shaped channel-type joiner 108 configured for engaging within a C-shaped channel 142 and which comprises side plates 157 that extend outwardly from the horizontal plate 112 by shoulders 158 to reach and engage against inner sides of the C-shaped channel 142 in the manner shown in FIGS. 46 and 51.

The shoulders 158 may form outer chamfers which engages under the inner sides of top rails 162 of the C-shaped channel 142 in the manner shown in FIG. 46. The lower edges of the side plates 157 may transition inwardly in the manner shown in FIG. 46 to allow press-fit engagement into the C-shaped channel 142.

The cut-outs formed by punching out the brace-engaging tabs 107 from the side plates 157 may serve as stress relief perforations 176 to assist with this press-fit engagement.

Metal screws 132 may be used to engage the side plates 157 to the sides of the C-shaped channel 142 in the manner shown in FIG. 46.

Whereas FIG. 45 shows a fixed type connector 100 used for connecting C-shaped strongback members 120 orthogonally to lower C-shaped channels 142 in the manner shown in FIGS. 50 - 52, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 47, swivel type connectors 100 are used to engage a C-shaped strongback member 120 non-orthogonally to lower C-shaped channels 142.

FIGS. 53 and 54 show an embodiment wherein the connector 100 is a swivel type connector 100 and wherein the connector 100 comprises an outer C-shaped channel-type joiner 108 configured for engaging outside a C-shaped channel 142. In accordance with this embodiment, the lower structure joiner 108 comprises a top plate 165 which transitions downwardly and orthogonally to parallel side plates 164 and wherein the side plates 164 are spaced wide enough to engage outside sides of the C-shaped channel 142. The lower edges of the side plates 164 may flare outwardly to allow the lower structure joiner 108 to be press-fit over the C-shaped channel 142. The side plates 164 may comprise preformed apertures 129 therein for insertion of metal screws 132 therethrough to engage the sides of the C-shaped channels 142. In the manner shown in FIG. 55, the connector 100 may be used to engage a C-shaped strongback 120 non-orthogonally with a lower C-shaped channel 142.

FIG. 49 illustrates the connection between a connector 100 used for connecting a vertical restraining post 121 to a C-shaped strongback member 120. In accordance with this embodiment, the lower structure joiner 108 takes the form of a self-clinching threaded stud 136 which engages the horizontal plate 109 of the upper bracing bracket 105 and which inserts through an aperture of the strongback 120 and which is held with a nut 138. This manner of connection allows the connector 100 to swivel with respect to the strongback 120 in the manner shown in FIG. 50. Alternatively, the lower structure joiner 108 may take the form of a standard bolted connection used to swivelably connect the connector 100 to the strongback 120.

FIGS. 56 - 72 show an embodiment wherein the connector 100 is suited for restraining a partial-height partition wall 128 in the manner shown in FIGS. 57 and 65.

In accordance with this embodiment, the connector 100 comprises the upper bracing bracket 105 comprising the pair of upright restraining post-engaging flanges 106 and the quadrant of angled brace-engaging tabs 107. The lower structure joiner 108 comprises a fastening stem 126 which defines a spacer sleeve 172 and a cavity anchor 127 inserted therethrough which engages through a top plate 125 of the partition wall 128. The top plate 125 usually forms part of the head track 166 of the partition wall 128 which holds wallboard sheathing 167 adjacently, and over which a ceiling 168 lies. Neither the ceiling 168 nor the wallboard sheathing 167 are fixed to the head track.

With reference to FIG. 59, the cavity anchor 127 may comprise a shaft 169 which may comprise a threaded upper end 170 comprising a nut 171 that engages the upper bracing bracket 105 and presses against the spacer sleeve 172 (as best shown in FIGS. 60 and 62) to pull the cavity anchor 127 in opposition and engage the lower distal end of the cavity anchor 127 up against the underside of the partition wall top plate 125 in the manner shown in FIGS. 64 and 70.

With reference to FIG. 59, the cavity anchor 127 may comprise a catch 173 rotatably engaged through 90° to a distal end of the shaft 169 wherein, when in rotational alignment with the shaft 169 as shown in FIG. 62, allows the lower distal end of the cavity anchor 127 to be inserted through an aperture of the partition wall top plate 125 and wherein when out of rotational alignment with the shaft 169 as shown in FIG. 59, defines adjacent upper bearing surfaces 174 which engage under the partition wall top plate 125.

FIG. 63 shows an alternative embodiment of the cavity anchor 127 wherein a distal end of the shaft 169 is split into splices 175 and wherein a tapered toggle 176 engages to an inner shaft 177 and travels in between the splices 175 when turning tightening nut 178 to split the splices 175 apart to engage under the partition wall top plate 125 in the manner shown in FIGS. 68 and 69.

As such, the connector 100 of FIGS. 60 and 66 may be used to restrain a partial-height partition wall 128 to a vertical restraining post 121 with lightweight flexible bracing ties 122 applied on either side of the wall 128 as shown in FIGS. 57 and 69, or a vertical restraining post 121 with a rigid bracing strut 123 applied only on one side of the wall 128 as shown in FIGS. 64 and 65, or without a vertical restraining post 121 when two counter-angled (‘V’ formation) bracing struts 123 are applied on either side of the wall 128 in the manner shown in FIG. 70. Also, the angled bracing members can be removed when the vertical restraining post is rigidly fixed to the overhead structural soffit. The embodiment of FIG. 70 shows wherein the connector 100 comprises the aforedescribed semi-heavy-duty form with reference to FIGS. 66 and 72 and wherein a plurality of metal screws are engaged through the preformed apertures 129 thereof to more securely engage the angled bracing struts 123.

A plurality of connectors 100 may be arranged along a partial-height partition wall 128 in the manner shown in FIGS. 57 and 65.

FIG. 67 illustrates a wide aperture 179 formed in the ceiling 168 lying over the top plate 125, the wide aperture 179 comprising a diameter substantially larger than that of the sleeve 172 to allow a sufficient gap for differential movement between the ceiling and partition bracing. FIG. 67 further illustrates the sleeve 172 interfaces the partition wall top plate 125 without creating peripheral obstruction thereabout (such as would be the case using a mounting plate 180 as shown in FIG. 58) on an upper surface of the top plate 125 which could impede differential motion of the ceiling 168.

The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

The term “approximately” or similar as used herein should be construed as being within 10% of the value stated unless otherwise indicated.

STRUCTURAL SOFFIT RESTRAINT ARRANGEMENTS

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CPC

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