Clamping plate connector

Abstract

The present invention is a cleat connector for attachment to a post structure, comprising a body having a channel adapted to be fixed to the post structure; and at least one extension adapted to secure a structure thereto. The invention alleviates at least some problems associated with splints in the art.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of construction. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of strengthening or connecting buildings. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to a splint connector for construction. Background Art

[0002] Any reference to background art herein is not to be construed as an admission that such art constitutes common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere.

[0003] Housing and structures are an integral part of society. In this regard, housing provides shelter and accommodation for people. Structures must be strong enough to ensure that they maintain their structural integrity. One prior art method of maintaining the structural integrity of a building is to use splints to secure adjacent structures or reinforce the structure.

[0004] Typically, splints are used to provide further structural integrity to a building by providing a connection between a beam and a column. Typically, the splint is attached to a pair of adjacent structures to provide structural integrity. If the structure is a metal structure (e.g., square hollow section, SHS), a welder is required to attach the splint to the metal structure. It will be appreciated that this is time-consuming and expensive, at least in terms of labor costs.

[0005] It would be advantageous to solve one or more of the above problems and / or to provide a useful or commercial alternative for consumers. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, although it need not be the only or indeed the broadest aspect, the present invention resides in a splint connector for attachment to a column structure, comprising:

[0007] a body having a channel adapted to be fixed to the column structure; and

[0008] at least one extension adapted to have a structure fixed thereto.

[0009] In an embodiment, the body includes a base and a pair of walls extending from opposite ends thereof. In some embodiments, the body includes a plurality of attachment portions adapted to be fixed to the column structure.

[0010] In one embodiment, the splint connector includes 1, 2, 3 or 4 extensions. In one embodiment, the splint connector includes 1, 2 or 3 extensions. The extensions suitably extend away from one or more of the base, the first wall or the second wall. In a preferred embodiment, the extensions are suitably perpendicular to the surface from which they extend away.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the base, the first wall and / or the second wall includes at least one attachment portion adapted to be fixed to the column structure. In one embodiment, the attachment portion includes an aperture adapted to receive a fastening member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the splint connector is integrally formed.

[0013] In one embodiment, each extension includes a side wall and one or more fixing portions adapted to be fixed to a structure. In certain embodiments, the fixing portion is rotatably connected to the side wall. In an embodiment, each extension includes 1, 2, 3, or 4 fixing portions rotatably connected to the side wall. In one embodiment, a rotating mechanism connects the fixing portion to the corresponding side wall. In one embodiment, the fixing portion can rotate in the plane of the side wall.

[0014] In an embodiment, each extension includes at least one orifice adapted to be fixed to a structure.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the body further includes a top connecting to the base and a pair of walls.

[0016] In one embodiment, each extension in at least one extension extends vertically away from the top. In an embodiment, each extension includes at least one orifice adapted to be fixed to a structure.

[0017] In one embodiment, the column structure is a square hollow section box.

[0018] In one embodiment, the column structure is a wooden structure and / or a metal structure. In one embodiment, the column structure has a substantially uniform cross-section. In an embodiment, the column structure has a square cross-section or a rectangular cross-section. In one embodiment, the column structure is a square hollow section or a rectangular hollow section. In one embodiment, the column structure is a parallel flange channel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the structure includes wood and / or metal. In one embodiment, the structure is a parallel flange channel.

[0020] In one embodiment, the splint connector is used for balconies, corridor beams, roof beams, floor load-bearing brackets, garages, carports, gazebos, and / or landing platforms. In one embodiment, the splint connector is used for balconies, corridor beams, roof beams, floor load-bearing brackets, garages, carports, gazebos, and / or landing platforms. In one embodiment, the transparent connector fixes the base and / or the first wall to the side wall.

[0021] The various features and embodiments of the present invention mentioned in the above sections and the following description, where appropriate, apply to other sections with modifications. Therefore, the features specified in one section can be appropriately combined with the features specified in other sections.

[0022] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] To assist in understanding the present invention and enable those skilled in the art to put the present invention into practice, embodiments of the present invention will be described only by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0024] Figure 1 An embodiment of a splint connector is shown.

[0025] Figure 2 Another embodiment of a splint connector is shown.

[0026] Figure 3 A further embodiment of a splint connector is shown.

[0027] Figure 3a Another embodiment of a splint connector is shown.

[0028] Figure 4 An embodiment of a splint connector is shown.

[0029] Figure 5 An embodiment of a splint connector is shown.

[0030] Figure 6a An embodiment of a splint connector is shown, the splint connector including a single extension connected to a single fixed portion rotatably connected thereto.

[0031] Figure 6b An embodiment of a splint connector is shown, the splint connector including a single extension connected to two fixed portions rotatably connected thereto.

[0032] Figure 7a An embodiment of a splint connector is shown, the splint connector including two extensions, wherein each extension is connected to a single fixed portion rotatably connected thereto.

[0033] Figure 7b An embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 7a is shown, except that the extensions are substantially in the same plane.

[0034] Figure 7c An embodiment of the fixed portion is shown.

[0035] Figure 8a An embodiment of a splint connector having a single extension is shown.

[0036] Figure 8b An embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 8a is shown, except that the extension includes a second orifice.

[0037] Figure 8cshows an embodiment similar to that shown in Figure 8a and Figure 8b except that the extension includes a third orifice.

[0038] Figure 9a shows an embodiment similar to that shown in Figure 8a except that the splint connector includes two extensions, each of which is adapted to be fixed to a single structure.

[0039] Figure 9b shows an embodiment similar to that shown in Figure 8b except that the splint connector includes two extensions, each of which is adapted to be fixed to two structures.

[0040] Figure 9c shows an embodiment similar to that shown in Figure 8c except that the splint connector includes two extensions, each of which is adapted to be fixed to three structures.

[0041] Figure 10a shows an embodiment of a splint connector having a single extension extending away from the top.

[0042] Figure 10b shows Figure 10a an embodiment of the splint connector fixing structure.

[0043] Figure 10c shows an embodiment of a splint connector having a single extension adapted to fix multiple structures.

[0044] Figure 10d shows Figure 10c an embodiment of the splint connector fixing two structures.

[0045] Figure 10e shows an embodiment of a splint connector having two extensions, each extension being adapted to fix a different structure.

[0046] Figure 10f shows Figure 10e an embodiment of the splint connector fixing two structures.

[0047] Figure 11a shows an embodiment of a splint connector having a single extension.

[0048] Figure 11b shows an embodiment similar to that shown in Figure 11a except that it includes two extensions.

[0049] Figure 11b shows an embodiment similar to that shown in Figure 11bSimilar embodiments, differing in the orientation of the extension part.

[0050] Figure 11d Shows an embodiment similar to Figure 11a Similar embodiments, differing in that the splint connector includes three extension parts.

[0051] Figure 12a Shows another embodiment of a splint connector having a single extension part.

[0052] Figure 12b Shows an embodiment similar to Figure 11a Similar embodiments, differing in that the splint connector includes a pair of aligned extension parts.

[0053] Figure 12c Shows an embodiment similar to Figure 11b Similar embodiments, differing in that the pair of extension parts are perpendicular to each other.

[0054] Figure 12d Shows an embodiment similar to Figure 11a Similar embodiments, differing in that the splint connector includes three extension parts. Detailed Description

[0055] Embodiments of the present invention mainly reside in the splint connector. Therefore, the apparatus and method steps are shown in the drawings in a simplified schematic form, showing only those specific details necessary to understand the embodiments of the present invention, without obscuring the disclosure with excessive details, which will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, and these details have the benefit of this specification.

[0056] In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, etc. are only used to distinguish one element or action from another element or action, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order.

[0057] Words such as "comprising" or "including" are intended to define non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or device that includes a list of elements not only includes those elements, but may also include other elements not expressly listed, including elements inherent in such process, method, article, or device.

[0058] As used herein, the term "about" means that the quantity is nominally the number following the term "about", but the actual quantity may have an unimportant difference from that exact number.

[0059] As used herein, the term "splice plate" refers to a piece of material (such as a strip) that provides strength and / or support. The material is suitably fixed to adjacent column structures, sidewalls, and / or bases to provide strength and / or support. This is typically achieved by providing a connection to a wooden beam, support rod, or steel angle.

[0060] As used herein, the term "column structure" is suitably a metal column. In one embodiment, the column structure has a uniform cross-section. In an embodiment, the column structure has a square cross-section or a rectangular cross-section. In one embodiment, the column structure is a square hollow section or a rectangular hollow section. In one embodiment, the column structure is a parallel flange channel. In one embodiment, the structure is suitably formed of metal or wood. It should be understood that the above list of examples is for illustrative purposes only, and the present invention can be used with other column structures. It should also be understood that the column structure can have different dimensions, and the present invention is only suitable for the said dimensions. It should be understood that the square hollow section (SHS) can be 75.89, 100, 125, 150, and 200 SHS.

[0061] The present invention is based on the discovery that a splice plate connector can be simply and easily fixed to a column structure without a welder. The present invention solves one or more of the above problems.

[0062] In a first aspect, although it is not necessarily the only or indeed the broadest aspect, the present invention resides in a splice plate connector for attachment to a column structure, the splice plate connector comprising a body having a channel adapted to be fixed to the column structure, and at least one extension adapted to have a wooden structure fixed thereto.

[0063] Figure 1An embodiment of a splint connector is shown. The splint connector 100 includes a body 110 and at least one extension. The body 110 has a channel 110a adapted to be fixed to a column structure 199. The body 110 includes a base 111 and a pair of walls extending from its opposite ends. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 111 includes a first end and a second end. The first wall 112 extends away from the first end. The second wall 113 extends away from the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 extend away from the base 111 in the same direction. In an embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 extend perpendicular to the base 111. In one embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 are substantially parallel. The body 110 includes a plurality of attachment portions adapted to be fixed to the column structure 199. In one embodiment, the attachment portion includes one or more apertures 115 adapted to receive a fastening member. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall 112 includes an attachment portion. However, it should be understood that the attachment portion may be located on one or more of the first wall, the second wall, and the base. The body 110 may be suitably attached or fixed to the column structure 199 using a fastening member. In one embodiment, the column structure is a steel square box. It should be understood that the dimensions and dimensions of the base, the first wall, and the second wall may be set to receive or closely receive the column structure. That is, the dimensions and dimensions of the channel are set for the required column structure. Non-limiting examples of fastening members include screws. Non-limiting examples of fastening members include Tek screws or bolts. However, it should be understood that the above list only illustrates some of the fastening members that can be used in the present invention. It should be understood that the body may also include a wall connecting the distal end of the first wall to the distal end of the second wall.

[0064] The extension 120 is adapted to a structure. In one embodiment, the structure is a wooden structure or a metal structure. For ease of description, this specification has been described in connection with a wooden structure; however, those skilled in the art will understand that the splint connector can be used with other materials (such as metals, such as stainless steel, mild steel, and / or galvanized steel). The extension extends away from the body 110. In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2, 3, or 4 extensions. In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2, or 3 extensions. The extension suitably extends away from one of the base 110, the first wall 112, or the second wall 113. In a preferred embodiment, the extension is suitably perpendicular to the surface from which it extends. In Figure 1 the illustrated embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes two extensions 120a, 120b. Each extension 120a, 120b includes a plurality of fixing portions. In one embodiment, the fixing portion includes one or more corresponding apertures 121a, 121b. In Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 120a extends away from the first wall 112, and the extension portion 120b extends away from the base 111. In this embodiment, the extension portion 120a can be fixed to a wooden structure, and the extension portion 120b can be fixed to another wooden structure. In this embodiment, the wooden structures are perpendicular to each other. It should be understood that, depending on the situation, the extension portions can be at different angles relative to each other. Alternatively, when only a single wooden structure is required, only a single extension portion may be present. In one embodiment, the wooden structure is a wooden beam.

[0065] Figure 2 An embodiment of the splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figure 2 the splint connector shown in Figure 1 is numbered using a similar numbering system. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The main difference between the splint connectors of Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in

[0066] Figure 3 An embodiment of the splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figure 3 the splint connector shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 is numbered using a similar numbering system. Figure 3 and Figure 1The main difference between the splint connectors lies in the position of the extension. In this regard, the extension 120a extends away from the second wall 113, and the extension 120b extends away from the first wall 112. In this embodiment, the extensions are substantially parallel or in the same plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment portion is formed in the first wall 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the orifice 115 is formed in the first wall 112. As shown, fastening members are used to fix the body to the column structure 199. Non-limiting examples of the fastening members include Tek screws or bolts. However, it should be understood that the above list only illustrates some of the fastening members that can be used in the present invention. In this embodiment, the splint connectors are adapted to be fixed to two different wooden structures and are substantially in the same plane.

[0067] Figure 3a An embodiment of the splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figure 3a the splint connector shown in Figures 1 to 3 is numbered using a similar numbering system. Figure 3 and Figure 1 The main difference between the splint connectors lies in the number of extensions. In this regard, this splint connector includes a single extension. As shown, the extension 120a extends away from the first wall 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment portions are formed in both the first wall 112 and the second wall 113. Figure 3a The fastening members used in conjunction with the orifice 115 of the attachment portion are shown.

[0068] In one embodiment, the splint connector is integrally formed. As used herein, the term "integrally formed" means formed from a single material. Alternatively, the splint connector can be formed from multiple components.

[0069] Each extension is adapted to be fixed to one or more wooden structures (which will be mentioned in more detail below). In one embodiment, each extension includes a side wall that is coupled to one or more fixing portions that are adapted to be fixed to a wooden structure. In this regard, the fixing portion can be rotationally adjusted relative to the side wall.

[0070] Figure 4 An embodiment of the splint connector 400 is shown. The above description of the splint connector 100 applies substantially equally to the splint connector 400.

[0071] The splint connector 400 includes a body 410 and at least one extension. The body 410 has a channel (not shown) adapted to be fixed to a column structure 499. The body 410 includes a base 411 and a pair of walls extending from its opposite ends. In the illustrated embodiment, the base includes a first end and a second end. The first wall 412 extends away from the first end. The second wall 413 extends away from the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the first wall 412 and the second wall 413 extend away from the base 411 in the same direction. In an embodiment, the first wall 412 and the second wall 413 extend perpendicular to the base 411. In one embodiment, the first wall 412 and the second wall 413 are substantially parallel. The body 410 includes a plurality of attachment portions adapted to be fixed to the column structure 499. In one embodiment, the attachment portion includes one or more holes 415 adapted to receive fastening members. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall 412 includes an attachment portion. The body 410 can be suitably attached or fixed to the column structure 499 with fastening members. In one embodiment, the column structure is a steel square box. It can be understood that the dimensions and dimensions of the base, the first wall, and the second wall can be set to receive or closely receive the column structure. That is, the dimensions and dimensions of the channel are set to the required column structure. Non-limiting examples of fastening members include Tek screws or bolts. However, it can be understood that the above list only illustrates some of the fastening members that can be used in the present invention.

[0072] As shown, the extension 420a includes a side wall 422a connected to the base 411, and the fixing portion 423a is suitably adapted to be rotatably adjusted and / or connected relative to the side wall 422a. In this regard, the fixing portion can be part of a cross brace. Similarly, the extension 420b includes a side wall 422b connected to the first side wall 412, and the fixing portion 423b is suitably adapted to be rotatably adjusted and / or connected relative to the side wall 422b. The fixing portion 423b can be part of a cross brace. In this embodiment, the fixing portion can be adjusted by rotation, which allows the fixed member to have different orientations / angles. It can be understood that this allows a large amount of adjustment and saves time. As shown, the fixing portion can rotate in the plane of the side wall.

[0073] Figure 5 An embodiment of the splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figure 5 the splint connector shown in Figure 4 has the same numbers as those in the above Figure 5 and Figure 4The main difference between the splint connectors lies in the number of fixing parts of each extension. In the illustrated embodiment, each side wall 422a, 422b is adapted to be rotatably adjustable relative to its respective fixing part. In this regard, the second fixing parts 423a' or 423b' are adapted to be rotatably adjustable relative to the side walls 422a and 422b respectively. As described above, the fixing part is suitably part of the cross brace. In the illustrated embodiment, each extension is adapted to be fixed to two fixing parts. Initially, the cross brace and the fixing parts are rotatably adjustable relative to each other, which makes it easy to adjust the angle of the splints attached thereto. It should be understood that each extension may include any number of fixing parts. Once the appropriate angle of the cross brace is found, the fixing parts are suitably mounted or fixed to the side walls.

[0074] Similar to the above, the splint connector may include 1, 2, 3 or 4 extensions. In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2 or 3 extensions. In one embodiment, each extension may include 1, 2, 3 or 4 fixing parts attached thereto. Figure 6a An embodiment of the splint connector is shown, which includes a single extension coupled to a single fixing part rotatably connected thereto. Figure 6b An embodiment of the splint connector is shown, which includes a single extension coupled to two fixing parts rotatably connected thereto. Figure 7a An embodiment of the splint connector is shown, which includes two extensions, where each extension is coupled to a single fixing part. Figure 7a The illustrated embodiment has extensions and fixing parts that are substantially perpendicular to each other. Figure 7b The illustrated embodiment is similar to Figure 7a the illustrated embodiment, except that the extensions are substantially in the same plane.

[0075] Figure 7c An embodiment of the fixing part 423a is shown. The fixing part 423a includes a connecting part 424a. The connecting part 424a includes an orifice. The fixing part 423 includes a second connecting part 424b. The second connecting part 424b includes a threaded blind hole (not shown) therein. The threaded blind hole is adapted to receive a threaded rod. In one embodiment, the size and dimensions of the threaded blind hole are adapted to receive the required threaded rod. Non-limiting examples of the threaded rod include m12, m16, m20, m24, m30, m36, etc. The connecting part is adapted to be connected to the side wall. In one embodiment, the orifice is adapted to receive a protrusion of the side wall. Alternatively, the side wall may include an orifice. In this embodiment, the orifice or the orifices of the side wall and the connecting part are adapted to receive a member passing therethrough to facilitate their relative rotation. It should be understood that the description of this fixing part may be suitably applied to other fixing parts mentioned herein.

[0076] It should be understood from the foregoing that the extension portion may be rotatably adjustable relative to the fixed portion or have a fixed portion formed therewith. In this regard, it should be understood that the extension portion may include one or more fixing portions for fixing one or more structures.

[0077] For ease of description, Figures 8a to 8c the splint connectors shown in Figure 1 have been numbered using a similar numbering system. Figure 8a An embodiment of a splint connector 100 having a single extension portion is shown in. The body 110 has a channel (not shown) adapted to be fixed to a column structure 199. The body 110 includes a base 111 and a pair of walls extending from its opposite ends. In the embodiment shown, the base includes a first end and a second end. The first wall 112 extends away from the first end. The second wall 113 extends away from the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 extend away from the base 111 in the same direction. In an embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 extend perpendicular to the base 111. In one embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 are substantially parallel. The body 110 includes a plurality of attachment portions adapted to be fixed to the column structure 199. In one embodiment, the attachment portions include one or more apertures 115 adapted to receive fastening members. In the embodiment shown, the base 111 includes attachment portions. The body 110 can be suitably attached or fixed to the column structure 199 using fastening members. In one embodiment, the column structure is a steel square box. It should be understood that the dimensions and dimensions of the base, the first wall, and the second wall can be set to receive or closely receive the column structure. That is, the dimensions and dimensions of the channel match the required column structure. Non-limiting examples of fastening members include screws (e.g., MetalTek screws). Non-limiting examples of fastening members include Tek screws or bolts. However, it should be understood that the above list only illustrates some of the fastening members that can be used in the present invention.

[0078] The extension portion 120 is adapted to fix a structure. In one embodiment, the structure is a wooden structure or a metal structure. The extension portion extends away from the body 110. In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2, 3, or 4 extension portions. In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2, or 3 extension portions. The extension portion extends away from one of the base 110, the first wall 112, or the second wall 113. In a preferred embodiment, the extension portion is suitably perpendicular to the surface from which it extends away. In Figure 8a the embodiment shown, the splint connector 100 includes a single extension portion 120a. The extension portion 120a includes a plurality of fixing portions. In one embodiment, the attachment portion 120a includes an aperture 121a, which together are fixed to the structure. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the extension portion 120a extends away from the first wall 112.

[0079] Figure 8b Embodiments similar to those shown in Figure 8a are shown. The main difference is that the extension 120a includes a second aperture 121a' which can be fixed together to another structure. Figure 8c Embodiments similar to those shown in Figure 8a and Figure 8b are shown. The main difference is that the extension includes a third aperture 121a'' which can be fixed together to another structure. It should be understood that in this embodiment, multiple structures can be fixed to the I-column structure.

[0080] For ease of description, Figures 9a to 9c the splint connectors shown in Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and FIG. 9 have been numbered using a similar numbering system. Figure 9a Embodiments similar to those shown in Figure 8a are shown, the main difference being that the splint connector includes two extensions, each of which is adapted to be fixed to a single structure. Figure 9b The embodiment shown is similar to Figure 8b except that the splint connector includes two extensions, each of which is adapted to be fixed to two structures. Figure 9c The embodiment shown is similar to Figure 8c except that the splint connector includes two extensions, each of which is adapted to be fixed to three structures.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will understand that this splint connector can also be used above the column structure. Figures 10a to 10f Shown is an embodiment in which the splint connector is adapted to connect to the upper end of the column structure.

[0082] For ease of description, Figures 10a to 10f the splint connectors shown are numbered using a similar numbering system to Figure 1 。 Figure 10aShown is an embodiment of a splint connector 100 having a single extension. The body 110 has a passage 110a adapted to be fixed to a column structure. The body 110 includes a base 111 and a pair of walls extending from its opposite ends. In the embodiment shown, the base includes a first end and a second end. The first wall 112 extends away from the first end. The second wall 113 extends away from the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 extend away from the base 111 in the same direction. In an embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 extend perpendicular to the base 111. In one embodiment, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 are substantially parallel. The body 110 includes a plurality of attachment portions adapted to be fixed to the column structure. In one embodiment, the attachment portions include one or more apertures, with fastening members shown therein. In the embodiment shown, the first wall 112 and the second wall 113 include attachment portions. The body 110 can be suitably attached or fixed to the upper end of the column structure using fastening members. In the embodiment shown, the base 111, the first wall 112, and the second wall 113 are connected by a top 114. The top 114 suitably engages the top of the column structure to rest thereon. In one embodiment, the column structure is a steel square box. It should be understood that the dimensions and dimensions of the base, the first wall, and the second wall can be set to receive or closely receive the column structure. That is, the dimensions and dimensions of the passage are set for the required column structure. Non-limiting examples of fastening members include screws (e.g., MetalTek screws). Non-limiting examples of fastening members include Tek screws or bolts. However, it should be understood that the above list only illustrates some of the fastening members that can be used in the present invention.

[0083] In the embodiment shown, the splint connector 100 includes an extension 120a adapted to a fixed structure. In one embodiment, the structure is a wooden structure or a metal structure. For ease of description, this specification has been described for a wooden structure; however, those skilled in the art will understand that the splint connector can be used with other materials (such as metals, such as stainless steel, mild steel, and / or galvanized steel). In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2, 3, or 4 extensions. In one embodiment, the splint connector 100 includes 1, 2, or 3 extensions. In the embodiment shown, the extension 120a extends away from the top 114. The structure can be suitably abutted against the top 114 and fixed to the extension 120a. In a preferred embodiment, the extension is suitably perpendicular to the top 114. In Figure 10a the embodiment shown, the splint connector 100 includes a single extension 120a. Each extension includes a plurality of fixing portions. In one embodiment, the extension 120a includes one or more apertures 121a. In Figure 10aIn the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 120a extends away from the top 114. It will be appreciated that, depending on the circumstances, the extension portions may be at different angles relative to each other. Alternatively, when a single wooden structure is desired, only a single extension portion may be present. In one embodiment, the wooden structure is a wooden beam. Figure 10b An embodiment is shown fixed to a wooden structure Figure 10a is shown.

[0084] Figure 10c An embodiment of a splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figure 10c the splint connector shown has been numbered using a Figure 10a similar numbering system. Figure 10a and Figure 10c The main difference between the splint connectors of Figure 10d is that the extension portion 120a includes a pair of fixing portions. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 120a includes two pairs of apertures (121a, 121b), each aperture being adapted to fix to a different structure. Figure 10c An embodiment is shown fixed to a wooden structure.

[0085] Figure 10e An embodiment of a splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figure 10c the splint connector shown in Figure 10a has been numbered using a Figure 10e and Figure 10a The main difference between the splint connectors of Figure 10e is that the splint connector of Figure 10f includes a pair of extension portions 120a / 120b. The extension portions 120a / 120b extend away from the top 114. In one embodiment, the extension portions 120a / 120b are perpendicular to the top. In one embodiment, the extension portion 120a is perpendicular to the extension portion 120b. The extension portion 120a includes an aperture 121a adapted to fix a structure. The extension portion 120b includes an aperture 121' adapted to fix to a different structure. Figure 10e An embodiment is shown fixed to a wooden structure.

[0086] In one embodiment, the extension portions mentioned herein may suitably include a first wall adapted to fix to a structure. In another embodiment, the extension portion may further include a pair of walls extending from opposite ends of the first wall. Each of these walls may suitably include an extension towards the opposite wall. In this regard, the extension portion may have a "C" - shaped channel adapted to receive a structure and / or be received within a structure. In one embodiment, the extension portion may include or be in the form of parallel flange channels. Figures 11a to 11d An embodiment of a splint connector is shown. For ease of description, Figures 11a to 11dThe splint connectors shown in are numbered using a numbering system similar to that of Figure 1 Similar numbering systems are used for numbering. Figure 11a An embodiment of the splint connector is shown in, which includes a single extension 120a. Figure 11b An embodiment of the splint connector is shown, which includes a pair of extensions 120a, 120b, and the extensions 120a, 120b are substantially in the same plane as each other. Figure 11c An embodiment of the splint connector is shown, which includes a pair of extensions 120a, 120b, and the pair of extensions are oriented perpendicular to each other. Figure 11d An embodiment of the splint connector is shown, which includes three extensions 120a, 120b, 120c. Figures 11a to 11c Each extension shown in includes a pair of walls extending from opposite ends of the first wall. The distal ends of these pairs of walls are also provided with extension members facing the opposite walls. It should be clear that the extension has a generally "C"-shaped channel. In the embodiment shown, each of the extensions 120a, 120b, 120c includes a first wall 120a', 120b', 120c' and a pair of walls 120a", 120b", 120c" extending from its opposite ends. Each of the pair of walls 120a", 120b", 120c" is provided with a lip 120aa, 120ba, 120ca extending towards the other wall.

[0087] In another embodiment, the extension may suitably include a first wall adapted to fix the structure. In a further embodiment, the extension may also include a pair of walls extending from opposite ends of the first wall and a second wall connecting the distal ends of the pair of walls. In this embodiment, the extension has a parallelogram cross-section. In one embodiment, the extension has a square or rectangular cross-section. Figures 12a to 12d An embodiment of the splint connector is shown in. For ease of description, Figures 12a to 12d The splint connectors shown in are numbered using a numbering system similar to that of Figures 11a to 11c Similar numbering systems are used for numbering. The main difference between these embodiments is that Figures 12a to 12d The splint connectors shown in include a second wall (120a''', 120b''', 120c''', 120d''') connecting the pair of walls. It should be clear that in the embodiment, each of the extensions 120a, 120b, 120c has a rectangular cross-section. These extensions are adapted to receive in a rectangular hollow section.

[0088] The present invention alleviates many of the above problems. Generally, it is necessary for a welder to weld the splint to the metal structure. As can be understood, this is expensive and time-consuming. The present invention allows the splint to be attached to the metal structure by simply positioning the metal structure in the channel of the body and sliding the splint connector to the desired position. Then, the splint connector can be fixed in place at the appropriate height using fastening members. Additionally, the same splint connector can be used to connect multiple splints. Further, in some embodiments, the angle of the splint relative to the splint connector can be adjusted to suit the situation.

[0089] Moreover, the present invention allows the splint to be connected to the top of a column structure. Similar to the above, this alleviates many of the above problems. Specifically, the present invention allows the splint to be located at the top of the column structure, which provides a stable base for fixing the splint connector to the column structure. Additionally, the present invention allows the structure to be located at the top when connected to the splint. Similarly, this provides a stable base for fixing the structure to the splint connector.

[0090] In one embodiment, the splint connector is used for balconies, corridor beams, roof beams, floor load-bearing brackets, garages, carports, pergolas, and / or landings. In one embodiment, the splint connector is used for balconies, corridor beams, roof beams, floor load-bearing brackets, garages, carports, pergolas, and / or landings.

[0091] The above description of the various embodiments of the present invention is for the purpose of describing to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art. The present invention is not exhaustive or limited to a single disclosed embodiment. As described above, many alternatives and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art who are familiar with the above teachings.

[0092] Accordingly, although some alternative embodiments have been specifically discussed, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easy to develop for those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the present invention discussed herein, as well as other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above invention.

Claims

1. A splint connector for attachment to a column structure, comprising: a body having a channel adapted to be fixed to the column structure, the body including a base and a pair of walls extending from opposite ends thereof; and at least one extension adapted to have a structure fixed thereto.

2. The splint connector according to claim 1, comprising 1, 2 or 3 extensions.

3. The splint connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the at least one extension extends vertically away from the base, the first wall and / or the second wall.

4. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base, the first wall and / or the second wall includes at least one attachment portion adapted to be fixed to the column structure.

5. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each extension includes a side wall adapted to receive one or more fixing portions, the fixing portions being adapted to be fixed to the structure.

6. The splint connector according to claim 5, wherein the fixing portion is rotatably connected to the side wall.

7. The splint connector according to claim 6, wherein the fixing portion is capable of rotating in the plane of the side wall.

8. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each extension includes at least one aperture adapted to be fixed to the structure.

9. The splint connector according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the body further includes a top connected to the base and the pair of walls.

10. The splint connector according to claim 8, comprising 1, 2 or 3 extensions.

11. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the at least one extension extends vertically away from the top.

12. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each extension includes at least one aperture adapted to be fixed to the structure.

13. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the splint connector is integrally formed.

14. The splint connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the column structure is a wooden structure, a metal structure or a square hollow section box.

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