Improved connection device for anchoring expanded cell-holding structures and method for doing so - Patents.com

Abstract

A connection device for anchoring two expanded cellular retention structures includes an insert member, an integral shank extending perpendicularly from the insert member, and an integral handle member extending perpendicularly from the shank at an end of the shank away from the insert member. One or more protrusions may protrude from the insert member. The device may have a washer portion between the handle member and the insert member. The handle may be curved or polygonal in shape.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on May 27, 2022, claiming priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 364,037, filed June 30, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a connection device for expanded cellular retention structures for holding filler material. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an improved connector having protrusions and a method used to connect at least two expanded cellular retention structures together. [Background technology]

[0003] The cellular retaining structures serve to increase the load-bearing capacity, stability, and erosion resistance of the fill material placed within the cells of the system. A commercially available system is the Geoweb® plastic web retaining structure sold by Reynolds Presto Products, Inc. of Appleton, Wisconsin. Geoweb® cells are made from high density polyethylene strips that are joined by welding on their faces in alternating spaced side-by-side relationship, so that when the strips are stretched in a direction perpendicular to the welded faces of the strips, the resulting web section has a honeycomb-like appearance with sinusoidal or wave-shaped cells. Geoweb® sections are lightweight and shipped in a folded configuration for ease of handling and installation. The Geoweb® system is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,233, 5,299, 6,336, 6,343, 6,351, 6,366, 6,371, 6,382, 6,397, 7,398, 7,399, 8,396, 8,397, 9,398, 9,399, 10,302, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] Cellular retention structures are typically placed adjacent to each other and then connected to each other. In the past, these sections were connected to each other by using staples, wires, cable ties, and the like. These devices are labor intensive and consume excessive construction time. In many embodiments, these types of connections are difficult to use in certain situations or regions. In most cases, these types of connection systems require power from a generator and air operation from a compressor. Considering the particular environment or region in which such cellular retention systems are typically located, the need for power can increase the difficulty. The fixed costs for the supply of generators and air compressors are comparable for small installations to those required for larger installations, so the unit cost per connection can be significantly higher for smaller projects. Furthermore, some of these connection devices result in relatively weak structural connections and are non-durable. In some embodiments, these are not an issue. However, in many applications, speed is important and electrical power equipment is difficult to access.

[0005] Reynolds Presto Products has developed a connection device for cellular retention structures as described in US Pat. No. 5,399,633, which is incorporated herein by reference. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,395,372 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 4,778,309 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 4,965,097 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 5,449,543 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 8,092,122 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] While this connection device solves many of the problems noted above, improvements are desirable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one aspect, a connection device is provided for securing two expanded cellular retention structures, the connection device comprising: an insert member having a first and an opposing second insertion end and an insert member extension therebetween, a one-piece shank extending generally perpendicularly from the insert member extension and spaced apart from each of the first and second insertion ends, a one-piece handle member extending generally perpendicularly from the shank at an end of the shank remote from the insert member, and a plurality of protrusions projecting from the insert member, the handle member having first and second handle ends and the handle member extension therebetween, the shank being spaced apart from each of the first and second handle ends.

[0009] In many instances, a plurality of projections extend from the insert member toward the handle member.

[0010] The insert member extension, in many embodiments, includes an exterior surface facing away from the remainder of the connection device and an interior surface facing toward the handle member, with a plurality of protrusions projecting from the interior surface of the insert member extension toward the handle member.

[0011] In many exemplary embodiments, the shank intersects the interior surface and the plurality of protrusions includes at least one protrusion projecting from the interior surface on either side of the insert member extension.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of protrusions includes at least two protrusions projecting from the interior surface on opposite sides of the insert member extension.

[0013] In many instances, the first and second insertion ends join the exterior surface and the interior surface.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the first insertion end has a first planar end surface and the second insertion end has a second planar end surface.

[0015] Some embodiments have an exterior surface having a first angled portion, a second angled portion, and a linear intermediate portion extending between the first angled portion and the second angled portion, where the first angled portion extends from the first insertion end to the intermediate portion at a non-zero angle and the second angled portion extends from the second insertion end to the intermediate portion at a non-zero angle.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the interior surface has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion is between the first insertion end and the shank, the second portion is between the second insertion end and the shank, the plurality of protrusions includes at least one protrusion extending from the first portion toward the handle member, and the plurality of protrusions includes at least one protrusion extending from the second portion toward the handle member.

[0017] In many embodiments, the plurality of protrusions includes at least two protrusions extending from the first portion toward the handle member, and the plurality of protrusions includes at least two protrusions extending from the second portion toward the handle member.

[0018] An example embodiment can include a first one of the protrusions of the first portion adjacent the first insertion end and a first one of the protrusions of the second portion adjacent the second insertion end.

[0019] In some examples, the first portion is a straight extension between the shank and the first insertion end, and the second portion is a straight extension between the shank and the second insertion end.

[0020] One or more embodiments may have the first portion including a first straight portion extending from the shank and a first chamfer angled downwardly away from the first straight portion relative to the first insertion end at a non-zero angle, and the second portion including a second straight portion extending from the shank and a chamfer angled downwardly away from the second straight portion relative to the second insertion end at a non-zero angle.

[0021] In some embodiments, a first one of the protrusions of the first portion is adjacent to the first insertion end, a second one of the protrusions of the first portion is between the first straight portion and the first chamfered portion, and a first one of the protrusions of the second portion is adjacent to the second insertion end, and a second one of the protrusions of the second portion is between the second straight portion and the second chamfered portion.

[0022] Many examples include the shank having a shank length between the insert member and the handle member, the shank length being greater than the length of the first linear portion and the second linear portion.

[0023] In some instances, the shank length is less than half the length of the handle member and the insertion member.

[0024] Many examples include the maximum distance between the inner and outer surfaces of the insert extension being at least 5 times the height of the protrusion.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the handle member, the insert member, and the shank are solid pieces.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the handle member extension includes first and second rounded ears protruding from the handle member extension.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the first and second ears protrude away from the insertion member at the first and second handle ends, and the handle member extension is straight between the first and second ears.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the connection device bisects the device and has a longitudinal axis extending through each of the insertion member, the handle member, and the shank, and each of the plurality of protrusions has at least one chamfered surface terminating at an end point.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, each chamfered surface of the protrusion extends along a plane that intersects the longitudinal axis.

[0030] Many embodiments include that when the connection device is oriented with the handle member upright and the insert member at its lowest, each chamfered surface of the protrusion extends along a plane that intersects the longitudinal axis at the shank and handle member, or at a space above the handle member and away from the insert member.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, the connection device is symmetric about the longitudinal axis.

[0032] In another aspect, a cellular retention system is provided, comprising: first unit webs of cells made of elongated plastic strips bonded together at spaced apart areas, the strips forming cell walls and at least some of the cells defining an open slot; second unit webs of cells made of elongated plastic strips bonded together at spaced apart areas, the strips forming cell walls and at least some of the cells defining an open slot, at least one open slot of the first unit web of cells aligned with at least one open slot of the second unit web of cells to form a cell overlap area, the cell overlap area having first and second sides opposed to one another; and at least one connecting device for fastening the first unit web of cells and the second unit web of cells to one another, the connecting device being connected to a first insert. an insert member having an inlet end and an opposite second insert end and an insert member extension therebetween, the insert member being located on a second side of the cell overlap area with a plurality of projections protruding from the insert member toward a first side of the cell overlap area; an integral shank extending generally perpendicularly from the insert member extension and spaced from each of the first and second insert ends, the shank extending through the cell overlap area by extending through both an aligned open slot of one of the first unit webs of the cells and an open slot of one of the second unit webs of the cells; and an integral handle member extending generally perpendicularly from the shank at an end of the shank away from the insert member, the handle member having first and second handle ends and a handle member extension therebetween, the shank being spaced from each of the first and second handle ends and the handle member being located on a first side of the cell overlap area.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the at least one connection device includes a plurality of connection devices, each connection device anchoring a first unit web of a cell and a second unit web of a cell to one another.

[0034] In many exemplary embodiments, the insertion member extension has an exterior surface facing away from the remainder of the connection device and an interior surface facing toward the handle member, and a plurality of protrusions protrude from the interior surface of the insertion member extension toward the handle member.

[0035] An example embodiment can include the interior surface having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being between the first insertion end and the shank and the second portion being between the second insertion end and the shank, the plurality of protrusions including at least one protrusion extending from the first portion toward the handle member, and the plurality of protrusions including at least one protrusion extending from the second portion toward the handle member.

[0036] In another aspect, a method of anchoring two spread apart cellular retention structures to one another is provided, the method including aligning the two spread apart cellular retention structures such that at least one open slot defined by a first unitary web of the cells aligns with at least one open slot defined by a second unitary web of the cells to form an overlap region having opposed first and second sides, inserting an insert member of a connection device through the aligned open slots of the overlap region from a first side of the overlap region such that the insert member is on the second side of the overlap region with a plurality of protrusions protruding from the insert member toward the first side of the overlap region and a handle member of the connection device is on the first side of the overlap region with a shank between the insert member and the handle member extending through the overlap region, and rotating the handle member to rotate the connection device within the overlap region.

[0037] The rotating step may include rotating the handle member approximately 90 degrees.

[0038] In another aspect, a kit is provided that includes a plurality of unit webs of cells made of elongated plastic strips bonded together in spaced apart areas, the strips forming cell walls and at least some of the cells defining open slots alignable with open slots of unit webs of adjacently positioned cells at the cell overlap area, the cell overlap area having opposed first and second sides, and a plurality of connection devices operable to fasten together the unit webs of adjacently positioned cells through the slots at the cell overlap area, each of the plurality of connection devices having a first insertion end and an opposing second insertion end and an insert member extension therebetween, the connection devices being located on the second side of the cell overlap area. the insert member includes a positionable insert member having a plurality of projections projecting from the insert member and positionable toward a first side of the cell overlap area, an integral shank extending generally perpendicularly from the insert member extension and spaced from each of the first and second insert ends, the shank positionable through the cell overlap area by extending through the aligned slots, and an integral handle member extending generally perpendicularly from the shank at an end of the shank away from the insert member, the handle member having first and second handle ends and a handle member extension therebetween, the shank spaced from each of the first and second handle ends, the handle member positionable on the first side of the cell overlap area. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] 1 is an exploded perspective schematic view of a cellular retention system and connection device prior to assembly end-to-end utilizing principles according to the present disclosure; [Figure 1A] 1 is an exploded perspective schematic view of a cellular retention system and connection device prior to lateral assembly utilizing principles according to the present disclosure; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of two cells that are part of an expanded cellular retention structure before they are connected together. [Diagram 3]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of two expanded cellular retention structures connected to one another utilizing a connection device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a connection device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; [Diagram 5] 5 is another perspective view of the connection device of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top view of the connection device of FIGS. 4 and 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an end view of the connection device of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 8 is another end view of the connection device of FIG. 6, showing the opposite end to that shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a connection device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 10 is another perspective view of the connection device of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a top view of the connection device of FIG. 9. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an end view of the connection device of FIG. 9. [Figure 13] 13 is another end view of the connection device of FIG. 9, showing the opposite end to that shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 1 is a perspective schematic diagram of the steps of using a connection device with tendons; [Figure 15] 13 is a schematic perspective view of another step of using tendons and a connection device; [Figure 16] 13 is a schematic perspective view of another step of using tendons and a connection device; [Figure 17] 7 is an enlarged outline view of portion A of the connection device of FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 18] 7 is an enlarged outline view of portion B of the connection device of FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 19] 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the connection device of FIG. 4. [Figure 20] 5 is a perspective schematic diagram showing the connection device of FIG. 4 connecting together two spread-out cellular holding structures to be tested for performance in a tensile testing machine. [Figure 21]1 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a connection device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a perspective bottom view of the connection device of FIG. 21. [Diagram 23] FIG. 22 is a front view of the connection device of FIG. 21. [Figure 24] FIG. 22 is a top view of the connection device of FIG. 21. [Diagram 25] FIG. 22 is a front view of the connection device of FIG. 21, but showing a modification of the insert member. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 3 but showing the connection device of FIGS. 21 to 25. [Figure 27] 1 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a connection device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a perspective bottom view of the connection device of FIG. 27. [Figure 29] FIG. 28 is a front view of the connection device of FIG. 27. [Diagram 30] FIG. 28 is a top view of the connection device of FIG. 27. [Diagram 31] FIG. 28 is a front view of the connection device of FIG. 27, but showing a modification of the insert member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] 1 and 1A show a cellular retention system 14. In the particular embodiment shown, the cellular retention system 14 includes first and second unit webs of cells 18. The first web of cells is indicated at 20 and the second web of cells is indicated at 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the cellular retention system 14 further includes at least one connection device 24 for anchoring the first web 20 and the second web 22 to one another.

[0041] FIG. 1 shows the system 14 before the first and second webs 20, 22 are connected to each other end-to-end. FIG. 1A shows the system 14 before the first and second webs 20, 22 are connected to each other side-to-side (laterally). Each expanded cellular retention structure 18 has a plurality of plastic strips 26 bonded together, one adjacent to the other at alternating equally spaced bonded areas 28, to form cell walls 30 of individual cells 32. When the strips 26 are stretched in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the strips, the strips 26 bend in a sinusoidal manner to form the webs 20, 22 of cells 32 in a repeating cellular pattern. Each cell 32 has cell walls 30 made from one strip 26 and cell walls 30 made from different strips 26.

[0042] In this embodiment, the strips 26 define openings 34. The openings 34 can be used to accommodate tendons to reinforce the webs 20, 22 and improve the stability of the web installation by acting as continuous integral anchor members to prevent unwanted displacement of the webs 20, 22. The openings 34 also help allow for aggregate interlocking while maintaining sufficient wall stiffness for job site fill. Optimized opening sizes and patterns are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,399,933, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows two cells 32. The cells 32 of FIG. 2 differ somewhat from those shown in FIG. 1 in that the strip 26 does not include all of the openings 34 as shown in FIG. 1. The openings 34 may be optionally used in some embodiments. FIG. 2 shows an open slot 36 defined by the cell walls 30 in the strip 26. The slot 36 is utilized to cooperate with the connection device 24 to anchor adjacent webs 20, 22 to one another.

[0044] Figure 3 illustrates a cellular retention system 14 with a first web 20 and a second web 22 secured together by a connecting device 24. In the embodiment of Figure 3, at least one connecting device 24 is used, and as shown, multiple connecting devices 24 are used. Figure 3 specifically illustrates two connecting devices 24. Openings 34 have been omitted from Figure 3 for simplicity.

[0045] 3, a cell overlap region 38 is shown. More specifically, two cell overlap regions 38 are shown. As shown, the cell overlap region includes an open slot 36 in a first unit web 20 of cells aligned with an open slot 36 in a second unit web 22 of cells. The cell overlap region 38 defines a first side 40 and an opposite second side 42. The connection device 24 is visible through or passing through the overlap region 38 with a portion of the connection device 24 at the first side of the overlap region 38, while another portion of the connection device 24 is visible in perspective on the second side 42 of the overlap region 38. An example of this is described further below.

[0046] Attention is now directed to Figures 4-8, which illustrate one exemplary embodiment of connection device 24. In the illustrated embodiment, connection device 24 includes an insert member 44. Insert member 44 has a first insert end 46 and an opposing second insert end 47, as well as an insert member extension 48 between first insert member end 46 and second insert member end 47. A first length is defined by the distance between first insert member end 46 and second insert member end 47.

[0047] The insertion member extension 48 includes an exterior surface 54 that faces away from the remainder of the connection device 24. While many embodiments are possible, in the illustrated embodiment, the exterior surface 54 has a straight, generally planar intermediate portion 55 that is generally centered on the shank 64. The exterior surface 54 further includes a first angled portion 56 and a second angled portion 57. The intermediate portion 55 extends between the first angled portion 56 and the second angled portion 57. The first angled portion 56 extends from the first insertion end 46 to the intermediate portion 55 at a non-zero angle α ( FIG. 6 ), which can be 60° or less, 45° or less, 30° or less, for example, 15 to 25°, or about 20°. The second angled portion 57 extends from the second insertion end 47 to the intermediate portion 55 at a non-zero angle β (FIG. 6), which can be 60° or less, 45° or less, 30° or less, such as 15 to 25°, or about 20°. In a preferred arrangement, the angles of the first angled portion 56 and the second angled portion 57 are the same.

[0048] The insert member extension 48 includes an interior surface 66 that faces toward the handle member 70. The insert member extension 48 is opposite the exterior surface 54. As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, the shank 64 intersects the interior surface 66. The first and second insert ends 46, 47 join the exterior surface 54 and the interior surface 66 in this embodiment.

[0049] While many different shapes are possible, in the illustrated embodiment, the first insertion end 46 has a planar first end surface 67 and the second insertion end 47 has a planar second end surface 68.

[0050] 4-8, one exemplary connection device 24 includes an integral shank 64 extending from the insert member extension 48 and spaced apart from each of the first and second insert member ends 46, 47, as described above. Various embodiments are possible. In the illustrated embodiment, the shank 64 extends generally perpendicularly from the insert member extension 48.

[0051] The shank 64 has a length defined as between the insert member 44 and the handle member 70, described below. The length of the shank 64, in one example, is less than the length of the insert member 44.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection device 24 includes a handle member 70, as previously described. The handle member 70 is preferably integral with the shank 64. The handle member 70 extends from the shank 64 at an end thereof remote from the insert member 44.

[0053] In the illustrated example, the handle member 70 has first and second handle ends 72, 73. Between the first handle end 72 and the second handle end 73 is a handle member extension 74.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the shank 64 is spaced apart from the first and second handle ends 72, 73, respectively.

[0055] The handle member 70 has a length defined between a first handle end 72 and a second handle end 73. While many designs are possible, in the particular embodiment illustrated, the length of the handle member 70 is greater than the length of the insert member 44. In one example, the length of the shank 64 is less than half the length of the handle member 70 and the insert member 44. These relative dimensions, in cooperation with the slot 36, allow for quick and convenient locking of the first and second webs 20, 22.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the handle member 70 is no more than 100 mm, typically between 30 and 80 mm, for example between 45 and 55 mm.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the handle member 70 is at least 10% greater than the length of the insertion member 44. This relative geometry helps ensure that the connection device 24 stays in place within the slot 36 and does not actuate out of place.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle member extension 74 includes first and second lobes or ears 76, 77 projecting from the handle member extension 74. The lobes or ears 76, 77 project in a direction away from the insert member 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second ears 76, 77 are rounded and flush with the first and second handle ends 72, 73. The handle member extension 74 is shown as a straight line between the first and second ears 76, 77.

[0059] In accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, connection device 24 includes a plurality of protrusions 200. Protrusions 200 extend from insertion member 44 toward handle member 70.

[0060] While many different arrangements are possible, in the illustrated example, a plurality of projections 200 project from the interior surface 66 of the insert member extension 48 towards the handle member 70 .

[0061] Attention is now directed to Figures 17 and 18, which show enlarged portions of the insert member 44 at sections A and B of Figure 6. The plurality of protrusions 200 includes at least one protrusion 204, 205 that protrudes from the interior surface 66 on either side of the insert member extension 48. By the term "either side of the insert member extension," it is meant either side of the extension 48 from where the shank 64 intersects the intersection portion 48.

[0062] In many preferred embodiments, the plurality of protrusions 200 includes at least two protrusions 204, 206 (FIG. 17) on one side of the shank 64 and two protrusions 205, 207 (FIG. 18) on the opposite side of the shank 64 that protrude from the inner surface 66 of the insert member extension 48.

[0063] The interior surface 66 has a first portion 211 and a second portion 212. The first portion 211 is between the first insertion end 46 and the shank 64. The second portion 212 is between the second insertion end 47 and the shank 64. The plurality of protrusions 200 includes at least one protrusion 204, in this example, two protrusions 204, 206, extending from the first portion 211 toward the handle member 70. The plurality of protrusions 200 includes at least one protrusion 205, in this example, two protrusions 205, 207, extending from the second portion 212 toward the handle member 70.

[0064] 17 and 18, the first protrusion 204 on the first portion 211 is adjacent to the first insertion end 46. Similarly, the first protrusion 205 on the second portion 212 is adjacent to the second insertion end 47.

[0065] The first portion 211 includes a straight portion 214 extending from the shank 64. Similarly, the second portion includes a straight portion 215 extending from the shank 64. In the embodiment of Figures 4-8, 17 and 18, the first portion 211 includes a first chamfer 218 angled downwardly at the first insertion end 46 away from the first straight portion 214 at a non-zero angle 260 (Figure 17). The angle 260 can be, for example, less than 60°, less than 45°, less than 30°, about 10 to 25°, and preferably about 20°.

[0066] 18, the second portion 212 includes a second chamfer 219 that is angled downwardly at the second insertion end 47, away from the second straight portion 215, at a non-zero angle 262. The non-zero angle 262 can be less than 60°, less than 45°, less than 30°, about 10 to 25°, and preferably about 20°. The angle 262 is approximately the same as the angle 260 of the first chamfer 218.

[0067] As will be further described in conjunction with the embodiment of Figures 11-13, in other embodiments, the first portion 211 and the second portion 212 can be straight between the shank 64 and the first insertion end 46. Similarly, the second portion 212 can be straight between the shank 64 and the second insertion end 47. That is, in the embodiment of Figures 11-13, there are no chamfers 218, 219.

[0068] The shank 64 has a shank length between the insert member 44 and the handle member 70. In this example, the shank length is greater than the length of the first straight portion 214 and the second straight portion 215.

[0069] The first protrusion 204 on the first portion 211 is adjacent the first insertion end 46 and the second protrusion 206 is between the first straight portion 214 and the first chamfered portion 218 .

[0070] A first one of the protrusions 205 on the second portion 212 is adjacent to the second insertion end 47, and a second one of the protrusions 207 on the second portion 212 is between the second straight portion 215 and the second chamfered portion 219.

[0071] The projections 200 can have a variety of shapes and sizes. Typically, the maximum distance between the inner surface 66 and the outer surface 54, shown as dimension 222 in FIG. 17, is at least 5 times the height h1 of projection 204 and the height h2 of projection 206. The projections 205, 207 also have heights h1, h2. In the illustrated example, the heights h1 of projections 204 and 205 are the same, and the heights h2 of projections 206 and 207 are the same. In many exemplary embodiments, the heights h1, h2 are equal to each other, but many different geometries can be used. In this example, each height h1, h2 is less than 0.1 inches and greater than 0.02 inches, typically 0.05 to 0.09 inches, and preferably 0.075 inches. In some examples, the heights h1, h2 are about 3 to 10% of the total length of the insert member 44, typically about 4 to 6%, or about 5%.

[0072] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, protrusions 204, 205 are similar in shape and protrusions 206, 207 are similar in shape. Exemplary usable dimensions for these protrusions 200 are as follows:

[0073] For protrusions 204, 205 located adjacent end faces 46, 47, protrusions 204, 205 have at least one chamfered surface 230 (protrusion 204) and chamfered surface 231 (protrusion 205). Chamfered surfaces 230, 231 intersect with upstanding surfaces 232, 233. In the illustrated example, upstanding surfaces 232, 233 are approximately perpendicular to the respective chamfers 218, 219. Chamfered surfaces 230, 231 intersect with upstanding surfaces 232, 233 at end points 234, 235.

[0074] The chamfered surfaces 230, 231 each form a bevel and are angled relative to the end faces 46, 27. Each chamfered surface 230, 231 extends along a plane (the edges of the plane shown by dashed lines 264, 266 in FIGS. 17 and 18) that, in this embodiment, intersects with the longitudinal axis 240 (FIG. 6). The longitudinal axis 240 bisects the device 24 and extends along the shank 64 through the insert member 44 and the handle member 70, respectively. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, each chamfered surface 230, 231 extends along a plane that intersects with the longitudinal axis 240 away from the insert member 44, adjacent to either the shank 64 and the handle member 70 or in the space adjacent (above) the handle member 70 when the connection device 24 is oriented with the handle member 70 in its most upright position and the insert member in its lowest position.

[0075] The chamfered surfaces 230, 231 are angled relative to a plane containing the end surfaces 46, 47 at angles 242, 243. The angles 242, 243 may be at a variety of angles, and in the illustrated embodiment are between 20 and 80 degrees, e.g., 25 and 45 degrees, and are shown at 30 degrees.

[0076] The projections 206, 207 similarly have chamfered surfaces 244, 245 that intersect the upright surfaces 246, 247 at end points 248, 249. The chamfered surfaces 244, 245 extend along a plane that intersects the longitudinal axis 240 (the edges of the plane are shown in Figs. 17 and 18 by dashed lines 268, 270). In the preferred embodiment shown, the chamfered surfaces 244, 245 intersect the longitudinal axis 240 adjacent to one of the shank 64 and handle members 70 or in the space above the handle member 70, away from the insert member 44, when the connection device 24 is oriented with the handle member 70 upright and the insert member 44 at its lowest. The chamfered surfaces 244, 245 can be at a variety of different angles, the angles being shown at 250, 251 relative to the chamfers 218, 219. The angles 250, 251 are non-linear and are greater than 180° and less than 270°, in the range of 120 to 150°, and preferably about 135°.

[0077] 19, each protrusion 204, 205, 206, 207 has an inner diameter relative to the insert member 44, indicated at 270, 271, 272, 273, respectively. While various sizes are possible and can vary between each, in this example, the inner diameters 270, 271, 272, 273 are approximately the same, ranging from 0.010 inches to 0.030 inches, typically about 0.015 to 0.025 inches, or about 0.020 inches. Relative to the length of the insert member 44, the measurement of the inner diameters 270, 271, 272, 273 is greater than 0.75% but less than 5%, typically about 1 to 1.5%, or about 1.3% of the length of the insert member 44.

[0078] 6, the connection device 24 can be made using a variety of techniques. Preferably, the connection device 24 is made of a single solid piece, such as by injection molding plastic including high density polyethylene or polypropylene. In other embodiments, the connection device 24 can be made from a metallic material, either molded as a single piece, or by attaching multiple pieces together.

[0079] 6, in this embodiment, connection device 24 is symmetrical about longitudinal axis 240. Other arrangements are possible.

[0080] 9-13, an alternative connection device is shown at 24'. Connection device 24' is the same as device 24 described above (hence using the same reference numbers) with the exception of first portion 211' and second portion 212' (FIG. 11). First portion 211' is straight between shank 64 and first insertion end 46. Similarly, second portion 212' is straight between shank 64 and second insertion end 47. That is, there are no chamfers 218, 219 in the embodiment of FIGS. 11-13.

[0081] 3, it can be seen that in use, the connection device 24 has a handle member 70 on one side 40 of the overlap region and an insert member 44 on a second side 42 of the overlap region 38. The shank 64 extends through the overlap region 38. A method of using the connection device 24 is further described below.

[0082] In use, the connection device 24 (including 24') can be utilized to secure two splayed cell retaining structures together. The method includes aligning two splayed cell retaining structures 18 such that at least one open slot 36 defined by the first web 20 aligns with at least one slot 36 defined by the second web 22 to form an overlap region 38.

[0083] A connection device 24 (or 24') is provided. The connection device 24 (or 24') is used by inserting an insert member 44 from a first side 40 of the overlap region 38 through the aligned open slots 36 of the overlap region 38, thereby causing the insert member 44 on a second side 42 of the overlap region 38 to include a plurality of protrusions 200 projecting from the insert member 44 toward the second side 42 of the overlap region 38. A handle member 70 is provided on the first side 40 of the overlap region 38. A shank 64 is provided extending through the overlap region 38.

[0084] The method also includes rotating the handle member 70 to rotate the connection device 24 within the overlap region 38. This helps lock the connection device 24 within the slot 36.

[0085] An example of the use of the tendons 110 is shown with respect to the connection device 24 of Figures 4 to 8, as shown in Figures 14 to 16. In Figure 14, the tendons 110 are shown wrapped around the handle member 70 in a wrap 112. The tendons 110 are positioned below the handle member 70 and wrapped around one side of the handle member 70. The tendons 110 continue to wrap around the top of the handle member 70 to form a cross wrap. In Figure 14, it can be seen how the insert members 44 are inserted or engaged into the slots 36 of two adjacent webs 20, 22, either end-to-end or edge-to-edge. The tendons 110 can also be seen to extend through the slots 36 of the webs 20, 22, although the slots 36 are not visible in Figure 14. Figure 15 shows the full engagement of the connection device 24 through the slots 36. The projections 200 can be seen pressed against the webs 22. In Figure 16, the final step of rotating the connection device 24 to lock it into the slot 36 is illustrated. By comparing Figures 15 and 16, it can be seen that the connection device 24 is rotated approximately 90 degrees.

[0086] The connection devices 24, 24' may be used in a kit that includes a plurality of splayed cell-retaining structures 18 and a plurality of connection devices 24, 24' that may be used to connect the cell-retaining structures.

[0087] In use, the slot 36 is non-circular, for example, oval, or elongated circular, or track-shaped. In one embodiment, the slot 36 is shaped like two semicircles separated by a rectangle with one side of the rectangle equal to the diameter of the semicircle. When used, this shape has a major axis and a minor axis. The aspect ratio of the usable slot 36 as a ratio of the minor axis compared to the major axis is about 3:11. In comparison to the dimensions of the connection device 24, the major axis of the slot 36 has a length that is 85 to 95%, for example 92%, of the length of the insert member 44, 90. The minor axis of the slot 36 is 20 to 30%, for example about 25%, of the length of the insert member 44. Furthermore, the minor axis of the slot 36 is about 101% of the width or thickness of the connection device 24.

[0088] experiment Connection device 24 (FIGS. 4-8) was tested along with connection device 24' (FIGS. 9-13) and a prior art connection device (without protrusions) described in US Pat. No. 5,399,363. The devices were placed in slots 36 of cell retention structure 18 and placed under a tension load, i.e., a tensile force.

[0089] The test method used a modified version of ASTM D4885 to evaluate the performance of connection devices by subjecting test specimens to a tension load using a Curtis "Sure-Grip" tension test machine. The specimens were prepared by inserting connectors through slots in two pieces of cell-retaining material, which were then folded and inserted into opposing clamps on the tension test machine. A new connector and a new piece of cell-retaining material were used for each test run.

[0090] Figure 20 shows an assembled test specimen, such as the connection device 24 of Figure 4, in a tension test machine 300. The specimen was gripped across its full width in the constant speed clamps of an extension type tension test machine operated at a predetermined extension speed to apply a uniaxial load to the specimen until it failed. The machine was equipped with a device for recording grip tension and amount of separation with an accuracy of ±2%. In addition to tension and separation, the type of failure was also recorded, specifically whether the connector broke, slid through a slot, or tore the retaining material.

[0091] The following results were obtained:

[0092] [Table 1]

[0093] As the results show, connection device 24 (FIGS. 4-8) achieved the best results, failing at 318.6 lbs of resistance, outperforming the prior art connection device. Device 24 outperformed device 24'. Both devices 24 and 24' performed significantly better than the prior art connection device. Connection device 24' (FIGS. 9-13) failed at 301.6 lbs of resistance.

[0094] As noted above, embodiments of the present invention address a common failure mode of connection devices, namely, slipping back through a slot. In many prior art devices, the connector can break off, for example, due to poor design. Additionally, many prior art devices are not damaged, but fall out of engagement with the cell structure. Embodiments of the present invention address the loss of engagement with the cell structure by increasing the pull-out resistance of the connector. In some embodiments, the present invention is a connector having a pull-out resistance of greater than 296 lbs., as measured using a modified version of ASTM D4885, as described above in conjunction with the inspection system shown in FIG. 20.

[0095] Additional embodiments, Figs. Figures 21-31 show additional embodiments for connection device 24. The embodiment of Figures 21-26 is designated 424, and the embodiment of Figures 27-31 is designated 624. Connection device 424, 624 has many features in common with connection device 24, which use common reference numbers, but the description of each feature will not be repeated here again. Rather, the descriptions of these common features are incorporated herein by reference.

[0096] The connection device 424, 624 has an insert member 44. In the embodiment of Figures 25 and 27-30, the insert member 44 includes protrusions 200 as shown and described above with reference to Figures 4-19. In the embodiment of Figures 21-24 and 31, the insert member 44 does not include protrusions along the interior surface 66. Rather, the interior surface 66 is free of protrusions and is indicated at 466.

[0097] In this embodiment, the interior surface 466 has a first angled portion 474 and a second angled portion 476. A first intermediate portion 478 extends between the first angled portion 474 and the shank 64. A second intermediate portion 480 extends between the second angled portion 476 and the shank 64. The intermediate portions 478, 480 are generally planar and are shown parallel to the intermediate portion 55 on the exterior surface 54. The first angled portion 474 extends from the first insertion end 467 to the first intermediate portion 478 at a non-zero angle, which may be 60° or less, 45° or less, 30° or less, for example, 15 to 25°, or about 20°. The second angled portion 476 extends from the second insertion end 468 to the second intermediate portion 480 at a non-zero angle, which may be 60° or less, 45° or less, 30° or less, for example, 15 to 25°, or about 20°. In a preferred arrangement, the angles of the first angled portion 474 and the second angled portion 476 are the same.

[0098] The interior surface 466 faces towards the handle member 70. The shank 64 intersects the interior surface 466. First and second insertion ends 467, 468, in this embodiment, intersect and join the exterior surface 54 and the interior surface 466.

[0099] The connecting devices 424, 624 have a shank 64 and a handle member 70. The handle member 70 has modifications from the device 24 and is described further below.

[0100] FIGURE 23 illustrates a connection device 424 with a central longitudinal axis 482 that generally bisects the connection device 424 through the insert member 44, the shank 64, and the handle member 70. Similarly, FIGURE 29 illustrates a connection device 624 with a central longitudinal axis 682 that generally bisects the connection device 624 through the insert member 44, the shank 64, and the handle member 70. The connection devices 424, 624 are symmetrical about the longitudinal axes 482, 682.

[0101] The connection device 424, 624 further includes a washer portion 490. The washer portion 490 is between the handle member 70 and the insert member 44. The washer portion 490 helps contain the first material within the cellular retention system 14 and prevents the material from initially migrating through the open slot 36. Additionally, the washer portion 490 is attractive and eye-catching. The washer portion 490 can be made to have many different appearances than that shown, but the one shown has been found to be attractive. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the washer portion 490 is illustrated as cylindrical with a diameter perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 482, 682.

[0102] The washer portion 490 has a first surface 492 and an opposing second surface 494. There is a side surface 496 that is generally perpendicular to the first surface 492 and the second surface 494 and extends between the first and second surfaces 492, 494. The second surface 496 forms an outer periphery 498. In this example, the outer periphery 498 is in the shape of a circle. The first surface 492 and the second surface 494 may be parallel and generally planar (with variations) in many examples. The first and second surfaces 492, 494 may be perpendicular to the shank 64.

[0103] At least a portion of the outer circumferential surface 498 extends radially from the longitudinal axis 482, 682 further than the radially outermost portion of the handle member 70. In many cases, the outermost dimension of the washer portion 490 is equal to or greater than the outermost dimension of the handle member 70. In the illustrated example, the outermost dimension of the washer portion 490 is greater than the outermost dimension of the handle member 70.

[0104] A handle member 70 extends from the first surface 492. In this embodiment, the handle member 70 has a wall 500 that extends from the first surface 492 of the washer portion 490. The wall 500 can extend substantially perpendicularly from the first surface 492. In the illustrated example, the handle member 70 with the wall 500 protrudes from the first surface 492 of the washer portion 490, with no portion of the shank 64 between the first surface 492 and the handle member 70.

[0105] The wall 500 can have many different shapes. In the example shown in Figures 21-26, the wall 500 is a single upright member 512 with a terminal free end 510 opposite the first surface 492 of the washer portion 490. The upright member 512 extends between opposed wall side ends 514, 516 that are perpendicular to the first surface 492. The free end 510 extends between the side ends 514, 516.

[0106] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 21-26, the wall 500 has one or more curved surfaces, and in the embodiments of Figures 27-31, the wall 500 can have straight portions (described further below).

[0107] In FIG. 24, the wall 500 has a curved surface 502 and a curved surface 503. These curved surfaces 502, 503 help give the wall 500 an S-shape between the ends 514, 516. Many variations can be made in the shape of the wall 500. In this example, the radius of curvature of the curved surfaces 502, 503 is made to allow for convenient grasping and rotating by a human hand. In addition, the wall 500 is designed to be attractive and eye-catching in that many variations in appearance are possible. Although many variations are possible, the radius of curvature of the curved surfaces 502, 503 can range from 1.05 to 1.2 inches. For example, when sized within this range, one of the curved surfaces 502, 503 will comfortably accommodate most human thumbs and will be particularly effective during the installation process for use by the installer's right hand.

[0108] The handle member 70 of FIGS. 21-26 further includes a plurality of ribs 506 projecting from opposing sides 508, 509 of the wall 500. The ribs 506 extend longitudinally generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 482. The ribs 506 extend from adjacent the terminal end 510 of the wall 500 to the first surface 492 of the washer portion 490. Although many variations are possible, in this example there are between 8 and 15 (e.g., about 12) ribs 506 spaced apart from one another on each side 508, 509 of the wall 500. The ribs 506 help to improve and refine the grip of a human hand on the handle member 470.

[0109] The height of the wall 500 extends from the first surface 492 to the terminal end 510. The height can vary widely and, in this example, can be greater than the length of the shank 64 but less than half the length of the insert 44.

[0110] In the exemplary embodiment, the outermost dimension of the washer portion 490 is equal to or greater than the outermost dimension of the handle member 70 in both directions parallel and perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis 482 of the handle member 70. In effect, this ensures the full extent of the I-slot 36 received when the device 424, 624 is inserted and rotated between 0 and 90 degrees to make the connection between two adjacent webs 20, 22.

[0111] 27-31, wall 500 has a plurality of connected straight sections 630 having a generally flat planar surface surrounding an interior 632. Many variations are possible, and in the example shown, straight sections 630 form a polygon 634, including a rectangular polygon. The exemplary polygon 634 shown is a hexagon 636. Straight sections 630 can receive a tool, such as a wrench or suitably shaped hex socket, that can be used to rotate handle member 70.

[0112] In the interior 632 of the polygon 634, there may be an additional insert 638 ( FIG. 30 ), recessed from the plane of the first surface 492. The insert 638 is centered in the interior 632 and may have a polygonal shape. Although variations are possible, in this example, the insert 638 has the same shape as the wall 500. In the illustrated example, the insert 638 is in the shape of a hexagon 640. A tool may be inserted into the insert 638 to rotate the handle member 70.

[0113] The connection device 424, 624 can be used in the system of FIG. 26 in the same manner as described in FIG. 3. As can be seen, the washer portion 490 abuts and covers the open slot 36 on the first side 40 of the cell overlap area 38. This helps to prevent soil or other material migration through the slot 36. In some applications, such as use in a retaining wall, the connection device 424, 624 with the washer portion 490 is only used on the portion of the retaining wall that is visible from the outside, since it contributes to the attractiveness and beauty of the retaining wall. In these cases, the invisible portion can use the prior art connection device according to US Pat. No. 5,999,523 or otherwise according to FIGS. 4 to 19.

[0114] The connection device 424 can be used in a manner to lock the expanded cellular retention structures as described above with respect to the connection device 24. In this case, the inserting step includes pressing the washer portion 490 against the first side 40 of the overlap region 38. There is also a step of rotating the handle member 70, where the handle member 70 includes a wall surface 500 that protrudes from the washer portion 490. The handle member 70 can also be rotated by using a tool acting on the polygon 634 or the insert 638.

[0115] The connection device 424, 624 may be part of a kit for the system of Figure 26. The connection device 424, 624 is provided such that a washer portion 490 is disposed against and covers the open slot 36 on the first side 40 of the cell overlap region 38.

[0116] The connection devices 424, 624 can be made from a variety of materials, including non-metallic materials such as plastics (HDPE, polypropylene, etc.) The devices 424, 624 can be made by molding, such as injection molding.

[0117] The above provides a complete description. Many embodiments are possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 14 Cellular Retention System 18 Cells 20 The First Web 22 The Second Web 24 Connected Devices 26 Strip 28 Combined area 30 Cell Wall 32 Cells 34 Opening 36 Opening Slot 38 Cell overlap area 40 First Side 42 Second Side 44 Insert 46 First insertion end 47 Second Insertion End 48 Insert extension 54 External Surface 55 Middle 56 First angled section 57 Second angled section 64 Shank 66 Internal surface 67 First end face 68 Second end face 70 Handle parts 72 First handle end 73 Second Handle End 74 Handle member extension 76 Lobe or Ear 77 Lobe or Ear 90 Insert 110 Tensile material 112 Lap 200 protrusions 204 Protrusion 205 Protrusion 206 Protrusion 207 Protrusion 211 First Part 212 Second Part 214 Straight section 218 First chamfer 219 Second chamfer 230 Chamfered Surface 231 Chamfered Surface 232 Upright surface 233 Upright surface 234 end point 235 end point 240 Longitudinal axis 242 angle 243 angle 250 angle 251 angle 260 Non-zero angles 262 Non-zero angles 264 dashed line 266 dashed line 270 Inner diameter 271 Inner diameter 272 Inner diameter 273 Inner diameter 300 Tension Testing Machine 424 Connected Devices 466 Internal surface 467 First Insertion End 468 Second Insertion End 474 First angled section 476 Second angled section 478 First Middle Section 480 Second Middle Section 482 Central Longitudinal Axis 490 Washer part 492 First Surface 494 Second Surface 496 Side Surface 498 Outer surface 500 Wall 502 Curved Surface 503 Curved Surface 506 Rib 508 Side 509 Side 510 Free end 512 Upright Members 514 Wall side end 516 Wall side end 624 Connected Devices 630 Straight section 632 Internal 634 Polygon 636 hexagon 638 Insert 640 hexagon 682 Central Longitudinal Axis

Claims

1. A connection device for locking two expanded cell-like holding structures, comprising: (a) an insertion member having a first insertion end and a second insertion end opposite thereto, and an insertion member extension between the first insertion end and the second insertion end, the insertion member extension including an outer surface facing away from the remainder of the connection device and an inner surface facing the handle member; (b) an integral shank extending substantially perpendicularly from the insertion member extension and spaced from each of the first insertion end and the second insertion end, the shank intersecting the inner surface; (c) an integral handle member extending from the end of the shank away from the insertion member; (d) at least two protrusions projecting from the inner surface toward the handle member on both sides of the insertion member extension. A connection device comprising the above.

2. (a) The first and second insertion ends join the outer surface and the inner surface. (b) The first insertion end has a first planar end face. (c) The second insertion end has a second planar end face. The connection device according to claim 1.

3. (a) The outer surface includes a first angled portion, a second angled portion, and a linear intermediate portion extending between the first angled portion and the second angled portion. (i) The first angled portion extends from the first insertion end to the intermediate portion at a non-zero angle. (ii) The second angled portion extends from the second insertion end to the intermediate portion at a non-zero angle. The connection device according to claim 2.

4. The inner surface has a first portion and a second portion. (a) The first portion is between the first insertion end and the shank. (b) The second portion is between the second insertion end and the shank. (c) The plurality of protrusions includes at least one protrusion extending from the first portion toward the handle member. (d) The plurality of protrusions includes at least one protrusion extending from the second portion toward the handle member. The connection device according to claim 2.

5. The handle member, the insertion member, and the shank are solid pieces. The connection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. (a) The handle member has first and second handle end portions and a handle member extension between the first and second handle end portions, and the shank is spaced from each of the first and second handle end portions, and (b) The handle member extension includes first and second rounded ears protruding from the handle member extension, the connecting device according to claim 1.

7. The first and second ears protrude in a direction away from the insertion member at the first and second handle end portions, and the handle member extension is linear between the first and second ears, the connecting device according to claim 6.

8. (a) A longitudinal axis extending through each of the insertion member, the handle member, and the shank, and (b) A washer portion between the handle member and the insertion member, further comprising, (i) The washer portion has a first surface and an opposite second surface, (ii) Side surfaces extend between the first and second surfaces and along the outer peripheral surface, and (iii) At least a part of the outer peripheral surface extends radially from the longitudinal axis beyond the radially outermost portion of the handle member, the connecting device according to claim 1.

9. At least a part of the first surface and the second surface of the washer portion is perpendicular to the handle member, the connecting device according to claim 8.

10. The outermost dimension of the washer portion is equal to or greater than the outermost dimension of the handle member, the connecting device according to claim 8 or 9.

11. The handle member has a wall surface extending from the first surface of the washer portion, and the wall surface has a plurality of connected straight portions surrounding the interior, the connecting device according to claim 8.

12. The wall surface of the handle member has a regular polygon shape, the connecting device according to claim 11.

13. The handle member has one or more curved surfaces and has a wall surface extending from the first surface of the wall surface of the washer portion, the connecting device according to claim 8.

14. Further comprising a plurality of ribs protruding from opposite side portions of the wall surface, the connecting device according to claim 12.

15. (a) A plurality of unit webs of cells made of elongated plastic strips joined together in regions spaced apart, wherein the plastic strips form the walls of the cells, and at least some of the cells define an opening slot, and the opening slots are alignable with the opening slots of the unit webs of the cells positioned adjacent to each other in the cell overlapping region, and the cell overlapping region has a first side and a second side on opposite sides of each other, a plurality of unit webs of cells; (b) A plurality of connecting devices that can be used to lock together the unit webs of the cells positioned adjacent to each other through the opening slots in the cell overlapping region; comprising; The plurality of connecting devices each; (i) An insertion member having a first insertion end and a second insertion end on the opposite side, and an insertion member extension between the first insertion end and the second insertion end, wherein the insertion member is positionable on the second side of the cell overlapping region, in the insertion member, (A) An insertion member having a plurality of protrusions protruding from the insertion member and positionable towards the first side of the cell overlapping region; (ii) An integral shank extending substantially perpendicular to the insertion member extension and spaced apart from each of the first and second insertion ends, (A) An integral shank that is positionable through the cell overlapping region by extending through aligned slots; (iii) An integral handle member extending substantially perpendicular to the shank at the end of the shank away from the insertion member, (A) An integral handle member that is positionable on the first side of the cell overlapping region; A kit comprising. **Claim 16** A method of locking two expanded cell holding structures together using the connecting device according to claim 1, comprising: (a) Aligning two expanded cell holding structures such that at least one opening slot defined by a first unit web of a cell is aligned with at least one opening slot defined by a second unit web of a cell to form an overlapping region having a first side and a second side on opposite sides of each other; (b) Inserting an insertion member of a connecting device through the aligned opening slots of the overlapping region from the first side of the overlapping region; (i) providing the insertion member at the second side portion of the overlapping region with a plurality of protrusions protruding from the insertion member toward the first side portion of the overlapping region; (ii) providing a handle member of the connection device at the first side portion of the overlapping region; and (iii) providing a shank between the insertion member and the handle member extending through the overlapping region; (c) rotating the handle member to rotate the connection device within the overlapping region; A method of locking, comprising:

17. The method of locking according to claim 16, wherein the rotating step includes rotating the handle member by 90°.

18. The method of locking according to claim 16, wherein the inserting step includes pressing a washer portion against the first side portion of the overlapping region, and the washer portion is between the shank and the handle member.

Images