Structural fastening assembly

Abstract

A fastening assembly for a structure having a plurality of structural components fastened to a base structure includes a spacer for positioning on the base structure between adjacent structural components. The spacer is configured to maintain a desired spacing between the structural components. The fastening assembly includes at least one gripping member, and the gripping member or each gripping member includes opposing arms and a web interconnecting the arms, and the spacer is receivable between the arms. The spacer and the arms are configured such that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other, whereby the free ends of the arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent structural components to secure the structural components to the spacer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fastening assembly for structures. The present invention also relates to a method of assembling a structural assembly and a structure.

Background Art

[0002] Fastening structural components such as decking planks or similar structural components to a substructure such as an array of joists has conventionally been done by nailing or screwing the structural components to the substructure to form a structure such as a deck or decking. This requires that each structural component be evenly spaced from the preceding structural component before fastening the structural component to the substructure. When the structure is a deck or decking, spacers are typically used to achieve such a consistent spacing between the decking planks.

[0003] However, it is still a relatively difficult task for an average person to fix decking planks to joists in an aesthetically and functionally acceptable manner. One problem is the fact that it is often necessary to partially drill individual openings through the decking planks into the joists before screwing in the screws or driving a fastener such as a nail through the openings and into the joists. This drilling of the openings is particularly necessary for hardwoods to avoid cracking or deformation of the screws or nails during the fastening process. Not only is the process time-consuming, but there is an additional aesthetic requirement to evenly space the openings so that the heads of the fasteners are set in an acceptable pattern.

[0004] The problem with fastening planks to joists by using fasteners that penetrate the planks is that it can be difficult to disassemble the decking without damaging the planks. This is particularly undesirable when the planks, such as hardwood planks, have high value and need to be reused or recycled. Even if the planks can be removed without splitting or cracking, it is necessary to remove the fasteners leaving an opening in the planks. This limits the ability to recycle the planks.

[0005] A variety of fastening devices are available for achieving a more rapid and easier deck assembly process.

[0006] However, such fastening devices often require modification of the decking planks to fit the fastening devices. This can include grooves or shoulders extending along the vertical sides of the decking planks. As a result, such fastening devices are not suitable for conventional planks and thus limit the selection of decking. Furthermore, expensive wood planks, such as various hardwoods, generally do not have such grooves or shoulders. Such planks are often recycled from old locations and refurbished and are typically of the conventional type with generally flat sides. Therefore, such fastening devices are not suitable for such planks. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a structural fastening assembly having a plurality of structural components fastened to a substructure, the fastening assembly comprising a spacer for placement in the substructure between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the plurality of structural components; at least one gripping member, the gripping member or each gripping member including a plurality of opposing arms and a web interconnecting the plurality of arms; and comprising. the spacer is receivable between the plurality of arms, the spacer and the plurality of arms are configured such that when the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other, whereby free ends of the plurality of arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components to fix the plurality of structural components to the spacer.

[0008] The spacer can define at least one passage extending vertically through the spacer and the gripping member defining the opening or the web of each gripping member, whereby when the spacer is fastened to the base structure, the shank of a fastener is received through the web and the passage to engage the base structure and drive the gripping member or each gripping member towards the base structure, whereby the spacer becomes receivable between the plurality of arms.

[0009] The spacer can include a plurality of end positioning formations and an intermediate portion intervening between the plurality of end positioning formations, the intermediate portion being receivable between the plurality of arms of the gripping member or each gripping member, the intermediate portion and the plurality of arms being configured such that when the intermediate portion is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other, whereby free ends of the plurality of arms abut against the respective adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components.

[0010] The intermediate portion can define at least one spreader formation receivable between the plurality of arms of the gripping member or each gripping member and can drive the plurality of arms to separate when the gripping member is driven towards the base structure.

[0011] The spreader forming part or each spreader forming part may have a plurality of opposing inclined surfaces that extend downward and outward from the upper surface of the spacer, and can easily cause the plurality of arms to separate when the gripping member or each gripping member is driven toward the base structure.

[0012] Each arm of the gripping member or each gripping member may have a gripping part that terminates the arm. The gripping part may extend outward so as to correspond to the plurality of inclined surfaces of the spreader forming part.

[0013] Each gripping part may define a pointed end that can be driven into the interior of the plurality of structural components when the gripping member is driven toward the base structure.

[0014] The intermediate part may define a plurality of guide slots on each side surface of the spreader forming part or each spreader forming part. The gripping member or each gripping member has a plurality of opposing walls that depend on each side surface of the web. Each wall has two slots for defining the arm and two legs. The arm is interposed between the two legs. The two legs and the guide slots may be configured such that the two legs can slide inside the guide slots when the gripping member or each gripping member is driven toward the base structure.

[0015] The fastening assembly may include two spreader forming parts. The intermediate part defines a central part that is interposed between a plurality of ends. Each end is interposed between the central part and one of the plurality of end positioning and forming parts. Each end may define one of the two spreader forming parts.

[0016] The central part may define opposing surfaces. Each spreader forming part may define opposing surfaces that terminate the inclined surfaces. The surfaces of the central part and the spreader forming part may be substantially aligned with each other.

[0017] The fastening assembly may include one gripping member and one corresponding spreader forming portion, and the spreader forming portion may be interposed between the end positioning forming portions.

[0018] The fastening assembly may include at least one cover mechanism that is operably engagable with the spacer so as to cover the gripping member or each gripping member, and may protect the gripping member. The cover mechanism may include a cover engagable with the spacer. The cover or each cover may be hinged to the spacer, and may pivot between an operating position where the cover is located over the gripping member or each gripping member, and a non-operating position where the cover is disposed away from the gripping member or each gripping member to facilitate access to the gripping member.

[0019] The underlying structure may include a plurality of joists, and the spacer may be shaped to receive the upper side of one joist to facilitate positioning of the spacer on the joist.

[0020] The spacer defines at least one recess on each of the side surfaces of the spacer, and is accessible from the upper surface of the spacer. Each arm of the gripping member is slidably receivable in each of the recesses from the upper surface to the lower surface of the spacer, and the recesses may be shaped such that the plurality of arms are driven to move apart from each other when the plurality of arms slide downward in the respective recesses.

[0021] By inclining at least a part of the floor of each recess outwardly and downwardly, the plurality of arms may be driven to move apart from each other when the gripping member is driven downward.

[0022] The free end of each arm may define an outwardly extending ridge for embedding in the plurality of structural components when the plurality of arms are driven to move apart from each other.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, a structural assembly is provided, the structural assembly comprising A base structure, a plurality of structural components disposed on the structural components, the plurality of fastening assemblies described above, may be provided.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method of assembling a structural assembly as described above is provided, the method comprising: placing the plurality of structural components on the base structure; placing the spacer between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components to set a spacing between the adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components in order to set the spacing between the structural components; driving the gripping member or each gripping member towards the base structure so that the spacer is received between the plurality of arms and the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other and contact respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components; may be included.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, a structural assembly is provided, the structural assembly comprising: a base structure, a plurality of structural components disposed on the base structure, a plurality of fastening assemblies, comprising each fastening assembly comprising a spacer for placement on the base structure between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the plurality of structural components, at least one gripping member, the gripping member or each gripping member including a plurality of opposing arms and a web interconnecting the plurality of arms, comprising the spacer being receivable between the plurality of arms, the spacer and the plurality of arms are When the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other, so that the free ends of the plurality of arms abut against the respective adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components, thereby fixing the plurality of structural components to the spacer.

[0026] The foundation structure may include a plurality of joists, and the plurality of structural components may include a series of decking planks disposed on the plurality of joists. The spacer may be configured to be disposed on one of the plurality of joists.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of assembling a structural assembly having a plurality of structural components fastened to a foundation structure using a fastening assembly, the fastening assembly comprising a spacer for placement on the foundation structure between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the plurality of structural components; at least one gripping member, the gripping member or each gripping member including a plurality of opposing arms and a web interconnecting the plurality of arms; comprising the spacer being receivable between the plurality of arms; the spacer and the plurality of arms being configured such that when the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other, so that the free ends of the plurality of arms abut against the respective adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components, thereby fixing the plurality of structural components to the spacer; the method comprising placing at least two of the plurality of structural components on the foundation structure; placing the spacer between the structural components to set a spacing between the structural components; Driving the gripping member or each gripping member towards the base structure so that the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, and the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other so as to abut against the adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components, step; may include.

[0028] The structural assembly may be a decking assembly. The base structure may include a plurality of joists, and the plurality of structural components may include a plurality of decking planks disposed on the plurality of joists.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fastening assembly for a structure having a plurality of structural components fastened to a base structure, the fastening assembly comprising a spacer for positioning on the base structure between adjacent structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the structural components and being fastenable to either the base structure or the structural component, or both the base structure and the structural component; a cover mechanism removably disposed on the spacer and at least partially covering the operable upper surface of the spacer comprising.

[0030] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fastening assembly for decking having a plurality of joists with planks positioned on the joists, the fastening assembly comprising a spacer for positioning on the joist between adjacent planks, the spacer having a predetermined overall thickness such that the spacer functions to maintain a desired spacing between the planks; At least one gripping member, the gripping member including opposing arms and a web interconnecting the arms, the spacer being receivable between the arms, and the spacer and the arms being configured such that when the spacer is received between the arms, the free ends of the arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent planks to fix the planks to the spacer, the arms being driven to move away from each other. Comprising.

[0031] The spacer may define at least one passage extending vertically through the spacer and through the web of the gripping member or each gripping member that defines the opening, such that when the spacer is fastened to the joist, the shank of the fastener is received through the web and the passage so that the spacer can be received between the arms, engage the joist, and drive the gripping member towards the joist.

[0032] The spacer may include an end positioning formation having a width corresponding to a predetermined thickness and an intermediate portion intervening between the end positioning formations, the intermediate portion being receivable between the gripping member or the arms of each gripping member, and the intermediate portion and the arms being configured such that when the intermediate portion is received between the arms, the free ends of the arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent planks so that the arms are driven to move away from each other.

[0033] The intermediate portion may define at least one spreader formation receivable between the arms of the gripping member to spread the arms when the gripping member is driven downward.

[0034] The spreader formation or each spreader formation may have opposing inclined surfaces extending downwardly and outwardly from the upper surface of the spacer to facilitate spreading of the arms when the gripping member is driven downward.

[0035] Each arm of the gripping member may have a gripping portion terminating the arm, the gripping portion extending outwardly to complement the inclined surface of the spreader formation.

[0036] Each gripping portion may define a sharp point that can be driven into the plank when the gripping member is driven towards the joist.

[0037] The intermediate portion may define a guide slot on each side of the spreader forming portion or each spreader forming portion, the gripping member has opposing walls that depend on each side of the web, each wall has two slots for defining an arm and two legs, the arm is interposed between the legs, and the legs and the guide slot are configured such that the legs can slide within the guide slot to align the opening of the web with the passage through the spacer.

[0038] The fastening assembly may include two spreader forming portions, the intermediate portion defines a central portion interposed between the ends, each end is interposed between the central portion and one of the end positioning forming portions, and each end defines one of the spreader forming portions.

[0039] The central portion may define opposing surfaces, each spreader forming portion may define opposing surfaces that terminate in inclined surfaces, and the surfaces of the central portion and the spreader forming portions are aligned with each other.

[0040] The opposing feet may extend from each surface of the central portion.

[0041] The fastening assembly may include one gripping member and one corresponding spreader forming portion, and the spreader forming portion is interposed between the end positioning forming portions.

[0042] The fastening assembly may include a cover mechanism that can be operably engaged with the spacer to cover the gripping member or each gripping member to protect the gripping member.

[0043] The cover mechanism may include at least one cover engageable with a spacer, and the cover or each cover is hinged to the spacer and pivots between an operating position where the cover is located over the gripping member and a non-operating position where the cover is positioned away from the gripping member or each gripping member, facilitating access to the gripping member.

[0044] The cover or each cover and the spacer may include complementary releasable fixing formations such that the cover is fixed to the spacer in the operating position and can be released from the spacer so as to be pivoted to the non-operating position.

[0045] The spacer may be shaped to accommodate the upper side of the joist in order to facilitate positioning of the spacer on the joist.

[0046] The spacer may define at least one recess on each side surface of the spacer, which is accessible from the upper surface of the spacer, and each arm of the gripping member is slidably receivable in one of the respective recesses from the upper surface to the lower surface of the spacer, and the recesses are shaped such that the arms are driven apart from each other as the arms slide downward within the respective recesses.

[0047] At least a part of the floor of each recess may be inclined outwardly and downwardly in order to drive the arms apart from each other when the gripping member is driven downward.

[0048] The free end of each arm may define an outwardly extending ridge for embedding in the plank when the arms are driven apart from each other.

[0049] According to one aspect of the present invention, a decking assembly is provided, the decking assembly comprising a series of spaced joists, and a series of decking planks positioned side by side on the joists in a lateral direction with respect to the joists, and a plurality of fastening assemblies interposed between the decking planks, each fastening assembly comprising A spacer for positioning on one of the joists between adjacent planks, the spacer having a predetermined overall thickness such that opposing side surfaces function to maintain the spacing between the planks, at least one gripping member, the gripping member including opposing arms and a web interconnecting the arms, the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured such that when the spacer is received between the arms, the free ends of the arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent planks to secure the planks to the spacer by driving the arms away from each other, a fastening assembly comprising and comprising.

[0050] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of assembling a deck using the fastening assembly described above, the method comprising positioning at least two decking planks on a set of joists, positioning a spacer of the fastening assembly between the planks to set the spacing between the decking planks, driving the gripping member towards the joist, the spacer being received between the arms and the arms being driven away from each other to abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent planks, and including.

[0051] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of assembling a decking having a plurality of joists with planks positioned on the joists, the fastening assembly being a spacer for positioning on the joist between adjacent planks, the spacer having a predetermined overall thickness such that the spacer functions to maintain a desired spacing between the planks, and at least one gripping member including opposing arms and a web interconnecting the arms, the spacer being receivable between the arms, and the spacer and the arms being configured such that when the spacer is received between the arms, the free ends of the arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent planks to drive the arms away from each other to fix the planks to the spacer, the method comprising: positioning at least two decking planks on a set of joists; positioning a spacer between the planks to set the spacing between the decking planks; driving the gripping member towards the joist, wherein the spacer is received between the arms and the arms are driven away from each other to abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent planks; and including.

[0052] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a decking assembled according to the above method.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0053]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4a

Figure 4b

Figure 4c

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11a

Figure 11b

Figure 11c

Figure 11d

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

Figure 23

Figure 24a

Figure 24b

Figure 24c

Figure 24d

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] In the drawings, reference numeral 10 generally shows an embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the present invention for a structural assembly in the form of a decking assembly or decking 12 according to the present invention.

[0055] The decking 12 includes a substructure in the form of a plurality of joists, one of which is shown at 14, and a structural component in the form of decking planks 16 positioned on the joists 14 (FIG. 16).

[0056] The fastening assembly 10 includes a spacer 18 for positioning on the joist 14 between adjacent planks 16.1 and 16.2. The spacer 18 is attachable to the joist 14. For the sake of convenience and to facilitate explanation, one joist 14 and two planks 16.1, 16.2 are shown. It will be readily understood that the decking 12 includes a plurality of joists 14 and planks 16 (see FIGS. 15 and 16).

[0057] The spacer 18 has opposing upper and lower surfaces 20 and 22 and opposing side surfaces 24, 26 (FIGS. 4a, 4b, 5). The spacer 18 has a predetermined overall thickness such that it can function to maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16. It will be understood that the spacer 18 can have a wide range of dimensions, regardless of height, width or overall thickness, to accommodate various dimensions of the joists and planks.

[0058] The clamping assembly 10 includes two gripping members 28. Each gripping member 28 includes opposing arms 30.1, 30.2 and a web 32 interconnecting the arms 30. A spacer 18 is receivable between the arms 30.1 and 30.2. The spacer 18 and the arms 30.1, 30.2 are configured such that when the spacer 18 is received between the arms 30.1 and 30.2 and the web 32 is displaced or driven towards the upper surface 20, the arms 30.1, 30.2 are driven or deployed to move apart from each other, whereby the free ends 42 of the arms 30 abut against the respective adjacent vertical side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 of the adjacent plank 16. This is shown in FIG. 3, and the displacement of the arms 30.1, 30.2 is exaggerated for the sake of illustration.

[0059] The spacer 18 defines two recesses 36 in the side surface 24 and two recesses 38 in the side surface 26, and the recesses 36 are aligned with the respective recesses 38 (FIG. 5). The recesses 36, 38 are accessible from the upper surface 20. Thus, when viewed from above, the profile of the spacer 18 defines two spaced constrictions 40. Each recess 36, 38 includes an operatively vertical floor 44 having a lower inclined portion 46 inclined outwardly and downwardly.

[0060] The arms 30.1, 30.2 of each gripping member 28 have a width substantially corresponding to the width of the recesses 36, 38. The arms 30.1, 30.2 are spaced apart so as to substantially correspond to the thickness of each constriction 40. Thereby, each gripping member 28 can be slid and engaged with the spacer 18 such that a constriction 40 is interposed between the arms 30.1 and 30.2 of each gripping member 28. Further, when the inclined portions 46 of each floor 44 engage with the respective arms 30.1, 30.2, the arms 30.1, 30.2 are driven to move apart.

[0061] Therefore, during use, when the spacers 18 are respectively interposed between the vertical sides 34.1, 34.2 of the decking planks 16.1, 16.2, the gripping members 28 can slide so as to engage with the spacers 18 until the arms 30.1, 30.2 are driven apart and abut against the vertical sides 34.1, 34.2 to grip the planks 16.1, 16.2, as described above.

[0062] The spacer 18 defines, from top to bottom and through the spacer 18, two passages 48 that extend from the upper surface 20 to the lower surface 22 at the constriction 40. The web 32 of each gripping member 28 defines an opening 50 (Fig. 4a). The opening 50 and the passages 48 are positioned such that when each constriction 40 is received between the two respective arms 30.1, 30.2, the opening 50 is aligned with the respective passage 48. The threaded shank 52 of a fastener in the form of a screw 54 is received through the corresponding respective opening 50 and passage 48 and driven into the joist 14. During its operation, the head 56 of each screw 54 abuts against the web 32 and drives the arms 30.1, 30.2 on the associated inclined portion 46. As a result, the arms 30.1, 30.2 are displaced outwards and abut against the sides 34.1, 34.2 (Fig. 3). The screw 54 can be a self-tapping screw suitable for screwing into a wooden joist without the need for drilling.

[0063] The free ends 42 of the arms 30.1, 30.2 are defined by outwardly extending ribs or ridges 58 (Fig. 4c). Therefore, when the arms 30 are driven outwards, the ridges 58 bite into the sides 34.1, 34.2 and lock the plank 16 to the gripping member 28. At the same time, the fastener 54 serves to fasten the gripping member 28 and the spacer 18 to the joist 14. As a result, when the screw 54 is driven into the joist 14, the plank 16 is fixed to the joist 14.

[0064] The lower surface 22 of the spacer 18 is shaped to receive the joist 14 to facilitate positioning of the spacer 18 on the joist 14. For that purpose, the lower surface 22 defines a recess 59 (FIGS. 1, 4a) sized such that the joist 14 can be nested within the recess 59. It will be appreciated that the recess 59 can have a range of dimensions suitable for various joists. In one example, the recess 59 can have a width that complements a standard joist width.

[0065] The spacer 18 is dimensioned such that when the plank 16 is fastened to the joist 14, the head 56 of the screw 54 is positioned below or flush with the decking surface 62 (FIGS. 2, 8, 16, 19). This facilitates sanding, oiling, or other operations or activities on the decking surface 62 without interference from the screw 54.

[0066] In use, the planks 16.1, 16.2 are arranged side by side with the spacer 18 sandwiched between adjacent vertical sides 34.1, 34.2 of the planks 16.1, 16.2 (see, for example, FIG. 15). The spacer 18 can be slidably adjusted relative to the joist 14 together with the planks 16.1, 16.2. This is facilitated by nesting the joist 14 within the recess 59. As seen in FIG. 1, the recesses 36, 38 and associated vertical sides 34.1, 34.2 of the planks 16.1, 16.2 define an opening 60 when the planks 16.1, 16.2 are in a predetermined position (FIG. 1). The arms 30.1, 30.2 of each gripping member 28 are received in their respective openings 60. The shank 52 of the screw 54 is then received through the opening 50 and passage 48 and driven into the joist 14. This drives the gripping member 28 towards the joist 14 such that the ridges 58 bite into the vertical sides 34.1, 34.2 to fasten the plank 16 to the joist 14.

[0067] The gripping member 28 is made of an elastically flexible material having sufficient structural integrity to facilitate the gripping operation required when it is driven towards the joist 14. Thus, the gripping member 28 can be made of steel such as spring steel.

[0068] It will be appreciated that there is no need to drive fasteners through the plank 16 or drill holes in the plank 16 in order to fasten the plank 16 to the joist 14. Further, since the arm 30 grips the plank 16 without requiring a groove or any other formation in the vertical side surface 34 of the plank 16, the plank 16 can be a conventional plank of any material such as hardwood. The fact that the plank 16 does not have fasteners driven through it or holes drilled through it significantly reduces the risk of damage to the plank 16.

[0069] In FIG. 6, reference numeral 100 generally shows an embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the present invention for a structure in the form of a decking 102 according to the present invention (FIGS. 15, 16). Referring to the foregoing drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only and is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the above summary.

[0070] Further, the parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 10 can be exchanged with the parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 100 if feasible.

[0071] The fastening assembly 100 includes a spacer 104 (see FIG. 12 for details of the spacer 104) for positioning on the joist 14 between adjacent planks 16.1, 16.2 (FIGS. 7, 8). As before, for convenience and to facilitate explanation, one joist 14 and two planks 16.1, 16.2 are shown. In FIGS. 15 and 16, a plurality of planks 16 can be seen on two of the joists 14.

[0072] The spacer 104 is configured to maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16.1 and 16.2. Thus, the spacer 104 has an overall thickness such that the spacer 104 can maintain the desired spacing between the planks 16.1 and 16.2 during the assembly of the decking 102.

[0073] The fastening assembly 100 includes two gripping members 114. Each gripping member 114 includes opposing arms 116.1, 116.2 and a web 118 interconnecting the arms 116.1, 116.2. The spacer 104 is receivable between the arms 116.1 and 116.2. The spacer 104 and the arms 116.1, 116.2 are configured such that when the spacer 104 is received between the arms 116.1 and 116.2 and driven toward the joist 14, the arms 116.1, 116.2 are driven away from each other, whereby the free ends of the arms 116.1, 116.2 abut against respective adjacent vertical side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 of the adjacent planks 16 (FIG. 10) to grip the planks 16.1, 16.2.

[0074] Each gripping member 114 includes opposing walls 115.1, 115.2 (FIG. 11a). Each wall 115.1, 115.2 defines two slots 124 extending from the web 118 (FIG. 11b). The slots 124 provide or define each arm 116.1, 116.2 and two legs 128, and each arm 116.1, 116.2 is interposed between the legs 128. The gripping member 114 is made of an elastically flexible material such as steel, whereby the arms 116.1, 116.2 can bend independently of the legs 128. Each gripping member 114 is made of an elastically flexible material having sufficient structural integrity to facilitate the required gripping action when the gripping member 114 is driven toward the joist 14. Thus, the gripping member 114 can be made of steel such as spring steel.

[0075] The spacer 104 includes an end positioning forming portion or locator 130 having a width of the predetermined thickness referred to above (see FIG. 12 for detailed drawings). The intermediate portion 132 is interposed between the locators 130. The upper ends of the intermediate portion 132 and the locators 130 are on the same plane and define the upper surface 106 of the spacer 104. The intermediate portion 132 includes a central portion 134 interposed between two ends 136. The central portion 134 has opposing substantially flat surfaces 138 and a width substantially the same as the width of the locator 130. The feet 140 extend from each surface 138.

[0076] Each end 136 defines a spreader forming portion 144. Each spreader forming portion 144 includes opposing raised surfaces 146 that align with the adjacent surfaces 138 of the central portion 134. Each end 136 defines two spaced guide slots 142 such that each spreader forming portion 144 is interposed between two sets of two opposing guide slots 142. Each slot 142 is dimensioned to slidably receive one of the legs 128 to guide the movement of the gripping member 114. The legs 128 and the slots 142 also facilitate the accurate positioning of the gripping member 114 relative to the spacer 104 before driving the gripping member 114 towards the joist 14.

[0077] The spreader forming portion 144 has opposing inclined surfaces 148 that extend outwardly and downwardly from the upper surface 106 so as to terminate at the respective raised surfaces 146 to facilitate the deployment of the arms 116.1, 116.2 when the gripping member 114 is driven downwardly towards the joist 14.

[0078] When the spacer 104 is seated or positioned between the continuous planks 16.1 and 16.2, the side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 are held spaced apart from each other by the locators 130, the opposing surfaces 146 of the spreader forming portion 144, and the flat surface 138 of the central portion 134 during the assembly of the decking 12.

[0079] Each arm 116.1, 116.2 includes an outer and downwardly extending end or gripping portion 150 that cooperates with the inclined surface 148 of the spreader forming portion 144 (FIG. 11b). The inclined surface 148 and the gripping portion 150 are configured such that the legs 128 can be received in their respective slots 142 and the gripping member 114 can be driven downward, whereby the inclined surface 148 interacts with the gripping portion 150 to deploy the arms 116.1, 116.2 to the state shown in FIGS. 11c and 11d, for example. The gripping portion 150 is dimensioned and shaped to define a pointed end 151 (FIGS. 10, 11c) that can be driven into the associated side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 when the web 118 is driven towards the intermediate portion 132. This is shown in FIG. 10.

[0080] The intermediate portion 132 and the locator 130 are shaped to accommodate the upper side of each joist 14. Accordingly, a generally rectangular recess 154 (FIG. 6) is defined by the locator 130 and the intermediate portion 132. The locator 130 and the intermediate portion 132 are configured to receive the joist 14 within the recess 154 such that the spacer 104 is positioned on the joist 14 to facilitate sliding the spacer 104 back and forth on the joist 14 for position adjustment. Each locator 130 includes downwardly projecting legs 152 such that the recess 154 is defined between the legs 152.

[0081] The web 118 of each gripping member 114 defines an opening 156 (FIG. 11a) that can receive the threaded shank 52 of the screw 54. The intermediate portion 132 of the spacer 104 is between two raised surfaces 146 of the respective spreader forming portion 144 and defines two passages 160 that extend vertically from the upper surface 106 through the intermediate portion 132. Accordingly, each threaded shank 52 can be received through the respective aligned openings 156 and passages 160 and threaded into the joist 14 while the web 118 is being driven towards the intermediate portion 132 and the joist 14 by the fastening operation of the screw 54, and the spreader forming portion 144 is received between the arms 116.1 and 116.2 of the respective gripping member 114.

[0082] In use, as shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 15, two or more spacers 104 are positioned or located on the joist 14 to space the planks 16 apart. In that position, the locator 130 and the surfaces 138, 146 abut against the adjacent side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 to maintain the spacing between the decking planks 16 equal to a predetermined overall width. The leg 128 can be partially located within the slot 142 with the gripping portion 150 of the gripping member 114 in sliding engagement with the inclined surface 148. The threaded shank 52 is inserted through the opening 156 and the passage 160 and threaded into the joist 14. During that operation, the head 56 abuts against the web 118, driving it towards the intermediate portion 132 and driving the arms 116.1, 116.2 away from each other or deploying them, as a result of which the tip portions 151 are driven into the side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 to fix the fastening assembly 100 to the planks 16.1, 16.2 and the joist 14. FIG. 10 shows the orientation of the arms 116.1, 116.2 in their operative state.

[0083] The fastening assembly 100 includes two cover mechanisms 164 operably engaged with the spacer 104 to cover the gripping member 114 and a screw 54 for protecting those components. The cover mechanism 164 is configured to be removably disposed on the body 126 of the spacer 104 (FIG. 11c) so as to cover the gripping member 114 and the head 56 of the screw 54 when the decking plank 16 is fixed to the joist 14, as described above.

[0084] Each cover mechanism 164 includes a cover 166 for each gripping member 114 and associated screw 54. Each cover 166 includes a cover body 168 having a width substantially the same as the full width of the body 126 of the spacer 104. Thereby, the cover body 168 can be snugly received between the planks 16. Each cover 166 includes a hinge 170 pivotally connecting the edge of the cover body 168 to respective locators 130. The cover body 168 is dimensioned to be pivotable between a non-operating position (Figs. 6, 7, 11c) where the head 56 and the gripping member 114 are not covered and an operating position (Figs. 8, 9, 11d) where the head 56 and the gripping member 114 are covered by the cover body 168. The cover 166 is dimensioned such that when the gripping member 114 is covered, the cover 166 is in the same plane as or below the decking surface 62, facilitating polishing, lubricating, and other operations and activities performed on the decking 12 without interference.

[0085] Each of the cover bodies 168 defines a recess 172 (Fig. 11c) configured to receive the head 56 of the screw 54. A protrusion 174 extends from the free end of the cover body 168. The intermediate portion 132 defines two holes 176 (Fig. 12) corresponding to respective protrusions 174. The holes 176 and the protrusions 174 are dimensioned such that the protrusions 174 are frictionally fitted into the respective holes 176 to fix the cover 166 in their operating positions, enabling the protrusions 174 to be released from the holes 176 to operate the cover 166 to the non-operating position.

[0086] In Fig. 13, reference numeral 180 generally shows an embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the present invention. Referring to the foregoing drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only and is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the above summary. Further, the parts shown with reference to the fastening assemblies 10, 100 can be exchanged with the parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 180, if practicable.

[0087] The fastening assembly 180 has one gripping member 114 and an associated screw 54. The fastening assembly 180 is not intended to straddle or be nested within the joist 14 as in the case of assemblies 10, 100. Rather, the fastening assembly 180 seats on the joist 14 at a desired location.

[0088] The fastening assembly 180 includes a spacer 182. The spacer 182 is generally rectangular. The spacer 182 includes two positioning formations, namely locators 184 and an intermediate portion 186 intervening between the locators 184. Two opposing feet 188 extend from the locators 184 so as to rest on the joist 14. The locators 184 and the intermediate portion 186 provide the overall width of the spacer 182 to determine the desired spacing of the planks 16.

[0089] The intermediate portion 186 includes one spreader formation 190 positioned centrally between the locators 184. The spreader formation 190 is substantially the same as the spreader formation 144 and has opposing raised surfaces 192 and opposing inclined surfaces 196 extending downwardly and outwardly from the upper end or face 187 of the intermediate portion 186. The surfaces 192, 196 are substantially the same as the surfaces 146, 148.

[0090] The locators 184 and the spreader formation 190 maintain the desired spacing between the planks 16 such that the locators 184 and the raised surfaces 192, 196 abut against the side faces 34.1, 34.2 to substantially equalize the thickness.

[0091] The locators 184 and the spreader formation 190 define two spaced slots 193 on each side of the intermediate portion 186. The legs 128 of the gripping member 114 can be received in the respective slots 193. The spaced slots 193 perform the same function as the slots 142. The legs 128 of the gripping member 114 can be received within the respective slots 193 and the raised and inclined surfaces 192, 196 intervene between the two spaced slots 193.

[0092] Passage 194 extends from top to bottom through intermediate portion 186 between two raised surfaces 192 so as to be located centrally between locators 184. Thus, as seen in FIG. 13, shank 52 is received through opening 156 and passage 194, and as a result, when gripping member 114 is driven downward, tip 151 bites into side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 in the same manner as fastening assembly 100, and fastening assembly 180 can be fixed to joist 14 and plank 16.

[0093] Fastening assembly 180 includes a cover mechanism 164. Cover 166 is pivotally fixed to one of locators 184 by hinge 170 and is operable as described above.

[0094] In FIG. 17, reference numeral 200 generally shows an embodiment of a fastening assembly according to the present invention for a deck or decking 202 (FIGS. 18, 19) according to the present invention. Referring to the foregoing drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only and is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the foregoing summary. Further, parts shown with reference to fastening assemblies 10, 100 can be exchanged with parts shown with reference to fastening assembly 200 if practicable.

[0095] Fastening assembly 200 includes a spacer 204 (see FIG. 21 for details of spacer 202) for positioning on joist 14 between adjacent planks 16.1 and 16.2. As described above, for convenience and to facilitate explanation, a portion of decking 202 is shown in FIG. 19 with one joist 14 and two planks 16.1, 16.2. In FIG. 18, a plurality of planks 16 can be seen on one of joists 14.

[0096] The spacer 204 is configured to maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16.1 and 16.2. Thus, the spacer 204 has an overall thickness such that the spacer 204 can maintain the desired spacing between the planks 16.1 and 16.2 during the assembly of the decking 202. Thus, the spacer 204 can be provided with various overall thicknesses depending on the desired spacing.

[0097] The fastening assembly 200 is used in the same manner as the fastening assembly 100.

[0098] The fastening assembly 200 includes two gripping members 206, one of which is shown in detail in FIG. 20. Each gripping member 206 includes opposing arms 208.1, 208.2 and a web 210 interconnecting the arms 208.1, 208.2. The spacer 204 is receivable between the arms 208.1 and 208.2. The spacer 204 and the arms 208.1, 208.2 are configured such that when the spacer 204 is received between the arms 208.1 and 208.2 and driven towards the joist 14, the arms 208.1, 208.2 are driven away from each other, whereby the free ends of the arms 208.1, 208.2 abut against the respective adjacent vertical sides 34.1, 34.2 of the adjacent planks 16 to grip the planks 16.1, 16.2 (FIGS. 22, 23).

[0099] Each gripping member 206 includes opposing walls 212.1, 212.2 for positioning between respective side surfaces 34.1 and 34.2 of the planks 16.1, 16.2. Each wall 212.1, 212.2 defines two slots 214 extending from the web 210. The slots 214 define or provide each arm 208.1, 208.2 and two legs 216, and each arm 208.1, 208.2 is interposed between the legs 216. The gripping member 206 is made of an elastically flexible material such as steel, whereby the arms 208.1, 208.2 can bend independently of the legs 216. Each gripping member 206 is made of an elastically flexible material having sufficient structural integrity to facilitate the gripping operation required when the gripping member 206 is driven toward the joist 14, as shown in FIGS. 24b and 24c. Thus, the gripping member 206 can be made of steel such as spring steel.

[0100] The spacer 204 includes an end positioning formation or locator 218. The locator 218 has a width that is the overall thickness described above. An intermediate portion 220 having an upper surface 222 is interposed between the locators 218. The intermediate portion 220 has a central portion 224 interposed between two end portions 226.

[0101] The central portion 224 has opposing substantially flat surfaces 228 and a width substantially the same as the width of the locator 218.

[0102] Each end portion 226 defines a spreader formation 232. Each spreader formation 232 includes opposing raised surfaces 234 aligned with respective adjacent opposing surfaces 236 of the central portion 224. Each end portion 226 defines two spaced guide slots 237 such that each spreader formation 232 is interposed between two sets of two opposing guide slots 237. Each slot 237 is dimensioned to slidably receive one of the legs 216 to guide the movement of the gripping member 206 (FIG. 24b). The legs 216 and the slots 237 also facilitate the accurate positioning of the gripping member 206 relative to the spacer 204 before driving the gripping member 206 toward the joist 14.

[0103] When the gripping member 206 is driven downward toward the joist 14, the spreader forming portion 232 has opposing inclined surfaces 238 that extend outwardly and downwardly from the upper surface 222 so as to terminate at respective raised surfaces 234 to facilitate the deployment of the arms 208.1, 208.2 (FIGS. 24b and 24c).

[0104] When the spacer 204 is seated or positioned between the continuous planks 16.1 and 16.2, the side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 of the planks 16.1, 16.2 are held spaced apart from each other by the locator 218, the spreader forming portion 232, and the central portion 224 during the assembly of the decking 12.

[0105] The end portions 212 of each of the arms 208.1, 208.2 extend outwardly and downwardly to define a gripping portion 240 that cooperates with the inclined surface 238 of the spreader forming portion 232 (FIG. 24b). The inclined surface 238 and the gripping portion 240 are configured such that the legs 216 can be received in the respective slots 237 and the gripping member 206 can be driven downward, whereby the inclined surface 238 interacts with the gripping portion 242 to deploy the arms 208.1, 208.2. The gripping portion 240 is dimensioned and shaped to define a pointed end portion 242 that can be driven into the associated side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 when the web 210 is driven toward the intermediate portion 220. This is shown in FIG. 23.

[0106] The intermediate portion 220 and the locator 218 are shaped to accommodate the upper side of each joist 14. Accordingly, a generally rectangular recess 246 (FIG. 17) is defined by the locator 218 and the intermediate portion 220. The locator 218 and the intermediate portion 220 are configured such that the joist 14 can be received within the recess 246 with the spacer 204 positioned thereon to facilitate sliding the spacer 204 back and forth on the joist 14 for position adjustment.

[0107] Each locator 218 includes legs 244 that project downward such that a recess 246 is defined between the legs 244. Each leg 244 has a contoured inner surface that, in order to further facilitate the placement of the spacer 204 on the joystick 14, can use the inherent elasticity of the spacer material to provide a gripping effect on the joystick 14 by the legs 244. The spacer material can be an elastically flexible plastic material or any other suitable elastically flexible material. This also applies to the spacers of other embodiments described herein.

[0108] The web 210 of each gripping member 206 defines an opening 248 that can receive the threaded shank 52 of the screw 54. The intermediate portion 220 is between two raised surfaces 234 of the respective spreader-forming portion 232 and defines two passages 250 that extend vertically from the upper surface 222 through the intermediate portion 220. Thus, each threaded shank 52 can be received through the respective aligned openings 248 and passages 250 and threaded into the joystick 14 while the web 210 is being driven toward the intermediate portion 220 and the joystick 14 by the fastening operation of the screw 54, and the spreader-forming portion 232 is received between the arms 208.1 and 208.2 of the respective gripping member 206.

[0109] In use, two or more spacers 204 are positioned or located on the joist 14 to space apart the planks 16. In that position, the locator 218, the raised surface 234 of the spreader forming portion 232 and the opposing surface 236 of the central portion 224 abut against the adjacent side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 to maintain a spacing between the decking planks 16 equal to the full width of the spacer 204. The legs 216 are partially positioned within the slots 237 (FIG. 24b), and the gripping portions 240 of the gripping members 206 are in sliding engagement with the inclined surfaces 238. The threaded shank 52 is inserted through the openings 248 and passages 250 and screwed into the joist 14. During that operation, the head 56 abuts against the web 210, driving it towards the intermediate portion 220 and driving the arms 208.1, 208.2 away from each other or deploying them, such that the pointed ends 242 are driven into the side surfaces 34.1, 34.2 to fix the fastening assembly 200 to the planks 16.1, 16.2 and the joist 14 (FIG. 24c). FIG. 23 shows the orientation of the arms 208.1, 208.2 in their operating state.

[0110] The fastening assembly 200 includes two cover mechanisms 254 operatively engaged with the spacer 204 to cover the gripping members 206 and screws 54 for protecting those components. Each cover mechanism 254 is configured to be removably disposed on the body 256 of the spacer 104 so as to cover the gripping members 206 and the heads 56 of the screws 54 when the decking planks 16 are fixed to the joist 14 as described above.

[0111] Each cover mechanism 254 includes a cover 258 for each gripping member 206 and associated screw 54. Each cover 258 includes a cover body 260 having a width substantially the same as the full width of the body 256 of the spacer 204. Thereby, the cover body 260 can be snugly received between the planks 16. Each cover 258 includes a hinge 262 pivotally connecting the edge of the cover body 260 to respective locators 218. The cover body 260 is dimensioned to be pivotable between a non-operating position (Figs. 17, 21, 24c) where the head 56 and the gripping member 206 are not covered and an operating position (Figs. 19, 24d) where the head 56 and the gripping member 206 are covered by the cover body 260. The cover 258 is dimensioned such that when the gripping member 206 is covered, the cover 258 is in the same plane as or below the decking surface 62, facilitating polishing, lubricating, and other operations and activities performed on the decking 12 without interference.

[0112] The cover 258 is dimensioned such that in the operating position, the free ends of respective covers 258 are adjacent to or in contact with each other (as can be seen in Figs. 19, 24d). This helps to promote or achieve substantially complete coverage of the spacer 204 to enhance protection against the ingress of moisture and detritus.

[0113] Each of the cover bodies 260 defines a recess 264 configured to receive the head 56 of the screw 54. A protrusion 266 extends from the free end of the cover body 260. The intermediate portion 220 defines two holes 268 corresponding to respective protrusions 266. The holes 268 and the protrusions 266 are dimensioned such that the protrusions 266 are frictionally fitted into respective holes 268 to fix the cover 258 in their operating positions, allowing the protrusions 266 to be released from the holes 268 to enable the cover 258 to be manipulated to the non-operating position.

[0114] An embodiment of the fastening assembly includes one of the spreader forming portions 232 interposed between the locators 218 such that the fastening assembly is related to the fastening assembly 200 in the same way that the fastening assembly 180 is related to the fastening assembly 100.

[0115] It is envisioned that one embodiment of the fastening assembly can include a general or conventional spacer for structural components and at least one of the cover mechanisms 164, 254 removably connected to the spacer to protect the spacer and associated fastener(s).

[0116] The foregoing description has described a fastening assembly having one or two gripping members. It is envisioned that a fastening assembly having three or more gripping members can be provided depending on the requirements of the application.

[0117] The spacers 18, 104, 182, 204 described above can have overall dimensions of height, width, and length to be suitable for various applications and planks and joists of different dimensions.

[0118] The fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 provide a convenient and easy way to secure conventional structural components such as decking planks to a foundation structure such as an array of joists to form a structure or structural assembly such as a decking assembly without the need for specialized skills or tools. The fact that the fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 can be used with a wide variety of conventional decking planks allows for the supply of a single parts kit including the spacers 18, 104, 182, 204, the gripping members 28, 114, 206, and the screws 54. It will be appreciated that the parts kit need not be supplied with structural components such as planks, and the consumer can procure their own structural components or planks, which may be recycled high-value planks. Examples of such recycled high-value planks are those of hardwood or other rare woods.

[0119] Also, it will be appreciated that the fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 facilitate the removal of structural components such as decking planks 16 from a foundation structure such as joist 14 and reduce the risk of damage to the planks 16. To remove the plank 16, the covers 166, 258 can be levered with a tool suitable for pivoting them to the inoperative position. The screws 54 can be loosened and the gripping members 28, 114, 206 are removed from the spacers 18, 104, 182, 204 while disengaged from engagement with the sides 34.1, 34.2 of the plank 16. Then, the plank 16 can be lifted from the joist 14 without having to pry the plank 16 from the joist 14. Thus, the planks 16 can be recycled without opening or other damage in a state close to their original state before they are fastened to the joist 14.

[0120] The fastening assemblies 100, 180, 200 include cover mechanisms 164, 254 that can be used both to protect the gripping members 114, 206 and the screws 54 from corrosion and other damage resulting from water ingress and to improve the appearance of the finished structural assemblies such as decking 12, 102, 202.

[0121] This is evident in FIGS. 8, 16 and 19, where the covers 166, 258 provide a neat finish to the space or gap between the planks 16.

[0122] In addition to its ordinary meaning, the term "plank" should be understood to include panels or similar articles that can also be fastened to a joist or beam using the fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 in the manner described herein.

[0123] Accordingly, the term "deck" or "decking" should be considered to encompass, in addition to its ordinary English meaning, any structure having structural components, planks or plank-like elements or panels fastened to a substructure such as an array of joists, beams or battens. This can take the form of a variety of structures including low-level decks, balconies, boardwalks and the like. It is not limited to structures connected to a house or other building. Also, it will be readily understood that fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 can be used to achieve any structure or structural assembly in which structural components such as planks or plank-like elements or panels are continuously fastened to a substructure such as an array of joists, beams, battens, etc. This can include vertical or horizontal structures such as vertical or horizontal screens or other architectural structures. Accordingly, fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 are used in any application where a consistent evenly spaced layout of structural components on a substructure is desired. Further, assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200 can achieve such a consistent evenly spaced layout without the need to customize the structural components such as planks or panels. Accordingly, it will be understood that spacers 18, 104, 182, 204 can have a variety of different overall dimensions to suit the use of fastening assemblies 10, 100, 180, 200. For example, spacers 18, 104, 182, 204 can be supplied to fit joists or planks of standard sizes according to the requirements of a local building.

[0124] The appended claims should be considered to be incorporated into the above description.

[0125] Throughout this specification, references to advantages, covenants, objects, etc. should not be considered to be cumulative, compound, and / or collective, and are not described as warranties, but should be considered to be preferred or desirable.

[0126] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise indicated, the related terms such as "comprise", "comprises", and "comprising" (and their variants), or "includes" (and its variants), etc. are used inclusively rather than exclusively, such that the recited integer or group of integers may include one or more other unrecited integers or groups of integers.

[0127] Terms indicating directions and orientations such as "front", "rear", "back", "down", "up", etc. are used for convenience. It is assumed that various embodiments can be used in a non-operating configuration, such as when presented for sale. Therefore, such terms should be regarded as essentially illustrative and not limiting.

[0128] Features described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the present invention may be used together and / or may be interchangeable. Similarly, features described in the context of a single embodiment may be provided separately or in any suitable partial combination.

[0129] It should be understood that the terms used above are for purposes of explanation and should not be regarded as limiting. The described embodiments are intended to illustrate the present invention without limiting the scope of the present invention. The present invention can be implemented with various modifications and additions, as would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A fastening assembly for a structure having a plurality of structural components fastened to a base structure, a spacer for placement on the base structure between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the plurality of structural components, at least one gripping member, the gripping member or each gripping member including a plurality of opposing arms and a web interconnecting the plurality of arms, comprising: the spacer being receivable between the plurality of arms, the spacer and the plurality of arms being configured such that when the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other, whereby free ends of the plurality of arms abut respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent plurality of structural components to secure the plurality of structural components to the spacer. A fastening assembly characterized by the above.

2. The spacer defines at least one passage extending vertically through the web of the gripping member or each gripping member that defines an opening with the spacer, such that when the spacer is fastened to the base structure, a shank of a fastener is received through the web and the passage and engages the base structure, driving the gripping member or each gripping member toward the base structure, whereby the spacer is receivable between the plurality of arms. The fastening assembly according to claim 1.

3. The spacer includes a plurality of end positioning formations and an intermediate portion interposed between the plurality of end positioning formations, the intermediate portion being receivable between the plurality of arms of the gripping member or each gripping member, the intermediate portion and the plurality of arms being configured such that when the intermediate portion is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other, whereby the free ends of the plurality of arms abut the respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent plurality of structural components. The fastening assembly according to claim 2, configured as such.

4. The intermediate portion is Define at least one spreader forming part that can be received between the gripping member or the plurality of arms of each gripping member, and drive the plurality of arms to separate when the gripping member or each gripping member is driven toward the base structure. The fastening assembly according to claim 3.

5. The spreader forming part or each spreader forming part has A plurality of opposing inclined surfaces extending downward and outward from the upper surface of the spacer, facilitating driving the plurality of arms to separate when the gripping member or each gripping member is driven toward the base structure. The fastening assembly according to claim 4.

6. Each arm of the gripping member or each gripping member has a gripping part that terminates the arm, The gripping part extends outward so as to correspond to the plurality of inclined surfaces of the spreader forming part. The fastening assembly according to claim 5.

7. Each gripping part defines a pointed end that can be driven into the plurality of structural components when the gripping member is driven toward the base structure. The fastening assembly according to claim 6.

8. The intermediate part defines a plurality of guide slots on each side surface of the spreader forming part or each spreader forming part, The gripping member or each gripping member has a plurality of opposing walls depending on each side surface of the web, Each wall has two slots for defining the arm and the two legs, The arm is interposed between the two legs, The two legs and the guide slots are configured such that the two legs can slide inside the guide slots when the gripping member or each gripping member is driven toward the base structure. The fastening assembly according to claim 4.

9. The fastening assembly includes two spreader forming parts, The intermediate part defines a central part interposed between a plurality of ends, Each end is interposed between the central part and one of the plurality of end positioning forming parts, Each end defines one of the two spreader forming parts. The fastening assembly according to claim 4.

10. The central part defines a plurality of opposing surfaces, Each spreader forming part defines a plurality of opposing surfaces that terminate the plurality of inclined surfaces, The plurality of surfaces of the central part and the spreader forming part are substantially aligned with each other. The fastening assembly according to claim 9.

11. The fastening assembly includes one gripping member and one corresponding spreader forming portion, and the spreader forming portion is interposed between the end positioning forming portions. The fastening assembly according to claim 4.

12. The fastening assembly according to claim 1, including at least one cover mechanism operably engageable with the spacer to cover the gripping member or each gripping member to protect the gripping member.

13. The cover mechanism or each cover mechanism includes a cover engageable with the spacer, The cover or each cover is hinged to the spacer, The fastening assembly according to claim 12, wherein the cover pivots between an operating position where the cover is located on the gripping member or each gripping member and a non-operating position where the cover is disposed away from the gripping member or each gripping member to facilitate access to the gripping member.

14. The base structure includes a plurality of joists, The fastening assembly according to claim 1, wherein the spacer is shaped to receive the upper side of one joist to facilitate positioning of the spacer on the joist.

15. The spacer defines at least one recess on each of the side surfaces of the spacer, which is accessible from the upper surface of the spacer, Each arm of the gripping member is slidably receivable in each of the recesses from the upper surface to the lower surface of the spacer, The fastening assembly according to claim 1, wherein the recess is shaped such that the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other when the plurality of arms slide downward in the respective recesses.

16. The fastening assembly according to claim 15, wherein at least a part of the floor of each recess slopes outwardly and downwardly, so that the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other when the gripping member is driven downward.

17. The fastening assembly according to claim 1, wherein the free end of each arm defines an outwardly extending ridge for embedding in the plurality of structural components when the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other.

18. A base structure, A plurality of structural components disposed on the structural components, A plurality of fastening assemblies according to claim 1, A structural assembly comprising.

19. A method of assembling the structural assembly according to claim 18, placing the plurality of structural components on the foundation structure; placing the spacers between adjacent ones of the structural components to set a spacing therebetween to set a spacing between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components; driving the gripping member or each gripping member toward the foundation structure so that the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, and the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other to abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent plurality of structural components; A method comprising the steps of: **Claim 20** A structural assembly, comprising: a foundation structure; a plurality of structural components disposed on the foundation structure; a plurality of fastening assemblies; wherein each fastening assembly comprises: a spacer for placement on the foundation structure between adjacent ones of the plurality of structural components, configured to maintain a desired spacing between the plurality of structural components; at least one gripping member, the gripping member or each gripping member including a plurality of opposed arms and a web interconnecting the plurality of arms; wherein the spacer is receivable between the plurality of arms; wherein the spacer and the plurality of arms are configured such that when the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other such that free ends of the plurality of arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the adjacent plurality of structural components to secure the plurality of structural components to the spacer; A structural assembly, characterized in that: **Claim 21** The structural assembly according to claim 20, wherein the foundation structure includes a plurality of joists, and the plurality of structural components include a series of decking planks disposed on the plurality of joists, in the form of a decking assembly. **Claim 22** The structural assembly according to claim 21, wherein the spacer is configured to be disposed on one of the plurality of joists. **Claim 23** A method of assembling a structural assembly having a plurality of structural components fastened to a foundation structure using a fastening assembly, wherein the structural assembly comprises: ​ ​ ​ ​ A spacer for placement on the base structure between a plurality of adjacent structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the plurality of structural components, At least one gripping member, the gripping member or each gripping member including a plurality of opposing arms and a web interconnecting the plurality of arms, Comprising, The spacer is receivable between the plurality of arms, The spacer and the plurality of arms, When the spacer is received between the plurality of arms, the plurality of arms are driven in a direction away from each other so that free ends of the plurality of arms abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components, thereby fixing the plurality of structural components to the spacer, The method is, Placing at least two of the plurality of structural components on the base structure, Placing the spacer between the structural components to set a spacing therebetween, Driving the gripping member or each gripping member towards the base structure so that the spacer is received between the plurality of arms and the plurality of arms are driven to move away from each other to abut against respective adjacent side surfaces of the plurality of adjacent structural components, A method comprising.

24. The structural assembly is a decking assembly, The base structure includes a plurality of joists, The method according to claim 23, wherein the plurality of structural components include a plurality of decking planks disposed on the joists.

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