Connectors and suspension structures

Abstract

To provide a support member which can easily support air-conditioning related items, a support structure of the air conditioner related items, and a construction method of the air-conditioning related items.SOLUTION: A connector 10 comprises a connection mechanism 20 for connecting a first suspension bolt 5 and a second suspension bolt 6. The connection mechanism 20 has a first connection part 21 and a second connection part 22 which are connected to the first suspension bolt 5, and a third connection part 23 and a fourth connection part 24 connected to the second suspension bolt 6, and is constituted so that a distance between the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 22 can be elongated and shortened, and a distance between the third connection part 23 and the fourth connection part 24 can be elongated and shortened. In another case, the connection mechanism 20 is constituted so that a distance between the first connection part 21 and the third connection part 23 can be elongated and shortened, and a distance between the second connection part 22 and the fourth connection part 24 can be elongated and shortened.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connector for connecting suspension bolts and a suspension structure.

Background Art

[0002] A suspension structure for supporting an indoor unit in a suspended state is known (see Patent Document 1). The suspension structure has several suspension bolts. To enhance the seismic resistance of the suspension structure, two braces are connected to two suspension bolts. The two braces are attached to the two suspension bolts in a state where they cross between the two suspension bolts.

[0003] However, such a connection structure requires labor to connect the two suspension bolts to each other. Specifically, it requires a series of operations of cutting the braces to a predetermined length, arranging the two braces between the two suspension bolts, and fixing them to the suspension bolts while holding the two braces.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] From the perspective of work efficiency, there is room for improvement in the connection structure for connecting two suspension bolts.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first aspect of the connector for solving the problem is a connector for connecting a first suspension bolt and a second suspension bolt suspended from a ceiling slab, comprising a connecting mechanism for connecting the first suspension bolt and the second suspension bolt, the connecting mechanism having a first connecting portion that connects to the first suspension bolt, a second connecting portion that connects to the first suspension bolt at a position lower than the first connecting portion, a third connecting portion that connects to the second suspension bolt, and a fourth connecting portion that connects to the second suspension bolt at a position lower than the third connecting portion, and configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is expandable and contractible, and the distance between the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion is expandable and contractible, or the distance between the first connecting portion and the third connecting portion is expandable and contractible, and the distance between the second connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion is expandable and contractible. With this configuration, the connector can change the relative positions of the first to fourth connection points, allowing it to be applied to suspension structures of various widths without the need for cutting to adjust the length of the members. Furthermore, the connector can be applied to suspension structures with varying heights to the ceiling slab.

[0007] The connector from the second perspective is the connector from the first perspective, wherein the connecting mechanism comprises a first member having the first connecting portion, a second member having the second connecting portion, a third member having the third connecting portion, and a fourth member having the fourth connecting portion, and each of the first to fourth members is connected to two other members from the first to fourth members. With this configuration, since each of the first to fourth members is connected to two other members, the structure of the connecting mechanism can be strengthened.

[0008] The connector of the third viewpoint is the connector of the second viewpoint, wherein the connecting mechanism further comprises a first engaging member and a second engaging member, the first member being rotatably connected to the second member, the third member being rotatably connected to the fourth member, the first engaging member being slidably positioned at the intersection of the first member and the third member and engaging with the first member and the third member, and the second engaging member being slidably positioned at the intersection of the second member and the fourth member and engaging with the second member and the fourth member.

[0009] In this configuration, a first bendable member is formed by the first and second members. A second bendable member is formed by the third and fourth members. The first and second bendable members are then connected by the first and second engaging members. This allows for smooth adjustment of the distance between the first to fourth connection points and improves the strength of the connection mechanism.

[0010] In the fourth aspect of the connector, the first connecting portion, the second connecting portion, the third connecting portion, and the fourth connecting portion are positioned offset from the first engaging member and the second engaging member in a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the movable area of ​​the first engaging member and the second engaging member.

[0011] Depending on the engagement position of the first engaging member with respect to the first and third members, the inner end of the first member opposite to the first joint and the inner end of the third member opposite to the third joint move. Similarly, depending on the engagement position of the second engaging member with respect to the second and fourth members, the inner end of the second member opposite to the second joint and the inner end of the fourth member opposite to the fourth joint move. If the first, second, third, and fourth joints are in the same position in a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the movable areas of the first and second engaging members, there is a risk that the inner ends of the first to fourth members will interfere with the first and second suspension bolts. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the first, second, third, and fourth joints are positioned at offset locations in a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the movable areas of the first and second engaging members. Therefore, the inner ends of the first to fourth members are less likely to interfere with the first and second suspension bolts.

[0012] The connector of the fifth aspect is the connector of the second aspect, wherein the connecting mechanism further comprises a third engaging member and a fourth engaging member, the first member being rotatably connected to the third member, the second member being rotatably connected to the fourth member, the third engaging member being slidably positioned at the intersection of the first member and the second member and engaging with the first member and the second member, and the fourth engaging member being slidably positioned at the intersection of the third member and the fourth member and engaging with the third member and the fourth member.

[0013] In this configuration, a third bendable member is formed by the first and third members. A fourth bendable member is formed by the second and fourth members. The third and fourth bendable members are then connected by the third and fourth engaging members. This allows for smooth adjustment of the distance between the first and fourth connection points and improves the strength of the connection mechanism.

[0014] The connector of the sixth aspect is the connector of the second aspect, wherein the connecting mechanism further comprises a fifth engaging member, the first member being slidably connected to the fourth member along the longitudinal direction of the first member, the second member being slidably connected to the third member along the longitudinal direction of the second member, the fifth engaging member being slidably connected to either or both of the first member and the fourth member, and to either or both of the second member and the third member, and is positioned at the intersection of a first telescopic member formed by the first member and the fourth member and a second telescopic member formed by the second member and the third member, and engages with the first telescopic member and the second telescopic member.

[0015] In this configuration, a first expandable / contractible member is formed by the first and fourth members. A second expandable / contractible member is formed by the second and third members. The first and second expandable / contractible members are then connected by the fifth engaging member. This allows for smooth adjustment of the distance between the first and fourth connecting parts and improves the strength of the connecting mechanism.

[0016] The connector of the seventh aspect is such that, in any one of the connectors of the first to sixth aspects, the first suspension bolt and the second suspension bolt each include a suspension bolt, and the first joint, the second joint, the third joint, and the fourth joint each include a clamping portion that clamps the suspension bolt. This configuration allows for a simple structure of the joint.

[0017] The connector of the eighth aspect is the connector of the seventh aspect, wherein the clamping portion comprises an outer end of one of the first to fourth members on which the clamping portion is provided, a clamping piece attached to the outer end for clamping the suspension bolt, and a fastening bolt for fastening the clamping piece to the outer end.

[0018] This configuration allows for a simpler structure for the clamping portion.

[0019] The connector in the ninth aspect is the connector in the seventh aspect, wherein the clamping portion further includes a biasing member that biases the clamping piece toward the outer end. With this configuration, the clamping portion allows each of the first to fourth connecting portions to be easily temporarily connected to the suspension bolt. By temporarily connecting each of the first to fourth connecting portions to the suspension bolt, the connector can be temporarily fixed to two suspension bolts. This reduces the effort required to hold the connector by hand during installation.

[0020] In the connector of the tenth aspect, in the connector of the seventh or eighth aspect, the clamping piece is rotatably attached to the outer end of the member among the first to fourth members on which the clamping portion is provided. With this configuration, the connector can be moved relative to the suspension bolt or unfolded while each of the first to fourth connecting portions is temporarily connected to the suspension bolt. Therefore, the work efficiency in attaching the connector to the suspension bolt can be improved.

[0021] The connector of the 11th aspect includes a rotation-preventing structure for the fastening bolt or nut such that, in any one of the connectors of the 7th to 10th aspects, the fastening bolt or nut engaging with the fastening bolt of the clamping portion of each of the first to fourth members can be tightened from the same surface relative to the connector. With this configuration, when attaching the connector to a suspension bolt, the worker can tighten the fastening bolt or nut of each of the first to fourth members from the same surface relative to the connector. Therefore, the work efficiency in attaching the connector to a suspension bolt can be improved.

[0022] The connector according to the 12th aspect is the connector according to any one of the 7th to 11th aspects, and in the fastening bolts, nuts, and engaging members of the clamping portions of the first to fourth members, respectively, the rotation prevention structure of the fastening bolt or the nut and the rotation prevention structure of the engaging member are provided so that each can be tightened from the same surface with respect to the connector. The engaging member is a member that engages two selected from the group consisting of the first member, the second member, the third member, and the fourth member with each other.

[0023] According to this configuration, when attaching the connector to the suspension bolt, the operator can tighten the fastening bolt or nut, and the engaging member of each of the first to fourth members from the same surface with respect to the connector. Therefore, in the work of attaching the connector to the suspension bolt, the work efficiency can be improved.

[0024] The suspension structure according to the 13th aspect is a suspension structure for suspending an object, and includes the first suspension bolt suspended from the ceiling slab, the second suspension bolt suspended from the ceiling slab, and the connector according to any one of the 1st to 12th aspects. According to this configuration, the suspension structure includes a connector. The connector can change the positional relationship between the first coupling portion and the fourth coupling portion. Therefore, the work efficiency when installing the suspension structure can be improved.

[0025] The suspension structure according to the 14th aspect is a suspension structure for suspending an object, and includes the first suspension bolt suspended from the ceiling slab, the second suspension bolt suspended from the ceiling slab, and a plurality of connectors according to any one of the 1st to 12th aspects. Each of the plurality of connectors connects the first suspension bolt and the second suspension bolt. One of the plurality of connectors is disposed above the other connectors. In the connector disposed above the other connectors among the plurality of connectors, the second member intersects the first member of the other connector, and the fourth member intersects the third member of the other connector. According to this configuration, since one of the plurality of connectors overlaps the other connectors, the strength of the suspension structure can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of the suspension structure of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Regarding the suspension structure shown in FIG. 1, it is a perspective view of the suspension structure in an extended state. [Figure 3] It is a front view of a connector connected to two suspension bolts. [Figure 4] It is a plan view of the connector shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view of the first member of the connector. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view of the outer end portion of the first member of the connector. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view of the outer end portion of the first member shown in FIG. 6 as viewed from another direction. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view of the inner end portion of the first member of the connector. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view of the inner end portion of the first member shown in FIG. 8 as viewed from another direction. [Figure 10] Regarding the connector, it is a perspective view of the joint portion of the first aspect. [Figure 11] Regarding the joint portion of the first aspect shown in FIG. 10, it is a perspective view as viewed from another direction. [Figure 12] Regarding the connector, it is a perspective view of the joint portion of the second aspect. [Figure 13] Regarding the joint portion of the second aspect shown in FIG. 12, it is a perspective view as viewed from another direction. [[ID=Q4]] [Figure 14] It is a perspective view of the central portion of the connector shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 15] It is a perspective view of the central portion of the connector shown in FIG. 14 as viewed from another direction. [Figure 16] It is a perspective view of a part of the suspension structure of the second embodiment. [Figure 17] It is the suspension structure of the third embodiment, and it is a front view of the suspension structure. [Figure 18]Figure 17 shows the suspension structure, specifically a front view of the extended suspension structure. [Figure 19] This is a perspective view of the suspension structure according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a perspective view of the suspension structure of the fourth embodiment, showing a scaled-down version of the suspension structure shown in Figure 19. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view of the suspension structure in the fifth embodiment, when the suspension distance is large. [Figure 22] This is a perspective view of the suspension structure in the fifth embodiment, when the suspension distance is small. [Figure 23] The fifth embodiment is shown in Figure 22, which is an enlarged view of a part of the suspension structure. [Figure 24] This is a perspective view of the first joint portion in the first member of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 25] The fifth embodiment is a side view of a connector that connects to two suspension bolts. [Figure 26] The fifth embodiment is a plan view of a connector that connects to two suspension bolts. [Figure 27] This is an end view of the first member of the connector, showing a modified example of the connector. [Figure 28] This is a perspective view of a connector in another technology. [Figure 29] This figure shows a ceiling suspension structure reinforced by the connectors shown in Figure 28. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] <First Embodiment> The suspension structure 1 and the connectors 10 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 15. Figure 1 shows the suspension structure 1 with four connectors 10 temporarily fixed. Figure 2 shows the suspension structure 1 with four connectors 10 fixed.

[0028] [Suspension structure] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the suspension structure 1 suspends an object. The object is connected below the suspension structure 1. In this embodiment, the object is an indoor unit 2. The air outlet of the indoor unit 2 is exposed through an opening in the ceiling 9 of the room. Examples of objects include a ceiling-mounted indoor unit 2, an air purifier, a duct, and a chamber.

[0029] The suspension structure 1 comprises a first suspension bolt 5 suspended from the ceiling slab, a second suspension bolt 6 suspended from the ceiling slab, and a connector 10. The suspension structure 1 may further comprise a third suspension bolt 7 and a fourth suspension bolt 8. Each of the first suspension bolt 5, second suspension bolt 6, third suspension bolt 7, and fourth suspension bolt 8 includes a suspension bolt 3. Each of the first suspension bolt 5, second suspension bolt 6, third suspension bolt 7, and fourth suspension bolt 8 may comprise a suspension bolt 3 and other components besides the suspension bolt 3. An example of a component other than the suspension bolt 3 is a cylindrical decorative cover that covers the suspension bolt 3.

[0030] In this embodiment, the suspension structure 1 suspends the indoor unit 2. The suspension structure 1 comprises a first suspension bolt 5, a second suspension bolt 6, a third suspension bolt 7, and a fourth suspension bolt 8. The first suspension bolt 5, the second suspension bolt 6, the third suspension bolt 7, and the fourth suspension bolt 8 are connected to each of the four corners of the indoor unit 2.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2, the suspension structure 1 includes four connectors 10. The first connector 10 of the four connectors 10 connects the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The second connector 10 of the four connectors 10 connects the second suspension bolt 6 and the third suspension bolt 7. The third connector 10 of the four connectors 10 connects the third suspension bolt 7 and the fourth suspension bolt 8. The fourth connector 10 of the four connectors 10 connects the fourth suspension bolt 8 and the first suspension bolt 5. The four connectors 10 have the same structure.

[0032] [Connecting device] The connector 10 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows the connector 10 viewed from the front. Figure 4 shows the connector 10 viewed from above. Here, the connector 10 that connects the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6 will be described. In the connector 10, the inner or inner side refers to the part closer to the center of the connector 10. In the connector 10, the outer or outer side refers to the part closer to the first suspension bolt 5 or the part closer to the second suspension bolt 6. In the first to fourth members 11 to 14 of the connector 10, the inner end 16 refers to the end opposite to the outer end 17. In the first to fourth members 14 of the connector 10, the outer end 17 refers to the part closer to the first suspension bolt 5 or the part closer to the second suspension bolt 6.

[0033] The connector 10 includes a connecting mechanism 20. The connecting mechanism 20 connects the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The connecting mechanism 20 includes a first connecting part 21, a second connecting part 22, a third connecting part 23, and a fourth connecting part 24. The first connecting part 21 connects to the first suspension bolt 5. The second connecting part 22 connects to the first suspension bolt 5 and is connected to the first suspension bolt 5 at a position lower than the first connecting part 21. The third connecting part 23 connects to the second suspension bolt 6. The fourth connecting part 24 connects to the second suspension bolt 6 and is connected to the second suspension bolt 6 at a position lower than the third connecting part 23.

[0034] The connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the second connecting portion 22 is expandable and contractable, and the distance between the third connecting portion 23 and the fourth connecting portion 24 is expandable and contractable (hereinafter referred to as the first structure). Alternatively, the connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the third connecting portion 23 is expandable and contractable, and the distance between the second connecting portion 22 and the fourth connecting portion 24 is expandable and contractable (hereinafter referred to as the second structure). The connecting mechanism 20 may have both the first structure and the second structure. In this embodiment, the connecting mechanism 20 has both the first structure and the second structure.

[0035] The connecting mechanism 20 includes a first member 11 having a first connecting portion 21, a second member 12 having a second connecting portion 22, a third member 13 having a third connecting portion 23, and a fourth member 14 having a fourth connecting portion 24.

[0036] Each of the first to fourth members 11 to 14 is connected to two other members from the first to fourth members 14. The first member 11 is connected to the second member 12 and also to the third member 13 via the first engaging member 41. The second member 12 is connected to the first member 11 and also to the fourth member 14 via the second engaging member 42. The third member 13 is connected to the fourth member 14 and also to the first member 11 via the first engaging member 41. The fourth member 14 is connected to the third member 13 and also to the second member 12 via the second engaging member 42.

[0037] [First member and second member] The first member 11 and the second member 12 will now be described. A first connecting portion 21 is provided at the outer end 17 of the first member 11. A second connecting portion 22 is provided at the outer end 17 of the second member 12. The first member 11 is rotatably connected to the second member 12. Specifically, the inner end 16 of the first member 11 is rotatably connected to the inner end 16 of the second member 12. The first member 11 and the second member 12 constitute the first bending member 25.

[0038] The first bending member 25 bends at the connection point between the first member 11 and the second member 12. As the first bending member 25 bends and extends, the distance between the first connecting part 21 and the second connecting part 22 increases or decreases.

[0039] In the first bending member 25, the inner end 16 of the first member 11 and the inner end 16 of the second member 12 may be configured to be rotatable and fastened together by a bolt (hereinafter referred to as an intermediate fastening bolt 28). When the intermediate fastening bolt 28 is tightened, the second member 12 is fixed to the first member 11 at a predetermined angle. When the intermediate fastening bolt 28 is loosened, the second member 12 becomes rotatable relative to the first member 11.

[0040] [Third and fourth members] The third member 13 and the fourth member 14 will now be described. A third connecting portion 23 is provided at the outer end 17 of the third member 13. A fourth connecting portion 24 is provided at the outer end 17 of the fourth member 14. The third member 13 is rotatably connected to the fourth member 14. Specifically, the inner end 16 of the third member 13 is rotatably connected to the inner end 16 of the fourth member 14. The third member 13 and the fourth member 14 constitute the second bending member 26.

[0041] The second bending member 26 bends at the connection point between the third member 13 and the fourth member 14. As the second bending member 26 bends and extends, the distance between the third connection point 23 and the fourth connection point 24 increases or decreases.

[0042] In the second bending member 26, the inner end 16 of the third member 13 and the inner end 16 of the fourth member 14 may be configured to be fastened together by an intermediate fastening bolt 28. When the intermediate fastening bolt 28 is tightened, the fourth member 14 is fixed to the third member 13 at a predetermined angle. When the intermediate fastening bolt 28 is loosened, the fourth member 14 becomes rotatable relative to the third member 13.

[0043] [Arrangement of the first to fourth members] The state in which the connector 10 is attached to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6 is referred to as the connector attachment state.

[0044] In the connected state, most of the first member 11 and most of the second member 12 are positioned between the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. In the connected state, most of the first member 11 is positioned above the second member 12.

[0045] The first member 11 extends downward from the first suspension bolt 5 toward the second suspension bolt 6 and is positioned to intersect with the third member 13. The second member 12 extends upward from the first suspension bolt 5 toward the second suspension bolt 6 and is positioned to intersect with the fourth member 14.

[0046] In the connected state, most of the third member 13 and most of the fourth member 14 are positioned between the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. In the connected state, most of the third member 13 is positioned above the fourth member 14.

[0047] The third member 13 extends downward from the second suspension bolt 6 toward the first suspension bolt 5 and is positioned to intersect with the first member 11. The fourth member 14 extends upward from the second suspension bolt 6 toward the first suspension bolt 5 and is positioned to intersect with the second member 12.

[0048] [Structure of the first component] The structure of the first member 11 will be explained with reference to Figures 5 to 9. The second members 12 to 4 members 14 have the same structure as the first member 11. In the second members 12 to 4 members 14, the same components as in the first member 11 are given the same names and reference numerals as the components of the first member 11.

[0049] As shown in Figure 5, the first member 11 is composed of a long member. The first member 11 has a base portion 31 extending in the longitudinal direction, a first rib 32 perpendicular to the base portion 31, and a second rib 33 perpendicular to the base portion 31.

[0050] The base portion 31 has a first surface 31A and a second surface 31B opposite to the first surface 31A. In a plan view of the connector 10 when the connector is attached, the first surface 31A faces the suspension bolt 3. The first rib 32 and the second rib 33 are provided so as to protrude from the second surface 31B of the base portion 31.

[0051] The base portion 31 of the first member 11 is provided with a first hole 34, a second hole 35, an elongated hole 36, a first stepped portion 37, and a second stepped portion 38.

[0052] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the first hole 34 is provided in the base portion 31 near the outer end 17 of the first member 11. The first hole 34 is configured for the fastening bolt 53 to pass through. A first protrusion 39 is provided around the first hole 34. The first protrusion 39 is configured to protrude from the second surface 31B of the base portion 31. The first protrusion 39 is configured to engage with a nut 54 or biasing member 52 that engages with the fastening bolt 53.

[0053] The first stepped portion 37 is provided on the base portion 31 of the first member 11. The first stepped portion 37 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first member 11. The first stepped portion 37 is configured to protrude from the first surface 31A of the base portion 31. The first stepped portion 37 is provided between the first hole 34 and the second hole 35, and is provided closer to the second hole 35. The elongated hole 36 is provided in the first stepped portion 37. The elongated hole 36 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first member 11. The elongated hole 36 is configured for the insertion of an engaging fastening bolt 43.

[0054] The first stepped portion 37 is configured to correspond to the portion where the first member 11 and the third member 13 intersect with each other. In the connector 10, the first stepped portions 37 of the first member 11 and the third member 13 are in contact with each other. The first member 11 intersects with the third member 13. The elongated holes 36 of the first member 11 and the third member 13 intersect with each other. A communication hole is formed by the intersection of the elongated holes 36 of the first member 11 and the third member 13. An engaging fastening bolt 43 is inserted through the communication hole formed by the intersection of the first member 11 and the third member 13. The first member 11 and the third member 13 are joined together by the engaging fastening bolt 43 and the engaging nut 44 (see Figure 14).

[0055] As shown in Figure 8, the second stepped portion 38 is provided on the inner end portion 16 of the first member 11. The second stepped portion 38 is provided on the base portion 31 of the first member 11. The second stepped portion 38 is configured to protrude from the first surface 31A of the base portion 31. The second stepped portion 38 is provided with a second hole 35. The second hole 35 is configured for the insertion of an intermediate fastening bolt 28.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9, a recess 38A is provided in the first member 11 on the opposite side of the second stepped portion 38. An intermediate nut 29 that engages with an intermediate fastening bolt 28 may be placed in the recess 38A.

[0057] The second stepped portion 38 is configured to correspond to the portion where the first member 11 and the second member 12 overlap each other. In the first bending member 25, the second stepped portions 38 of the first member 11 and the second member 12 are in contact with each other. Intermediate fastening bolts 28 are inserted through the communication holes formed by the second holes 35 in the second stepped portions 38 of the first member 11 and the second member 12. The first member 11 and the second member 12 are rotatably connected to each other by the intermediate fastening bolts 28 and intermediate nuts 29.

[0058] [First engaging member and second engaging member] The first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. The first engaging member 41 is a member that engages the first member 11 and the third member 13 with each other. The second engaging member 42 is a member that engages the second member 12 and the fourth member 14 with each other.

[0059] The connecting mechanism 20 comprises a first engaging member 41 and a second engaging member 42. The first engaging member 41 is slidably positioned at the intersection 40A between the first member 11 and the third member 13, and engages with the first member 11 and the third member 13.

[0060] Specifically, the first engaging member 41 includes an engaging fastening bolt 43 and an engaging nut 44. As described above, the engaging fastening bolt 43 is inserted through a communication hole formed by the intersection of the first member 11 and the third member 13. The engaging nut 44 engages with the engaging fastening bolt 43. The engaging nut 44 has a flange 44A (see Figure 15). The flange 44A is configured to contact the first rib 32 and the second rib 33.

[0061] A bolt head 43A of an engaging fastening bolt 43 is positioned on one of the second surfaces 31B of the first member 11 or the third member 13. An engaging nut 44 is positioned on the other second surface 31B of the first member 11 or the third member 13.

[0062] In this embodiment, the bolt head 43A is positioned in a first recess 37A provided on the second surface 31B of the first member 11. The bolt head 43A slides along the first recess 37A. The first recess 37A is the portion opposite to the first stepped portion 37. The engaging nut 44 is provided on the second surface 31B of the third member 13. The engaging nut 44 is positioned such that a portion of it is accommodated in the first recess 37A provided on the second surface 31B of the third member 13. The engaging nut 44 moves as guided by the first rib 32 and the second rib 33.

[0063] The second engaging member 42 is positioned at the intersection 40B between the second member 12 and the fourth member 14 so as to be slidable between the second member 12 and the fourth member 14, and engages with the second member 12 and the fourth member 14. The second engaging member 42 has the same configuration as the first engaging member 41.

[0064] [Holding part] Each of the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24 includes a clamping portion 50 that holds the suspension bolt 3.

[0065] The clamping portion 50 will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 13. Figure 10 shows the clamping portion 50 of the third joint 23 as viewed from a predetermined direction. Figure 11 shows the clamping portion 50 of the third joint 23 as viewed from another direction. Figure 12 shows the clamping portion 50 of the first joint 21 as viewed from a predetermined direction. Figure 13 shows the clamping portion 50 of the first joint 21 as viewed from another direction.

[0066] The clamping portion 50 comprises an outer end portion 17 of the member on which the clamping portion 50 is provided among the first member 11 to the fourth member 14, a clamping piece 51, a biasing member 52 that biases the clamping piece 51 toward the outer end portion 17, and a fastening bolt 53 that fastens the clamping piece 51 toward the outer end portion 17.

[0067] The clamping piece 51 is attached to the outer end 17. The clamping piece 51 clamps the suspension bolt 3. The clamping piece 51 is positioned on the first surface 31A of the member on which the clamping portion 50 is provided, at the outer end 17 of the member among the first member 11 to the fourth member 14. As described above, the first surface 31A is the surface facing the suspension bolt 3. The first surface 31A is in contact with the suspension bolt 3.

[0068] The clamping piece 51 is rotatably attached to the outer end 17 of the member among the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 that is provided with the clamping portion 50.

[0069] Referring to Figure 10, the clamping portion 50 provided on the third member 13 will be described. The clamping piece 51 has a mounting portion 55, an arm portion 56 extending from the mounting portion 55, and a contact portion 57 provided at the tip of the arm portion 56.

[0070] The mounting portion 55 is attached to the outer end 17 of the third member 13 by fastening bolts 53. The mounting portion 55 is provided with a mounting hole 55A. A second protrusion 58 is provided around the mounting hole 55A. The second protrusion 58 is configured to protrude from the mounting portion 55. The second protrusion 58 is configured to engage with a nut 54 or a biasing member 52.

[0071] The fastening bolt 53 is inserted through the first hole 34 and the mounting hole 55A of the third member 13. The mounting portion 55 is tightened by the fastening bolt 53 when the position of the third connecting portion 23 of the third member 13 is determined with respect to the suspension bolt 3.

[0072] The contact portion 57 has a groove 57A into which the suspension bolt 3 fits. The groove 57A is curved so that the suspension bolt 3 fits into it. A projection 59 is provided on the surface of the contact portion 57 opposite to the groove 57A. The projection 59 is provided on the upper and lower portions of the contact portion 57. The projection 59 is used as a handle when moving the third connecting portion 23 of the third member 13 relative to the suspension bolt 3.

[0073] The biasing member 52 is positioned between the bolt head 53A of the fastening bolt 53 and the mounting portion 55 of the clamping piece 51. As in this embodiment, a washer 53B may be positioned on the shaft of the fastening bolt 53. In this case, the biasing member 52 is positioned between the washer 53B and the mounting portion 55 of the clamping piece 51.

[0074] The biasing member 52 is made of a coil spring. Preferably, the biasing member 52 is made of a conical coil spring. A conical coil spring allows the coil spring to be made thinner when it is compressed by the fastening bolt 53. The biasing member 52 may also be a V-shaped leaf spring.

[0075] When the fastening bolt 53 is loosened, the biasing member 52 presses the clamping piece 51 against the outer end 17 of the third member 13. As a result, the clamping piece 51 is held at any angle relative to the third member 13, and is rotatable relative to the outer end 17 of the third member 13. Therefore, when the fastening bolt 53 is loosened and the groove 57A of the contact portion 57 is in contact with the suspension bolt 3, the third joint portion 23 of the third member 13 can be moved smoothly relative to the suspension bolt 3.

[0076] [Method of the clamping part] The clamping portion 50 has two different configurations depending on the orientation of the fastening bolt 53. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, in the clamping portion 50 of the first embodiment, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted into the first hole 34 from the first surface 31A. The bolt head 53A and biasing member 52 of the fastening bolt 53 are positioned on the first surface 31A. The fastening bolt 53 then engages with a nut 54 provided on the second surface 31B. The nut 54 is prevented from rotating by the first protrusion 39. Therefore, the fastening bolt 53 and nut 54 can be easily tightened. The clamping portion 50 of the first embodiment is provided on the second member 12 and the third member 13.

[0077] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, in the clamping portion 50 of the second embodiment, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted into the first hole 34 from the second surface 31B. The bolt head 53A and biasing member 52 of the fastening bolt 53 are positioned on the second surface 31B. The fastening bolt 53 then engages with a nut 54 positioned on the first surface 31A via a clamping piece 51. The nut 54 is prevented from rotating by a second protrusion 58 provided on the clamping piece 51. This allows the fastening bolt 53 and nut 54 to be easily tightened. The clamping portion 50 of the second embodiment is provided on the first member 11 and the fourth member 14.

[0078] As shown in Figures 10 to 14, the arrangement of the anti-rotation structure 48 for the fastening bolts 53 and nuts 54 will be described. When the connector 10 is connected to two suspension bolts 3, the connector 10 forms a single surface structure between the two suspension bolts 3. In the surface structure formed by the connector 10, in a plan view, one surface is called the first surface 10A, and the surface opposite the first surface 10A is called the second surface 10B (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, the anti-rotation structure 48 for the nuts 54 is provided on one of the first surface 10A and the second surface 10B. In this embodiment, the anti-rotation structure 48 for the nuts 54 includes a first protrusion 39 and a second protrusion 58. This allows all four fastening bolts 53 of the connector 10 to be inserted from the same surface. This allows all four fastening bolts 53 to be tightened from the same surface. Therefore, the efficiency of the installation work of the connector 10 is improved.

[0079] In this embodiment, both the first protrusion 39 and the second protrusion 58 are configured to stop the rotation of both the bolt head 53A and the nut 54. This allows the fastening bolt 53 or nut 54 to be tightened from the same surface on the connector 10, whether the nut 54 is positioned on the first surface 10A or the second surface 10B of the connector 10. Hereinafter, a structure that allows the fastening bolt 53 or nut 54 to be tightened from the same surface on the connector 10 will be referred to as a same-surface tightening structure. The same-surface tightening structure is a rotation-stopping structure that can stop the rotation of both the bolt head 53A and the nut 54 on the same surface of the connector 10.

[0080] The same-surface tightening structure may also be applied to the anti-rotation structure 49 in the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42. The anti-rotation structure 49 in the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 is composed of an engaging nut 44. The engaging nut 44 is prevented from rotating by the first rib 32 and the second rib 33 by having a rectangular outer shape. In a plan view of the connector 10, the anti-rotation structure 49 of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 may be provided on the same surface as the anti-rotation structure 48 of the bolt head 53A or nut 54. This allows the fastening bolt 53 or nut 54 to be tightened from the same surface in the connector 10, and also allows the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 to be tightened.

[0081] Furthermore, the same-surface tightening structure may also be applied to the anti-rotation structure 47 in the intermediate nut 29. The anti-rotation structure 47 in the intermediate nut 29 is the structure of the recess 38A. The recess 38A may be configured such that the bolt head of the intermediate fastening bolt 28 and the intermediate nut 29 can both engage with it. In a plan view of the connector 10, the anti-rotation structure 47 in the intermediate nut 29 may be provided on the same surface as the anti-rotation structure 48 of the bolt head 53A or nut 54. This allows the fastening bolt 53 or nut 54 to be tightened and the intermediate nut 29 to be tightened from the same surface in the connector 10.

[0082] [Orientation of fastening bolts in connectors] As shown in Figure 3, the fastening bolts 53 of the clamping portions 50 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 are arranged in the same direction. This point will be explained in detail below. In the first bending member 25, the orientation of the first surface 31A of the first member 11 is opposite to the orientation of the first surface 31A of the second member 12. The orientation of the first surface 31A of the first member 11 is the same as the orientation of the first surface 31A of the fourth member 14. The first member 11 and the fourth member 14 are provided with a clamping portion 50 of the second configuration. In the first member 11 and the fourth member 14, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted from the second surface 31B.

[0083] In the second bending member 26, the orientation of the first surface 31A of the third member 13 is opposite to the orientation of the first surface 31A of the fourth member 14. The orientation of the first surface 31A of the second member 12 is the same as the orientation of the first surface 31A of the third member 13. The second member 12 and the third member 13 are provided with the clamping portion 50 of the first embodiment. In the second member 12 and the third member 13, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted through the first surface 31A.

[0084] In other words, the direction in which the fastening bolts 53 are inserted differs depending on the orientation of the first surface 31A of each of the first members 11 to 4th members 14. As a result, the fastening bolts 53 are arranged in the same direction. Because the fastening bolts 53 are arranged in the same direction, when fixing the connector 10 to the two suspension bolts 3, the worker can tighten the four fastening bolts 53 from the same direction, thus improving work efficiency.

[0085] The fastening bolts 53 and engaging members of the clamping portions 50 of each of the first to fourth members 11 to 14 may be arranged in the same orientation. This point will be explained in detail. In the first member 11 and the fourth member 14, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted from the second surface 31B. In the second member 12 and the third member 13, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted from the first surface 31A. At the intersection 40A of the first member 11 and the third member 13, the engaging bolt is inserted from the second surface 31B of the first member 11. At the intersection 40B of the second member 12 and the fourth member 14, the engaging bolt is inserted from the second surface 31B of the fourth member 14. As a result, the four fastening bolts 53 and the two engaging bolts are positioned in the same orientation.

[0086] The fastening bolts 53, first engaging member 41, second engaging member 42, and intermediate fastening bolts 28 of the clamping portions 50 of each of the first to fourth members 11 to 14 may be arranged in the same orientation. This point will be explained in detail. In the first member 11 and the fourth member 14, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted from the second surface 31B. In the second member 12 and the third member 13, the fastening bolt 53 is inserted from the first surface 31A. At the intersection 40A of the first member 11 and the third member 13, the engaging bolt is inserted from the second surface 31B of the first member 11. At the intersection 40B of the second member 12 and the fourth member 14, the engaging bolt is inserted from the second surface 31B of the fourth member 14 (see Figure 14).

[0087] At the connection between the first member 11 and the second member 12, the intermediate fastening bolt 28 is inserted through the second surface 31B of the first member 11. At the connection between the third member 13 and the fourth member 14, the intermediate fastening bolt 28 is inserted through the second surface 31B of the fourth member 14. As a result, the four fastening bolts 53, the two engaging bolts, and the two intermediate fastening bolts 28 are all positioned in the same orientation (see Figure 14).

[0088] <Operation> Before installing the connector 10, the fastening bolts 53, the first engaging member 41, the second engaging member 42, and the intermediate fastening bolts 28 are loosened. This allows the relative positions of the first to fourth connecting parts 21 to 24 to be freely adjusted.

[0089] Figure 1 shows the state in which four connectors 10 are temporarily fixed to the first suspension bolt 5 to the fourth suspension bolt 8. In the connector 10 between the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6, the first connecting part 21 and the second connecting part 22 are temporarily connected to the first suspension bolt 5, and the third connecting part 23 and the fourth connecting part 24 are temporarily connected to the second suspension bolt 6. At this time, the clamping parts 50 of each of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 are rotatable. Also, the fastening bolt 53, the first engaging member 41, the second engaging member 42, and the intermediate fastening bolt 28 are held in a loosened state. For this reason, the connector 10 can be easily extended. When the first connecting part 21 to the fourth connecting part 24 are positioned in the predetermined position (see Figure 2), the fastening bolt 53, the first engaging member 41, the second engaging member 42, and the intermediate fastening bolt 28 are tightened. This firmly connects the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6.

[0090] <Operation of the Embodiment> The suspension structure 1 can take on various forms depending on the size of the object suspended by the suspension structure 1 and the position of the object relative to the ceiling slab. Specifically, when the suspension structure 1 is equipped with four suspension bolts 3, the length of each of the four suspension bolts 3 and the distance between the four suspension bolts 3 can be set in various ways. To prevent the object from swaying, braces are attached to each of the four suspension bolts 3, in pairs. As described above, since the length of each of the four suspension bolts 3 and the distance between the four suspension bolts 3 can be set in various ways, the length of the braces is determined according to these set lengths or distances. Adjusting the length of the braces is time-consuming and hinders the efficiency of the object suspension work.

[0091] The connector 10 of this embodiment includes a connecting mechanism 20. The connecting mechanism 20 has first connecting parts 21 to fourth connecting parts 24. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured so that the distance between the first connecting part 21 and the second connecting part 22 can be expanded or contracted. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured so that the distance between the third connecting part 23 and the fourth connecting part 24 can be expanded or contracted. This allows the positional relationship between the first connecting part 21 to the fourth connecting part 24 to be changed. Specifically, the relative positions of the first connecting part 21 to the fourth connecting part 24 can be freely set according to the length of each of the four suspension bolts 3 and the distance between the four suspension bolts 3.

[0092] Specifically, since the first member 11 and the second member 12 are rotatably connected, the distance between the first joint 21 and the second joint 22 can be freely set. Similarly, since the third member 13 and the fourth member 14 are rotatably connected, the distance between the third joint 23 and the fourth joint 24 can be freely set. The first member 11 and the third joint 23 are engaged by a first engaging member 41 that slides on both members, so the distance between the first joint 21 and the third joint 23 can be freely set. The second member 12 and the fourth joint 24 are engaged by a second engaging member 42 that slides on both members, so the distance between the second joint 22 and the fourth joint 24 can be freely set.

[0093] In this way, the distance between any two of the first to fourth connecting parts 21 and 24 can be changed, allowing the connector 10 to be applied to suspension structures 1 of various widths without the need for cutting to adjust the length. Furthermore, the connector 10 can be applied to suspension structures 1 of various vertical lengths. This improves the efficiency of installation work using the suspension structure.

[0094] <Effects of this embodiment> (1) The connector 10 includes a connecting mechanism 20. The connecting mechanism 20 has a first connecting portion 21 to a fourth connecting portion 24. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the second connecting portion 22 can be expanded or contracted, and the distance between the third connecting portion 23 and the fourth connecting portion 24 can be expanded or contracted. With this configuration, the connector 10 can change the positional relationship between the first connecting portion 21 to the fourth connecting portion 24, so that the connector 10 can be applied to suspended structures 1 of various widths without the trouble of cutting to adjust the length of the members. In addition, the connector 10 can be applied to suspended structures 1 of various heights to the ceiling slab.

[0095] (2) In the connecting mechanism 20, each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 is connected to two other members from among the first member 11 to the fourth member 14. With this configuration, each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 is connected to two other members, thus strengthening the structure of the connecting mechanism 20.

[0096] (3) In the connecting mechanism 20, the first member 11 is rotatably connected to the second member 12. The third member 13 is rotatably connected to the fourth member 14. The first engaging member 41 is slidably positioned on the first member 11 and the third member 13 at the intersection 40A of the first member 11 and the third member 13, and engages with the first member 11 and the third member 13. The second engaging member 42 is slidably positioned on the second member 12 and the fourth member 14 at the intersection 40B of the second member 12 and the fourth member 14, and engages with the second member 12 and the fourth member 14.

[0097] In this configuration, a first bendable member 25 is formed by the first member 11 and the second member 12. A second bendable member 26 is formed by the third member 13 and the fourth member 14. The first bendable member 25 and the second bendable member 26 are connected by the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42. This allows for smooth adjustment of the distance between the first to fourth connecting parts 21 and 24, and also improves the strength of the connecting mechanism 20.

[0098] (4) In the connecting mechanism 20, each of the first connecting part 21, the second connecting part 22, the third connecting part 23, and the fourth connecting part 24 includes a clamping part 50 that clamps the suspension bolt 3.

[0099] This configuration allows for a simple structure for each of the first joint 21, second joint 22, third joint 23, and fourth joint 24.

[0100] (5) In the connecting mechanism 20, the clamping portion 50 comprises the outer end portion 17 of the member on which the clamping portion 50 is provided among the first member 11 to the fourth member 14, a clamping piece 51, and a fastening bolt 53. With this configuration, the clamping portion 50 can be made into a simple structure.

[0101] (6) In the connecting mechanism 20, the clamping portion 50 is provided with a biasing member 52 that biases the clamping piece 51 toward the outer end portion 17.

[0102] With this configuration, the clamping portion 50 allows each of the first to fourth connecting portions 21 to 24 to be easily temporarily connected to the suspension bolt 3. By temporarily connecting each of the first to fourth connecting portions 21 to 24 to the suspension bolt 3, the connector 10 can be temporarily fixed to the two suspension bolts 3. Therefore, the effort required to continuously hold the connector 10 by hand during installation is reduced.

[0103] (7) In the connecting mechanism 20, the clamping piece 51 is rotatably attached to the outer end 17 of the member on which the clamping portion 50 is provided among the first member 11 to the fourth member 14. With this configuration, the connector 10 can be moved relative to the suspension bolt 3 or the connector 10 can be unfolded while each of the first connecting portion 21 to the fourth connecting portion 24 is temporarily connected to the suspension bolt 3. This improves the work efficiency when attaching the connector 10 to the suspension bolt 3.

[0104] (8) In the connecting mechanism 20, the fastening bolts 53 of the clamping portions 50 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 are arranged in the same direction. With this configuration, when attaching the connector 10 to the suspension bolt 3, the worker can tighten the fastening bolts 53 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 from the same direction relative to the connector 10. Therefore, the work efficiency in attaching the connector 10 to the suspension bolt 3 can be improved.

[0105] (9) In the connecting mechanism 20, the fastening bolts 53 of the clamping portions 50 of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14, the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 are all arranged in the same orientation.

[0106] With this configuration, when attaching the connector 10 to the suspension bolt 3, the worker can tighten the fastening bolts 53 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14, as well as the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42, from the same direction relative to the connector 10. Therefore, the work efficiency when attaching the connector 10 to the suspension bolt 3 can be improved.

[0107] (10) The suspension structure 1 comprises a first suspension bolt 5 and a second suspension bolt 6 suspended from the ceiling slab, and a connector 10. With this configuration, the suspension structure 1 is equipped with a connector 10. The connector 10 can change the positional relationship between the first joint 21 to the fourth joint 24. This improves the work efficiency when installing the suspension structure 1.

[0108] <Second Embodiment> The suspension structure 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 16. In this embodiment, components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and the description of redundant components is omitted.

[0109] This embodiment describes a reinforcing structure in a vertically elongated suspension structure 1. In this embodiment, multiple connectors 10 are attached to two suspension bolts 3. Below, as an example of this embodiment, a suspension structure 1 in which two connectors 10 are provided vertically will be described.

[0110] The suspension structure 1 comprises a first suspension bolt 5 and a second suspension bolt 6 suspended from the ceiling slab, and two connecting devices 10. Each of the two connectors 10 connects the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. One of the two connectors 10 is positioned above the other connector 10.

[0111] In the connector 10 positioned above the other connector 10, the second member 12 intersects with the first member 11 of the other connector 10. The fourth member 14 intersects with the third member 13 of the other connector 10. With this configuration, one of the two connectors 10 overlaps with the other connector 10, thereby improving the strength of the suspension structure 1.

[0112] In this embodiment, intersecting members may be joined to each other with metal fittings. For example, the portion of the second member 12 of one of the two connectors 10 that intersects with the first member 11 of the other connector 10 is fixed with a metal fitting. The portion of the fourth member 14 of one of the two connectors 10 that intersects with the third member 13 of the other connector 10 is fixed with a metal fitting.

[0113] <Third Embodiment> The connector 10 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 17 and 18. In this embodiment, components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and the description of redundant components is omitted.

[0114] In this embodiment, the connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the second connecting portion 22 can be expanded or contracted. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the third connecting portion 23 and the fourth connecting portion 24 can be expanded or contracted.

[0115] Furthermore, the connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the third connecting portion 23 can be expanded or contracted. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the second connecting portion 22 and the fourth connecting portion 24 can be expanded or contracted.

[0116] In this embodiment, the third bent member 61 is formed by the first member 11 and the third member 13. The fourth bent member 62 is formed by the second member 12 and the fourth member 14. The third bent member 61 is connected to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The fourth bent member 62 is connected to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. A detailed explanation follows below.

[0117] The connecting mechanism 20 comprises a first member 11 to a fourth member 14. The arrangement of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 with respect to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6 is the same as in the first embodiment. The connecting mechanism 20 further comprises a third engaging member 65 and a fourth engaging member 66.

[0118] The first member 11 is rotatably connected to the third member 13. The second member 12 is rotatably connected to the fourth member 14.

[0119] The third engaging member 65 is positioned at the intersection 40C between the first member 11 and the second member 12 so as to be slidable on the first member 11 and the second member 12, and engages with the first member 11 and the second member 12.

[0120] The fourth engaging member 66 is positioned at the intersection 40D between the third member 13 and the fourth member 14 so as to be slidable on the third member 13 and the fourth member 14, and engages with the third member 13 and the fourth member 14.

[0121] The connector 10 of this embodiment can be realized by rotating the connector 10 of the first embodiment by 90 degrees. In this case, the clamping portion 50 is appropriately redesigned to accommodate the suspension bolt 3.

[0122] <Effects of this embodiment> (1) In this embodiment, the connector 10 can change the positional relationship between the first connecting portion 21 to the fourth connecting portion 24, so that the connector 10 can be applied to suspension structures 1 of various widths without the trouble of cutting to adjust the length of the members.

[0123] (2) According to the connector 10 of this embodiment, a bendable third bending member 61 is formed by the first member 11 and the third member 13. A bendable fourth bending member 62 is formed by the second member 12 and the fourth member 14. The third bending member 61 and the fourth bending member 62 are connected by the third engaging member 65 and the fourth engaging member 66. This allows for smooth adjustment of the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the fourth connecting portion 24, and improves the strength of the connecting mechanism 20.

[0124] <Fourth Embodiment> The connector 10 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 19 and 20. In this embodiment, components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and the description of redundant components is omitted.

[0125] In this embodiment, the connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the second connecting portion 22 can be expanded or contracted. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the third connecting portion 23 and the fourth connecting portion 24 can be expanded or contracted.

[0126] Furthermore, the connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion 21 and the third connecting portion 23 can be expanded or contracted. The connecting mechanism 20 is configured such that the distance between the second connecting portion 22 and the fourth connecting portion 24 can be expanded or contracted.

[0127] In this embodiment, the first expandable member 71 is formed by the first member 11 and the fourth member 14. The second expandable member 72 is formed by the second member 12 and the third member 13. The first expandable member 71 is connected to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The second expandable member 72 is connected to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. A detailed explanation follows below.

[0128] The connecting mechanism 20 comprises first members 11 to fourth members 14. The arrangement of the first members 11 to fourth members 14 with respect to the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6 is the same as in the first embodiment. The first member 11 also has a first connecting portion 21, similar to the first embodiment. The second member 12 also has a second connecting portion 22, similar to the first embodiment. The third member 13 also has a third connecting portion 23, similar to the first embodiment. The fourth member 14 also has a fourth connecting portion 24, similar to the first embodiment.

[0129] The coupling mechanism 20 further includes a fifth engaging member 73. The structure of the fifth engaging member 73 is similar to that of the first engaging member 41 in the first embodiment.

[0130] The first member 11 is slidably connected to the fourth member 14 along the longitudinal direction of the first member 11. The first expandable member 71 is formed by the first member 11 and the fourth member 14.

[0131] The second member 12 is slidably connected to the third member 13 along the longitudinal direction of the second member 12. The second expandable member 72 is formed by the second member 12 and the third member 13.

[0132] In the first member 11, the elongated hole 36 is configured to overlap with the elongated hole 36 in the fourth member 14. In the second member 12, the elongated hole 36 is configured to overlap with the elongated hole 36 in the third member 13.

[0133] The first member 11 slides so as to be accommodated in the fourth member 14. Specifically, the first surface 31A of the first member 11 faces the same direction as the first surface 31A of the fourth member 14. The first rib 32 and the second rib 33 of the first member 11 are positioned between the first rib 32 and the second rib 33 of the fourth member 14.

[0134] The third member 13 slides so as to be housed in the second member 12. Specifically, the first surface 31A of the third member 13 faces the same direction as the first surface 31A of the second member 12. The first rib 32 and the second rib 33 of the third member 13 are positioned between the first rib 32 and the second rib 33 of the second member 12.

[0135] The first surface 31A of the first member 11 and the first surface 31A of the fourth member 14 face towards the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6, and contact the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The first surface 31A of the second member 12 and the first surface 31A of the third member 13 face towards the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6, and contact the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The first surface 31A of the second member 12 and the first surface 31A of the third member 13 face in the opposite direction to the first surface 31A of the first member 11 and the first surface 31A of the fourth member 14.

[0136] The fifth engaging member 73 is slidable between either or both of the first member 11 and the fourth member 14, and between either or both of the second member 12 and the third member 13.

[0137] The fifth engaging member 73 is positioned at the intersection 40E of the first expandable member 71 and the second expandable member 72. The fifth engaging member 73 engages with the first expandable member 71 and the second expandable member 72.

[0138] The connecting mechanism 20 further comprises first fixing bolts 75 to fourth fixing bolts 78.

[0139] The first fixing bolt 75 is provided at the inner end 16 of the first member 11. The first fixing bolt 75 is inserted through a hole other than the elongated hole 36 of the first member 11, and also through the elongated hole 36 of the fourth member 14. The second fixing bolt 76 is provided at the inner end 16 of the second member 12. The second fixing bolt 76 is inserted through a hole other than the elongated hole 36 of the second member 12, and also through the elongated hole 36 of the third member 13.

[0140] The third fixing bolt 77 is provided at the inner end 16 of the third member 13. The third fixing bolt 77 is inserted through a hole separate from the elongated hole 36 of the third member 13, and also through the elongated hole 36 of the second member 12. The fourth fixing bolt 78 is provided at the inner end 16 of the fourth member 14. The fourth fixing bolt 78 is inserted through a hole separate from the elongated hole 36 of the fourth member 14, and also through the elongated hole 36 of the first member 11.

[0141] The first expansion member 71 is reinforced by tightening the first fixing bolt 75 and the fourth fixing bolt 78. The second expansion member 72 is reinforced by tightening the second fixing bolt 76 and the third fixing bolt 77.

[0142] <Effects of this embodiment> In the connecting mechanism 20, the first telescopic member 71 and the second telescopic member 72 are connected by the fifth engaging member 73. This allows for smooth adjustment of the distance between the first connecting portion 21 to the fourth connecting portion 24, and also improves the strength of the connecting mechanism 20.

[0143] <Fifth Embodiment> The connector 10 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 21 to 26. In this embodiment, components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and the description of redundant components is omitted. In this embodiment, the connector 10 of the first embodiment is referred to as "first connector 10X," and the connector 10 of the fifth embodiment is referred to as "second connector 10Y."

[0144] In the first connector 10X of the first embodiment, the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24 are positioned in the same location as the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S which includes the movable region SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42.

[0145] In contrast, in the second connector 10Y of this embodiment, the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24 are positioned offset from the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S which includes the movable area SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42. Hereinafter, this structure will be referred to as the shift structure.

[0146] The suspension structure 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 21 and 22. The suspension structure 1 of this embodiment includes the first connector 10X of the first embodiment and the second connector 10Y of the fifth embodiment. The suspension structure 1 comprises two first connectors 10X and two second connectors 10Y.

[0147] The suspension structure 1 suspends the indoor unit 2. The suspension structure 1 comprises a first suspension bolt 5, a second suspension bolt 6, a third suspension bolt 7, and a fourth suspension bolt 8. The first suspension bolt 5, the second suspension bolt 6, the third suspension bolt 7, and the fourth suspension bolt 8 are connected to each of the four corners of the indoor unit 2. In this embodiment, the indoor unit 2 has a rectangular or nearly rectangular shape in plan view. Therefore, the first suspension bolt 5, the second suspension bolt 6, the third suspension bolt 7, and the fourth suspension bolt 8 are positioned at the vertices of the rectangle in plan view. In this embodiment, the first suspension bolt 5, the second suspension bolt 6, the third suspension bolt 7, and the fourth suspension bolt 8 are arranged around the indoor unit 2 in this order in a counterclockwise direction in plan view. In plan view, the distance between the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6 is equal to the distance between the third suspension bolt 7 and the fourth suspension bolt 8. In a plan view, the distance between the second suspension bolt 6 and the third suspension bolt 7 is equal to the distance between the fourth suspension bolt 8 and the first suspension bolt 5. In a plan view, the distance between the second suspension bolt 6 and the third suspension bolt 7 is shorter than the distance between the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6.

[0148] Incidentally, for the indoor unit 2 suspended from the ceiling slab, the distance between the ceiling slab and the indoor unit 2 in the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as the suspension distance) varies depending on the property or each floor. For this reason, the connector 10 is folded according to the suspension distance. Specifically, in the connector 10, the distance between the first joint 21 and the second joint 22 and the distance between the third joint 23 and the fourth joint 24 are adjusted by adjusting the angle between the first member 11 and the second member 12, and the angle between the third member 13 and the fourth member 14. However, if the suspension distance is small and the distance between the two suspension bolts 3 is small, the folding of the connector 10 may cause the inner ends 16 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 to extend outside the range between the two suspension bolts 3. In such a case, the inner ends 16 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 interfere with the suspension bolt 3, making it impossible to properly attach the connector 10 to the suspension bolt 3.

[0149] Considering the circumstances described above, in this embodiment, the suspension structure 1 includes a first connector 10X and a second connector 10Y. The first connector 10X connects two suspension bolts 3 that are spaced far apart. The second connector 10Y connects two suspension bolts 3 that are spaced far apart.

[0150] In the suspension structure 1, two first connectors 10X are arranged facing each other. One first connector 10X connects the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. The other first connector 10X connects the third suspension bolt 7 and the fourth suspension bolt 8. In the suspension structure 1, two second connectors 10Y are arranged facing each other. One second connector 10Y connects the second suspension bolt 6 and the third suspension bolt 7. The other second connector 10Y connects the fourth suspension bolt 8 and the first suspension bolt 5.

[0151] Figure 21 shows the suspension structure 1 of this embodiment when the suspension distance is large. Figures 22 and 23 show the suspension structure 1 of this embodiment when the suspension distance is small.

[0152] In Figure 21, the first connector 10X and the second connector 10Y are in an unfolded state. The inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to 4th members 14 of the first connector 10X are within the range between the two suspension bolts 3. Similarly, the inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to 4th members 14 of the second connector 10Y are within the range between the two suspension bolts 3.

[0153] In Figure 22, the first connector 10X and the second connector 10Y are in a folded state compared to the case shown in Figure 21. In the first connector 10X, the inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 are within the range between the two suspension bolts 3. On the other hand, in the second connector 10Y, the inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 are outside the range between the two suspension bolts 3 (see Figure 23). Because the second connector 10Y has a shift structure, even though the inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 are outside the range between the two suspension bolts 3, they do not come into contact with the suspension bolts 3.

[0154] As shown in Figure 26, the second connector 10Y has a shift structure, so that the inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 do not interfere with the suspension bolts 3. Specifically, the inner ends 16 of each of the first members 11 to the fourth members 14 are located in the region A outside the first surface SA in a direction DA perpendicular to the first surface SA, which includes the second suspension bolt 6 and the third suspension bolt 7, in a plan view. In this embodiment, "outside the first surface SA" refers to the space that does not include the bolt region enclosed by the first suspension bolts 5 to the fourth suspension bolts 8, among the two spaces separated by the first surface SA.

[0155] An example of a shift structure will be explained with reference to Figures 24 to 26. As shown in Figure 24, the first joint 21 includes a clamping portion 50. The clamping pieces 51 of the clamping portion 50 are provided on the outer end 17 of the first member 11. The first member 11 is composed of a long member. The first member 11 has a base portion 31 that extends in the longitudinal direction. In a plan view, the outer end 17 of the first member 11 is positioned in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S containing the movable region SX and offset outward relative to the middle portion of the base portion 31 of the first member 11. The clamping pieces 51 of the clamping portion 50 are provided on this outer end 17.

[0156] The outer end portion 17 is constructed from a separate component from the base portion 31. The outer end portion 17 includes a contact portion 101 that contacts the suspension bolt 3 and a side portion 102 that connects the contact portion 101 and the base portion 31. The contact portion 101 is configured parallel to the base portion 31. The contact portion 101 is positioned in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S including the movable region SX and offset outward. The clamping piece 51 is provided on the contact portion 101. The structure of the clamping piece 51 is substantially the same as that shown in the first embodiment. The outer end portion 17 may be fixed to the base portion 31 by welding. The outer end portion 17 may be configured to be detachably attached to the base portion 31 by fastening members.

[0157] The second joint 22, the third joint 23, and the fourth joint 24 have substantially the same structure as the first joint 21. The outer ends 17 of each joint are configured such that the contact portions 101 (see below) of the outer ends 17 of the first joint 21, the second joint 22, the third joint 23, and the fourth joint 24 are located on the same plane.

[0158] In the second connector 10Y, the position of the first engaging member 41 is defined by the first member 11 and the third member 13 intersecting the first member 11. The position of the second engaging member 42 is defined by the second member 12 and the fourth member 14 intersecting the second member 12. Therefore, the movable region SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 is defined as a surface having a predetermined width. The first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 cannot move in the direction DA perpendicular to the surface S containing the movable region SX, but can move within the movable region SX.

[0159] As described above, the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24 are positioned offset from the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S which includes the movable region SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42.

[0160] Specifically, as shown in Figure 25, in a side view of the second connector 10Y, the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 are positioned outside the contact portion 101 of the outer end 17 of the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24, respectively.

[0161] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 26, in a plan view of the second connector 10Y, the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 are positioned outside the contact portion 101 of the outer end 17 of the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24, respectively.

[0162] <Effects of this embodiment> In the second connector 10Y, the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24 are positioned offset from the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42 in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S which includes the movable area SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42.

[0163] In this configuration, depending on the engagement position of the first engaging member 41 with respect to the first member 11 and the third member 13, the inner end 16 on the side opposite to the first connecting portion 21 in the first member 11 and the inner end 16 on the side opposite to the third connecting portion 23 in the third member 13 move. Similarly, depending on the engagement position of the second engaging member 42 with respect to the second member 12 and the fourth member 14, the inner end 16 on the side opposite to the second connecting portion 22 in the second member 12 and the inner end 16 on the side opposite to the fourth connecting portion 24 in the fourth member 14 move. When the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23 and the fourth connecting portion 24 are in the same position in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S which includes the movable area SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42, there is a risk that the inner ends 16 of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 will interfere with the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6. In this regard, according to the above configuration, the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, the third connecting portion 23, and the fourth connecting portion 24 are positioned in a direction DA perpendicular to the plane S which includes the movable area SX of the first engaging member 41 and the second engaging member 42. Therefore, the inner ends 16 of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14 are less likely to interfere with the first suspension bolt 5 and the second suspension bolt 6.

[0164] <Variation> In addition to the embodiments described above, the connector 10 and suspension structure 1 of this disclosure may also be modified in the following ways, for example, and in combination of at least two mutually non-inconsistent modifications.

[0165] In the first embodiment, the first member 11 and the second member 12 are rotatably and fastly connected by an intermediate fastening bolt 28. In contrast, the first member 11 and the second member 12 may be rotatably connected by a shaft member. Similarly, the third member 13 and the fourth member 14 may be rotatably connected by a shaft member.

[0166] In the third embodiment, the first member 11 and the third member 13 may be rotatably connected by a shaft member. Similarly, the second member 12 and the fourth member 14 may be rotatably connected by a shaft member.

[0167] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the first member 11 cut perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. As shown in Figure 27, the tips of the first rib 32 and the second rib 33 may be curved in the first member 11. Similarly, the tips of the first rib 32 and the second rib 33 may be curved in the second members 12 to the fourth members 14. This reduces the frequency of injuries caused by workers accidentally rubbing their fingers against the first rib 32 and the second rib 33.

[0168] In the first to fourth members 11 to 14, the first rib 32 and the second rib 33 may be omitted. The first to fourth members 11 to 14 may include a pipe structure.

[0169] The clamping portion 50 may include two clamping pieces 51 that clamp the suspension bolt 3. The two clamping pieces 51 are rotatably attached to the outer ends 17 of each of the first member 11 to the fourth member 14. One of the two clamping pieces 51 is biased relative to the other.

[0170] <<Other Technology A>> This specification discloses the following technologies: This technology reinforces the suspension bolt 3. This technology differs from the technology described in the above embodiment in the following respects: The technology described in the above embodiment has a cross structure, but this technology does not have a cross structure. This technology will be described below.

[0171] The connector 80 according to this technology will be described with reference to Figures 28 and 29. In this technology, components common to the first or fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first or fourth embodiment, and the description of redundant components is omitted.

[0172] The connector 80 includes a connecting mechanism 80X. The connecting mechanism 80X connects the two suspension bolts 3. The connecting mechanism 80X has an expandable structure that expands and contracts by the sliding of two members. The connecting mechanism 80X has substantially the same structure as the first expandable member 71 of the fourth embodiment.

[0173] The connecting mechanism 80X comprises a first member 81 and a second member 82. The first member 81 and the second member 82 constitute an expandable member 83. The expandable member 83 is connected to two suspension bolts 3.

[0174] The first member 81 conforms to the structure of the first member 11 in the fourth embodiment. The first member 81 has a first connecting portion 81A. The first connecting portion 81A has the same structure as the first connecting portion 21 of the first member 11 in the fourth embodiment. The first member 81 has a fifth fixing fastening bolt 85 which has the same function as the first fixing fastening bolt 75 in the fourth embodiment.

[0175] The second member 82 conforms to the structure of the fourth member 14 in the fourth embodiment. The second member 82 has a second connecting portion 82A. The second connecting portion 82A has the same structure as the fourth connecting portion 24 of the fourth member 14 in the fourth embodiment. The second member 82 has a sixth fixing fastening bolt 86 that has the same function as the fourth fixing fastening bolt 78 in the fourth embodiment.

[0176] Such a connector 80 can reinforce two suspension bolts 3 that are arranged at a predetermined interval.

[0177] As shown in Figure 29, the connector 80 is suspended from the ceiling slab 90 and reinforces the two suspension bolts 3 that support the ceiling material 91. The connector 80 can be used in place of conventional braces. The connector 80 is extendable, making it easy to adjust its length. The connector 80 also includes a first connecting part 81A and a second connecting part 82A. Therefore, the installation work of attaching the connector 80 to the suspension bolts 3 is simple.

[0178] <Note 1> The connector (80) connects two suspension bolts (3) suspended from the ceiling slab. The connector (80) includes a connecting mechanism (80X) that connects the two suspension bolts (3). The connecting mechanism (80X) has a first connecting portion (81A) that connects to one of the suspension bolts (3), and a second connecting portion (82A) that connects to the other suspension bolt (3) at a position lower in the vertical direction than the first connecting portion (81A). The connecting mechanism (80X) is configured such that the distance between the first connecting portion (81A) and the second connecting portion (82A) can be expanded or contracted.

[0179] <Note 2> In the connector described in Appendix 1, the connecting mechanism (80X) comprises a first member (81) having the first connecting portion (81A) and a second member (82) having the second connecting portion (82A), and the first member (81) and the second member (82) are slidably connected to each other.

[0180] <<Other Technology B>> This specification discloses the following technology. The joint according to this technology is applicable not only to the connectors 10 and 80 shown in this embodiment, but also to braces. The joint clamps the suspension bolt 3. The structure of the joint according to this technology is substantially the same as any one of the first joints 21 to the fourth joints 24 disclosed in the first embodiment.

[0181] <Note 3> The connecting portion is connected to the suspension bolt (3). The connecting portion includes a clamping portion (50) that clamps the suspension bolt (3). The clamping portion (50) comprises an end of a member, a clamping piece (51) attached to the end and clamping the suspension bolt (3), a biasing member (52) that biases the clamping piece (51) toward the end, and a fastening bolt (53) that fastens the clamping piece (51) toward the end. The member in Note 1 includes braces and expandable members. An example of an expandable member is the expandable member 83 shown in the above-mentioned Other Technology A.

[0182] While embodiments and variations thereof of the connector 10 and suspension structure 1 have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the connector 10 and suspension structure 1 as described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0183] 1...Suspension structure, 3...Suspension bolt, 5...First suspension bolt, 6...Second suspension bolt, 10...Connector, 11...First member, 12...Second member, 13...Third member, 14...Fourth member, 17...Outer end, 20...Connecting mechanism, 21...First joint, 22...Second joint, 23...Third joint, 24...Fourth joint, 40A...Intersection, 40B...Intersection, 40C...Intersection, 40D...Intersection, 40E...Intersection, 41...First engaging member, 42...Second engaging member, 50...Clamping part, 51...Clamping piece, 52...Biasing member, 53...Fastening bolt, 65...Third engaging member, 66...Fourth engaging member, 71...First telescopic member, 72...Second telescopic member, 73...Fifth engaging member.

Claims

1. A connecting device (10) that connects a first suspension bolt (5) and a second suspension bolt (6) suspended from a ceiling slab, The device includes a connecting mechanism (20) that connects the first suspension bolt (5) and the second suspension bolt (6), The aforementioned coupling mechanism (20) is A first member (11) having a first connecting portion (21) that connects to the first suspension bolt (5), The first suspension bolt (5) has a second connecting portion (22) that connects to it at a position lower than the first connecting portion (21), and the second member (12) has a second connecting portion (22) that connects to it. A third member (13) having a third connecting portion (23) that connects to the second suspension bolt (6), The fourth member (14) has a fourth connecting portion (24) that connects to the second suspension bolt (6) at a position lower than the third connecting portion (23), First engaging member (41), The second engaging member (42) and, Each of the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) is connected to two other members from the first member (11) to the fourth member (14), The first member (11) is rotatably connected to the second member (12), The third member (13) is rotatably connected to the fourth member (14), The first engaging member (41) is slidably positioned at the intersection of the first member (11) and the third member (13) and engages with the first member (11) and the third member (13), The second engaging member (42) is slidably positioned at the intersection of the second member (12) and the fourth member (14) and engages with the second member (12) and the fourth member (14), The aforementioned coupling mechanism (20) is The distance between the first joint (21) and the second joint (22) can be expanded or contracted, and the distance between the third joint (23) and the fourth joint (24) can be expanded or contracted, or The distance between the first joint (21) and the third joint (23) is expandable and contractable, and the distance between the second joint (22) and the fourth joint (24) is also expandable and contractable. Connector.

2. The first connecting portion (21), the second connecting portion (22), the third connecting portion (23), and the fourth connecting portion (24) are positioned offset from the first engaging member (41) and the second engaging member (42) in a direction (DA) perpendicular to the plane (S) including the movable region (SX) of the first engaging member (41) and the second engaging member (42). The connector according to claim 1.

3. A connecting device (10) that connects a first suspension bolt (5) and a second suspension bolt (6) suspended from a ceiling slab, The device includes a connecting mechanism (20) that connects the first suspension bolt (5) and the second suspension bolt (6), The aforementioned coupling mechanism (20) is A first member (11) having a first connecting portion (21) that connects to the first suspension bolt (5), The first suspension bolt (5) has a second connecting portion (22) that connects to it at a position lower than the first connecting portion (21), and the second member (12) has a second connecting portion (22) that connects to it. A third member (13) having a third connecting portion (23) that connects to the second suspension bolt (6), The fourth member (14) has a fourth connecting portion (24) that connects to the second suspension bolt (6) at a position lower than the third connecting portion (23), The third engaging member (65) and It has a fourth engaging member (66), Each of the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) is connected to two other members from the first member (11) to the fourth member (14), The first member (11) is rotatably connected to the third member (13), The second member (12) is rotatably connected to the fourth member (14), The third engaging member (65) is slidably positioned at the intersection of the first member (11) and the second member (12) and engages with the first member (11) and the second member (12), The fourth engaging member (66) is slidably positioned at the intersection of the third member (13) and the fourth member (14) and engages with the third member (13) and the fourth member (14), The aforementioned coupling mechanism (20) is The distance between the first joint (21) and the second joint (22) can be expanded or contracted, and the distance between the third joint (23) and the fourth joint (24) can be expanded or contracted, or The distance between the first joint (21) and the third joint (23) is expandable and contractable, and the distance between the second joint (22) and the fourth joint (24) is also expandable and contractable. Connector.

4. A connecting device (10) that connects a first suspension bolt (5) and a second suspension bolt (6) suspended from a ceiling slab, The device includes a connecting mechanism (20) that connects the first suspension bolt (5) and the second suspension bolt (6), The aforementioned coupling mechanism (20) is A first member (11) having a first connecting portion (21) that connects to the first suspension bolt (5), The first suspension bolt (5) has a second connecting portion (22) that connects to it at a position lower than the first connecting portion (21), and the second member (12) has a second connecting portion (22) that connects to it. A third member (13) having a third connecting portion (23) that connects to the second suspension bolt (6), The fourth member (14) has a fourth connecting portion (24) that connects to the second suspension bolt (6) at a position lower than the third connecting portion (23), It has a fifth engaging member (73), Each of the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) is connected to two other members from the first member (11) to the fourth member (14), The first member (11) is slidably connected to the fourth member (14) along the longitudinal direction of the first member (11), The second member (12) is slidably connected to the third member (13) along the longitudinal direction of the second member (12), The fifth engaging member (73) is It is slidable between either or both of the first member (11) and the fourth member (14), and between either or both of the second member (12) and the third member (13), Displaced at the intersection of the first expandable member (71), which is composed of the first member (11) and the fourth member (14), and the second expandable member (72), which is composed of the second member (12) and the third member (13), and engaging with the first expandable member (71) and the second expandable member (72), The aforementioned coupling mechanism (20) is The distance between the first joint (21) and the second joint (22) can be expanded or contracted, and the distance between the third joint (23) and the fourth joint (24) can be expanded or contracted, or The distance between the first joint (21) and the third joint (23) is expandable and contractable, and the distance between the second joint (22) and the fourth joint (24) is also expandable and contractable. Connector.

5. Each of the first suspension bolt (5) and the second suspension bolt (6) includes the suspension bolt (3), Each of the first connecting portion (21), the second connecting portion (22), the third connecting portion (23), and the fourth connecting portion (24) includes a clamping portion (50) that clamps the suspension bolt (3), The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The clamping portion (50) comprises an outer end portion (17) of the member among the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) on which the clamping portion (50) is provided, a clamping piece (51) attached to the outer end portion (17) for clamping the suspension bolt (3), and a fastening bolt (53) for fastening the clamping piece (51) to the outer end portion (17). The connector according to claim 5.

7. The clamping portion (50) further includes a biasing member (52) that biases the clamping piece (51) toward the outer end portion (17). The connector according to claim 6.

8. The clamping piece (51) is rotatably attached to the outer end (17) of the member among the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) on which the clamping portion (50) is provided. The connector according to claim 6.

9. The fastening bolt (53) or nut (54) that engages with the fastening bolt (53) of the clamping portion (50) of each of the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) is provided with a rotation-preventing structure (48) for the nut (54) that engages with the fastening bolt (53) or the fastening bolt (53) that engages with the nut (54) so ​​that the fastening bolt (53) or nut (54) that engages with the fastening bolt (53) of the clamping portion (50) of each of the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) can be tightened to the connector (10) from the same surface. The connector according to claim 6.

10. Each of the first member (11) to the fourth member (14) has a fastening bolt (53), nut (54), and engaging member (41, 42) of the clamping portion (50) that can be tightened to the connector (10) from the same surface, and is provided with a rotation-preventing structure (48) for the nut (54) that engages with the fastening bolt (53) or for the fastening bolt (53) that engages with the nut (54) and a rotation-preventing structure (49) for the engaging member (41, 42), The engaging members (41, 42) are members that engage two of the first member (11), the second member (12), the third member (13), and the fourth member (14) with each other. The connector according to claim 6.

11. A suspension structure (1) for suspending objects, The first suspension bolt (5) suspended from the ceiling slab, The second suspension bolt (6) suspended from the ceiling slab, A connector (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising A suspended structure.

12. A suspension structure (1) for suspending objects, The first suspension bolt (5) suspended from the ceiling slab, The second suspension bolt (6) suspended from the ceiling slab, A plurality of connectors (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising Each of the plurality of connecting members (10) connects the first suspension bolt (5) and the second suspension bolt (6), One of the plurality of connectors (10) is positioned above the other connectors (10), In the connector (10) among the plurality of connectors (10) that is positioned above the other connectors (10), the second member (12) intersects with the first member (11) of the other connector (10), and the fourth member (14) intersects with the third member (13) of the other connector (10). A suspended structure.

Images