Advanced fixing arrangements

Abstract

The invention relates to an adapter (1, 1', 1'', 1''') of a fixation system (2, 2iv, 102) for receiving a bolt (30, 30iv, 130) or a toggle bolt of the fixation system (2, 2iv, 102) comprising:a first part (10, 10', 10'', 10''') with a first extension (d1, d1'''), preferably a first diameter, which functions as fastener or fixation means and a second part (20, 20', 20'', 20''') with a second extension (d2), which functions as receiving means (22, 22', 22'', 22''') for the bolt (30, 30iv, 130) or the toggle bolt, wherein the first extension (d1, d1''') is greater than the second extension (d2, d2'''), preferably a second diameter as well as a fixation system comprising such an adapter.

Description

1 Jones Day MS60100PCT MSA Europe GmbH Schlüsselstr.12 8645 Jona Switzerland ADVANCED FIXING ARRANGEMENTS Description

[0001] The invention relates to an advanced fixing arrangement, such as a toggle bolt, an adapter thereto and an anchor system.

[0002] Existing toggle bolt designs are based on standard parts. Due to standard parts, a variety of toggle bolts of different lengths are needed to serve different penetrations depths for desired fastenings. Furthermore, standard parts bring a complexity of parts in a toggle bolt arrangement and the setting-up of toggle bolts.

[0003] Furthermore, the current set-up of toggle bolts is time consuming and requires usually disassembling of a ready-to-use toggle-bolt inserting the bolt into a receiving opening, for example, a through-hole, of a component, which is to be fixed, and reassembling the toggle bolt. This procedure can be very time consuming and error-prone.

[0004] For example, when fastening a component, such as a plate or an anchor plate for a safety system, in particular a safety line and / or fall protection system, to a roof, toggle bolts are inserted through the plate and the roof to fasten the plate on the roof. One problem with such fixation systems, for example toggle fastenings, when used in combination with the anchor plate, is that the wings or toggles have to be removed from the bolt so that it firstly can be inserted through / in the receiving opening, such as a through-hole, bore and / or the like, of the plate. After that the toggle or wings have to be re-applied to the bolt for passing through an opening of the roof and for achieving a fixation of the anchor plate to the roof.

[0005] One possible approach is using bridging elements and in combination with an opening of the plate or anchor plate having an extension that allows passing of a pre-assembled toggle bolt, such as, for example, described in the European Patent EP 2689079 B1. This NAI-1541916689v12 Jones Day MS60100DE procedure, however, still has the disadvantage that the bridging element has to either be implemented into the toggle bolt, which reduces compatibility; or the toggle bolt has to be disassembled for adding the bridging element. Further, the bridging element may have a respective opening in its circumference, which allows inserting the bolt of the fixation system (e.g. a toggle bolt). This however has the disadvantage of reduced stability and causes insulation issues, for example in the thermal and / or acoustic sense and / or regarding humidity or moisture intake.

[0006] It is thus the task of the invention to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0007] This task is solved by an adapter of a fixation system for receiving a bolt or a toggle bolt of the fixation system comprising: a first part with a first extension, preferably a first diameter, which functions as fastener or fixation means and a second part with a second extension, which functions as receiving means for the bolt or the toggle bolt, wherein the first extension is greater than the second extension, preferably a second diameter.

[0008] The invention further proposes that, in particular in a use configuration the first part forms an upper part of the adapter, and the second part forms a lower part of the adapter; and / or the first part is located above the second part and / or the first part has a lower surface that is facing towards, and / or is in contact and / or adjacent to the second part and / or has an upper surface that is averted to the second part.

[0009] It is preferred that the first and second part are removably connected, preferably via mating threads; and / or the adapter comprises at least two units that divide the adapter along a vertical plane, especially along a vertical center plane, wherein optionally the units further comprise one or more, in particular form and / or force fitting, fastening and / or engagement element(s) that provide a connection of the units, in particular via press fitting.

[0010] The adapter can furthermore be characterized in that the first part comprises at least one profile, preferably an in-depth or raised profile, configured to receive or to allow an insertion of at least one tool, especially hex, torx or similar, for fastening the fixation system, wherein the profile is especially located on the top or upper surface of the first part; the first part comprises at least one thread, optionally on its outer circumference, in particular NAI-1541916689v13 Jones Day MS60100DE for inserting the adapter in a corresponding threaded opening of a component, in particular a component that is to be fixed or fastened to an object; and / or the first part comprises at least one first sealant, such as a gasket, optionally received in at least one first recess, especially a circular and / or circumferential recess, optionally on its lower surface.

[0011] It is also proposed that the first part and the second part are at least partly, preferably completely formed as a single piece; the first part comprises at least partly rounded and / or otherwise smoothed edges of the first part, especially adjacent to the upper surface of the first part, in particular to reduce or prevent the presence of sharp corners, edges and / or other sharp section on of the first part; the first part comprises at least partly a height and / or a height profile that is held as low as possible to provide a reduced protrusion once the adapter is engaged in its final position; the first part and / or the second part have at least partly a curved, preferably circular and / or elliptic circumferential shape; the second part comprises at least one receiving means, preferably a threaded bore, in particular configured to receive at least partly the fixation system, preferably at least one bolt of the fixation means, wherein preferably the receiving means is located on the surface averted to the first part, in particular averted to the surface of the second part facing towards the first part; and / or the second part comprises at least one second sealant, such as a gasket, wherein preferably the second sealant is located, especially circumferentially or circularly located, on one or more sides and / or sidewalls of the second part and / or received in a second recess, especially a circular and / or circumferential recess, on the one ore more sides and / or sidewalls of the second part.

[0012] The invention further provides a fixation system comprising: an adapter, especially according to one of the before described embodiments, and at least one bolt configured to be removably and / or permanently connected to the adapter and at least on a retractable or pivotable toggle and / or wing.

[0013] For the system it is proposed that the bolt comprises at least one first member and at least one second member; and / or the bolt is partly or completely a threaded bolt, preferably configured to interact with the NAI-1541916689v14 Jones Day MS60100DE receiving means of the second part to form a, preferably removable or permanent, connection and / or to allow relocation of the wing or toggle (40) along the bolt.

[0014] Preferred embodiments of the system can be characterized in that the bolt comprises at the first member at least one connection means, preferably at least one thread and / or at least one bayonet engagement, configured to provide at least one connection to the adapter, and / or to interact with the receiving means of the second part of the adapter; and / or the second member is configured to allow relocation of the wing or toggle along the bolt, especially via an adjustable connection, wherein preferably the second member and / or the bolt comprises at least one thread or threaded part, optionally for receiving the wing and / or toggle.

[0015] In advantageous embodiments of the system the bolt is adjustable in length, preferably via one or more telescope bars which the bolt comprises; a screw joint; a gearing mechanism and / or the like.

[0016] Furthermore it is proposed for the system that the first member comprises at least one through hole and the second member being configured to be received at least partly by the first member via the through hole, wherein preferably the through hole comprises at least one first and at least one second section having corresponding first and second radii, wherein optionally the first radius is greater than the second radius; the second member comprises at least one third and at least one fourth section having corresponding third and fourth radii, wherein optionally the third radius is greater than the fourth radius, wherein especially the third radius is smaller than the first radius and / or greater than the second radius and the fourth radius is smaller than the second radius; and / or the through hole and / or the second member comprise at least partly an engagement means, preferably matching threads and / or gear mechanisms and / or the like.

[0017] Also the system can be characterized in that the system, in particular the toggle and / or wing, comprises at least one element, which is configured to provide that the toggle and / or wing is pivotable, retractable and / or rotatable about at least one axis (A); and / or NAI-1541916689v15 Jones Day MS60100DE enable positions adjustment and immobilization of the wing and / or toggle and / or comprises at least one immobilizing and / or release element.

[0018] For the before described embodiment it is proposed that the immobilizing and / or release element is configured to immobilize the wing and / or toggle in at least one first position and / or release the wing and / or toggle from the first position, in particular to allow a movement of the wing and / or toggle into at least one second position.

[0019] For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the movement is driven by at least one setting force acting on the wing and / or toggle, in particular a gravitational force and / or a biasing force, in particular a biasing force generated by at least one biasing element, optionally in operational connection with the wing and / or toggle on the one hand and the adapter, the bolt, and / or the element on the other hand.

[0020] For the system it is furthermore proposed that the second extension is greater than the extension of the toggle and / or wing, in particular when in loose arrangement or retracted arrangement and / or wherein the toggle and / or wing comprises at least one first clearance, optionally configured to at least partly receive the bolt in the retracted or loose arrangement and / or wherein the toggle and / or wing comprises at least one second clearance, optionally configured to receive and / or fasten, especially removably fasten, the toggle or wing to the bolt, preferably via latch mechanism.

[0021] The system may further comprise at least one insulation element, wherein the insulation element is preferably located between the adapter and the wing and / or toggle of the fixation system.

[0022] For the before described embodiment it is preferred that the insulation element is flexible and / or elastic, the insulation element having a third extension, preferably third diameter, being between the first and second extension of the adapter and / or greater, preferably 1 to 5% greater, than the second extension; the insulation element forms at least partly a hollow cylinder, preferably configured to at least partly receive the bolt or rod; NAI-1541916689v16 Jones Day MS60100DE the insulation element comprises at least partly polyurethan, polyethylene and / or polystyrene; and / or the insulation means has a fourth extension, which optionally corresponds to the extension, preferably diameter, of the bolt.

[0023] For the two before described embodiments it is proposed that the immobilizing and / or release element is at least partly comprised by the insulation element and / or the immobilizing and / or release element is at least partly provided by the insulation element.

[0024] It is furthermore preferred that in the first position the wing and / or toggle is at least covered by the insulation element and / or is in contact with the insulation element and / or by moving the insulation element along the bolt the wing and / or toggle is released and / or a connection between the wing and / or toggle is released, especially allowing a movement of the wing and / or toggle into the second position.

[0025] The claimed system can be characterized in that the insulation element comprises at least one restriction- element or means, restricting the movement of the insulation element and / or the immobilizing and / or release element along the bolt, optionally located between the insulation element and the adapter.

[0026] Finally a system comprising a component, in particular an anchor body, a plate for the anchor body and / or the like, and at least one fixation system as described before is provided, wherein optionally the component has at least one opening for receiving the fixation system, which has preferably an extension being between the first and the second extension.

[0027] Providing or using the proposed adapter, which may be part of a pre-assembled toggle bolt, circumvents any dis- and subsequent re-assembling of the fixation system. While its first part provides sufficient coverage of any opening of a component, such as an anchor plate, via the first extension so that a sufficiently stable fixation via the toggle bolt can be achieved, the second extension allows insertion of a bolt (e.g. one or more rods) combined with one or more wings or toggles in is loose or retracted arrangement, which are attached to the bolt. Further, the latter in particular prevents any de- and re-assembling necessity, while the NAI-1541916689v17 Jones Day MS60100DE first enables direct use with an element that is to be fixed, provided that the component has an opening for the fixation with an extension between the first and second extension.

[0028] Extension throughout the specification may refer to the lateral and / or horizontal dimension, diagonal and / or diameter, preferably to the widest lateral and / or horizontal dimension, diagonal and / or diameter of the respective parts, components, elements section and / or features as described herein. Height may refer to the vertical dimension of the respective parts, components, elements section and / or features as described herein.

[0029] Furthermore, the adapter reduces the overall amounts of parts needed for the toggle bolt and respective assemblies using the same. This has the effect of reducing the error- proneness, having the first and the second part of the adapter formed as one-piece further reduces complexity.

[0030] On the other hand configuring the first and the second part as removably connectable allows replacement of the first part in dependence of the needed first extension, which may be dependent on the one or more openings of the component, which is to be fixed by the fixation system employing such an adapter as disclosed herein.

[0031] Implementing an in-depth or raised profile on the upper surface of the first part, especially for receiving standard tools, establishes compatibility with standard tools, for example, hex, torx or similar. In particular, the integration of the tool interface further reduces the number of parts. Furthermore a curved, in particular circular, circumferential shape of the adapter allows a rotation of the adapter with an at least reduced if not avoided risk of damaging a surface to which the adapter is fixed, for example a roof structure, compared to devices known in the prior art. For example such devices known in the prior art comprise sharp edges, for example hexagonal circumferential shapes. Such edges likely damage membranes or roof skins (roofing felt) getting in contact with the device.

[0032] Furthermore, implementing first and / or second sealants, such as one or more gaskets, allows to improve leak tightness and / or water and / or weather resistance of the fixation system with the adapter when deployed. NAI-1541916689v18 Jones Day MS60100DE

[0033] Using a bolt that is configured to be length adjustable has the advantage that the fixation system can be easily adjusted to the thickness (i.e. the required penetration depth) of the object, for example, a wall or a roof and / or the like, to which a component, such as an anchor plate, is affixed to.

[0034] Including an insulation means increases the overall thermal and / or acoustic isolation due to the hole, which is required by the toggle bolt.

[0035] The above embodiments may be used individually or in any combination to provide the subject matter of the invention. Further aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which preferred embodiments are described with the aid of the accompanying drawings: Fig.1a to 1d show schematic cross-sectional views of the adapter according to different embodiments; Fig.2 shows a cross-sectional view of a fixation system according to one embodiment including the adapter of the embodiment of Figure 1a before fastening; Fig.3 shows the embodiment of Figure 2 in a cross-sectional view after fastening; Fig.4 shows the embodiment of Figure 2 with an additional isolation means; Fig.5 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the fixation system comprising a length adjustable bolt; Fig.6a to 6d show perspective views onto different configurations of a fixation system including an immobilizing and / or release element.

[0036] Adapter 1 of Figure 1a comprises a first part 10, which has a first extension d1 and a second part 20, which has a second extension d2. Although only schematically shown, it is apparent that the first extension d1 is greater than the second extension d2. NAI-1541916689v19 Jones Day MS60100DE

[0037] The first part 10 forms with regard to a use position of the adapter 1, as for example shown in Figs.2 and 3, the upper part and the second part 20 forms the lower part of adapter 1. The first part 10 further comprises an in-depth profile 12 on its upper surface 11, which allows insertion of standard tools, such as hex, torx or similar tools, in particular respective bits, screw drivers and / or portable and / or electric drills. This enables an easy fastening of the fixation system via adapter 1.

[0038] The second part 20 functions as receiving means and comprises a receiving means 22, respectively. The receiving means 22 in Figure 1a is a threaded bore, but other receiving means are also possible, such as a bayonet engagement, click connection, snap connection, latch connection, adhesive connection or the like. As illustrated in Figure 1a the receiving means 22 can be located on the surface 21 of the second part 20 averted to the first part 10.

[0039] Furthermore, the adapter 1 of Figure 1a is a one-piece, where first part 10 and second part 20 forming an integral part and / or are not removably connected.

[0040] Turning to Figure 1b, which shows an adapter 1’ according to a second embodiment. The elements of the adapter 1’ that correspond to the elements of the adapter 1 of Figure 1a, have the same reference signs but single dashed. Furthermore, the first part 10’ of the adapter 1’ comprises a first sealant 14’ on a lower surface 13’ of the first part 10’. The first sealant 14’, in this case, for example, a gasket, can be fixed in a corresponding first circumferential recess 15’ on the lower surface 13’. Also, the second part 20’ may comprise a second sealant 24’, which may be also a gasket. The second sealant 24’ can be located on the side and / or sidewall 26’ of the second part 20’ of the adapter 1’. The second sealant 24’ can be fixed in its position by a corresponding circumferential recess 25’.

[0041] The adapter 1’’ of Figure 1c according to a third embodiment is shown in a cross- sectional view. The elements that correspond to the elements of the adapters 1 and 1’, respectively, according to the embodiment of Figures 1a and 1b, have the same refence signs, however doubled dashed. In contrast to the adapters 1, 1’, first and second parts 10’’, 20’’ of adapter 1’’ are not constructed as one-piece but as parts that are removably connected, for example, via a threaded, or bayonet engagement. NAI-1541916689v110 Jones Day MS60100DE

[0042] An adapter 1’’’ according to a third embodiment is shown in a cross-section in Figure 1d. The elements of the adapter 1’’’ that correspond to the elements of the adapters 1, 1’ and 1’’, respectively, have the same refence signs, however triple dashed. The adapter 1’’’ comprises (at least) two units 16a’’’, 16b’’’.The adapter body 1’’’ is removably divisible and / or separatable along a vertical center plane P’’’. Further, the receiving means 22’’’ extends through the first and the second part 10’’’, 20’’’ as a through hole. This configuration allows in particular the use of standard parts of a toggle bolt, which may allow to establish compatibility with respective elements, such as anchor plates, that are to be fixed via toggle bolts and which have a respective opening with an extension between the first and the second extension d1’’’, d2’’’.

[0043] Further, the adapter 1’’’ may comprise further fastening and / or engagement elements that provide a connection of the units, in particular via press fitting. However, the through hole shown in Figure 1d may also be implemented in any other kind of adapter as disclosed herein. Furthermore, also adapter 1’’ having removably connectable parts 10’’, 20’’ as shown in Figure 1c may comprise units as described in conjunction with Figure 1d.

[0044] Furthermore, the through hole 22’’’ may also comprise a thread for receiving respective threaded bolts as part of the fixation system, such as a toggle bolt, to allow a respective adjustment of length of the fixation system, preferably depending on the thickness of the wall, roof and / or the like onto which a component is to be fixed via the toggle bolt.

[0045] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a fixation system 2 comprising an adapter 1 in accordance with Figure 1a. However, also the adapters 1’, 1’’, 1’’’ in accordance with Figures 1b to 1d or any adapter as described herein can be used. At the receiving means 22 a first member 31 of a bolt 30 is connected. This can be, as shown in the example of Figure 2, a threaded connection. On a second member 32 of the bolt 30 a wing and / or or toggle 40 is located. The toggle and / or wing 40 is retractable, pivotable and / or rotatable via an element 41 about an axis A, which connects the wing and / or toggle 40 with the bolt 30. Preferably, the element 41 is removably connected with the bolt 30 and / or the toggle and / or wing 40. Furthermore, the second member 32 is configured to allow relocation of the wing and / or toggle 40 along the bolt 30 via an adjustable connection, preferably of bolt 30 and element 41, for example, a threaded connection of bolt 30 and element 41. Thus by rotation of the bolt 30 NAI-1541916689v111 Jones Day MS60100DE relative to the element 41 and / or the wing and / or toggle 40 the position of the element 41 and / or the wing and / or toggle 40 along the bolt 30 can be changed. Preferably the rotation of the adapter 1 leads to the rotation of the bolt 30.

[0046] Some embodiments of adapters 1, 1’, 1’’, 1’’’ may further have a flatter and / or smoother profile, contour and / or design of the first part 10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’ (also referred to as head) of the adapter compared to regular hexagonal heads and a standard washers used for fixing arrangement, such as toggle bolts. In particular, the height or the height profile of the first part 10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’ can be held as low as possible to provide a reduced protrusion once the adapter is engaged in its final position. Additionally or alternatively rounded or otherwise smoothed edges of the first part 10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’ can be provided, especially adjacent to the upper surface 11, 11’, 11’’, 11’’’ of the first part 10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’, in particular to reduce or prevent the presence of sharp corners, edges and / or other sharp section on of the first part first part 10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’. Optionally the upper surface 11, 11’, 11’’, 11’’’ can be provided as substantially flat surface.

[0047] The aforementioned design, profile and / or contour of the first part has the advantage, for example, in case the adapter 1, 1’, 1’’, 1’’’ is deployed on a roof, that gluing and / or welding on membranes or roof skins (roofing felt) without or a greatly reduced risk of damaging them with sharp edges is enabled compared to commercially available hexagonal head and a standard washer normally used for fixing arrangements.

[0048] In Figure 2 the fixation system 2 is shown in a cross-sectional view when it is inserted into a respective opening 51 of an object 50 onto which a component 60 with its opening 61 is to be fixed by the fixation system 2. As apparent from Figure 2, the extension d3, e.g the area, covered by the wing and / or toggle 40 when in retracted or in loose arrangement is smaller than the second extension d2 of the second part 20, while the extension d5 of opening 51 is greater than or equal to the second extension d2 and / or extension d3 so that the wing and / or toggle 40 can be easily inserted into opening 51. The first extension d1 of the first part can be greater than the extension d5, however the first extension d1 is certainly greater than the second extension d2 as well as, in this case, the extension d4 of the opening 61 of component 60 to grant a robust fastening via the fixation system 2. NAI-1541916689v112 Jones Day MS60100DE

[0049] The fixation system 2 is shown in Figure 3 in a configuration when it is already inserted into an object 50, for example, a wall, a roof and / or the like, to which a component 60, such as an anchor plate, is affixed to. Correspondingly, the wing and / or toggle 40 is already fully extended to provide sufficient fixation in connection with the first part 10 of the adapter 1. The profile 12 on the upper surface 11 allows fixation via standard tools, respectively.

[0050] To further secure the fixation means 2 to the object 50 and / or the component 60, the adapter 1, in particular the first part 10, might comprise an outer, optionally threaded contour, that interacts with a corresponding inner, optionally threaded, contour of the opening 51 or the opening 61.

[0051] Figure 4 shows the fixation system 2 of Figures 2 and 3 with an insulation element 70. The insulation element 70 comprises or consists of a flexible material and / or has at least one third extension d6, which is between the first and the second extension d1, d2 or equal to the second extension d2. This allows that the insulation element 70 is tightly fitted into the opening of the object, onto which an element is to be fixed by the fixation system 2. Furthermore, the insulation element 70 may have an inner extension d7, which is smaller or equal to the extension of the bolt 30 to provide also a decent fit towards the bolt 30. The insulation element 70 may have a form of cylinder, preferably the form of a hollow cylinder, as displayed in Figure 4.

[0052] Figure 5 shows a fixation system 2ivwith a bolt 30ivthat can be adjusted in its length. The elements of the fixation system 2ivthat correspond to the elements of the fixation system 2 have the same reference signs, however four times dashed. In the example of Figure 5 the bolt 30ivcomprises a first, outer member 31ivand a second, inner member 32iv. The outer member 31ivof the bolt 30ivcomprises a through hole 33iv. The through hole 33ivmay comprise a first section 33aivwith a first radius and a second section 33bivwith a second radius. The second radius can be smaller than the first radius. Furthermore, the second, inner member 32ivcan comprise at least partly an engagement means, such as a thread, a gear mechanism and or the like. The inner member 32ivcan be configured to be received at least partly by the outer member 31iv. The inner part 32ivcomprises a third section 32aivand fourth section 32biv, wherein the third section 32aivmay have a third radius, which is greater than the second radius of the second section 33bivbut smaller than the first radius of the first section 33aivand / or the NAI-1541916689v113 Jones Day MS60100DE fourth section 32bivmay have a fourth radius that is smaller than the second radius of the second section 33biv. The fourth section 32bivmay comprise at least partly a matching thread, gear mechanism or the like to the second section 33bivof the through hole 33iv, which can allow adjustment of the length or height of the bolt 30ivof the fixation system 2ivdepending on the thickness of the object on which an element is to be fixed by the fixations system 2iv. The first section 33aivof the through hole 33ivand the corresponding third section 32aivof the second inner member 32ivprovide an additional securing measure that prevents a falling-a-part of first and second member 31iv, 32ivof the bolt 30ivin case of failure of the engagement means.

[0053] Finally the invention also provides an immobilizing and / or release element for holding the toggle and / or wing 40 in its retracted and / or loose configuration. While the immobilizing and / or release element is engaged during insertion of the fixation system, the immobilizing and / or release element can be dis-engaged or removed after the fixation means is fully or sufficiently inserted so that the toggle and / or wings can be extended. The immobilizing and / or release element can be a clamp with pull rope for disengagement, where the rope can be guided through a sealable hole of the adapter. Additionally or alternatively, the immobilizing and / or release element may be at least part of the insulation element and / or comprises at least one spring element that disengages the immobilizing and / or release element once the fixation system is fully inserted.

[0054] In Figures 6a to 6d a fixation system 102 is shown. The elements of the fixation system 102 that correspond to the fixation system 2 and 2iv, respectively, have the same reference number, but increased by 100. In contrast to the fixation systems 2 and 2ivthe fixation system 102 comprises an immobilizing and / or release element 168. The immobilizing and / or release element 168 is partly formed by the insulation element 170.

[0055] In Figure 6a the fixation system 102 is shown in a configuration in which the wing and / or toggle 140 is in an immobilized position. This position represents a first position. The wing and / or toggle comprise at least one clearance configured to at least partly receive the bolt 130 in this position. The wing and / or toggle 140 is held by the insulation element 170 in this position. To ensure the immobilization of the wing and / or toggle 140 the insulation element 170 is biased into the direction of the wing and / or toggle 140 such that the end 143 of the wing and / or toggle 140 is in contact with the insulation element 170. In particular the end 143 is NAI-1541916689v114 Jones Day MS60100DE pressed into the elastic material of the insulation element 170. In this configuration the wing and / or toggle 140 is hindered to rotate around the axis A of the element 141. The wing and / or toggle 140 is in a position (e.g. first position), wherein the first end 143 is located between the element 141 and the adapter 1 whereas the a second end 145 end is located on the opposite side of the element 141 when seen from the adapter 101 and / or the wing and / or toggle 140 is positioned such that the wing and / or toggle 140 extends mainly parallel to the bolt 130 from the first end 143 to the second end 145.

[0056] The restriction force to hold the insulation element 170 in contact with the first end 143 is build up by restriction element 172. The restriction element 172 is in this embodiment formed by a ring or cylindrically formed element that can be removed from the bolt 130 as explained later. Nevertheless alternative restriction- elements or means 172 can be used like a spring element, in particular a coil spring element.

[0057] In use the fixation system 102 is inserted in the configuration as shown in Figure 6a into the opening of the object as described before.

[0058] Once the fixation system 102 is inserted into the opening to the extent that the insulation element 170 is mainly or completely inserted into the opening, the fixation system is changed into the configuration as shown in Figures 6b and 6c, respectively.

[0059] As shown in Figure 6b the restriction means 172 has an opening 174. The opening 174 allows to install and remove the restriction means 172 from the bolt 130. In use the restriction means 172 and / or the part of the bolt 130 surrounded by the restriction means is extending out of the opening. This allows to remove the restriction means 172 to bring the fixation system into the configuration shown in figure 6c. In this configuration the wing and / or toggle is still in contact with the immobilizing and / or release element 168.

[0060] By further insertion of the fixation system 102 into the opening the fixation system 102 is transferred into the configuration shown in figure 6d. By adapting the extension d6to the inner diameter d5of the opening it is ensured that a form and / or force fit, in particular based on friction build up between the inner surface of the opening and the outer surface of the insulation element 170, between the insulation element 170 and the inner surface of the opening build up. NAI-1541916689v115 Jones Day MS60100DE When the restriction means 172 is connected to the bolt 130 the forces build up by this form and / or force fit can be overcome by insertion the fixation system 102 into the opening. However, when the restriction means 172 is removed, the bolt 130 can be moved relative to the insulation element 170 and thus relative to the opening without overcoming the forces build up by the form and / or force fit between the insulation element 170 and the inner surface of the opening.

[0061] By the movement of the bolt 130 relative to the insulation element 170 the wing and / or toggle 140 is also moved relative to the immobilizing and / or release element 168, in particular the insulation element 170 comprised by the immobilizing and / or release element 168. By this movement the contact between the insulation element 170 comprised by the immobilizing and / or release element 168 is released. This allows the wing and / or toggle 140 to move into the configuration shown in Figure 6d. This movement is in particular triggered by gravitational forces acting on the wing and / or toggle 140, in particular the different lengths of the ends 143 and 145 and / or the different extensions of the wing and / or toggle 140 relative to the axis A and / or the element 141. In Figure 6d the wing and / or toggle 140 is shown in a respective second position.

[0062] Although the restriction member 172 has been shown as a single piece is can be formed by multiple parts, in particular to adapt the restriction means to the distance between the adapter 101 and the wing and / or toggle 140 necessary to insert the fixation system 102 into the opening such that the wing and / or toggle 140 is extending out of the opening such that it can rotate around the axis A. For openings having a greater longitudinal extension more restriction element parts can be used compared to an opening having a smaller longitudinal extension allowing to use lesser restriction element parts. Alternatively the restriction means 172 is adapted in its length before being positioned on the bolt 130. To ease such a adaptation of the length, the restriction means 172 comprises marking 176.

[0063] The use of the immobilization and / or release element ensures that the wing and / or toggle 140 does not rotate around the axis A before reaching the end of the opening. For example the object can be a roof structure having free spaces between an upper and lower surface. For example roof panels exist that have a sandwich structure of at least a metal material and a plastic, foam and / or insulation material, wherein the metal material has a wavy profile. NAI-1541916689v116 Jones Day MS60100DE These form internal free spaces between the layers into which the wing and / or toggle could extend or move before reaching the end of the opening 51. By the immobilizing and / or release element 168 this movement is effectively prevented.

[0064] The immobilizing and / or release element is not restricted to the before described embodiment. In alternative of additional embodiments the toggle and / or wing may comprise at least one clearance configured to removably fasten the toggle and / or wing to the bolt, preferably via latch mechanism. The latch mechanism might be remotely actuatable to open the connection provided by the latch mechanism to release the wing and / or toggle to move into the second position.

[0065] The features of the invention disclosed in the foregoing description, the drawings, as well as the claims may be essential, both individually and in any combination, to the realization of the invention in its various embodiments. NAI-1541916689v117 Jones Day MS60100DE Reference Signs 1, 1’, 1’’, 1’’’ adapter 2, 2ivfixation system 10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’ first part 11, 11’ upper surface 12, 12’, 12’’ profile 13’, 13’’, 13’’’ lower surface 14’, 14’’, 14’’’ first sealant 15’, 15’’, 15’’’ recess 16a’, 16b’’’ unit 20, 20’, 20’’, 20’’’ second part 21, 21’, 21’’, 21’’’ surface 22, 22’, 22’’, 22’’’ receiving means 24’, 24’’, 24’’’ second sealant 25’, 25’’, 25’’’ recess 26’, 26’’, 26’’’ sidewall 30, 30ivbolt 31, 31ivfirst member 32, 32ivsecond member 32aivthird section 32bivfourth section 33ivthrough hole 33aivfirst section 33bivsecond section 40 wing and / or toggle 41 element 50 object 51 opening 60 component 61 opening 70 insulation element 101 adapter 102 fixation system NAI-1541916689v118 Jones Day MS60100DE 130 bolt 140 wing and / or toggle 141 element 143 end 145 end 168 immobilizing and / or release element 170 insulation element 172 restriction member 174 opening 176 marking d1, d1, d1’’’, d2’’’, d3, d4, d5, d6, d7 extension A axis P’’’ plane NAI-1541916689v1

Claims

19 Jones Day MS60100DE Claims 1. Adapter (1, 1’, 1’’, 1’’’) of a fixation system (2, 2iv, 102) for receiving a bolt (30, 30iv, 130) or a toggle bolt of the fixation system (2 , 2iv, 102) comprising: a first part (10, 10’, 10’’, 10’’’) with a first extension (d1, d1’’’), preferably a first diameter, which functions as fastener or fixation means and a second part (20, 20’, 20’’, 20’’’) with a second extension (d2), which functions as receiving means (22, 22’, 22’’, 22’’’) for the bolt (30, 30iv, 130) or the toggle bolt, wherein the first extension (d1, d1’’’) is greater than the second extension (d2, d2’’’), preferably a second diameter.

2. The adapter (1) of claim 1, wherein in particular in a use configuration, i. the first part (10) forms an upper part of the adapter (1), and the second part (20) forms a lower part of the adapter (1); and / or ii. the first part (10) is located above the second part (20) and / or the first part (10) has a lower surface (13) that is facing towards, and / or is in contact and / or adjacent to the second part (20) and / or has an upper surface (11) that is averted to the second part (20).

3. The adapter (1) of claim 1 or 2, wherein i. the first and second part (10’’’, 20’’’) are removably connected, preferably via mating threads; and / or ii. the adapter comprises at least two units (16a’’’, 16b’’’) that divide the adapter along a vertical plane, especially along a vertical center plane (P’’’), wherein optionally the units (16a’’’, 16b’’’) further comprise one or more, in particular form and / or force fitting, fastening and / or engagement element(s) that provide a connection of the units (16a’’’, 16b’’’), in particular via press fitting.

4. The adapter (1) of any of the preceding claims, wherein i. the first part (10) comprises at least one profile (12), preferably an in-depth or raised profile, configured to receive or to allow an insertion of at least one tool, especially hex, torx or similar, for fastening the fixation system (2), wherein the profile is especially located on the top or upper surface (11) of the first part (10); NAI-1541916689v120 Jones Day MS60100DE ii. the first part (10) comprises at least one thread, optionally on its outer circumference, in particular for inserting the adapter (1) in a corresponding threaded opening (61) of a component, in particular a component that is to be fixed or fastened to an object (50); and / or iii. the first part (10’, 10’’, 10’’’) comprises at least one first sealant (14’ 14’’, 14’’’), such as a gasket, optionally received in at least one first recess (15’, 15’’, 15’’’), especially a circular and / or circumferential recess, optionally on its lower surface (13’, 13’’, 13’’’).

5. The adapter (1) of any of the preceding claims, wherein i. the first part (10) and the second part (20) are at least partly, preferably completely formed as a single piece; ii. the first part (10) comprises at least partly rounded and / or otherwise smoothed edges of the first part (10), especially adjacent to the upper surface (11) of the first part (10), in particular to reduce or prevent the presence of sharp corners, edges and / or other sharp section on of the first part (10); iii. the first part (10) comprises at least partly a height and / or a height profile that is held as low as possible to provide a reduced protrusion once the adapter is engaged in its final position; iv. the first part (10) and / or the second part (20) have at least partly a curved, preferably circular and / or elliptic, circumferential shape; v. the second part (20) comprises at least one receiving means (22), preferably a threaded bore, in particular configured to receive at least partly the fixation system (2), preferably at least one bolt (30) of the fixation means (2), wherein preferably the receiving means (22) is located on the surface (21) averted to the first part (10), in particular averted to the surface of the second part (20) facing towards the first part (10); and / or vi. the second part (20) comprises at least one second sealant (24), such as a gasket, wherein preferably the second sealant (24) is located, especially circumferentially or circularly located, on one or more sides and / or sidewalls (26) of the second part (20) and / or received in a second recess (25), especially a circular and / or circumferential recess, on the one ore more sides and / or sidewalls (26) of the second part (20).

6. A fixation system (2, 2iv, 102) comprising: an adapter (1, 1iv, 101), especially according to one of the claims 1 to 5, and NAI-1541916689v121 Jones Day MS60100DE at least one bolt (30, 30iv,130) configured to be removably and / or permanently connected to the adapter (1, 1iv, 101) and at least on a retractable or pivotable toggle and / or wing (40, 140).

7. The system (2) of claim 6, wherein i. the bolt (30) comprises at least one first member (31) and at least one second member (32); and / or ii. the bolt (30) is partly or completely a threaded bolt (30), preferably configured to interact with the receiving means (22) of the second part (20) to form a, preferably removable or permanent, connection and / or to allow relocation of the wing or toggle (40) along the bolt.

8. The system (2) of claim 7, in particular alternative i), wherein i. the bolt (30) comprises at the first member (31) at least one connection means, preferably at least one thread and / or at least one bayonet engagement, configured to provide at least one connection to the adapter (1), and / or, preferably with reference to claim 5 i), to interact with the receiving means (22) of the second part (20) of the adapter (1); and / or ii. the second member (32) is configured to allow relocation of the wing or toggle (40) along the bolt (30), especially via an adjustable connection, wherein preferably the second member (32)and / or the bolt comprises at least one thread or threaded part, optionally for receiving the wing and / or toggle (40).

9. The system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 8, wherein the bolt (30) is adjustable in length, preferably via one or more telescope bars which the bolt (30) comprises; a screw joint; a gearing mechanism and / or the like.

10. The system (2) according to any one of the claims 6 to 9, in particular with reference to claim 7 i), wherein the first member (31) comprises at least one through hole (33) and the second member (32) being configured to be received at least partly by the first member (31) via the through hole (33), wherein preferably i. the through hole (33) comprises at least one first and at least one second section (33a, 33b) having corresponding first and second radii, wherein optionally the first radius is greater than the second radius; NAI-1541916689v122 Jones Day MS60100DE ii. the second member (32) comprises at least one third and at least one fourth section (32a, 32b) having corresponding third and fourth radii, wherein optionally the third radius is greater than the fourth radius, wherein especially the third radius is smaller than the first radius and / or greater than the second radius and the fourth radius is smaller than the second radius; and / or iii. the through hole (33) and / or the second member comprise at least partly an engagement means, preferably matching threads and / or gear mechanisms and / or the like.

11. The system (2) of any one of the claims 6 to 10, wherein the system, in particular the toggle and / or wing (40), comprises at least one element (41), which is configured to i. provide that the toggle and / or wing (40) is pivotable, retractable and / or rotatable about at least one axis (A); and / or ii. enable positions adjustment and immobilization of the wing and / or toggle (40) and / or comprises at least one immobilizing and / or release element .

12. The system (2) of claim 11, wherein the immobilizing and / or release element (170) is configured to immobilize the wing and / or toggle (140) in at least one first position and / or release the wing and / or toggle from the first position, in particular to allow a movement of the wing and / or toggle into at least one second position.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the movement is driven by at least one setting force acting on the wing and / or toggle, in particular a gravitational force and / or a biasing force, in particular a biasing force generated by at least one biasing element, optionally in operational connection with the wing and / or toggle (140) on the one hand and the adapter (101) , the bolt (130) , and / or the element on the other hand.

14. The system (2) of any one of the claims 6 to 13, wherein the second extension (d2) is greater than the extension (d3) of the toggle and / or wing (40), in particular when in loose arrangement or retracted arrangement and / or wherein the toggle and / or wing (40) comprises at least one first clearance, optionally configured to at least partly receive the bolt (30) in the retracted or loose arrangement and / or wherein the toggle and / or wing (40) comprises at least one second clearance, optionally configured to receive and / or fasten, especially removably fasten, the toggle or wing (40) to the bolt (30), preferably via latch mechanism. NAI-1541916689v123 Jones Day MS60100DE 15. The system (2) according to any one of the claims 6 to 14, further comprising at least one insulation element (70), wherein the insulation element (70) is preferably located between the adapter and the wing and / or toggle of the fixation system.

16. The system (2) of claim 15, wherein i. the insulation element is flexible and / or elastic, ii. the insulation element having a third extension (d6), preferably third diameter, being between the first and second extension (d1, d2) of the adapter (1) and / or greater, preferably 1 to 5% greater, than the second extension (d2); iii. the insulation element forms at least partly a hollow cylinder, preferably configured to at least partly receive the bolt or rod; iv. the insulation element comprises at least partly polyurethan, polyethylene and / or polystyrene; and / or v. the insulation means has a fourth extension (d7), which optionally corresponds to the extension, preferably diameter, of the bolt (33).

17. The system (2) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the immobilizing and / or release element (168) is at least partly comprised by the insulation element (170) and / or the immobilizing and / or release element (168) is at least partly provided by the insulation element (170).

18. The system (2) according to claim 17, wherein in the first position the wing and / or toggle (140) is at least covered by the insulation element (170) and / or is in contact with the insulation element (170) and / or by moving the insulation element (170) along the bolt the wing and / or toggle (140) is released and / or a connection between the wing and / or toggle (140) is released, especially allowing a movement of the wing and / or toggle (140) into the second position.

19. The system (2) of one of the claims 15 to 18, wherein the insulation element (170) comprises at least one restriction- element or means (172), restricting the movement of the insulation element (170) and / or the immobilizing and / or release element (168) along the bolt, optionally located between the insulation element (170) and the adapter (101). NAI-1541916689v124 Jones Day MS60100DE 20. System comprising a component (60), in particular an anchor body, a plate for the anchor body and / or the like, and at least one fixation system (2) according to one of the claims 6 to 19, wherein optionally the component (60) has at least one opening for receiving the fixation system (2), which has preferably an extension (d4) being between the first and the second extension (d1, d2). NAI-1541916689v1

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