Importance

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Abstract

A connector for connecting together first and second elongate members is described. Each of the members to be joined by the connector comprises an open channel extending along the member, the channel having an opening along one side of the member and being partially enclosed by a lip extending along the opening. The connector comprises a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is shaped to fit into the channel of the first member via one end of the first member. The second end portion is shaped to achieve one of two types of engagement with another channel. Firstly, it may be shaped to permit its insertion into the channel of the second member via the opening when the connector is in a first rotational position with respect to the second member. In this case, the second end portion comprises an engagement structure which is shaped to engage with the lip of the second member when the inserted connector is rotated within the channel from the first rotational position into a second rotational position with respect to the second member. Alternatively, it may be shaped to permit its insertion under pressure into the channel of the second member via the opening. In this case, the second end portion comprises a first engagement structure (e.g. a groove) which is shaped to engage with a second engagement structure (e.g. the lip) of the second member when the second end of the connector has been inserted through the opening. In this way, the first and second elongate members (which might be floor/ceiling channels and vertical studs respectively for example) can be of the same profile. As a result, a single metal profile can act as stud, channel, noggin and door head. Furthermore, a single connector type can be used to form all the connections required between these elements.

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First Claim