U.S. patent application number 12/422799 was filed with the patent office on 2010-10-14 for adjustable attachment system.
Invention is credited to Tejav Dehghanyar, Michel Michno, Christopher A. Schultz.
Application Number | 20100257812 12/422799 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42933220 |
Filed Date | 2010-10-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100257812 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schultz; Christopher A. ; et
al. |
October 14, 2010 |
Adjustable Attachment System
Abstract
An embed for embedding in a base is provided. The embed
comprises a box defining a top face and at least one side face, the
top face configured to be placed flush with an upper surface of the
base, and the at least one side face configured to be placed flush
with an edge of the base. The embed may be part of an adjustable
attachment system comprising an embed for positioning in a base and
a bridging clip configured for insertion in the embed and adapted
for coupling to a unit. A kit is also described.
Inventors: |
Schultz; Christopher A.;
(Lake Elmo, MN) ; Michno; Michel; (Minneapolis,
MN) ; Dehghanyar; Tejav; (Marina Del Rey,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DORSEY & WHITNEY LLP;INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
SUITE 1500, 50 SOUTH SIXTH STREET
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402-1498
US
|
Family ID: |
42933220 |
Appl. No.: |
12/422799 |
Filed: |
April 13, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/704 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04B 2/96 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/704 |
International
Class: |
E04B 1/38 20060101
E04B001/38 |
Claims
1. An embed for embedding in a base, the embed comprising a box
defining a top face and at least one side face, the top face
configured to be placed flush with an upper surface of the base,
and the at least one side face configured to be placed flush with
an edge of the base.
2. The embed of claim 1, wherein the top face comprises a
substantially open top face configured to provide access to the
inside of the embed.
3. The embed of claim 2, further comprising a lid configured to
cover the open top face.
4. The embed of claim 1, wherein the top face includes a recessed
shelf and a perimeter lip and the lid is recessed into the top
face.
5. The embed of claim 4, wherein the lid is removably attached to
the embed.
6. The embed of claim 4, wherein the lid is pivotably attached to
the embed.
7. The embed of claim 3, wherein the side face comprises a
substantially open side face.
8. The embed of claim 7, wherein the open side face is configured
to receive a bridging clip.
9. The embed of claim 8, further comprising at least one anchor
extending from the embed.
10. The embed of claim 9, wherein the at least one anchor is a
threaded rod anchor.
11. The embed of claim 10, wherein the embed is adapted for
threaded engagement with the at least one anchor, the at least one
anchor adjustably extending into the internal volume of the
embed.
12. An adjustable attachment system comprising: an embed for
positioning in a base; and a bridging clip configured for insertion
in the embed and adapted for coupling to a unit.
13. The adjustable attachment system of claim 12, wherein the embed
is in the shape of a box.
14. The adjustable attachment system of claim 13, wherein the base
has an upper surface and an outer surface and the embed is adapted
to be positioned flush with the upper and outer surfaces.
15. The adjustable attachment system of claim 14, further
comprising at least one anchor extending from the embed.
16. The adjustable attachment system of claim 15, wherein the embed
includes a removably attachable lid.
17. The adjustable attachment system of claim 16, wherein the at
least one anchor extends in a direction away from the outer and
upper surface of the base.
18. The adjustable attachment system of claim 17, wherein the
bridging clip includes slotted holes.
19. The adjustable attachment system of claim 18, wherein the at
least one anchor is a threaded rod anchor.
20. The adjustable attachment system of claim 19, wherein the embed
is adapted for threaded engagement with the at least one anchor,
the at least one anchor adjustably extending into the internal
volume of the embed.
21. The adjustable attachment system of claim 20, wherein the
bridging clip further comprises teeth on an upper surface.
22. The adjustable attachment system of claim 21, further
comprising at least one washer with teeth on a bottom surface
adapted to engage the teeth of the bridging clip.
23. The adjustable attachment system of claim 22, further
comprising a peel strip.
24. The adjustable attachment system of claim 22, further
comprising a lid.
25. The adjustable attachment system of claim 24, further
comprising at least one fastener for removably attaching the lid to
the embed.
26. An adjustable attachment system kit comprising: an embed box
with a removably attachable lid; a bridging clip; at least one nut;
and at least one washer.
27. The kit of claim 26, wherein the embed box includes at least
one threaded rod anchor extending into the internal volume of the
embed.
28. The kit of claim 27, wherein the embed is adapted for threaded
engagement with the at least one threaded rod anchor.
29. The kit of claim 28, wherein the bridging clip includes slotted
holes for receiving the at least one threaded rod anchor.
30. The kit of claim 29, wherein the bridging clip includes teeth
on an upper surface and the at least one washer includes teeth on a
lower surface adapted to engage the teeth of the bridging clip.
31. The kit of claim 30, wherein the at least one nut is adapted
for threaded engagement with the anchor.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/208,444, filed Aug. 19, 2005.
The subject matter of the above applications are incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an adjustable attachment
system. More specifically, the present invention relates to an
adjustable attachment system wherein a bridging clip adapted for
receiving an attached component is placed in an embed and the
positioning of the bridging clip may be adjusted in two orthogonal
directions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Construction technology often employs unitized curtainwall
units that are anchored to the building structure. A curtainwall
system is a lightweight exterior cladding which is hung on the
building structure, usually from floor to floor. It can provide a
variety of exterior appearances. Curtainwalls are designed to
accommodate structural deflections, control wind-driven rain and
air leakage, minimize the effects of solar radiation, and provide
for maintenance-free long term performance.
[0004] The curtainwall is an external, lightweight, generally
non-loadbearing wall that is hung from a frame rather than built up
from the ground; the framework it shields is usually of concrete or
steel. Curtainwalls may be used with any suitable structure but are
typically used in high-rise blocks. Typically light, the use of
curtainwalls reduces the forces on the foundations, making the
building lighter. Curtainwalls are a form of prefabricated
construction and can be installed with relative ease, even at
significant heights above the ground. Curtainwalls are frequently
produced in a ready-to-install form, and thus can be installed as
discrete building units.
[0005] One aspect of both the design and the installation of a
curtainwall is its anchorage to the building structure. Generally,
the curtainwall units are anchored to concrete floor slabs, columns
and/or shear wall of building structures. Many types of anchor and
a variety of methods are used.
[0006] Prior art attachment mechanisms for anchoring the
curtainwall units to the building structure generally comprise
manufactured plates, channel struts, and drilled anchor bolts.
Strut type embeds are used in attachment to the face of slab, to
columns, or to shear walls. The distance from the building frame
face (slab, shear wall, or column) to the back of the curtainwall
is desired at approximately at least 2.5 times the specified
allowable concrete tolerance plus the bridging clips thickness.
Embedded strut type embeds typically have limited, preset depth and
thus have no capability for in/out adjustment perpendicular to the
plane of the frame to absorb tolerance. Thus, strut type embeds
have lateral adjustment only in the plane of the slab, column, or
shear wall. In order to effect in/out adjustment, complex two-part
primary bridging clips plus ancillary parts are used and must be
bolted or welded together to form an assembly. The assembly is then
bolted to the strut embed. Protrusions such as the protrusion of
the assembly from the strut embed may encroach on the in/out
tolerance desired with the distance from the building frame.
Further, the two-part bridging clips used for strut type embeds
generally interfere and or extend into the plane of the backside of
the curtainwall units.
[0007] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate prior art anchor systems for attaching
a curtainwall to a building frame. FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a face
of slab anchor system 100. FIG. 3 illustrates a top of slab anchor
system 102. As shown, the face of slab anchor system 100 comprises
an embed anchor 104, an adjustment piece 106, and an attached piece
110. The embed anchor 104 extends a preset amount into the slab
112. In/out adjustability is provided by the adjustment piece 108.
The adjustment piece 108 extends from the face of the slab 112 and
thus encroaches on the in/out tolerance of the distance of the
attached piece 110 to the slab 112. The attached piece 110 is
coupled to the adjustment piece 106.
[0008] The top of slab anchor system 102 of FIG. 3 illustrates an
embed anchor 114, an adjustment and attachment piece 116, and an
attached piece 118. The embed anchor 114 is anchored in the top of
the slab 112. The adjustment and attachment piece 116 extends
towards the face of the slab 112. The amount of extension of the
adjustment and attachment piece 116 determines whether the
adjustment and attachment piece 116 is flush with the face of the
slab 112 or extends beyond the face of the slab 112. The attached
piece 118 is coupled to the adjustment and attachment piece 116.
This coupling may be achieved directly or indirectly.
[0009] In the past, it has been desirable to locate an anchor in an
easily accessible location on top of the floor slab because, while
a location on the slab edge, or on the outward facing surface of
the frame, is feasible, drilling and welding on the slab edge is
more difficult and there is less room for adjustment to accommodate
building frame variations. Curtainwall units must be anchored and
fixed to a precise theoretical location in space irrespective to
the frame's finished location. The difference between the two
locations is referred to as tolerance. To bridge the difference in
these locations, manufactured parts known as adjustable anchor
clips (or adjustable secondary bridging clips) are employed. The
clips are typically made utilizing slotted holes, shims or field
welding to make the connection between the point of attachment on a
building structure and a curtainwall unit.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] An embed, an adjustable attachment system, an adjustable
attachment system kit, and method for attaching a unit to a base is
provided.
[0011] In one embodiment, an embed for embedding in a base may
include a box defining a top face and at least one side face, the
top face configured to be placed flush with an upper surface of the
base, and the at least one side face configured to be placed flush
with an edge of the base. In another embodiment, the top face may
include a substantially open top face configured to provide access
to the inside of the embed. In another embodiment, the embed may
include a lid configured to cover the open top face. In another
embodiment, the top face may include a recessed shelf and a
perimeter lip and the lid is recessed into the top face. In another
embodiment, the lid may be removably attached to the embed. In
another embodiment, the lid may be pivotably attached to the embed.
In another embodiment, the side face may include a substantially
open side face. In another embodiment, the open side face may be
configured to receive a bridging clip. In another embodiment, the
embed may include at least one anchor extending from the embed. In
another embodiment, the at least one anchor may be a threaded rod
anchor. In another embodiment, the embed may be adapted for
threaded engagement with the at least one anchor, the at least one
anchor adjustably extending into the internal volume of the
embed.
[0012] In another embodiment, an adjustable attachment system
includes an embed for positioning in a base and a bridging clip
configured for insertion in the embed and adapted for coupling to a
unit. In another embodiment, the embed is in the shape of a box. In
still another embodiment, the embed is adapted to be positioned
flush with the upper and outer surfaces of a base. In still another
embodiment, the system further includes at least one anchor
extending from the embed. In yet another embodiment, the bridging
clip further comprises teeth on an upper surface. In yet another
embodiment, the system includes at least one washer with teeth on a
bottom surface adapted to engage the teeth of the bridging clip. In
still another embodiment, the system includes a peel strip.
[0013] In another embodiment, an adjustable attachment system kit
includes an embed box with a removably attachable lid, a bridging
clip, at least one nut, and at least one washer. In another
embodiment, the embed includes at least one threaded rod anchor
extending into the internal volume of the embed. In another
embodiment, the bridging clip includes slotted holes for receiving
the at least one threaded rod anchor. In still another embodiment,
the bridging clip includes teeth on an upper surface and the at
least one washer includes teeth on a lower surface adapted to
engage the teeth of the bridging clip. In yet another embodiment,
the at least one nut is adapted for threaded engagement with the
anchor.
[0014] The adjustable attachment system comprises an embed, a
bridging clip and a locking strip. The embed and bridging clip are
configured for the bridging clip to be inserted within the embed
and the bridging clip and the embed to engage one another. The
locking strip is configured for insertion in a space between the
bridging clip and the embed to fix the bridging clip in place. The
bridging clip may further be adapted for receiving an attachment
piece. The embed is anchored to the base and the bridging clip is
coupled, directly or indirectly, to the unit to be attached. For
attaching a curtainwall unit to a building frame, the embed is
anchored in the frame and the bridging clip is coupled to the
curtainwall unit.
[0015] The method of attaching a unit to a base comprises placing
the embed in a base. For example, the embed may be placed in a
concrete form and concrete poured into the form. A bridging clip is
inserted in the embed, and positioned at a desired position within
the embed. A locking strip is inserted in a space between the
bridging clip and the embed. The unit is coupled to the bridging
clip. Optionally, an attachment piece may be used to couple the
unit to the bridging clip.
[0016] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other
embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which
shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As
will be realized, the invention is capable of modifications in
various aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed
description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not
restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a prior art anchor for attaching a
curtainwall unit to a building frame.
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a prior art anchor for attaching a
curtainwall unit to a building frame.
[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates a prior art anchor for attaching a
curtainwall unit to a building frame.
[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of an embed for use with an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an embed for use with an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of a bridging clip for use
with an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 20 illustrates a side view of a locking strip 16 being
inserted into an adjustable attachment system in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of a locking strip 16 being
fixed into place in an adjustable attachment system in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of an assembled adjustable
attachment system with a curtainwall hanging therefrom in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 23 illustrates a side view of an assembled adjustable
attachment system with a curtainwall hanging therefrom in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 24 illustrates a side view of an assembled adjustable
attachment system with a curtainwall hanging therefrom in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 25 illustrates a side view of an assembled adjustable
attachment system positioned in a frame with a curtainwall hanging
therefrom.
[0042] FIG. 26 illustrates a side view of an assembled adjustable
attachment system positioned in a frame with a curtainwall hanging
therefrom.
[0043] FIG. 27 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an
adjustable attachment system for attaching a pipe to a base in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 28 illustrates a front perspective view of an
alternative embodiment of an adjustable attachment system in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 29 illustrates a rear perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 28.
[0046] FIG. 30 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the
embodiment of FIG. 28.
[0047] FIG. 31 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of FIG.
28.
[0048] FIG. 32 illustrates an isometric top/front/side view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 33 illustrates an isometric top/front view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 34 illustrates an isometric top/front/side view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 35 illustrates an isometric top/rear/side view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0052] FIG. 36 illustrates an isometric bottom/front/side view of
an adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 37 illustrates an isometric top/front view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0054] FIG. 38 illustrates an isometric top/front view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 39 illustrates an isometric top/front/side view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0056] FIG. 40 illustrates an isometric top/front/side view of an
adjustable attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 41 illustrates an isometric top view of an adjustable
attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0058] FIG. 42 illustrates an isometric side view of an adjustable
attachment system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0059] An adjustable attachment system is provided for attaching a
unit to a base. While the adjustable attachment system is discussed
in reference to attaching a curtainwall unit to a building frame,
the adjustable attachment system may be used to attach any unit to
any base. For example, the adjustable attachment system may be used
to attach a pipe to a base. Further, the attachment system may be
used to attach any unit to any surface of a base. For example, the
adjustable attachment system may be used to attach a unit to a top
surface, bottom surface, or side surface of a base.
[0060] The adjustable attachment system permits adjustment in two
orthogonal directions, in/out and laterally. Additionally, up/down
adjustment may be provided using attachment pieces. The adjustable
attachment system comprises an embed, a bridging clip, and a
locking strip. The bridging clip may be connected to the embed
without the use of bolts and nuts or field welding. The bridging
clip thus does not require holes, slots or notches. The adjustable
attachment system simplifies locating a curtainwall anchor in the
outward facing surface of the frame. Using the adjustable
attachment system, the speed of erection and placement of
curtainwall units is increased while costs are decreased.
[0061] FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 illustrate exploded views of alternate
embodiments of an adjustable attachment system 10. As shown, the
adjustable attachment system 10 comprises an embed, a bridging clip
(or anchor plate) 14, and a locking strip (or wedge block) 16. A
peel strip 18, described more fully below, may be provided along a
front face of the embed 12.
[0062] The embed 12 is positioned in a recess in an outward facing
surface of base, as described more fully below. The outward facing
surface may be any surface of the base. Thus, for example, the
outward facing surface may be a top surface, a bottom surface, or a
side surface. The bridging clip 14 is inserted into the embed 12 to
a desired in/out position. Teeth 13 are provided along at least one
of an upper and lower inner surface of the embed 12. Corresponding
teeth 15 are provided along at least one of an upper and lower
surface of the bridging clip 14. Once the bridging clip 14 is in
the desired in/out position, the teeth 15 on the bridging clip 14
are engaged with the teeth 13 of the embed 12. Thus, teeth 15
provided along an upper surface of the bridging clip 14 engage
teeth 13 provided along an upper inner surface of the embed 12.
Similarly, teeth 15 provided along a lower surface of the bridging
clip 14 engage teeth 13 provided along a lower surface of the embed
12. The position of the bridging clip 14 in the embed 12 may be
adjusted laterally. When the desired position is achieved, the
locking strip 16 is inserted between the bridging clip 14 and the
embed 16 to fix the bridging clip 14 in place. In alternative
embodiments, a locking strip may not be used.
[0063] Thus, adjustment of the bridging clip 14 is allowed in two
orthogonal directions, in/out and laterally. The bridging clip 14
may be connected to the embed 12 without using bolts and nuts or
field welding (though bolts, nuts, field welding or other
construction techniques may be used if desired).
[0064] End closure arms 20 (or anchor plates) may provided with the
adjustable attachment system. FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 each illustrate
alternate embodiments of the end closure arms 20. The end closure
arms 20 operate to seal the interior of the embed 12 from leakage
of material along the sides 24 of the embed 12. The end closure
arms 20 further provide increased gripping surface along the embed
12. Thus, if the embed 12 is used with a concrete structure and
concrete is poured around the embed 12, the concrete has the
increased gripping surface of the end closure arms 20 for
engagement.
[0065] In the embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 5, end seals 22 are
provided for positioning between the embed 12 and the end closure
arms 20. Thus, after assembled for positioning within the recess,
sides 24 of the embed 12 are coupled to the end seals 22 and the
end seals 22 are in turn coupled to the end closure arms 20. The
embed 12, end seals 22 and end closure arms 20 may be coupled to
one another in any suitable manner. For example, fasteners such as
screws 26 may be used. Alternately, the embed 12, end seals 22 and
end closure arms 20 may be welded together.
[0066] The configuration of the end closure arms 20 and the end
seals 22 may vary. FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 illustrate various
configurations of the end closure arms 20 and the end seals 22 but
other configurations, as would be known to one skilled in the art,
may be used. In FIGS. 4 and 5, the end closure arms 20 comprise
supporting extensions 21 extending laterally over the embed 12. In
those embodiments, the profile of the end closure arms 20 thus
varies along a portion of the end closure arms 20. In FIG. 4, the
end seal 22 correspondingly has a varied profile. In contrast, in
FIG. 5, the end seal 22 has a profile that remains substantially
unchanged over the entire length thereof. In FIG. 6, no end seal 22
is used and the profile of the end closure arms 20 remains
substantially unchanged over the entire length thereof.
[0067] In alternate embodiments, only the end seals 22 may be used
to seal the sides 24 of the embed 12. Alternately, other means of
sealing the sides 24 of the embed 12 may be employed. For example,
the embed 12 may be manufactured with closed sides 24.
[0068] The embed 12 may be provided with a peel strip 18. The peel
strip 18 seals a front portion 26 of the embed 12. The embed 12,
may thus be positioned in the recess with the peel strip 18 intact.
FIG. 7 illustrates an embed 12 with the peel strip 18 intact. In
attaching a curtainwall to a building frame, the embed is
positioned in a concrete form and concrete is poured. Once
positioned and once surrounding concrete is hardened and/or there
is a reduced risk of intrusion of materials through the front
portion 26 of the embed 12, the peel strip 18 may be removed. FIG.
8 illustrates an embed 12 with the peel strip 18 removed. The embed
12 and peel strip 18 may be provided in any configuration suitable
for removal of the peel strip 18 from the front portion 26 of the
embed 12. For example, perforations or grooves may be provided
along the border of the peel strip 18 with the embed 12. Provision
of a peel strip 18 enables the embed 12 to be extruded as a hollow
rather than a semi-hollow. In lieu of a peel strip, a plug may be
provided along the front portion 26 of the embed 12. For example, a
closed cell foam plug may be used to seal the interior of the embed
12 along the front portion 26 of the embed 12.
[0069] As can be seen in FIGS. 4-8, the embed 12 has a front facing
portion including lips 17 and 19. The extension of the lips 17 and
19 may vary. Further, the extension of the upper lip 17 may be
different from the extension of the lower lip 19. The lips 17, 19
extend along the outward facing surface of the frame. The embed 12
may further be provided with rebar holes 27 for receiving a rebar
rod to reinforce the embed 12.
[0070] Teeth 13 and 15 are provided along a surface of the bridging
clip 14 and a surface of the embed 12. The teeth 13 and 15 engage
one another to fix the bridging clip 14 within the embed 12. In
alternate embodiments, other means of engaging the bridging clip 14
with the embed 12 may be used. For example, the bridging clip 14
may be fastened to the embed 12 using conventional fasteners, other
friction fitting, or any suitable means.
[0071] The teeth 13 of the embed 12 and the teeth 15 of the
bridging clip 14 may be configured in any engaging configuration so
long as the teeth 13 engage with the teeth 15. In one embodiment,
as seen most clearly in FIGS. 7 and 8, the teeth 13 of the embed 12
comprise an upwardly extending portion 21 and a slanted surface 23,
the slanted surface 23 extending from a base point along the embed
12 to the top point of the upwardly extending portion 21. As shown,
the slanted surfaces 23 extend rearwardly away from the front
facing portion of the embed 12. The corresponding teeth 15 on the
bridging clip 14 comprise an upwardly extending portion and a
slanted surface wherein the slated surface extends forwardly
towards a front facing portion of the bridging clip 14. Thus, the
teeth 15 of the bridging clip 14 slide along the surface of the
teeth 13 of the embed 12. Once in position, the teeth 15 of the
bridging clip 14 engage the teeth 13 of the embed 12 and the
bridging clip 14 cannot be removed merely by pulling on bridging
clip 14. To remove the bridging clip 14, the bridging clip must be
lifted or otherwise positioned to disengage the teeth 15 of the
bridging clip 14 from the teeth 13 of the embed 12.
[0072] FIGS. 28-31 illustrate an alternative embodiment of an
attachment system 10. As shown, the attachment system 10 comprises
an embed 12 and a bridging clip 14. The embed 12 is positioned in a
recess in an outward facing surface of a base. FIG. 29 illustrates
a rear view of the attachment system 10, showing the embed 12 as
positioned in a base.
[0073] The bridging clip 14 is inserted into the embed 12 to a
desired in/out position. Teeth are provided along at least one of
an upper and lower inner surface of the embed 12. Corresponding
teeth are provided along at least one of an upper and lower surface
of the bridging clip 14. Once the bridging clip 14 is in the
desired in/out position, the teeth on the bridging clip 14 are
engaged with the teeth of the embed 12. Thus, teeth provided along
an upper surface of the bridging clip 14 engage teeth provided
along an upper inner surface of the embed 12. Similarly, teeth
provided along a lower surface of the bridging clip 14 engage teeth
provided along a lower surface of the embed 12. The teeth of the
embed 12 and the teeth of the bridging clip 14 may be configured in
any engaging configuration so long as the teeth engage with the
teeth. In alternative embodiments, other configurations of
engagement structures may be provided on the embed 12 and the
bridging clip 14.
[0074] The position of the bridging clip 14 in the embed 12 may be
adjusted laterally. When the desired position is achieved, a
locking strip may be inserted between the bridging clip 14 and the
embed 12 to fix the bridging clip 14 in place. In alternative
embodiments, a locking strip may not be used.
[0075] End closure arms 20 (or anchor plates) may provided with the
adjustable attachment system. The end closure arms 20 operate to
seal the interior of the embed 12 from leakage of material along
the sides 24 of the embed 12. The end closure arms 20 further
provide increased gripping surface along the embed 12. The embed
12, end seals 22 and end closure arms 20 may be coupled to one
another in any suitable manner. For example, fasteners such as
screws 26 may be used. Alternately, the embed 12, end seals 22 and
end closure arms 20 may be welded together.
[0076] The embed 12 has a front facing portion including lips 17
and 19. In the embodiments of FIGS. 28-31, the lips are relatively
low profile. The extension of the lips 17 and 19 may vary. Further,
the extension of the upper lip 17 may be different from the
extension of the lower lip 19. The lips 17, 19 extend along the
outward facing surface of the frame.
[0077] The embed 12 may include embed guides 50. The guides 50
serve as a tool to help gage uniform up/down placement of the
embed. As shown, two guides 50 are included. In alternative
embodiments, more or fewer guides 50 may be provided.
[0078] In the embodiment of FIGS. 29-31, slide fasteners 52 are
provided on a top surface and a bottom surface of the embed 12.
Reinforcement elements or rebars 54 may be provided at a location
on the base where structural reinforcement is desired. Such
reinforcement may be desirable, for example, in concrete forms. The
embed 12 may be positioned on the base relative to the
reinforcement elements 54. Slide fasteners 52 may be used to fasten
the reinforcement elements 54 to the embed 12. As shown, a
reinforcement element 52 is provided on an upper surface of the
embed 12 and on a lower surface of the embed 12. In alternative
embodiments, a single reinforcement element 54 may be used.
[0079] FIGS. 9-19 illustrate various embodiments of a bridging clip
15. As shown, the bridging clip 14 comprises an insertion portion
28 and an end portion 30. The insertion portion 28 comprises a
planar portion 32 and an angled portion 34. In the embodiments
shown, the angled portion 34 angles upwardly. A lower surface of
the planar portion 32 and an upper surface of the angled portion 34
include teeth 15. Alternately, the bridging clip 14 may be
configured with an angled portion extending downwardly, teeth 15
being provided on a lower surface of the angled portion 32 and an
upper portion of the planar portion 28. Further, only one of the
planar portion 30 and the angled portion 32 may be provided with
teeth.
[0080] Each of FIGS. 9-15 illustrate alternate embodiments of end
portions 30 of a bridging clip 14. The configuration of the end
portion 30 and/or the provision of an attachment piece may be used
to afford further adjustability to the adjustable attachment
system. FIGS. 13-15 illustrate bridging clips 14 having end
portions 30 comprising a hook portion 31 and an extending portion
33. In FIGS. 13-15, the hook portions 31 are substantially the same
with the end portion 30 being varied for engagement with attachment
pieces 35.
[0081] FIGS. 16-19 illustrate attachment pieces 35 engaged with the
end portions 30 of the bridging clips 14. After positioning of the
adjustable attachment system 10 in the frame, an attachment piece
35 may be provided to engage the end portion 30 of the bridging
clip 14. Thus, the configuration of the end portion 30 determines
the placement of the unit from the adjustable attachment system 10.
Thus, for example, the unit may be placed at a slightly varying
distance from the adjustable attachment system 10. Further, the
unit may be hung such that the upper limit of the attachment piece
35 is at the same plane as the adjustable attachment system 10
(see, for example, FIGS. 17 and 19), is above the plane of the
adjustable attachment system (see, for example, FIG. 18), or is
below the plane of the adjustable attachment system (see, for
example, FIG. 16).
[0082] Referring back to FIG. 6, a bridging clip 14 is shown having
only a planar portion 32.
[0083] Each of FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 illustrate alternate embodiments
of a locking strip 16. Any suitable configuration of locking strip
16 may be used so long as it operates to fix the bridging clip 14
into the embed 12 in the desired position. Permanent fixtures may
be used to permanently fix the locking strip 16 in place. FIGS. 19
and 20 illustrate the locking strip 16 being inserted between the
embed 12 and the bridging clip 14 and the locking strip 16 being
fixed in place using fasteners 38.
[0084] FIGS. 22, 23, and 24 show assembled adjustable attachment
system with a curtainwall unit 36 hanging therefrom. Each of FIGS.
22, 23, and 24 show a bridging clip 14 at a different position.
FIG. 22 illustrates an in/out position of the bridging clip 14
within the embed 12 wherein the attachment piece 35 and attached
curtainwall unit 36 hang some distance from the outward facing
surface of the frame. FIG. 23 illustrates an in/out position of the
bridging clip 14 within the embed 12 wherein the attachment piece
35 and attached curtainwall unit 36 hang a distance from the
outward facing surface of the frame less than the distance of FIG.
22. FIG. 23 illustrates an in/out position of the bridging clip 14
within the embed 12 wherein the bridging clip 14 is at its maximum
depth within the embed 12 and, thus, the attachment piece 35 and
attached curtainwall unit 36 hang a minimal distance from the
outward facing surface of the frame.
[0085] FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate adjustable attachment systems 10
positioned in a frame 37 with an attachment piece 35 and attached
curtainwall unit 36 hanging therefrom. In the embodiment of FIG.
25, the bridging clip 14 comprises an insertion portion having a
planar portion 32 and an angled portion 34. In the embodiment of
FIG. 26, the bridging clip 14 comprises an insertion portion having
only a planar portion 32.
[0086] The embed 12 may be manufactured of any suitable material.
For example, the embed 12 may be manufactured of extruded or cast
aluminum or cast or forged steel. Thus, the embed 12 may be
manufactured using any suitable process including extrusion (as a
hollow or a semi-hollow), casting, and forging. Further, the embed
12 may be manufactured of plastic or other materials. The surfaces
of the embed 12 that are exposed to the frame may be pretreated to
resist corrosion or galvanic reaction. Thus, the embed may be
covered with an isolation material. For example, when the embed 12
is to be placed in a concrete frame, the surfaces of the embed 12
to be exposed to the concrete may be pretreated with bituminous
paint, dielectric isolator tape, or other protecting coating. The
bridging clip 14 may also be manufactured of any suitable material.
For example, the bridging clip 14 may be manufactured of extruded
or cast aluminum or cast or forged steel. The teeth 13 of the embed
12 and the teeth 15 of the bridging clip 14 are matched to engage
and interlock, thereby allowing adjustments to be made to locate
the bridging clip 14 both in and out and laterally from the plane
of the frame, the face of the slap, the column or shear wall.
[0087] For attaching a curtainwall unit to a building frame, the
adjustable embed 12 (with end closure arms 20 and end seals 22 if
provided) may be placed in concrete forms prior to pouring of the
concrete with a designated face to be placed against the formwork.
After pouring, the inside of the embed 12 is accessed by removing
the peel strip 18 (or other sealing means) at the designated
outboard positioned face after the formwork has been removed. The
bridging clip 14 may then be inserted and positioned within the
embed 12. After positioning, the locking strip 16 is inserted into
the known dimensioned space above the bridging clip 14. In some
embodiments, an end portion 30 may be coupled to the bridging clip
14 to customize the position of the curtainwall with respect to the
adjustable attachment system 10.
[0088] FIG. 27 illustrates an adjustable attachment system used for
attaching a pipe 42 to a base 44. The adjustable attachment system
10 comprises an embed 12, a bridging clip (or anchor plate) 14, and
a locking strip (or wedge block) 16. The embed 12 is positioned in
a recess in an outward facing surface of base. The outward facing
surface may be any surface of the base. Thus, for example, the
outward facing surface may be a top surface, a bottom surface, or a
side surface. The bridging clip 14 is inserted into the embed 12 to
a desired in/out position. As with the embodiments described above,
teeth are provided along at least one of an upper and lower inner
surface of the embed. Corresponding teeth are provided along at
least one of an upper and lower surface of the bridging clip. Once
the bridging clip 14 is in the desired in/out position, the teeth
on the bridging clip 14 are engaged with the teeth of the embed 12.
The position of the bridging clip 14 in the embed 12 may be
adjusted laterally. When the desired position is achieved, the
locking strip 16 is inserted between the bridging clip 14 and the
embed 16 to fix the bridging clip 14 in place. An attachment piece
40 is provided configured for attachment to a pipe 42. The
attachment piece 40 is coupled to the bridging clip 14. In
alternative configurations, other configurations of attachment
piece 40 may be provided for attachment to other units.
[0089] FIGS. 32-38 illustrate an adjustable attachment system 60
according to another embodiment. The adjustable attachment system
60 of the present embodiment may include an embed 62. The embed 62
may be in the shape of a box having a front face 66, a rear face
68, and at least two side faces 70. The embed 62 may also have a
top face 72 and a bottom face 73. The embed 62 may include lips 67
and may have an opening 69 on its front face 66 and may include an
opening 63 on its top face 72. The opening 63 on the top face may
be covered by a lid 64. A bridging clip 74 may also be included
with slotted holes 76 for inward and outward adjustment. The
opening 69 on the front face 66 of the embed 62 may be adapted to
receive the bridging clip 74. The embed 62 may also include anchors
80 extending away from the embed 62 to restrain the embed 62
against movement when embedded in a base material. The anchors 80
may extend through an outer wall of the embed 62 into the interior
volume of the embed 62. The anchors 80 may be adapted for insertion
into the slotted holes 76 of the bridging clip 74 and may be
further adapted to receive a nut 82 and washer 84 for securing the
bridging clip 76.
[0090] The opening 63, best shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, on the top
face of the embed may be sized to allow access to the inside of the
embed 62. Depending on the nature and size of the embed, the
opening 63 may be relatively large and may allow for hand
tightening of elements within the box or the opening 63 may be
relatively small allowing only for insertion of a slender tool. The
opening 63 may reflect a large portion of the top face 72 of the
embed 62 or even the entire top face, or the opening 63 may only be
a small opening relative to the size of the top face 72 or may be
any size in between.
[0091] Referring to FIG. 32, the lid 64 may be configured to cover
the opening 63. The lid 64 may extend beyond the outer perimeter of
the opening 63 and further may be recessed into the top face 72 of
the embed 62. In this recessed condition, the lid 64 may be flush
with the outer surface of the top face 72. Further in this recessed
condition, the lid 64 may be positioned to rest on a recessed shelf
71. The recessed shelf 71, best shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, may be
defined on one edge by the outer perimeter of the opening 63 and on
another edge by a perimeter lip 75. The lid 64 may be sized to fit
within the perimeter lip 75. Alternatively, the lid 64 may be
placed against the outer surface of the top face 72 and not
recessed.
[0092] The lid 64 may be removably, pivotably, slidably, or
hingedly attached to the embed 62 making the embed accessible from
the top face 72. The lid 64 of the embed 62 may be removably
fastened in a closed position with four screws 65 as show in FIG.
32. Alternatively, the lid 64 may be fastened with three or two or
any number of fasteners. The fasteners may be any fastener known in
the art including screws, bolts, clips, rivets, or the like.
Alternatively or additionally, the lid 64 may be welded closed. In
one embodiment, the lid 64 may be pivotably secured to the embed 62
with a single fastener. The fastener may be a limited release
fastener having limited movement such that, when loosened, the
fastener may be withdrawn from the embed 62 to a stopping point
allowing the lid 64 to be lifted and rotated about the axis of the
fastener, but not completely removed from the embed 62. In yet
another embodiment, the lid 64 may slide into position along a
track provided on two sides of the embed 62. The lid 64 may also
have edges configured to engage the track and the embed 62 and the
lid 64 may have an interlocking clip type engagement when the lid
64 is fully slid along the embed track. In still another
embodiment, the lid 64 may have a hinge along any of its four sides
allowing the lid 64 to be opened without separating it from the
embed 62. In this embodiment, the free end opposite the hinge may
be fastened with any of the above mentioned fastening devices or
any known latching device.
[0093] Together with the several attachment options discussed
above, the lid 64 may include a sealing element. This sealing
element may include a gasket placed on or permanently positioned
between the lid 64 and the embed 62. The seal may also include a
strip seal positioned on the perimeter of the lid 64 or in the seam
between the lid 64 and the embed 62. In addition or alternatively,
the lid 64 may be taped and the seam between the embed 62 and the
lid 64 may be partially or completely covered. In the case of a
welded lid 64, the full perimeter may be partially welded or
alternatively may be seal welded.
[0094] The surface of the lid 64 may also be adapted for several
exposure conditions. For example, where the embed 62 is used in a
floor slab of a building and is placed flush with the top surface
of a floor slab, the lid 64 may be adapted to accommodate several
building conditions. The lid 64 may include a recessed channel for
wiring or conduit to pass through the embed 62. The lid 64 may
include a recessed channel for receiving the bottom edge of
sheetrock panels. The lid may also be adapted to receive carpet
tack strips.
[0095] FIGS. 33 and 34 show an additional view of the embed 62
wherein the bridging clip 74 is in a retracted position. In FIG.
34, similar to that shown in FIG. 7, a peel strip 78 may be
included to close the opening off to the entrance of debris. The
peel strip 78 may be a piece of adhesive backed material placed
across the opening 69, or it may include an insert that is forcibly
fit into the opening 69. In the case of an insert, a portion of the
peel strip 78 may overlap the surface of the embed lips 67 to aid
the installer in removing the peel strip 78. In FIG. 33, a peel
strip 78 is not shown.
[0096] FIGS. 33 and 34 also show horizontally extending lips 67 on
the front face 66 of the embed 62. These lips 67 may function to
assist in fastening the embed 62 to formwork or other surfaces
prior to placement of a base material. As best shown in FIG. 33,
holes 86 may be provided in the lips 67 for receiving screws to
fasten the embed 62. Holes 86 may also be provided in alternative
faces of the embed 62 for attaching to form work or other support
surfaces. In another embodiment, the embed 62 may include a clip
configured to slip over the top edge of a piece of formwork so as
to position the top of the embed 62 flush with the top of the
formwork. In yet another embodiment, the embed 62 may include clips
or loops for attaching to reinforcing in a base material prior to
placing the base material. In still another embodiment, the embed
62 may have extended metal tabs for fastening to form work or
reinforcing.
[0097] FIGS. 35 and 36 show the embed 62 in an upright position and
an upside down position respectively. As shown in both figures, the
embed 62 may include anchors 80. The anchors 80 may function to
engage the embed 62 with a base. For example, where the embed 62 is
placed in a concrete slab and thus, concrete is poured around the
embed 62 and allowed to cure, the anchors 80 may extend away from
the embed 62 into the concrete slab thereby securing the embed 62
in the slab. The anchors 80 may be any material, including, but not
limited to reinforcing bar, threaded rods, plate material, bent
plate material, or any material adapted to engage a base material.
The anchors 80 may be affixed to the embed 62 as shown or may be
otherwise separate from the embed 62.
[0098] Where the anchors 80 are separate from the embed 62, the
anchors 80 may be placed to cause the embed 80 to engage the base.
That is, the anchors 80 may be positioned adjacent to or hooked
around a given portion of the embed 62 and may extend into the
base. As such, the lap length of the anchor 80 with the embed 62 or
the hook of the anchor 80 around a portion of the embed 62 may
activate the engagement properties of the base and cause the embed
62 to be anchored in the base. For example, in a concrete base, the
frictional characteristics of the concrete including the aggregate
interlock may provide for transfer of force from the embed 62 to
the anchor 80 through an appropriate lap length with the embed 80
or hook around the embed 80. The frictional characteristics of the
concrete may then allow for appropriate distribution of force from
the anchor 80 to a slab, for example, as the anchor 80 extends away
from the embed 62.
[0099] In some embodiments, the anchors 80 may be affixed to the
embed 62. Referring to FIG. 36, two bottom anchors 80 are shown
extending out the bottom of the embed 62 and two back anchors 80
are shown extending angularly downward out of the back of the embed
62. The anchors 80 may extend from any side of the embed 62 at any
angle relative to the surface of the embed 62. In one embodiment,
the anchors may extend from the bottom face and/or rear face and/or
at least one side face of the embed, but may be omitted from at
least one side face and the top face. As such, the embed may be
situated flush with an upper surface of a base and an edge of a
base while still being anchored in the base.
[0100] Where the anchors 80 are affixed to the embed, the anchors
80 may be rigidly attached to the embed 62 or may be free to rotate
or pivot relative to the surface of the embed 62. The anchors 80
may also be adjustable in a direction parallel to their
longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the anchors 80 may extend
through the wall of the embed 62 into the internal volume of the
embed 62. The portion of the anchor 80 within the embed 62 may then
be used to secure a bridging clip 74. The anchors 80 shown in FIGS.
35 and 36 are generally straight. However, the anchors 80 may be
formed in any shape. For example, they may be straight as they exit
the embed 62, but then be bent to extend at an angle. The anchors
80 may terminate inside the embed 62 with a bolt head, a nut, a
welded connection, a cotter pin connection, or any other securing
mechanism.
[0101] In the case of anchors 80 separate from the embed 62 and
thus not extending through the wall of the embed 62 as shown, a
connection mechanism may be provided on the inside of the embed for
securing the bridging clip. The connection mechanism may be a
threaded rod welded to the inside of the embed 62, a bolt anchored
through the embed, or a clamp or any other mechanism disclosed
herein or known in the art for attaching a relatively flat piece of
material such as a bridging clip.
[0102] The anchors 80, in addition to engaging with a base
material, may be used to adjust the height of the embed 62 within a
base or concrete floor slab prior to pouring of the concrete. In
this embodiment, the anchors 80 may be threaded rods and adjusting
nuts may be provided along the length of the anchor 80. These
adjusting nuts may include a single nut inside the embed 62 and/or
a single nut on the outside of the embed 62. Twisting the nuts
and/or the anchor 80 may allow the anchor 80 to be adjusted inward
and outward through the wall of the embed 62. Alternatively, the
embed 62 may included a threaded sleeve through which the anchor 80
penetrates the wall of the embed 62. The anchor 80 may then be
adjusted inward or outward by turning the anchor 80. Where the
anchor 80 rests on the bottom surface of formwork or on any
supporting surface, the inward and outward movement of the anchor
80 may allow for vertical adjustment of the embed 62. Those skilled
in the art will understand and appreciate that various adjustments
of the anchors 80 shown could be used to level and tilt the embed
62 by adjusting the anchors 80 inward and outward.
[0103] Referring still to FIGS. 35 and 36, two reinforcing ribs 88
are shown. The ribs 88 generally may extend from the front of the
embed 62 to the back of the embed 62 along a line connecting a
bottom anchor 80 to a corresponding back anchor 80. The ribs 88 may
taper from relatively thin near the front of the embed 62 to
relatively thick near the back of the embed 62.
[0104] In other embodiments, the ribs 88 may form protrusions
extending away from the embed 62 for engagement with anchors 80,
the anchors 80 being in the form of lapped or hooked bars. In other
embodiments, the ribs 88 may be a series of crossing ribs on the
lower surface of the embed 62 for causing an interlocking
engagement with a base material. In other embodiments, the ribs 88
may be relatively tall in a direction perpendicular to the surface
of the embed 62 and relatively narrow in a direction parallel to
the surface of the embed 62. As such, the ribs 88 may have a
tab-like or ear-like shape. In some embodiments, these tab-like
ribs 88 may have a relatively short or relatively long length and
may include one or more openings passing laterally through them for
receiving or passing through of anchors 80. The openings may or may
not align with additional openings in other ribs 88. The anchors 80
may be inserted through one or several openings and may, in turn,
extend into the base material. The anchors 80 may extend relatively
straight through the openings or may be bent, hooked, or otherwise
formed to engage the ribs 88 and the base material. In other
embodiments, the ribs 88 may include a coupling that is directly
attachable to an anchor 80.
[0105] In some embodiments, the ribs 88 may act to transfer force
directly from the securing point of the bridging clip to the
anchors 80 or the base material. In other embodiments, the ribs 88
may act to transfer force from the embed 62 to the anchors 80 or
the base material. In certain examples, the ribs 88 may be integral
with the embed 62 or may be added on via clips, snap connections,
fasteners, or other methods known in the art. For example, in the
case of a plastic embed 62, the ribs 88 may be a stronger metal
material and may be screwed to the embed 62.
[0106] FIGS. 37 and 38 each illustrate an adjustable attachment
system 60 according to certain embodiments. In FIGS. 37 and 38 a
lid 64 is not shown. As shown, a bridging clip 74 may be inserted
through the front opening 69 of the embed 62. FIG. 37 shows the
bridging clip 74 extending slightly outward from the embed 62 and
FIG. 35 shows the bridging clip 74 in a retracted position.
[0107] As can be seen from FIGS. 37 and 38, the bridging clip 74
may include a generally planar insertion portion 92 and an end
portion 94. The end portion 94 may be any shape necessary for
attachment of a curtain wall system including those discussed with
respect to FIGS. 9-19. In the present embodiment, the insertion
portion 92 may include at least two horizontal straight slots 76
configured for inward and outward adjustment of the bridging clip
74. The slots 76 may be spaced apart a distance approximately equal
to the spacing of the anchors 80. Where the anchors 80 extend into
the internal volume of the embed 62, the anchors 80 may engage the
slotted holes 76 and provide for slidable adjustment of the
bridging clip 74.
[0108] The slots 76 may be a standard slot width for receiving a
threaded rod or other anchor 80, but may also be oversized in width
to provide lateral adjustment of the bridging clip 74 in addition
to inward and outward adjustment. Those skilled in the art will
understand and appreciate that the oversized slots 76 may also
allow for the bridging clip 74 to be rotated slightly.
Alternatively, the slots 76 may be in the shape of opposing arcs to
allow for rotational adjustment of the bridging clip 74. The
rotational adjustment may be in the range of 0 to 5 degrees.
[0109] The bridging clips 74 shown in FIGS. 37 and 38 also include
teeth 96 on an upper surface. Plate washers 84 are shown with teeth
96 on a lower surface. The teeth 96 of the washers 84 and the
bridging clip 74 are adapted to interlock and engage one another.
Also shown are nuts 82 threaded onto the top end of the anchors 80
for fastening the washers 84 against the surface of the bridging
clip 74. The bridging clip 74 may also or alternatively include
teeth 96 on a bottom surface and corresponding teeth could be
provided on the bottom internal surface of the embed 62.
[0110] Vertical adjustment of the bridging clip 74 may be provided
by additional shimming washers placed below the bridging clip 74
and above the bottom surface of the embed 62. These shimming
washers may be flat plate washers or alternatively may include
upward facing teeth 96 for engaging teeth 96 provided on the bottom
surface of the bridging clip 74. Alternatively, where teeth 96 have
been provided on the bottom internal surface of the embed 62 and
teeth 96 have been provided on the bottom of the bridging clip 74,
the washers may include teeth 96 on both the top and bottom surface
for engaging both the bridging clip 74 and the embed 62. The
shimming washers may be any shape or size. Preferably, the shimming
washers may be similar in size to the bridging clip 74 and include
slots for receiving the upward extending anchors 80.
[0111] In use, the slots 76 in the bridging clip 74 may allow it to
slide freely along the anchors 80, when the nut 82 and washer 84
are not tightened or are not in place. Once the bridging clip 74 is
positioned, the washers 84 may be placed on top of the bridging
clip 74 allowing the teeth 96 of the washer 84 to engage the teeth
96 of the bridging clip 74. A nut 82 may then be placed on the
anchor 80 over the washer 84 to fasten the assembly together.
Inward and outward movement of the bridging clip 74 is resisted by
the teeth 96 of the washer 84. The washer 84 is prevented from
moving due to its bearing condition against the surface of the
anchor 80. As mentioned above, the anchors 80 extending into the
base prevent movement of the embed 62 and the bridging clip 74.
Where shimming washers are used to adjust the bridging clip 74
upward, these washers may be placed prior to placement of the
bridging clip 74.
[0112] Another embodiment of an adjustable attachment system 160 is
shown in FIGS. 39-42. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 39, the
system 160 may include an embed 162. The embed 162 may be in the
shape of a box defining a front face 166, a rear face 168, and at
least two side faces 170. The embed 162 may also have a top face
172 and a bottom face 173. The embed 162 may include lips 167 and
may be substantially open on the top face 172 and a the front face
166. The embed 162 may also include a lid 164 for covering the top
face and a portion of the front face. A bridging clip 174 may also
be included with slotted holes 176 for inward and outward
adjustment. The embed 162 may also include anchors 180 extending
away from the embed 162 to restrain the embed 162 against movement
when embedded in a base material.
[0113] The lid 164 may be generally flat and may contain flanges
comprising bent edges. The flanges may correspond to the front face
166, rear face 168, and side faces 170 of the embed 162 and as such
may be referred to herein as a front flange 167, rear flange 169
(not shown), and/or side flange 171. The lid 164 may be sized so
that each of the flanges 167, 169, 171 may be positioned just to
the inside edge of its respective embed face. Any combination of
flanges 167, 169, 171 may be included. For example, where the lid
164 is hinged to the rear face 168 of the embed 162, the rear
flange 169 may be omitted. The flanges 167, 169, 171 may extend the
full depth of the box so as to position the lid 164 flush with the
top face 172 of the embed 162. However, the front flange 167 of the
lid 164 may be adapted to accommodate the bridging clip 174. That
is, the front flange 167 may extend along the front face 166 of the
embed 162 a distance approximately equal to the depth of the embed
162 less the thickness of the bridging clip 174. In other
embodiments, the front flange 167 may extend a shorter distance
along the front face 166 to allow for some adjustment of the
bridging clip 174 within the depth of the embed 162 without
interfering with the tip of the front flange 167.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 40, the embed 162 may be positioned in a
base flush with an upper surface and an outer surface of the base
and the lid 164 may nest inside the embed 162.
[0115] A top view of the embed 162 is shown in FIG. 41 and depicts
the inside of the embed as accessible from the top and the front
due to the open top and front faces 172, 166.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 42, a side view of an embed 162 is shown
with an anchor 180 extending vertically down from the bottom face
173 of the embed 162. Also shown is a horizontally extending rib
188, which further extends as an additional anchor 180 beyond the
rear face 168 of the embed 162 in the form of a bent plate.
Additional features of the embed 162 may include any or all of
those features described with respect to embed 62.
[0117] The several embodiments of an embed described may be made of
any material including, but not limited to, metal, plastic, or
composite materials. The exterior and/or interior of the box may be
milled, anodized, painted, or otherwise coated and/or protected.
The coating may be any coating, including, but not limited to latex
paint, bituminous based paint, epoxy based paint, galvanization, or
any other coating known in the art.
[0118] The embed may also be any shape and is not limited to a
rectangular box as shown in the figures. For example, the embed may
be skewed in plan view to form a parallelogram shape to allow
specific curtain wall support points to be provided along the edge
of a base material and still avoid base material interruptions,
such as pipe penetrations, electrical conduit penetrations, floor
recesses and the like. The embed may taper as it extends into the
base material or alternatively may expand as it extends into the
base material. Those skilled in the art will understand and
appreciate that several shapes may be provided.
[0119] The interior volume of the embed may be stuffed or otherwise
filled with a material to increase its insulation, sound
transmission, or fire resistive properties. The fill may be
included for other reasons as well, such as to protect against
damage to the lid. This may appropriate in cases where the lid is
thin or is otherwise prone to damage due to weight or force on the
surface of the lid. As such, the fill material may be compressible
or non-compressible and may be more permanent or less permanent
depending on the need to access the internal space of the embed
over time. The fill material may be a form of batt, polystyrene,
spray-in, or other insulation. Additionally, the fill may be an
epoxy, a granular material, a concrete material, or any other
material adaptable for placement within the embed.
[0120] The embodiments shown and described with respect to FIGS.
32-42 are advantageous because the embed can be placed flush with
outer and upper surfaces of a base material. This may eliminate the
need for base material above the embed. Thus, the overall thickness
of the base material can be decreased relative to alternative
embeds that require base cover on the top and bottom of the embed.
In concrete applications, this allows the presently described embed
to be used in concrete floors formed with metal form decking or
composite decking. In this condition, the uniform concrete
thickness above the flutes of the decking may be minimized relative
to that of a concrete floor formed on a flat supporting surface. By
allowing the embed to be placed flush with the top of the slab, the
embed may be provided with sufficient clearance from the flutes of
the metal deck without requiring a thicker slab.
[0121] The presently described embodiment is also advantageous
because of the direct load path from the bridging clip to the
anchors. This direct load path minimizes the forces the embed needs
to resist, which in turn minimizes the material strength and
thickness needed for the embed and may minimize the cost.
[0122] The presently described embodiment is also advantageous
because of the internal access it provides to the embed. This
internal access allows the embed to be cleared of any debris. It
also provides easier access to the bridging clip attachment
allowing the bridging clip to be more precisely positioned.
[0123] The adjustable attachment system may be used for attaching
any suitable unit to any suitable base. For example, the base may
be a wood, drywall, brick, concrete, steel, or other. The base may
comprise a frame structure, a wall, a ceiling, a floor, or any
other structural component. The embed of the attachment system may
be provided in the base in any suitable manner. For example, the
embed may be placed in concrete, the embed may be built into a
brick wall, the embed may be anchored into a drywall sheet, or the
embed may be fastened to a wood piece. Alternatively, the embed may
be screwed, welded or otherwise fastened to metal structure.
Regarding any suitable unit, the adjustable attachment system may
be used to attach plumbing, electrical conduit, ceilings,
mechanical material and equipment, technology material equipment or
other elements requiring attachment.
[0124] The length of the embed and the bridging clip may be varied
to vary the load capacity of the adjustable attachment system. More
specifically, the longer the embed and the bridging clip, the
higher the load capacity of the adjustable attachment system.
Further, in order to increase the load capacity of the adjustable
attachment system rebar may be slid through the embed.
[0125] Although the present invention has been described with
reference to preferred embodiments, persons skilled in the art will
recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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