Adjustable Locking Assembly

Abstract

An adjustable locking assembly having a female member provided with a base portion and a pair of spaced forwardly directed sidewalls, all cooperating to define a forwardly open channel. A male element, having a body portion and a locking portion, extending into the forwardly open channel. One of the elements having angularly transversely oriented resiliently deflectable fins and the other having a plurality of transverse ribs defining a plurality of notches. At least one resiliently deflectable fin element having a free end engaged within a notch to establish locking assembly wherein separation of the male and female elements is resisted by resilient fin and notch engagement.

Parent Case Text

This application is a continuation-in-part of U. S. Ser. No. 128,920, filed Mar. 29, 1971, entitled Panel Construction and now abandoned.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to an adjustable locking assembly adapted to be effected and resiliently retained by adjustable splicing means. The invention also relates to a number of end use applications for such an assembly including a uniquely configurated splicing element adapted to effect joinder of panels having aligned adjacent marginal edges and a panel or window frame structure.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Various forms of panel joining means adapted to establish an effective joint between spaced adjacent marginal edges of wall panels have been known. It has also been known to provide such structures and joint forming components which are adapted to be adjustable and provide locking engagement for wall panels of different thicknesses. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,890,615, 2,564,638, 3,303,626 and Canadian Pat. No. 835,012.

There remains a need for an aesthetically pleasing joint construction which will effectively provide a number of positions at which durable, effective resilient locking engagement may be obtained. In addition, there remains a need for such a construction which provides components which may readily be produced economically and rapidly assembled in the field to yield further economic advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The wall construction of this invention provides a pair of uniquely configurated splice joint elements adapted to establish resilient interengagement and effectively secure various forms of wall constructions including panels composed of several panel sections and panel sections having a wide range of thicknesses. This is accomplished by providing uniquely configurated construction components which are formed in accordance with an application of the Vernier principle.

The wall construction of this invention provides a concealed joint between spaced marginal edges of aligned adjacent panels. The splice joint assembly has a splice element and a spline element extending into the space between the adjacent panels from opposite sides and resiliently interengaged with each other therewithin. The splice member, which is preferably composed of substantially rigid material, has a base portion and a pair of generally parallel sidewalls extending forwardly from the base portion and cooperating therewith to define a forwardly open channel. At least one of the splice element sidewalls has a plurality of transversely inwardly projecting ribs which divide the sidewalls into a plurality of notches. The spline element has a locking portion, a transversely enlarged forwardly disposed head portion and a connecting body portion. The spline element locking portion has at least two transversely angularly forwardly directed resiliently deformable fins protruding from at least one side thereof with at least one resilient fin having a free end deflected and resiliently engaged within a notch of the splice element. The head portion of the spline element is in contact with a forward facing surface of the adjacent panels.

A reference to members such as notches or fins being "aligned" or in "alignment" as used herein shall refer to their being so disposed that at least one of these members on one side of a splice or spline element is connected to the splice or spline element at substantially the same longitudinal position as a second such member which is connected to the other side of such a splice or spline element.

In order to obtain the maximum benefit of this invention the notches of one splice element sidewall are positioned in relative alignment with the notches of the other sidewall while the fins on one side of the spline element are disposed in relative staggered position with respect to the fins on the other side. Alternatively, the notches may be provided in relative staggered position while the fins are in relative aligned position.

In one preferred form of the invention, the spline element head portion will be engaged with the outermost forwardly facing panel surfaces. In another preferred form of the invention, the spline element body will have an integrally formed forwardly open second channel disposed closely adjacent to the spline element head. This second channel is provided with sidewalls having transversely inwardly angularly rearwardly directed elongated resilient fins. A second spline element, preferably composed of a substantially rigid material, has a head portion and a body portion extending into the forwardly open second channel. The body portion of the second spline element is provided with a number of transversely outwardly directed ribs which engage and deflect the resilient fins of the second channel to establish a resilient interlocking joint.

In one preferred form of the invention, the splice joint assembly is adapted to provide a joint between a pair of panels composed of interior and exterior panel sections having an interposed panel section composed of an insulating material. The splice element in this form is provided with an integrally formed second channel which is rearwardly open and adapted to receive the edges of a pair of panel sections to be joined. The rearwardly open channel may assume various configurations which are adapted to provide an effective joint. The entire splice element is preferably composed of aluminum and formed by extrusion.

It is an object of this invention to provide an adjustable locking assembly which has a refined graduation of adjustments and provides resilient interengagement between component parts so as to effectively resist relative separating movement of the parts.

It is another object of this invention to provide such a structure wherein the adjustment graduations are effected in accordance with a precise mathematical relationship which provides more effective graduated interengagement and is adapted to be employed economically in a wide variety of end uses.

It is another object of this invention to provide a wall construction which is adapted to secure spaced marginal edges of adjacent panels by means of a uniquely configurated splice joint assembly.

It is another object of this invention to provide a splice joint assembly which is adapted for adjustable resilient locking engagement of adjacent panels and may be employed with single panel section walls or multiple panel section walls including a wide range of thicknesses.

It is another object of this invention to provide a pair of splice joint assembly components which are adapted to be readily economically produced and easily assembled in order to provide a continuous uniform resiliently retained joint between adjacent panels.

It is another object of this invention to provide a splice joint assembly adapted for use in establishing an exterior building wall and effecting joinder thereof to an interior wall with an interposed insulating panel section.

It is another object of this invention to provide a panel or window frame structure employing the adjustable locking assembly of this invention.

These and other objects of the invention will be more fully understood from the following description of the invention on reference to the illustrations appended hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a portion of a wall construction contemplated by this invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken through 2--2 of FIG. 1 illustrating a preferred form of joint construction.

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2, but illustrating a modified form of splice joint assembly.

FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional view of one form of spline element contemplated by this invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates, in exploded fashion, a modified form of spline combination contemplated by this invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a form of splice element adapted to be used in connection with the spline elements of this invention.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a form of locking assembly contemplated by this invention.

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of another form of locking assembly contemplated by this invention.

FIG. 9 is a fragmentary sectional view of a window structure employing the features of this invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As used herein, the term "panel" shall refer to a component or components consisting of single panel section or a number of panel sections disposed generally in face to face adjacency with respect to each other so as to cooperate in forming a wall or other panel-like construction.

Referring now in greater detail to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a wall construction having panel 2 secured to adjacent panel 4 along marginal edges (indicated generally by numerals 6, 8), respectively, by means of joint 10, which in the form shown is longitudinally continuous and coextensive with the panel edges 6, 8.

Referring now to FIG. 2, it is seen that, in the form shown, the panels to be joined are composed of several panel sections. Rearwardly disposed panel sections 16, 18 consist of an exterior wall composed of a metal skin. Disposed immediately interiorly of panels 16, 18 and preferably bonded thereto are insulating panel sections 20, 22, respectively. The forwardly exposed panel sections 24, 26 may conveniently be composed of a suitable material such as a fire resistant drywall and may have a decorative facing or finish 30, 32. These panels 2, 4 are so disposed with respect to each other that a space 34 exists between the aligned marginal edges 6, 8. The splice element components provided by the form of invention shown in FIG. 2 consists of a splice element 40 and a spline element 42.

Referring now to the detailed illustrations of splice element 40 and spline element 42 shown in FIGS. 2 through 6, it is seen that the splice element 40 has a base portion 44 and a pair of sidewalls 46, 48 extending forwardly from base portion 44 in spaced relationship with respect to each other and preferably parallel to each other. Base 44, which is generally V-shaped, and sidewalls 46, 48 cooperate to define a forwardly open channel 50. The inner surface of each sidewall 46, 48 is provided with a plurality of transversely inwardly projecting ribs 52 which divide the sidewall into a plurality of inwardly open notches 56. The sidewalls 46, 48 are of substantially uniform width along their length except for ribs 52. It is noted that in the form which has been illustrated, the ribs 52 of one sidewall 46, 48 are positioned in staggered relationship with respect to the ribs 52 of the other sidewall 46, 48 and are not aligned with each other. This results in notches 56 of one sidewall 46, 48 being staggered with respect to the notches of the other. It is further noted that each rib 52 is provided with a rearwardly disposed surface 60 which is preferably substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls 46, 48 and a forwardly disposed surface 62 which extends from the outer extremity of surface 60 angularly outwardly and forwardly. Each rib 52 is disposed in spaced relationship with respect to adjacent ribs 52 disposed on the same sidewall.

Unless otherwise indicated, reference herein to a fin being engaged within a notch shall refer to a fin having an end portion in resilient engagement with a notch defining rib and having a portion extending into the notch.

Considering now the form of spline element shown in FIG. 4, it is seen that the element has a body portion 70, a transversely enlarged head portion 72 and a locking portion 74. In this form, the body portion 70 preferably has a substantially uniform thickness and a generally web-like configuration. The head 72 has transverse flanges, which are preferably of substantially uniform thickness, extending substantially perpendicular to the body portion. The locking portion 74 which for clarity of illustration may be deemed to be separated from the body portion by dotted line 76 (although this line need not represent an actual physical division) will generally originate at a position closely adjacent the first locking fin 78. These elongated resilient fins 78 are preferably of substantially uniform cross sectional configuration throughout their longitudinal extent and are preferably of substantially uniform thickness between web 80 and their outer free ends. These fins 78 preferably have a length greater than the width of web 80 from which they are cantilevered.

The locking portion 74 is provided with at least two transversely angularly forwardly extending resilient fins 78 on each side of web 80. These fins 78 are preferably disposed at an angle (.alpha.) alpha which is preferably about 35.degree. to 60.degree. with respect to the remainder of locking portion 74 and is 45.degree. in the form shown. This angle assists materially in providing resistance to joint separation. The fins 78 are resilient and the spline element is preferably composed of a resiliently deformable material such as plastic or rubber. The maximum width D of the locking portion 74 in its uncompressed state is preferably greater than the minimum internal width of forwardly open channel 50 by at least the height of rib 52. This insures resilient transverse inward deformation of fins 78 when spline 42 is inserted into splice 40 and creates positive retention of the interlocking engagement. The fins 78 are adapted to be resiliently deflected from their angular cantilevered position when the spline element is inserted into the splice element. This deflection and resultant engagement of the fins 78 in the notches 56 produces an interlock between the splice element and spline element. This interlock is resiliently maintained and resists undesired separation of the spline and splice elements.

Referring once again to FIG. 4, it is also noted that fins 78 disposed on one side of locking portion 74 are disposed in staggered relationship with respect to fins 78 disposed on the other side of locking portion 74. These create a refined graduation with respect to the relative locking positions of the splice element 40 and spline element 42. With respect to both the staggered positioning of ribs 52 and elongated fins 78 it is preferable to establish uniform staggering such that the spacing between ribs 52 or fins 78 on one side is substantially equal to the spacing between ribs 52 or fins 78 on the other side. In the form illustrated in FIG. 4, the locking portion has a web-like sector 80 from which the fins 78 extend. Web-like sector 80 may conveniently be formed as an extension of body portion 70 and of substantially the same thickness.

While the form shown in FIG. 4 provides both notches and fins having relative staggered positions, in the preferred form of the invention either the splice element 40 notches or the spline element 42 fins will be staggered and the other will not. In one preferred form, the notches of one wall of splice element 40 will be positioned in alignment with the notches of the other wall, while the fins of spline element 42 will be positioned in relative staggered relationship. In another preferred form, the notches of one wall of splice element 40 will be staggered with respect to the notches of the other wall, while the fins emerging from one side of web-like sector 80 will be aligned with the fins of the other side. By providing relative staggering of either the notches or the fins, but not both, the maximum effective graduation is obtained. In this fashion a symmetrical component is adjustably interengaged with a staggered component to effect refined graduation.

Referring once again to FIG. 2, it is seen that the spline element 42 has been engaged within the splice element 40 and the cantilevered fins 78 have been subjected to resilient deflection and have their free ends engaged within notches 56. It is noted that the extent of introduction of the spline 42 into the splice 40 may be varied and as a result various panel thicknesses may effectively be secured by means of the same components. It is further noted that all of the fins 78 will not necessarily be in engagement within notches 56. Engagement of one fin 78 of web 80 within a notch 56 is adequate to provide an effective resilient interlocking engagement which resists relative axial separation of the two splice elements 40, 42.

In the form shown in FIG. 2, head 72 of spline element 42 is in restraining contact with facing surfaces 30, 32 of panels 24, 26. This serves to close off space 34 from view and resist forward movement of the panels 24, 26. If desired, the exterior surface of head 72 may be provided with a decorative finish in order to provide either uniformity of appearance with respect to facings 30, 32 or an aesthetically pleasing contrasting appearance. Also, spline element 42 when composed of a thermally insulating material will provide a thermal break between adjacent panels 2, 4.

Referring now once again to FIGS. 2 and 6, another preferred structural embodiment of this invention will be discussed. As has been indicated, the form of construction shown in FIG. 2 provides a joint between interior panel sections 24, 26 and exterior panel sections 16, 18. The splice element 40 of this invention may be integrally formed with another panel joining element in order to provide for economy of fabrication, more effective unitary joinder between the outside panel joint and the inner panel joint as well as ease of handling and installation. This is all accomplished by the form of splice element 40 shown in FIGS. 2 and 6 which is provided with an integrally formed second rearwardly open channel. This channel defining portion 82 is preferably formed in a unitary fashion with respect to splice element 40. This may conveniently be accomplished by making the unit out of metal, such as aluminum, and fabricating the same by an extrusion process. The channel defining member 82 has a base wall 84, sidewalls 86, 88 and a channel opening 90. Base wall 84 is disposed closely adjacent to generally V-shaped base 44, with the rearward portion of base 44 preferably merging into base wall 84. While the specific structural details of the interior of member 82 form no part of the invention per se, they will be briefly considered. Each sidewall 86, 88 is provided with lower and upper sheet engaging elements 92, 94, respectively, which serve to define panel receiving slots 96. Referring now to FIG. 2, it is seen that re-entrant end portions 98, 100 of panel sections 16, 18, respectively, are engaged within the slots 96. In order to secure the panel section edges within the slots 96, a suitable resilient sealing member 102 is provided. It should be noted that this particular channel defining element 82 is essentially the same as that shown as an independent panel joining element in U.S. Pat. No. 3,232,395. It will be appreciated, however, that other known forms of joint elements adapted to secure re-entrant bends in the ends of adjacent panels may be employed in combination with the splice element 40 of this invention. See for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,854,438, 3,110,066 and 3,410,043. It is the adaptability of the splice element 40 of this invention to use in such a unitary combination which forms a portion of this invention and not the specific configuration of channel defining element 82.

As has been indicated above, FIG. 3 illustrates a similar form of panel assembly to that shown in FIG. 2, but employs a modified form of spline element. For convenience of reference, like numerals will be employed in this figure to refer to equivalent components previously discussed in connection with FIG. 2.

In the form of wall structure shown in FIG. 3, portions of adhesive 104 are positioned between the forward faces 106, 108 of panels 20, 22, respectively, in order to provide effective bonding therebetween. It will be appreciated that, if desired, a continuous adhesive may be employed and that the use of such an adhesive is advantageous as it results in a more uniform, rattle free wall structure with increased resistance to undesired bowing. Also, in those instances where drywall is employed in panel sections 24, 26, the continuous adhesive provides added reinforcement therefor.

Referring now in more detail to FIGS. 3 and 5, with emphasis upon the splice joint assembly components, it will be noted that a substantially identical splice element 40 has been employed with one modification. The sidewalls 46, 48 are provided with transversely outwardly directed flanges 110, 112, respectively, which are integrally formed therewith and are spaced rearwardly from mouth 114 of channel opening 50 and forwardly of base 44. The forward surfaces of these flanges are in surface to surface engagement with the rear surfaces of insulating material 20, 22, respectively. These flanges 110, 112 cooperate with the portions of sidewalls 46, 48 disposed forwardly thereof to provide resistance to rearward or transverse inward displacement of panel sections 20, 22.

Considering the detailed illustration provided in FIG. 5, it is seen that a first spline element 120 has a body portion 122, a head portion 124 and a locking portion 126 separated from the body portion in the illustration by dotted line 128. The locking portion 126 is provided with a plurality of angularly forwardly directed resiliently deformable fins 130 which are so disposed as to provide a staggered relationship between the fins on one side of web 132 and the fins on the other side thereof. These fins 130 would preferably be employed with a splice element having aligned notches. The effect of this staggered relationship is to reduce the amount of relative closing movement between the splice element and the spline element required in order to move from one stage of interlock to the next succeeding stage of interlock. These cantilevered deflectable fins 130 function in the same fashion as fins 78 described above.

It will, therefore, be appreciated that first spline element 120 has a substantially identical locking portion 126 as does spline 42. The forward portion of the body 122 of spline 120 is provided with a forwardly open channel 136. This channel 136 is defined by a generally V-shaped base portion 138 and adjacent, preferably parallel, sidewalls 140, 142. Each sidewall is provided with at least two transversely angularly rearwardly directed resilient fins 144 which are preferably disposed at an angle of about 35 to 60.degree. with respect to sidewalls 140, 142. In the form shown, they are also preferably provided in staggered relationship. Head portion 124 has flanges 146, which are preferably of uniform thickness, extending transversely outwardly from the forward portion of sidewalls 140, 142.

A second spline element 150 which is preferably composed of a substantially rigid material such as metal, or a suitable hard plastic or rubber material, has a body portion 152 and a head portion 154. The body portion 152 is provided on opposed sides with a plurality of substantially rigid, transversely outwardly directed ribs 156. The maximum width of the body portion 152 exceeds the minimum transverse gap between the free ends of the two rows of fins 144 in order that introduction of the body portion 152 into forwardly open channel 136 will establish resilient generally transverse outward deflection of fins 134 and create effective resilient interlocking engagement between second spline element 150 and first spline element 120. The inclination of fins 134 increases the resistance to undesired joint separation. In the form shown, the ribs 156 are staggered. With fins 144 staggered, it would be preferred to provide second spline element 150 with ribs which are aligned i.e. ribs on opposed sides of body 152 emerge transversely outwardly from the same longitudinal position.

In this fashion, first spline element 120 provides resilient interlocking engagement between resilient fins 130 and ribs 52 of splice element 40 and also provides resiliently retained interlocking engagement between second spline element 150 and resilient fins 144.

Referring now to FIG. 3, it is seen that the flanges 146 of head portion 124 are interposed between panel sections 20 and 24 and panel sections 22 and 26, respectively, while head portion 154 of second spline element 150 exerts a rearward force against the forward surfaces of outer panel sections 24, 26. This results in compressive securement of panel sections 24, 26 between head 154 and flanges 146. If desired, additional fastening means 158, such as nails or screws, may be driven through panel sections 24 and 26 and through flanges 146 to provide for additional rigidity and reinforcement of the joint. If fastener means 158 are employed, the use of second spline 150 may be eliminated. This facilitates the use of conventional drywall muding and taping practices.

The number of fins 78, 130 and the spacing of fins and ribs should have a definite mathematical relationship in order to achieve the desired effect. A preferred means of establishing the relationship of spacing between the ribs 52, 156 and fins 78, 130, respectively, is to employ the Vernier principle. This results in a structure providing optimum adjustability and effective interengagement. Considering, more specifically, how this concept is applied to the present system reference is made to FIG. 5. The formula applied is:

NS.sub.1 = (N + 1) S.sub.2 where

N = the number of fins or ribs provided on the spline or splice element of an interengaging pair which has the lesser number of fins or ribs

S.sub.1 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the lesser number with the distance being measured between free ends thereof

S.sub.2 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the greater number, with the distance being measured between free ends thereof.

EXAMPLE

Reference is now made to FIG. 5 with attention directed toward forwardly open channel 136 and second spline element 150. As open channel 136 has a smaller number of fins 144 than the number of ribs 156 on second spline 150, the number N is equal to 5, which is the number of fins 144. The distance S.sub.1 may be taken between the free ends of the rearwardmost fins 144, which are on different sidewalls 140, 142 and will be assumed for purposes of illustration to be 0.075 inch. Applying the formula the following results are obtained:

N.sup.. S.sub.1 = (N + 1) S.sub.2

(5)(0.075) = 6 S.sub.2

S.sub.2 = (5)(0.075)/6

S.sub.2 = 0.0625 inch

Thus, the Vernier principle results in the spacing between the fins or ribs on the element having the lesser number of fins or ribs being greater than the spacing between elements on the member having the greater number. This results in the desired refined graduation which produces optimum adjustability.

It will also be appreciated that as the number of fins or notches N is increased, the distance S.sub.1 more closely approximates the distance S.sub.2. While as has been indicated all that is required is single engagement between a notch and a fin, employing increased multiples of N will increase the number of fins engaged within notches at a given locking position.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing detailed description of my adjustable locking assembly as employed in a panel joint construction is merely one specific advantageous end use of this structural combination. The general concept may be applied to numerous end uses. The same variations disclosed in connection with the joint structure may readily be incorporated in adjustable locking mechanisms used for a variety of purposes. Considering FIG. 7 it is seen that a male element 160 is adapted to be inserted into a female element 162. The male element 160 has a body portion 164 and a locking portion 166 shown as being divided by dotted line 168. As in the other embodiments, the male member has a plurality of transversely angularly oriented resiliently deflectable fins 172. In the form shown, the female element has a base portion 174 and a pair of spaced forwardly directed generally parallel sidewalls 176, 178. Each sidewall 176, 178 cooperates with the base portion 174 to define a forwardly open channel 180. Each sidewall 176, 178 is provided with a plurality of transversely inwardly directed substantially rigid ribs 182, 184, respectively, which serve to define a plurality of sidewall notches 186, 188, respectively. It is noted that in the form shown the ribs of one sidewall 176, 178 are disposed in aligned relationship with respect to the ribs of the other sidewall. As is preferred, the corresponding male element 160 has staggered fins 172. As has been indicated above an alternate preference would be to provide staggered ribs and aligned fins.

The female element 162 shown in FIG. 7 is provided with a head portion 190, 192 which is disposed generally perpendicular with respect to sidewalls 176, 178 and angular transition portions 194, 196 connect the respective portions. It will be appreciated that this general form of adjustable locking assembly is adapted for use in a wide range of locking mechanisms where adjustability and refined graduation, coupled with effective resilient retention, are required.

While the form shown in FIG. 7 is the preferred approach which involves the fins being present on the male element 160 and the ribs on the female element 162, it will be appreciated that the deflective resilient fins may be positioned within the female member and the ribs in the male member as is shown in the lower portion of FIG. 5.

The male element may be provided with a head portion such as those shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 or with alternate forms of body portion and end structure depending upon the specific end use which is contemplated.

Referring now to FIG. 9, another specific end use structure will be considered. In general, FIG. 9 shows a sectional view through the frame of an insulated window. The frame has a structural member 200 and an insulating member 202. The structural member 200 and insulating member 202 are so configurated and interlocked as to provide effective compressively established retention of the marginal edge 204 of window pane 206, which in the form shown is a double paned or insulated glass structure. Interposed between the marginal edge 204 and the structural member 200 and insulating member 202 is glazing channel 208.

Considering now the structural details of the element, it is seen that structural member 200 has a base portion 212 and a first flange 214 which emerges from one side of the base portion and is oriented generally perpendicular to the base portion 212. First flange 214 has inwardly offset free end portion 216. The structural member 200 also has a second flange 218 which is oriented generally angularly with respect to base portion 212. Second flange 218 terminates in a re-entrant portion 220. Also emerging from the base portion is divider wall 224 which is oriented generally parallel to first flange 214. The divider wall 224 contains the female member 226 which is defined by an extension wall 228 which terminates in sector 230 oriented generally parallel to divider wall 224. As in the other embodiments illustrated, the female member is provided with a plurality of ribs 234, 236 which define notches 238, 240, respectively. The outermost portion of divider wall 224 has a perpendicular flange 242 which terminates in a protrusion 244.

Considering now the insulating member 202 in detail, it is noted that it has a base 250, a first flange 252 directed generally perpendicular to the base 250 adjacent one end thereof. The base, in the form shown, terminates in a channel shaped element 254 which receives free end 216 of first flange 214. This provides for effective joinder connecting first flanges 214, 252. Insulating member 202 also has angularly disposed second flange 256 which has a free end 258 and is provided with a channel shaped portion 260. This channel shaped portion receives protrusion 242 of divider wall 224. It is noted that the insulating member 202 also has a separating wall 266 which provides a male member having a body portion 268 and a plurality of fins 270. At least one fin 270 is in deflected resilient engagement within notches 238, 240. In the form shown stop member 272 is also provided on insulating member 202. In effecting assembly of the insulating member to the structural member the male member is introduced into the female member and relative closing movement is established until the desired stopping point is reached. The precise stopping point will be determined in part by the thickness of the window pane 206 and the degree of compression of the channel shaped glazing member 208 which is desired. It is noted that the glazing channel 208 has a first leg 276 interposed between the marginal edge 204 of the pane 206 and re-entrant portion 220 of flange 218. The glazing channel 208 also has a second leg interposed between marginal edge 204 and flange 242 and free end 258 of flange 256. In this fashion, the advantages of the adjustable locking assembly of this invention may be employed to effect a tight, durable panel or window frame assembly at refined graduations.

While for purposes of simplicity of illustration, attention has been focused on locking portions of spline elements provided with fins or ribs on both sides and splice element and spline element channels having ribs and fins on both sides, and this is the preferred form of the invention, it will be appreciated that if the desired ribs and fins may be advantageously provided on only one side. For example, in FIGS. 2, 4 and 6, fins 78 may be provided only emerging from the right of body 80 and not from the left with body portion 80 having a smooth, web-like left surface. Similarly, sidewall 46 would not have ribs 52, while sidewall 48 would. The splice element 40 and spline element 42 could be so proportioned that a surface of sidewall 46 would be in surface to surface contact with a surface of body 80. At least two ribs 52 and two fins 78 would be provided on the right side of the assembly. Similarly, fins 144 and ribs 156 may be provided on one side only with the other side remaining free of the same. The joint is effected in the same manner as described above in connection with the otherwise identical splice and spline elements having ribs and fins projecting on both sides.

As is shown in FIG. 8, the male member 280 is provided with a plurality of fins 282 disposed solely on one side of web 284. The other side consists of a generally smooth bearing surface 286. Also shown in this figure is a female member 290 which has an open channel 292 and a plurality of notches 294 defined by ribs 296 on sidewall 298. The opposite sidewall 300 has a substantially smooth inner surface which is preferably adapted to be in surface to surface contact with bearing surface 286 when the male member 280 is inserted into the female member 290.

The use of fins and ribs on both sides of the splice and spline elements is preferred as it provides a distinct economic and manufacturing advantage. For example, if fins are positioned on only one side of the spline element the element must be fabricated with a spacing of "X" between adjacent fins. The same graduation may be effected by placing fins on both sides of the spline element while effecting a spacing of "2X" between adjacent fins on the same side of the spline member. Thus, in extrusion, for example, the tooling is less intricate and distances between fins less substantial. This facilitates ease of fabrication and produces an economic saving while retaining the benefit of the Vernier principle. A similar advantage is obtainable in connecting the positioning of the splice element notches.

It will, therefore, be appreciated that the wall construction of this invention as a result of the uniquely configurated splice and spline elements provides an economical means for effecting a wide variety of wall constructions facilitating use with a wide range of panel material thicknesses and panel materials. This results in an aesthetically pleasing appearance and maximum strength uniform securement of the panels. This may readily be accomplished while providing both economic savings in the field as a result of ease of installation. In addition, economy in the splice component parts results from the relative simplicity of manufacture and structural designs which facilitate the use of readily available materials having a reasonable cost.

In addition, the splice assembly components permit adjustability which is of refined graduation as a result of the preferred staggered positioning of the channel ribs or resilient fins. The most advantageous means of providing such a structure is by means of the above-described application of the Vernier effect. Also, the splice member may conveniently be formed as a unit with an outwardly open panel joining member composed of suitable material such as metal and may be formed by processes such as extrusion. The two forms of spline elements illustrated are preferably longitudinally substantially coextensive with the adjacent marginal edges of the panels to be joined. As a result of the head portion, the gap between the marginal edges of the panels is concealed from view and a decorative matching or contrasting aesthetically pleasing appearance may be provided by the spline head and the exposed panel faces. Also, the visual joint may be eliminated by employing fastening means, such as nails, muding and taping. It will further be appreciated that in addition to providing for compressive resilient deflection of the spline in order to establish a desired engagement, splice retention is effected through mechanical interlock, the inclination of the spline fins and the resiliency which is provided in the fin structures.

The adjustable locking assembly of this invention has a broad range of applications wherein effective resilient locking retention and refined graduation of locking positions in accordance with specific geometric configurations are desired.

It will be appreciated that while, for convenience of illustration, a specific form of adjustable locking structures including a composite wall structure and a panel or window frame have been shown, numerous forms of wall constructions be they interior partition walls or exterior walls as well as a wide range of joints between various types of panels may be provided with the adjustable locking structures of this invention.

Whereas particular embodiments of the invention have been described above for purposes of illustration, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that numerous variations of the details may be made without departing from the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

I claim:

1. A wall construction, comprising

a pair of panels having a pair of adjacent marginal edges disposed in aligned spaced relationship with respect to each other,

a splice joint assembly having a splice element and a spline element each extending into said space between said adjacent marginal edges from opposite ends thereof,

said splice element having a base portion and a pair of sidewalls extending forwardly from said base portion and cooperating with said base portion to define a forwardly open channel,

at least one of said splice element sidewalls each having a plurality of transversely inwardly projecting ribs which divide said sidewall into a plurality of notches,

said spline element having a locking portion, a transversely enlarged forwardly disposed head portion and a connecting body portion,

said spline element locking portion having at least two transversely angularly forwardly directed resiliently deflectable fins protruding in cantilevered fashion therefrom,

the spacing between said transversely inwardly projecting ribs and the spacing between said transversely angularly forwardly directed resiliently deflectable fins each being established by the Vernier principle,

at least one said resilient fin having a free end resiliently deflected and engaged within a notch of said splice element, and

said head portion in contact with a forwardly facing surface of said panels.

2. The wall construction of claim 1, including

both said sidewalls having said inwardly projecting ribs,

at least two said resilient fins projecting from each side of locking portion,

said splice element being substantially rigid,

said splice element sidewalls are substantially parallel and are of substantially uniform thickness except at locations of said ribs,

each said notch defining rib of said splice element having a rearward surface which is disposed generally perpendicular to said generally parallel sidewalls and a forward surface which extends from the innermost portion of said rearward surface transversely angularly forwardly,

each said notch defining rib is spaced longitudinally within said splice element with respect to adjacent ribs,

said spline element body portion being of substantially uniform thickness,

the portion of said spline element locking portion from which said resiliently deformable fins protrude being formed as a web-like extension of said body portion, sand the smaller of the two angles between said fins and said web-like portion from which they project being about 35.degree. to 60.degree..

3. The wall construction of claim 2, including

said splice element base being generally v-shaped,

the minimum transverse distance between said generally parallel sidewalls of said splice element taken from the transverse innermost portions the two lines of ribs is less than the uncompressed maximum width of said locking portion of said spline element,

said splice element is an aluminum extrusion, and

said spline element is composed of a resiliently deformable plastic material.

4. The wall construction of claim 2, including

said splice joint assembly is longitudinally substantially coextensive with said adjacent marginal panel edges,

a rearwardly open generally channel shaped panel joining element integrally formed with said splice element and having its base disposed closely adjacent the base of said splice element, and

a pair of panel edges secured within said rearwardly open panel joining element.

5. The wall construction of claim 4, including

each said panel consisting of a rearward panel section having a rearwardly facing metal skin and an insulating material panel section and a forwardly disposed panel section in face to face adjacency with respect to said insulating material,

the spacing between transversely inwardly directed ribs of said sidewalls and between said resilient fin elements of said locking portion is determined by the relationship

NS.sub.1 = (N + 1) S.sub.2 where

N = the number of fins or ribs provided on the spline or splice element which has the lesser number of fins or ribs

S.sub.1 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the lesser number with the distance being measured between free ends thereof, and

S.sub.2 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the greater number, with the distance being measured between free ends thereof, and

said head portion of said spline element in contact with the forward face of each said adjacent panel.

6. The wall construction of claim 4, including

each said panel consisting of a rearwardly disposed section having a rearwardly facing skin and an insulating material panel section and a forwardly disposed panel section disposed adjacent the forward surface of said insulating material,

the head of said spline element interposed between said forwardly disposed panel section and said insulating material,

the body portion of said spline element having an enlarged generally channel shaped forwardly open recess provided with sidewalls having resilient transversely angularly rearwardly directed fin portions, and

a second spline element having a head portion, a substantially rigid body portion extending into said forwardly open channel of said spline body portion and having transversely projecting ribs emerging from opposed sides thereof, at least one said rib on each side of said second spline element in resilient fin deflecting engagement with the free end of one said deflected fin.

7. The wall construction of claim 6, including

said head portion of said first spline element having a web-like section interposed between said insulating material and said forwardly disposed panel section, and

fastener means extending through each said forward panel section and into said head portion of said second spline.

8. The wall construction of claim 7, including

a pair of web-like flanges extending transversely outwardly from said generally parallel sidewalls of said first splice element at a position rearward of the forwardmost portion of said splice element and forward of the base thereof, and

said flanges disposed rearwardly of said insulating material and in surface to surface engagement therewith.

9. A splice assembly, comprising

a splice element having a base portion and a pair of spaced forwardly directed generally parallel sidewalls emerging from said base and cooperating therewith to define a forwardly open channel,

said splice element composed of a substantially rigid material,

at least one said sidewall having an inner surface provided with a plurality of transversely inwardly directed ribs which divide said sidewall into a series of transversely inwardly open notches,

a spline element having a body portion, a locking portion at one end thereof and a transversely extending head portion at the other end thereof,

said locking portion of said spline element having at least one transversely angularly forwardly extending resiliently deflectable fin element having a free end engaged within a notch of said splice element, whereby relative separation of said splice element and said spline element is resisted by the resilient interengagement between said notches and said fins, and

the spacing between said transversely inwardly directed ribs and the spacing between said transversely angularly forwardly extending resiliently deflectable fins each being established by the Vernier principle.

10. The splice assembly of claim 9, including

both said sidewalls have said notch defining ribs,

said locking portion having two said fin elements on each side thereof,

said uncompressed maximum width of said locking portion of said spline element is greater than the minimum distance between said generally parallel sidewalls of said splice element taken between the transverser inner extremities of the two rows of ribs,

said ribs of said generally parallel sidewalls having an angularly forwardly disposed pilot surface which facilitates smooth movement of said fin thereover during insertion of said spline element into said splice element,

at least one of said splice element and said spline element having its said ribs or fins disposed on one side thereof positioned in relative staggered relationship with respect to said ribs or fins disposed on the other side thereof, and

the other of said splice element and said spline element having its said rib or fins disposed on one side thereof positioned in relative aligned relationship with respect to said ribs or fins disposed on the other side thereof, whereby one said element will have staggered positioning of its said fins or ribs and the other said element will have aligned positioning of its said fins or ribs.

11. The splice assembly of claim 9, including

the spacing between transversely inwardly directed ribs of said sidewalls and between said resilient fin elements of said locking portion is determined by the relationship

NS.sub.1 = (N + 1) S.sub.2 wherein

N = the number of fins or ribs providing on the spline or splice element which has the lesser number of fins or ribs

S.sub.1 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the lesser number with the distance being measured between free ends thereof, and

S.sub.2 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the greater number, with the distance being measured between free ends thereof.

12. The splice assembly of claim 11, including

said ribs on each said sidewall disposed in spaced relationship with respect to adjacent ribs on said sidewall,

the body portion of said spline element having a web-shaped portion and adjacent said head portion having a forwardly open channel defined by an enlarged base portion and parallel spaced sidewalls,

said body portion channel having rearwardly and transversely inwardly directed resiliently deformable fins cantilevered from each said channel defining sidewall,

a second spline element composed of a substantially rigid material having a head portion and a body portion provided with transversely outwardly directed ribs, and

said body portion of said second spline element disposed at least in part within said body portion channel and said ribs in resilient interlocking engagement with said resilient channel fins.

13. The splice assembly of claim 12, including

a pair of transversely outwardly directed flanges extending from said sidewalls of said first splice element,

said splice element composed of aluminum, and

said first spline element composed of a resiliently deformable plastic material.

14. The splice assembly of claim 13, including

said spline element locking portion having fins which have a length greater than the width of that sector of said spline element from which they emerge.

15. An adjustable locking assembly, comprising

a female element having a base portion and a pair of spaced forwardly directed generally parallel sidewalls emerging from said base and cooperating therewith to define a forwardly open channel,

a male element having a body portion and a locking portion at one end of said body portion,

one of said male element and female element having transversely angularly oriented resiliently deflectable fin elements and the other of said elements having a number of substantially rigid generally transversely oriented ribs defining a plurality of notches,

said male element extending into said forwardly open channel,

at least one transversely angularly extending resiliently deflectable fin element having a free end engaged within a notch, whereby relative separation of said female element and said male element is resisted by the resilient interengagement between said notches and said fins, and

the spacing between said transversely angularly resiliently deflectable fin elements and the spacing between said transversely oriented ribs each being established by the Vernier principle.

16. The adjustable locking assembly of claim 15 including

said resilient fins are disposed on said male element and are directed transversely angularly forwardly,

said ribs are disposed on at least one said female element sidewalls and extend transversely inwardly dividing said sidewall into a plurality of notches, and

said female element is composed of a substantially rigid material.

17. The adjustable locking assembly of claim 15 including

both said sidewalls have said notch defining ribs,

said locking portion of said male element having two said fin elements on each side thereof,

said uncompressed maximum width of said locking portion of said male element is greater than the minimum distance between said generally parallel sidewalls of said female element taken between the transverse inner extremities of the two rows of ribs,

said ribs of said generally parallel sidewalls having an angularly forwardly disposed pilot surface which facilitates smooth movement of said fin thereover during insertion of said male element into said female element,

at least one of said female element and said male element having its said ribs or fins disposed on one side thereof positioned in relative staggered relationship with respect to said ribs or fins disposed on the other side thereof, and

the other of said female element and said male element having its said ribs or fins disposed on one side thereof positioned in relative aligned relationship with respect to said ribs or fins disposed on the other side thereof, whereby one said element will have staggered positioning of its said fins or ribs and the other said element will have aligned positioning of its said fins or ribs.

18. The adjustable locking assembly of claim 16 including

the spacing between transversely inwardly directed ribs of said sidewalls and between said resilient fin elements of said locking portion is determined by the relationship

NS.sub.1 = (N + 1) S.sub.2 wherein

N = the number of fins or ribs provided on the male or female element which has the lesser number of fins or ribs

S.sub.1 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the lesser number with the distance being measured between free ends thereof, and

S.sub.2 = the distance between the closest two ribs or fins (be they on the same side or opposite sides) of the element having the greater number, with the distance being measured between free ends thereof.

19. The adjustable locking assembly of claim 18 including

said ribs on each said sidewall disposed in spaced relationship with respect to adjacent ribs on said sidewall,

a transversely enlarged head portion disposed on said male element disposed on the opposite side of said body portion with respect to said locking portion,

the body portion of said male element having a web-shaped portion and adjacent said head portion having a forwardly open channel defined by an enlarged base portion and parallel spaced sidewalls,

said body portion channel having rearwardly and transversely inwardly directed resiliently deformable fins cantilevered from each said channel defining sidewall,

a second male element composed of a substantially rigid material having a head portion and a body portion provided with transversely outwardly directed ribs, and

said body portion of said second male element disposed at least in part within said body portion channel and said ribs in resilient interlocking engagement with said resilient channel fins.