Patent ID: 7168219
Filing Date: 2007-01-30
Classification: E04B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A support structure comprising: a first vertically extending stud having at least two flanges connected by a substantially planar first web; a first opening through said first web of said first stud; a second vertically extending stud having at least two flanges connected by a second substantially planar web, said second substantially planar web having a second opening therethrough, said second stud oriented relative to said first stud such that said second stud is in abutting contact with said first stud and said first and second webs are not otherwise directly attached to each other and said second opening is aligned with said first opening; an elongated connector extending through said first opening and said second opening; and stud engagers in said elongated connector for engaging the first web and said second web to retain said first and second studs in abutting relationship with each other when said elongated connector is inserted into said first opening and said second opening and further moved within said first opening and said second opening in a direction that is substantially parallel to said first web and said second web to bring said stud engagers into engagement with said first web and said second web, said elongated connector rigidly retaining said first and second studs in abutting relationship with each other without use of additional fastening means in contact with said first and second webs.