Patent ID: 6729100
Filing Date: 2004-05-04
Classification: E04B,Y10T

Abstract:
A connector for a runner in a suspended ceiling comprising an end tab and an end tab receiving pocket, the end tab having a lead end with an edge and the receiving pocket being rearward of the end tab, the end tab having a body with generally planar portions rearward of the lead end, the material of the planar body portions defining a plane, the lead end being bent to one side out of the plane of said body portions to form a lead angle, the pocket being proportioned to receive the lead end of an identical connector, the pocket having a wall lying in a zone lateral of the plane of the body portions, the wall having a forward portion flared outwardly away from the plane of the planar body portions, the periphery of the wall being free of attachment from surrounding parts of the connector along a substantial portion of its length rearward of the flared portion whereby the wall operates as a resilient spring, the end tab having a locking projection and a zone for receiving and interlocking with the projection of an identical connector, the wall being arranged to bear against the end tab of the identical connector and maintain the projection of the identical connector in its receiving zone, the configuration of the end tab requiring the wall to deflect laterally outwardly when the end tab of the identical connector is being forced into the pocket, the forward outwardly flared portion of the pocket wall and lead angle portion of the identical connector inter-engaging in a smooth surface-to-surface sliding contact when the end tab of the identical connector is being received in the pocket.