Multi-piece attachment mounting clamp for trapezoidal rib profile panels

A clamp (42) is mounted on a hollow rib (18) of a panel assembly (142). The clamp (42) includes a first clamping member (46) and a separate second clamping member (82). The first clamping member (42) includes a first section (50) that is disposed beyond a top wall (30) of the rib (18), and that includes an arcuately-shaped recess (58). The second clamping member (82) includes a convex, arcuately-shaped distal end (90) that is disposed within the recess (58) of the first clamping member (42) to allow the second clamping member (82) to pivot relative to the first clamping member (46) at least generally about the distal end (90) to secure the clamp (42) to the rib (18). An attachment (150) may be mounted on the clamp (42).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of panel assemblies that include a plurality of interconnected panels having a plurality of trapezoidal ribs disposed in spaced relation and, more particularly, to interconnecting an attachment to such a panel assembly using at least one clamp that is mounted on one or more of these ribs.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many structures utilize a roofing and/or siding surface that is defined by a panel assembly having a plurality of interconnected metal panels. Various configurations of metal panels are available for panel assemblies. One known metal panel configuration includes a raised trapezoidal rib having a hollow interior and that extends in a longitudinal dimension along the panel, as well as a pair of raised sides that are spaced in a lateral dimension. Appropriately interconnecting one side of one panel with one side of another panel defines another raised rib for the resulting panel assembly. There is oftentimes a need/desire to mount one or more attachments of various types to a particular roofing and/or siding surface. It would be desirable to have a clamp that could be installed on a panel assembly having panels of the above-noted type and to which an attachment could be mounted.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a clamp. One application of the present invention is to install a clamp on a rib of a panel assembly. The present invention will be discussed in relation to this particular application. In this regard, the present invention may be in the form of what may be characterized as a clamp/panel assembly that generally includes a clamp that is mounted on a panel assembly.

One component of the noted clamp/panel assembly is a panel assembly. The panel assembly includes a plurality of interconnected panels, a plurality of base sections, and a plurality of raised ribs. A first reference plane may be associated with the plurality of base sections. For instance, the plurality of base sections may be characterized as being disposed at least generally in this first reference plane. The plurality of ribs are disposed in spaced relation on the panel assembly and includes a first rib that is disposed between first and second base sections (of the same or different panels). The first rib includes a first sidewall that extends away from the first base section (e.g., upwardly from the first base section), as well as a second sidewall that extends away from the second base section (e.g., upwardly from the second base section). The first rib may also include a top wall that interconnects the first and second sidewalls and that is disposed in spaced relation to the first and second base sections. It would then be proper to characterize the first and second sidewalls of the first rib as disposing such a top wall in spaced relation to the first reference plane associated with the plurality of base sections. Each rib of the panel assembly may be of the same configuration as the first rib.

Another component of the noted clamp/panel assembly is a clamp. The clamp includes first and second clamping members. The first clamping member engages the first sidewall of the first rib (including all, but more typically only a portion thereof) and extends “beyond” the first rib (e.g., “above” the first rib). The second clamping member engages the second sidewall of the first rib (including all, but more typically only a portion thereof) and also extends beyond the first rib (e.g., “above” the first rib). Therefore, the first rib is located between opposing portions of the first and second clamping members. A first fastener is located beyond the first rib and is associated with both the first and second clamping members. Activation of at least this first fastener causes both the first and second clamping members to exert at least an inwardly-directed force on the first rib.

In a first aspect of the present invention, the second clamping member is pivotable relative to the first clamping member, including during activation of the noted first fastener to forcibly retain the clamp on the first rib. Any way of achieving a pivotable interconnection between the first and second clamping members may be utilized. In a second aspect of the present invention, the first clamping member includes a recess that is concave and arcuately-shaped, the second clamping member includes a first projection that is convex and arcuately-shaped, and the first projection of the second clamping member is disposed in the recess of the first clamping member. In a third aspect of the present invention, no nut is used in combination with the first fastener that is used to generate at least part of the “clamping” forces that retain the clamp on the first rib. In a fourth aspect of the present invention, an insert is disposed within a hollow interior of the first rib, and the clamp is mounted on the first rib in overlying relation to the insert such that the corresponding portion of the first rib is “sandwiched” between the clamp and the insert. Hollow rib profiles and clamp designs other than those described above may be used in relation to this fourth aspect, and the insert may be of any appropriate configuration as well. In a fifth aspect of the present invention, the first rib may be what is commonly referred to in the art as a trapezoidal-type (i.e., where the first and second sidewalls are disposed in non-parallel relation), but in any case has an indentation on at least one of its two sidewalls. At least one of the first and second clamping members of the clamp includes a head that is positioned within an indention on an exterior surface of its corresponding sidewall of the first rib. Other clamp designs having such a “head” may be utilized in relation to the fifth aspect as well.

Various refinements exist of the features noted in relation to each of the first through the fifth aspects of the present invention. Further features may also be incorporated in each of the first through the fifth aspects of the present invention as well. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. Initially, the above-noted first, second, third, fourth, and fifth aspects may be used individually, and further may be used together in any combination.

The panel assembly of the clamp/panel assembly may be used for any appropriate application, for instance as a roofing surface or a siding surface for a building. Its plurality of panels may be of any appropriate configuration, and may be formed from any appropriate material and in any appropriate manner. Typically, each of the panels will be metal, and as noted above such ribs are what are commonly referred to in the art as a trapezoidal type in one embodiment. The first and second clamping members of the clamp also may be formed from any appropriate material and in any appropriate manner. However, preferably both the first and second clamping members are rigid structures (e.g., an extruded metallic structure).

Both the first and second clamping members include multiple sections in one embodiment. In this regard, the first clamping member may include first, second, and third sections. The first section may be disposed beyond the first rib and may be disposed in any appropriate orientation relative to the “underlying” panel assembly (e.g., at least substantially parallel with the above-noted first reference plane). The second section may extend from the first section toward the first reference plane in a different orientation than the first section (e.g., the first section may cantilever from the second section) and also may be disposed beyond the first rib. The third section may extend from the second section toward the first reference plane in a different orientation than the second section, and may engage all or any part of the first sidewall of the first rib. The second clamping member may further include fourth and fifth sections. The fourth section may be disposed beyond the first rib and may extend toward the first reference plane in one orientation, while the fifth section may extend from the fourth section toward the first reference plane in a different orientation and may engage all or any part of the second sidewall of the first rib. The second and third sections of the first clamping member may be at least generally the mirror image of the fourth and fifth sections of the second clamping member.

The first and second clamping members may include first and second heads, respectively. The first and second heads each may exert a force on a corresponding portion of the first and second sidewalls, respectively, of the first rib having a force component that is inwardly directed, that is directed toward a top wall of the first rib, or both. That is, the first and second heads each may attempt to both compress the first rib and “pull up” on an engaged portion of the first rib as well. In one embodiment, the first sidewall of the first rib is compressed between the first clamping member and the insert of the fourth aspect, while the second sidewall of the first rib is compressed between the second clamping member and this insert. Again, the insert of the fourth aspect is disposed within a hollow interior of the first rib. One or more open spaces may exist between the insert and the first rib, including after the desired degree of compressive force is being exerted on the first rib by the clamp. The insert may be formed from any appropriate material and in any appropriate manner (e.g., an extruded metallic structure), and may be of any appropriate configuration (including occupying all or any portion of the hollow interior of the first rib). However, preferably the insert is a rigid structure.

Lift-off resistance may also be provided by the above-noted first and second heads. In this regard, at least one of the first and second sidewalls of the first rib may include an indentation on an exterior surface of the first rib as noted above in relation to the fifth aspect. The above-noted first and second heads may extend into any corresponding indentation on the exterior surface of the first and second sidewalls, respectively, of the first rib. Any attempt by the clamp to move away from the panel assembly should then be resisted by the disposition of the first and/or second head into the corresponding indentation, if any, on the exterior surface of the first and second sidewalls, respectively of the first rib. It may be desirable to direct a threaded fastener through the first clamping member or the second clamping member and into the aligned portion of the first rib if the first rib only includes an indentation on the exterior surface of one of its two sidewalls. Such a threaded fastener could be directed through the first or second clamping member that did not have an indentation on the exterior surface of its corresponding sidewall. A head may not be needed on the first or second clamping member if there is not an indentation on the exterior surface of the corresponding first or second sidewall of the first rib.

In one embodiment, the above-noted first section of the first clamping member is at least generally parallel with the first reference plane that contains the plurality of base sections of the panel assembly to facilitate the mounting of an attachment thereon (other orientations may be appropriate as noted), and thereby may be in the form of a mounting flange. In this regard, the first section may include one or more threaded bores for use in mounting one or more attachments to the clamp or for any other purpose. Any such threaded bore may be pre-existing or may be formed during any mounting of an attachment(s) to the clamp (e.g., using self-drilling/self-tapping fasteners). The second clamping member may include a sixth section (e.g., extending from its fourth section) having one or more threaded bores of the type noted in relation to the first section of the first clamping member for mounting/supporting one or more attachments. In one embodiment, any threaded fastener used in relation to the first section of the first clamping member and/or the sixth section of the second clamping member does not use any retaining nut.

The first and second sections of the first clamping member may collectively define different configurations. One embodiment has the first and second sections of the first clamping member generally being in the form of an inverted “L-shaped” profile (with the first section extending away from a reference plane that bisects the first rib in either direction). Another embodiment has the first and second sections of the first clamping member generally being in the form of “T-shaped” profile. Any sixth section used by the second clamping member will typically be coplanar with the first section of the first clamping member. However, any sixth section of the second clamping member could be parallel with, but offset from, the first section of the first clamping member. Another option would be for any sixth section of the second clamping member and the first section of the first clamping member to be disposed in non-parallel relation.

In the case of the second aspect, a first projection of the second clamping member (e.g., a distal end of the second clamping member) is a convex, arcuately-shaped surface that is disposed within a recess of the first clamping member that is concave and that has an arcuately-shaped surface. This facilitates a pivoting or pivoting-like action of the second clamping member relative to the first clamping member to dispose the second clamping member in the desired position relative to the first clamping member. Other ways of allowing the second clamping member to pivot relative to the first clamping member are encompassed by the above-noted first aspect of the present invention. One or more threaded fasteners may be used to reduce the included angle between the first and second clamping members when mounting the clamp on the first rib, and to thereafter retain the second clamping member in the desired position relative to the first clamping member. For instance, an appropriate number of non-threaded bores (preferably two or more) may extend through the first clamping member at a location that is beyond the first rib (i.e., so that any such fastener does not engage the panel assembly), and a corresponding number of threaded bores may extend within or more preferably through an aligned portion of the second clamping member. Each threaded bore would have a corresponding non-threaded bore. A threaded fastener may then be directed through a non-threaded bore on the first clamping member and into an aligned threaded bore on the second clamping member. Increasing the degree of the threaded engagement between such a threaded fastener(s) and its corresponding threaded bore may be used to reduce the included angle between the second clamping member and the first clamping member (including reducing the same to “zero”) to move the second clamping member into the desired position relative to the first clamping member (e.g., to pivot). In one embodiment, the non-threaded bores on the first clamping member are larger than the portion of the fastener directed therethrough to allow relative movement between the first clamping member and any such fastener in more than one dimension (i.e., in addition to the movement of the fastener(s) relative to the first clamping member along an axis while installing the threaded fastener(s)). Another option would be to direct each such fastener through a non-threaded, elongated slot (e.g., an aperture having a length dimension that is greater than its width dimension) in the first clamping member and into threaded engagement with the second clamping member. The “length” dimension of the slot may be disposed perpendicularly to the length dimension of the first rib on which the clamp is installed. What is preferred is that each fastener that is used to “draw” the clamp onto the first rib be allowed to move relative to the first clamping member without binding (e.g., be allowed to change its orientation relative to the first clamping member, as the first clamping member pivots relative to the second clamping member during installation). In any case, no retention nut need be used in relation to any of these types of fasteners.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described in relation to the accompanying drawings which at least assist in illustrating its various pertinent features. One embodiment of a prior art panel is illustrated inFIGS. 1A-Band is identified by a reference numeral10. The panel10includes a pair of base sections14, a pair of sides32, and a rib18. A reference plane34is associated with these base sections14(e.g., contains at least a portion of each of the base sections14). For a frame of reference, the width of the panel10or a lateral dimension corresponds with the distance between the two sides32. Each side32may be interconnected with the side32of another panel10to define a panel assembly (e.g.,FIGS. 4A-6). Interconnected sides32of adjacent, interconnected panels10also collectively define a rib18and as will be discussed/illustrated in more detail below. In this regard, each side32also projects upwardly from the adjacent base section14and has a length dimension that is perpendicular to the noted lateral dimension (e.g., defining a longitudinal dimension for the sides32; the sides32thereby being longitudinally extending).

The rib18of the panel10is centrally disposed or located between the two sides32in the lateral dimension, projects upwardly from the base sections14, and extends in the longitudinal dimension. Components of the rib18include a first sidewall26that extends upwardly from the adjacent base section14, a laterally spaced second sidewall22that extends upwardly from the adjacent base section14and that is disposed in non-parallel relation with the first sidewall26, and a top wall30that interconnects the first sidewall26and second sidewall22at a location that is disposed in spaced relation to the base sections14and the associated reference plane34. The top wall30is flat and is at least substantially parallel with the reference plane34in the illustrated embodiment. Both the first sidewall26and the second sidewall22include an indentation28on an exterior surface of the rib18. The first sidewall26, the second sidewall22, and the top wall30collectively define a hollow interior20for the rib18. This type of rib profile is commonly referred to in the art as being of a trapezoidal type.

One embodiment of a clamp is illustrated inFIG. 2, is identified by reference numeral42, and may be used to interconnect any appropriate attachment with a panel assembly defined by a plurality of interconnected panels of the type illustrated inFIGS. 1A-B, as well as panels having a different trapezoidal rib profile. The clamp42generally includes a first clamping member46and a second clamping member82that are engageable with opposite sides of a rib18of a panel assembly. Generally, the second clamping member82pivots relative to the first clamping member46by activating one or more clamping fasteners110(e.g., bolts) of the clamp42to secure the clamp42to the rib18. The clamp42also includes what may be characterized as a mounting fastener112(e.g., a bolt) that may be used to secure an attachment to the clamp42, thereby interconnecting the attachment with the panel assembly.

The first clamping member46includes a first section50, a second section62, and a third section66. Although the first clamping member46may be formed from any appropriate material and formed in any appropriate manner, in one embodiment the first clamping member46is an extruded metal (e.g., aluminum/aluminum alloy). The first section50, second section62and third section66could be separately formed and thereafter joined in the noted configuration. More preferably, the first clamping member46is of an integral construction, with no joint of any kind between the first section50and the second section62, and with no joint of any kind between the second section62and the third section66. Regardless of the construction, the first clamping member46is a rigid structure with little to no relative movement between any of the sections50,62,66.

The first section50of the first clamping member46is disposed at least generally parallel with the reference plane34when the clamp42is installed on a panel assembly having a plurality of interconnected panels10, and cantilevers from the second section62of the first clamping member46. However, the first section50could be disposed in other orientations. The first section50includes a first surface54that faces or projects toward the panel assembly when the clamp42is installed on the panel assembly in the illustrated embodiment, and further that includes a concave, arcuately-shaped recess58that preferably extends along the full length of the clamp42. This recess58could be at any appropriate location on the first clamping member46. Oppositely disposed from this first surface54is a second surface56that is preferably flat or planar for interfacing with an attachment to be mounted to the clamp42. In this regard, the first section50further includes one or more threaded bores78on the second surface56and that extend at least toward the first surface54. That is, each such threaded bore78may extend only partially through the first section50, but more preferably extends completely through the first section50. One or more mounting fasteners112may be threadably engaged with a corresponding threaded bore78, for instance to mount an attachment to the clamp42. It should be appreciated that one or more mounting fasteners112may be installed on the first clamping member46for any purpose. The mounting fastener(s)112preferably extends completely through the first section50of the first clamping member46and does not use a nut to retain the fastener(s)112on the first clamping member46.

Any appropriate number of mounting fasteners112may be mounted on the first section50of the first clamping member46. Multiple threaded bores78may be provided on the first section50to accommodate multiple mounting fasteners112. Another option would be for the first section50to not initially include any threaded bores78. In this case, the mounting fastener(s)112could be in the form of a self-drilling/self-tapping screw or the like. That is, a threaded engagement is somehow provided between the first section50of the first clamping member46and each associated mounting fastener112, either prior to the engagement of a particular mounting fastener112with the first section50or as a result of such an engagement.

The second section62of the first clamping member46extends from the first section50in the direction of the underlying panel assembly. The first section50and the second section62of the first clamping member46are thereby disposed in different orientations. Generally, the second section62disposes the first section50in spaced relation to the underlying panel assembly. In one embodiment, the first section50and second section62define an included angle α that is within a range of about 90 degrees to about 95 degrees. Other relative angular relationships may be appropriate. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment the first section50in effect cantilevers from an upper end of the second section62. The first section50could extend in the opposite direction to that illustrated inFIG. 2(FIG. 7), or could extend in the direction illustrated inFIG. 2, plus in the opposite direction (FIG. 8).

A pair of bores74extend through the second section62of the first clamping member46for receiving the clamping fasteners110. Any number of bores74could be utilized, including a single bore. However, multiple bores74are preferred to reduce the potential of the clamp42being “pulled off” the panel assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the bores74are not threaded and have a diameter that is at least slightly larger than a diameter of the shaft of the corresponding clamping fastener110to facilitate the installation of the clamp42on a panel assembly. That is, each bore74is oversized in relation to the shaft of its corresponding clamping fastener110. Generally, this size difference allows for at least some relative movement between the clamping fasteners110and the first clamping member46in more than one dimension (e.g., other than along an axis that the shaft of the clamping fasteners110extend), which may be a benefit while securing the clamp42to a panel assembly. However, each clamping fastener110will be simultaneously engaged with both the first clamping member46(e.g., possibly only via its head) and the second clamping member82(e.g., via a threaded engagement) when the clamp42is exerting at least an inwardly directed force on both sides of the rib18, and possibly including a force component that is “upwardly” directed as well.

The third section66of the first clamping member46extends from the second section62at least generally along one of the sides of the rib18when the clamp42is installed on a panel assembly. The second section62and the third section66of the first clamping member46are disposed in different orientations. A head or catch70is formed on the third section66for interfacing with the rib18and defines a distal end of the first clamping member46. Although the head70is located on the distal end of the third section66in the illustrated embodiment, such need not be the case. One potential function of the head70is to exert a clamping force on the rib18(e.g., inwardly-directed, and possibly also upwardly directed or at least generally in the direction of the top wall30of the rib18) to retain the clamp42on the panel assembly. Another function of the head70is to engage the rib18in a manner that provides lift-off resistance for the clamp42when installed on a panel assembly. Other portions of the first clamping member46may exert these types of forces on the rib18as well.

The second clamping member82interfaces with the opposite side of the rib18in comparison to the first clamping member46. Generally, the rib18is “clamped” between the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82of the clamp42. The second clamping member82includes a fourth section86and a fifth section94that are disposed in different orientations. The second clamping member82is at least generally the mirror image of the second section62and the third section66of the first clamping member46. Although the second clamping member82may be formed from any appropriate material and formed in any appropriate manner, in one embodiment the second clamping member82is an extruded metal (e.g., aluminum/aluminum alloy). The fourth section86and fifth section94could be separately formed and thereafter joined in the noted configuration. More preferably, the second clamping member82is of an integral construction, with no joint of any kind between the fourth section86and the fifth section94. Regardless of the construction, the second clamping member46is a rigid structure with little to no relative movement between any of the sections86,94.

The fourth section86of the second clamping member82includes a distal end90that engages the first surface54of the first section50of the first clamping member46. This distal end90is convex and arcuately-shaped for interfacing with the recess58on the first surface54of the first section50of the first clamping member46. The distal end90and recess58preferably have matching contours. In one embodiment, the distal end90associated with the second clamping member82is defined by a first radius, and the recess58associated with the first clamping member46is defined by a second radius that is only slightly larger than the first radius to allow the second clamping member82to pivot relative to the first clamping member46when securing the clamp42to a rib18of a panel assembly as will be discussed in more detail below. That is, the recess58and the distal end90preferably cooperate to allow the second clamping member82to pivot about a single axis relative to the first clamping member46. Other ways of pivotally interconnecting the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82to exert an “inwardly directed” force on opposite sides of a rib18could be utilized. The second clamping member82may include a convex projection at a different location than disclosed herein for interfacing with the recess58of the first clamping member46.

The fourth section86of the second clamping member82extends from the first surface54of the first section50of the first clamping member46in the direction of the underlying panel assembly. A pair of threaded bores102extend at least within, and more preferably through, the fourth section86for receiving the clamping fasteners110. That is, the clamping fasteners110threadably engage with the second clamping member82. Although the clamping fasteners110could be self-drilling/self-tapping, preferably the threaded bores102on/through the second clamping member82exist before installation of the clamping fasteners110.

The fifth section94of the second clamping member82extends from the fourth section86at least generally along one of the sides of a rib18when the clamp42is installed on a panel assembly. The fourth section86and the fifth section94are disposed in different orientations. A head or catch98is formed on the fifth section94for interfacing with the rib18and defines a distal end of the second clamping member82. Although the head98is located on the distal end of the fifth section94in the illustrated embodiment, such need not be the case. One potential function of the head98is to exert a clamping force on the rib18(e.g., inwardly-directed, and possibly also an upwardly directed or at least generally in the direction of the top wall30of the rib18) to retain the clamp42on the panel assembly. Another function of the head98is to engage the rib18in a manner that provides lift-off resistance for the clamp42when installed on a panel assembly. Other portions of the second clamping member82may exert these types of forces on the rib18as well.

The first clamping member46and the second clamping member82at least generally diverge away from each other proceeding away from the first section50of the first clamping member46. Activation of the clamping fastener(s)110will cause the second clamping member82to pivot relative to the first clamping member46to cause both the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82to exert a force on a rib18on which the clamp42is being mounted, where this force has at least a component that is inwardly directed, but where the force may also have a component that is upwardly directed as well and as will be discussed in more detail below.

One embodiment of an insert is illustrated inFIG. 3, is identified by reference114, and may be used in the installation of the clamp42ofFIG. 2on a rib18of a panel assembly. Generally, the insert114may be disposed within the hollow interior20of the rib18to reduce the potential for the rib18collapsing when securing the clamp42to the rib18(e.g., to allow increased “clamping” forces to be used to mount the clamp42on a rib18). In this regard, the clamp42may be disposed on a rib18at the location of the insert114such that the rib18is in effect “sandwiched” between the clamp42and the insert114. Stated another way, the clamp42may be mounted on a rib118in overlying relation to the insert114. The insert114may be formed from any appropriate material and in any appropriate manner, although extruded metal is preferred (e.g., aluminum or an aluminum alloy). It is envisioned that the length of the insert114should be such that the entire length of a corresponding clamp42will be opposed by the insert114. This may mean that the insert114will be substantially longer than the length of its corresponding clamp42in one or more embodiments.

The insert114includes a pair of legs118, a pair of side protrusions122, and a pair of top protrusions126. The legs118engage opposite sides of a rib118when disposed within its hollow interior20. The side protrusions122interact with the rib18directly above the location of the indentation28on the corresponding side of the rib18in order to retain the insert114within the hollow interior20of the rib18even before the clamp42is fully secured to the rib18. In this regard and as more clearly illustrated inFIG. 5, the side protrusions122would be vertically offset to match the vertical offset of the indentations28of a rib18formed by two sides32of two panels10, whereas an insert114for a rib18formed by a single panel10would have the side protrusions122disposed at the same elevation (not shown, but seeFIG. 1Bfor the profile of the “center” rib18of a panel10). The top protrusions126engage the top wall30of the rib18at spaced locations for purposes of supporting the top wall30of the rib18. Other configurations may be appropriate for the insert114for use in combination with the clamp42, for instance depending upon the configuration of the rib of a panel assembly on which the clamp42is to be installed. Generally, the insert114should be of a configuration that adequately supports the rib18in relation to a clamp42being mounted on the rib18. Although the insert114provides this function with the added benefit of reducing the amount of material required to fabricate the insert114, the insert114could simply be in the form of a “solid” that occupied the entire hollow interior20of the rib18and still provide the above-noted supporting function.

The insert114may not be required in all instances when mounting the clamp42on a rib18of a panel assembly.FIGS. 4A-Bprovides one example of a clamp/panel assembly138that includes a clamp42mounted on a panel assembly142having at least a first panel10aand a second panel10bthat are interconnected to define a rib18and that are each of the construction of the panel10illustrated inFIGS. 1A-B. The clamping fasteners110are preferably only partially engaged with their corresponding threaded bore102when the clamp42is initially positioned on the rib18and prior to being fully “clamped” thereto (FIG. 4A). Another option would be to separately position the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82relative to the rib18, and to then direct the clamping fasteners110through the bores74of the first clamping member46and into the threaded bores102of the second clamping member82. In any case, at this time the distal end90of the second clamping member82is disposed within the recess58of the first clamping member46, the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82are each typically disposed on and supported by the top wall30of the rib18(generally at the transition between the second section62and the third section66of the first clamping member46, and generally at the transition between the fourth section86and the fifth section94of the second clamping member82), and the heads98,70of the clamp42are aligned with the indentations28on the first sidewall26and second sidewall22, respectively, of the rib18. The included angle θ between the first clamping member46and second clamping member82is of a first magnitude in the “less than fully clamped” configuration ofFIG. 4A.

Increasing the amount of engagement between the clamping fasteners110and the threaded bores102of the second clamping member82causes the second clamping member82to pivot relative to the first clamping member46at least generally about an axis corresponding with the recess58to decrease the magnitude of the included angle θ between the first clamping member46and second clamping member82(compareFIGS. 4A-4B). There may be a gap between the second section62of the first clamping member46and the fourth section86of the second clamping member82when the clamp42is engaging the rib18with the desired degree of “clamping” force (i.e., the included angle θ will be greater than zero in this instance). However, the second section62of the first clamping member46and the fourth section86of the second clamping member82may be disposed in interfacing relation when the clamp42is engaging the rib18with the desired degree of “clamping” force (not shown, but where the included angle θ has a value of zero). This second option may be used as a way of controlling the maximum amount of inwardly-directed force that the clamp42can exert on the rib18(e.g., to prevent “over-tightening” of the clamping fasteners110). Typically the second section62and third section66of the first clamping member46will be symmetrically disposed relative to the second clamping member82when the clamp42is fully engaged with the rib18(e.g.,FIG. 4B). Stated another way, the second section62and third section66of the first clamping member46and the entire second clamping member82will be disposed in at least the same general orientation relative to a reference plane106that is perpendicular to the reference plane34associated with the panel assembly142and disposed between the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82, although the noted portions of the first clamping member46will of course be the mirror image of the second clamping member82. Typically the included angle θ between the first clamping member46and second clamping member82will be reduced to at least partially compress (inwardly and toward, but not to, a collapsed condition) the rib18(note, for instance, the existence of the space36in theFIG. 4Aconfiguration, and the alleviation of the same in theFIG. 4Bconfiguration). Again, the included angle θ may actually be reduced to zero.

At least one of, and typically both of, the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82, will exert a force on the rib18that at least attempts to retain the clamp42on the rib18. The pivoting action utilized by the clamp42is believed to allow both the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82to exert a desirable force on the rib18. This force is one having a component that is inwardly directed or toward the reference plane106, as well as a component that is directed toward a reference plane that contains the top wall30of the rib18. Specifically, the force exerted on the rib18by both the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82is believed to be along an arcuate path as represented by the arrows inFIG. 4B. It may be possible that a purely inwardly-directed force may be appropriate for one or more applications.

Retention of the clamp42on the rib18is further enhanced by the way in which the clamp42interfaces with the first sidewall26and second sidewall22of the rib18. That is, the head70of the first clamping member46is disposed within the indentation28on the first sidewall26of the rib18. Similarly, the head98of the second clamping member82is disposed within the indentation28on the second sidewall22of the rib18. The contour of the heads70,98may match the contour of the corresponding indentation28or not. In any case, both the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82include structure that is properly aligned with the indentation28on the corresponding sidewall26,22, and that extends inwardly toward the reference plane106a sufficient distance so that an attempt to pull the clamp42away from the rib18would be restrained by the clamp42being disposed within both indentations28. Preferably, these structures of the first clamping member46and the second clamping member82are located such that no or preferably only minimal relative movement is allowed between the clamp42and the rib18in a direction that would tend to pull the clamp42off of the rib18(absent, for instance, some type of a failure of the rib18).

FIG. 5illustrates an example of a clamp/panel assembly146where an insert114is used in the installation of the clamp42on a rib18of the panel assembly142. The insert114would typically be disposed within the hollow interior20of the rib18before the clamp42is positioned on the rib18. One way would be to direct the insert114into the hollow interior20from the side of the panel assembly142opposite that on which the clamp42is to be installed. Another option would be for the adjacent panels10a,10bto be separated such that the insert114may be disposed within the space defined by the side32of the panel10a, and the side32of the panel10bwould then be disposed over the side32of the panel10ato define the rib18.

The configuration of the insert114is such that a plurality of openings or spaces130are defined between the insert114and the rib18when the insert114is disposed in the hollow interior20of the rib18. These openings130are the result of having a configuration for the insert114that reduces the amount of material required to provide its function of opposing the clamping forces being exerted on the rib18by the clamp42. In addition, the side protrusions122of the insert114are disposed within recesses on the interior surface immediately above the location of the indentations28on the exterior of the first sidewall26and second sidewall22of the rib18. Note that in the case where the rib18is defined by the interconnection of the sides32of two adjacent panels10a,10b, the side protrusions122of the insert114are vertically offset due to the construction of the panel10. The side protrusions122of the insert114would be directly oppositely disposed when installed in the hollow interior20of a rib18defined solely by one panel10(e.g., the rib18inFIGS. 1A-B). Again, the particular configuration of the insert114may be adapted for the configuration of the rib on which the clamp42is being installed, and may in fact occupy the entirety of the hollow interior20of the rib18.

The clamp42is installed in the same manner discussed above in relation toFIGS. 4A-4B, and is positioned “over” the insert114. Since the insert114is hidden at the time the clamp42is positioned on the rib18, it may be desirable for the insert114to be substantially longer than the clamp42. That is, preferably the entirety of the clamp42is “opposed” by the insert114when the clamp42is exerting inwardly-directed forces on the rib18.

The legs118of the insert114are disposed adjacent the first sidewall26and second sidewall22of the rib18in opposing relation to the heads70,98of the clamping members46,82. After at least a certain degree of pivotal movement of the second clamping member82relative to the first clamping member46, the rib18will be “clamped” between the heads70,98of the clamp42and a corresponding portion of the associated leg118of the insert114. That is, the heads70,98will each be exerting at least an “inwardly directed” force on the rib18(e.g., in the direction of the reference plane106that bisects the rib18), as well as possibly an “upwardly directed” force on the rib18as discussed above. One leg118of the insert114may be disposed in interfacing relation with a portion of the first sidewall26of the rib18, while the opposite leg118may be disposed in interfacing relation with a portion of the second sidewall22of the rib18. A clamping force may also be exerted on the rib18between the first clamping member46and the corresponding side protrusion122of the insert114, and between the second clamping member82and the corresponding side protrusion122of the insert114. The top protrusions126of the insert114engage the underside of the top wall30of the rib18for purposes of supporting the top wall30of the rib18in at least some manner.

One reason to install one or more clamps42on a panel assembly142is to interconnect one or more attachments with the panel assembly142.FIG. 6illustrates one embodiment of a clamp/panel assembly148where a plurality of clamps42a-eare used to interconnect a pair of attachments150a,150bto the panel assembly142. Any number of clamps may be used to interconnect any number/type of attachments to the panel assembly142. One or more of the clamps may use an insert114, one or more of the clamps may be installed without an insert114, or both.

In the illustrated embodiment, the clamps42a,42bare installed on the ribs18a,18c(e.g., each being defined by the interconnection of adjacent panels10). The attachment150ais mounted on the clamp42ausing a mounting fastener112a, and is mounted on clamp42busing a mounting fastener112b. The clamps42c,42eare installed on ribs the18a,18c(e.g., each defined by the interconnection of the sides32of adjacent panels10), while the clamp42bis installed on the rib18b(e.g., the rib18illustrated inFIGS. 1A-B). The attachment150bis mounted on the clamp42cusing a mounting fastener112c, is mounted on the clamp42dusing a mounting fastener112d, and is mounted on the clamp42eusing a mounting fastener112e.

FIGS. 7-9illustrate variations of the clamp42discussed above in relation toFIGS. 1-6. Common components are identified by the same reference numeral, and the discussion presented above remains equally applicable to these embodiments unless otherwise noted. Corresponding components that differ in at least some respect are identified by a “prime” designation. Although these clamps are illustrated in the context of a clamp/panel assembly having an insert114, such need not be the case.

The clamp/panel assembly146iofFIG. 7uses a clamp42ithat differs from the clamp42ofFIG. 2in relation to the first clamping member46i, specifically its first section50i. Generally, the first section50iin the case of the clamp42iextends in the opposite direction compared to the first section50of the clamp42. All other aspects of the first section50discussed herein are equally applicable to the first section50i.

The clamp/panel assembly146iiofFIG. 8includes a clamp42iithat differs from the clamp42ofFIG. 2in relation to the first clamping member46ii, specifically its first section50ii. Generally, the first section50iiin the case of the clamp42iiextends in both directions from the reference plane106. One or more threaded bores78may be included on the first section50iion both sides of the reference plane106. One or more threaded bores78could be included on the first section50iion only one side of the reference plane106as well. All other aspects of the first section50discussed herein are equally applicable to the first section50ii.

The clamp/panel assembly146iiiofFIG. 9includes a clamp42iiithat differs from the clamp42ofFIG. 2in relation to the first clamping member46i, specifically its first section50i. Generally, the first section50iin the case of the clamp42iextends in the opposite direction compared to the first section50of the clamp42. All other aspects of the first section50discussed herein are equally applicable to the first section50i.

Another difference between the clamp42iiiofFIG. 9and the clamp42ofFIG. 2is in relation to the second clamping member82i. Generally, the second clamping member82iincludes a sixth section96. This sixth section96may have the same attributes as the first section50of the first clamping member50. For instance, the sixth section96may include one or more threaded mounting bores78, may be disposed parallel with the reference plane34associated with the base sections14of the panel assembly142, or both. The first section50iof the first clamping member46iand the sixth section96of the second clamping member82imay be disposed in co-planar relation as shown, may be parallel to offset (not shown), or may be disposed in different orientations (e.g., disposed in non-parallel relation).

The above-noted clamps may be installed trapezoidal rib profiles other than that used by the panel10ofFIGS. 1A-B. A clamp/panel assembly154that utilizes another embodiment of both a clamp42ivand a panel assembly156of another trapezoidal-type rib profile is illustrated inFIG. 10. The primary difference between the clamp/panel assembly154ofFIG. 10and the clamp/panel assembly138ofFIGS. 4A-Bis that the panel assembly156ofFIG. 10only has an indentation on the exterior surface of one sidewall per rib, and therefore the clamp42ivhas been modified accordingly. It should be appreciated that the clamp42ivcould be used with an insert as in the case of theFIG. 5embodiment, and could be adapted in the manner of any of the embodimentsFIGS. 7-9.

Corresponding components between the panel ofFIGS. 1A-Band the panels ofFIG. 10are identified by a common reference numeral, but a “single prime” designation is used in relation to the embodiment ofFIG. 10. The panel assembly156includes a pair of panels10a′,10b′ that are interconnected to define a rib18′ and that are in the prior art (thereby, the panel assembly156is in the prior art). Each panel10a,10bmay itself include one or more ribs of the same general profile as the rib18′ (not shown), and the clamp42ivmay be installed on any of these ribs as well. In any case, the rib18′ projects upwardly from the base sections14a′,14b′, and extends in the longitudinal dimension. Components of the rib18′ include a first sidewall26′ that extends upwardly relative to the adjacent base section14b′, a laterally spaced second sidewall22′ that extends upwardly relative to the adjacent base section14a′ and that is disposed in non-parallel relation with the first sidewall26′, and a top wall30′ that interconnects the first sidewall26′ and second sidewall22′ at a location that is disposed in spaced relation to the base sections14a′,14b′ and the associated reference plane34. The first sidewall26′, the second sidewall22′, and the top wall30′ collectively define a hollow interior20′ for the rib18′. This type of rib profile is also commonly referred to in the art as being of a trapezoidal type. The exterior surface of the second sidewall22′ includes a single indentation28′—no indentation exists on the exterior surface of the first sidewall26′.

The primary distinctions between the clamp42ivofFIG. 10and the clamp42ofFIG. 2, are that: 1) the clamp42ivincludes a head98ivon the second clamping member82ivbut not on the first clamping member46iv—instead, the portion of the first clamping member46ivthat faces the rib18′ is a flat surface with no projection of any kind; 2) the head98ivis of a different shape than the head98in the case of theFIG. 2embodiment (to at least generally match the profile of the indentation28′ and facilitate the entry of the head98ivinto the indentation28′ (e.g., by being at least somewhat pointed)); and 3) a threaded fastener158may be (i.e., not required) directed through the first clamping member46iv(either by being threadably engaged with the first clamping member46iv, or without being threadably engaged with the first clamping member46iv) and through an aligned portion of the rib18′ (the first sidewall26′). Otherwise, the discussion presented above is equally applicable to the embodiment ofFIG. 10.

All components of the clamp42ivare identified with the superscripted “iv”, and use the same reference numeral as their corresponding component in the clamp42. As such: 1) the clamp42ivincludes a first clamping member46iv, a second clamping member82iv, one or more clamping fasteners110(threadably engaged with the second clamping member82iv, but not threadably engaged with the first clamping member46iv), and at least one mounting fastener112(e.g., for mounting an attachment on the clamp42iv); 2) the first clamping member46ivincludes a first section50, a second section62iv, and a third section66iv; 3) the first section50ivof the first clamping member46ivincludes an upper surface50iv, an oppositely disposed lower surface54ivhaving a concave, arcuately-shaped recess58ivthat preferably extends along the full length of the clamp42iv, and one or more threaded bores78; 4) the second clamping member82ivincludes a fourth section86ivand a fifth section94iv; and 5) the fourth section86ivof the second clamping member82ivincludes a distal end90ivthat is disposed within the recess58ivof the first clamping member46iv.

FIG. 11illustrates yet another variation of the clamp42discussed above in relation toFIGS. 1-6. Common components are identified by the same reference numeral, and the discussion presented above remains equally applicable to this embodiment unless otherwise noted. Corresponding components that differ in at least some respect are identified by an appropriate “prime” designation.

The clamp42vofFIG. 11differs from the clamp42ofFIG. 2in relation to the first clamping member46v. Specifically, instead of using “oversized” non-threaded bores74(e.g., circular in plan view), the clamp42vuses a non-threaded, elongated slot76for each clamping fastener110to used by the clamp42v. This is the only difference between these two embodiments. As noted above, each clamping fastener110will tend to move relative to the first clamping member46vas the clamp42vis being installed by a pivoting of the first clamping member46vrelative to the second clamping member82. The movement is one that changes the orientation of the clamping fastener(s)110relative to the first clamping member46v. As such, preferably each slot76extends along the direction that the corresponding clamping fastener110will move when changing orientation during installation of the clamp42v. Typically, each slot76will be orientated such that it is transverse or perpendicular to the length dimension of a rib on which the clamp42vis installed.

The “width” of each slot76is preferably at least slightly larger than the diameter of its corresponding clamping fastener110, while the length dimension of each slot76is preferably greater than its corresponding width dimension to further reduce the potential for its clamping fastener110“binding” during installation of the clamp42v. Generally, each slot76should be sized such that its clamping fastener110is able to move along the slot76while the second clamping member82and the first clamping member46vare being drawn closer together by the above-noted pivoting action and without having the clamping fasteners110“bind” on the first clamping member46v. Preferably each clamping fastener110will still be spaced from the ends of its corresponding slot76after the desired clamping forces are being exerted by the clamp42v. Any configuration may be used for the slot76that allows its corresponding clamping fastener110to move without binding during installation of the clamp42v. However, it may be desirable to limit the movement of each clamping fastener110, caused by the pivoting action of the clamp42v, to within a reference plane (e.g., having the width of the slot76being the same as or only slightly larger than the diameter of its corresponding clamping fastener110).

The clamp42vofFIG. 11may be used with or without an insert114when being installed on a rib. Moreover, any of the clamps ofFIGS. 7-10discussed above may use the type of slot76illustrated in relation to the clamp42vofFIG. 11.