Source: {"pile_set_name": "USPTO Backgrounds"}

Metal framing systems, which are also referred to as space framing systems, have been known for over fifty years. Such systems basically comprise a channel nut with a spring on one side thereof and a pair of arms which extend outwardly, and the nuts are designed to move through an opening in a channel. Outwardly extending arms project into the channel slot on the side while the spring holds the nut in position.
In practice, a channel nut is inserted anywhere along a continuous slot of metal framing or channel structure. A 90.degree. turn positions the outstanding arms in the grooves of the metal framing, and the chamfered or rounded nut ends make insertion easy. The spring then forces the nut into position and holds it tightly either in the vertical or horizontal position.
A connection may then be made with a threaded fastener into the channel nut so that it remains in position in the metal framing.
Examples of the prior art of this invention are exemplified by the following U.S. patents:
U.S. Pat. No. 3,433,910--C. H. LaLonde et al. PA1 U.S. Pat. No. 2,345,650--C. W. Attwood PA1 U.S. Pat. No. 2,696,139--C. W. Attwood PA1 U.S. Pat. No. 2,767,609--W. F. Cousino