GB2461383A

GB2461383A - Handrail connector with hidden fixture point and a pivotable connector

Info

Publication number: GB2461383A
Application number: GB0911055A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Tony Jones; Paul Hughes
Original assignee: Richard Burbidge Ltd
Current assignee: Richard Burbidge Ltd
Priority date: 2008-06-30
Filing date: 2009-06-26
Publication date: 2010-01-06
Also published as: GB0811904D0; GB0911055D0; IE20090501A1

Abstract

A handrail connector includes a receiving part 142 for receiving a rail and a securing part 141 for securing to a wall. The receiving part is detachably mountable in a preferred position on the securing part. The securing part has a securing portion, which includes a fixture point through which the securing part may be fixedly attached to a wall. The connector is configured such that, in use, the receiving part provides a cover to conceal the fixture point, when mounted in the preferred position on the securing part. Another connector (Figure 7A) is configured for connecting two hand rails together at a corner. The connector has two parts 183, each part having a receiving portion for receiving an end of a rail and a connection portion for connecting the two parts together. The connection portions are pivotable in a first plane to account for varying corner angles.

Description

Handrails This invention relates to handrail assemblies suitable for use as safety rails or on staircases and the like, as well as to connectors for handrails.

Handrail assemblies for staircases usually comprise a base rail or support, a hand rail and a set of posts called balusters or banisters which extend in between and support the handrail. Each end of the handrail may be further supported by a newel post or may be fixed to another support, e.g. a wall. The handrail is supported such that it is parallel to the stairs, and the balusters are, usually, generally vertical.

There are wide variations in the inclination of staircases, in the distance that they have to span and in the total number of bends or changes of direction required. Because of these factors there is a requirement to provide a handrail assembly which can accommodate such variations and which can be assembled and installed both by the professional and by the do-it-yourself enthusiast.

Several variable pitch stair railing assemblies have been proposed. For example, those disclosed in US-A-5056283, US-A-4533 121 and US-A-4352485. Further, adjustable connecting members for connecting rigid balustrades or safety rails have also been disclosed in GB-A-2299370.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved handrail assembly which allows for changes of direction and which can be used on stairways which have varying degrees of inclination and varying spans. The handrail assembly will preferably be readily assembled by unskilled or at least partially skilled labour.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a connector for securing a rail parallel to a wall, the connector comprising a receiving part for receiving the end of a rail and a securing part for securing to the wall, the receiving part being detachably attached or attachable to the securing part.

The receiving part is preferably detachably mountable in a preferred position on the securing part.

The securing part preferably has a securing portion, which includes a fixture point through which the securing part may be fixedly attached to a wall.

The connector is preferably configured such that, in use, the receiving part provides a cover to conceal the fixture point, when mounted in the preferred position on the securing part.

The securing part preferably comprises a flat surface for contact with the wall and may be securable to the wall by such means as a screw or screws through one or more bore holes. In use, the screw holes are preferably hidden from sight. The flat surface may be a surface of a securing plate, which is preferably of round shape.

Preferably, the securing part comprises an attachment member protruding therefrom, the attachment member presenting an attachment surface for contact with, or at least securing to, e.g. adjacent, the receiving part.

Preferably, the receiving part comprises a fastening surface for contact with, or at least securing to, e.g. adjacent, the attachment surface of the securing part. The fastening surface and the attachment surface are preferably shaped in a complementary manner, so as to mate in use. More preferably, each of the fastening surface and the attachment surface are flat and may be of the same or similar dimension.

Preferably, the receiving part comprises a receiving portion and a fastening portion, the fastening portion protruding from the receiving portion. The fastening surface is preferably positioned on the fastening portion.

Preferably, together, and in use, the fastening portion and attachment member provide a continuous or at least quasi-continuous perimeter of a regular shape, e.g. a cylinder, ovoid, rectangle etc. Thus, preferably one or other of the fastening portion and attachment member has a rebate, which the other, in use, is shaped to fill.

Preferably, the rebate provides a minor segment of a circle in cross section. The fastening portion and attachment member are both preferably offset with respect to a central axis extending therealong over at least a part of their length.

Preferably, the fastening portion of the receiving part comprises a covering section for covering the securing plate of the securing part. The covering section is preferably formed in a complementary shape to the securing part to allow snug fitment.

Preferably, securing means are provided to secure the fastening portion of the receiving part to the attachment member of the securing part. The securing means may comprise corresponding bore holes in the attachment member and the fastening portion, the bore holes for receiving bolts or screws.

Preferably, the connector further comprises a cover member for fitment over at least a part of the securing means on the receiving part and/or the securing part.

Such a cover member thus preferably provides a smooth and aesthetic finish. Preferably, the cover member fits over the securing means in a snap-fit manner, although other securing means may be employed.

The receiving portion of the receiving part preferably comprises a female member, e.g. a barrel, for receiving the end of a rail. The internal surface of the barrel is preferably formed to correspond with the cross-section of the rail.

Bore holes may be provided in the wall of the barrel member to secure the end of the rail in place. Such bore holes are preferably obscured in use, for example by the attachment member of the securing part when secured to the fastening portion.

In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a connector for connecting two rails together, e.g. at a corner, the connector comprising two parts, each part having a receiving portion for receiving an end of rail and a connection portion for connecting the two parts together, wherein the connection portions are pivotable with respect to one another in a first plane, e.g. to account for varying corner angles.

In some embodiments, each of the connection portions is positioned back-to-back with their corresponding receiving portion.

Preferably, the receiving portion comprises a collar for substantially encircling the end of a rail.

Preferably, the connection portions comprise complementary hinges. These hinges may each comprise a hinge loop having an inside face which passes through the centre point of the connector, enabling the rails to be joined in a coaxial manner, if desired.

In some alternative embodiments, the receiving portions are rotatable with respect to their corresponding portions in a second plane. This enables adjustment of both the pitch and the angle of the join between the two rails.

A further aspect of the invention provides a connector for securing rails together, the connector comprising two parts, each part comprising a connection portion for connecting the two parts together and a receiving portion for receiving the end of a rail, wherein the connection portions are pivotable with respect to each other in a first plane and the receiving portions are preferably rotatable with respect to their corresponding portions in a second plane. This enables adjustment of both the pitch and the angle of the join between the two rails.

Preferably, the first plane is perpendicular to the second plane.

Preferably, the receiving portions are removably attached to the connection portions.

Preferably, at least one of the receiving portions comprises a collar for substantially enclosing, e.g. circling, an end of a rail. The receiving portion may also comprise securing means, such as bore holes for receiving screws, for securing the rail thereto. The collar preferably also comprises means for forming an interference fit with the rail. The collar may be shaped to be complementary to the outside cross sectional shape of the rail.

Preferably, each of the connection portions each comprises a flat surface, the flat surfaces being removably and pivotably held in intimate contact with each other.

The invention also provides a method of connecting rails comprising securing a first rail to a first receiving portion of a connector, and pivotably securing a first connecting portion to a second connecting portion.

In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of connecting rails comprising securing a first rail to a first receiving portion of a connector, and securing a second rail to a second receiving portion of the connector, either before or after one or both of said securing steps moving the first and/or second receiving portion so as to adopt a desired configuration.

In some embodiments, the first receiving portion is secured to the first connecting portion.

Alternatively, the method comprises rotatably securing the first receiving portion to the first connecting portion. Preferably, the first receiving portion and the first connecting portion are rotatable in a plane perpendicular to the plane in which the first and second connecting portions

are pivotable.

Preferably, the method comprises securing a second rail to a second receiving portion of the connector.

In some embodiments, the second receiving portion is secured to the second connecting portion.

Alternatively, the method comprises rotatably securing the second receiving portion to the second connecting portion. Preferably, the second receiving portion and the second connecting portion are rotatable in a plane perpendicular to the plane in which the first and second connecting portions are pivotable.

In another aspect, the invention provides a kit for securing a rail to a wall, the kit comprising a multipart connector for securing a rail parallel to a wall, the kit comprising a receiving part for receiving the end of a rail, the receiving part being attachable to a securing part for securing to the wall, preferably so as to leave no fixing means in sight.

Preferably, the kit further comprises a connector for connecting two rails is together, the connector comprising two parts, each part having a receiving portion for receiving an end of rail and a connection portion for connecting the two parts together, wherein the connection portions are pivotable with respect to one another in a first plane.

In some embodiments, the receiving portions are rotatable with respect to their corresponding portions in a second plane. This enables adjustment of both the pitch and the angle of the join between the two rails.

Preferably, the kit further comprises an intermediate bracket for supporting a rail. The intermediate bracket may comprise a cradle portion for supporting the rail. The cradle portion may comprise a barrel or tube through which the rail may be threaded. Alternatively, the cradle portion may comprise a curved or flat plate on which the rail may rest.

Preferably, the intermediate bracket further comprises a securing portion for securing the intermediate bracket to a wall.

Preferably, the kit further comprises at least one rail.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a connector for connecting a rail to a newel post, the connector comprising a receiving portion, for receiving the end of a rail and a securing portion for securing the connector to a newel post, the receiving portion being hingedly, or at least pivotably, attached or attachable to the securing portion.

Preferably, the securing portion comprises a face shaped to allow intimate facial contact with a newel post. The securing portion and receiving portion preferably each comprise parts off set with respect to a principal axis of each for the purposes of securing the two parts together. The securing portion preferably comprises a female part to accept a male part of the receiving portion. The securing portion may also comprise a hinge portion for forming a hinged connection to the receiving portion.

Preferably, the receiving portion comprises an enclosing part, e.g. a barrel, having at least one open end and an interior surface, preferably, shaped in a complementary manner to a rail. Such a complementary shape may provide an interference fit, such as for preventing rotation of the rail within the barrel and to ensure that the enclosing part and rail have a small number (preferably one) of mutually engageable configurations.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a kit for constructing a balustrade, the kit comprising a connector for connecting a rail to a newel post or other support, the connector comprising a receiving portion, for receiving the end of a rail, the receiving portion hingedly attached to a securing portion for securing the connector to a newel post, preferably so as to hide or at least inhibit access to any fixing means used to secure the parts to the rail and/or support.

Preferably, the securing portion comprises a face shaped to allow intimate facial contact with a newel post. The securing portion may also comprise a hinge portion for forming a hinged connection to the receiving portion.

Preferably, the receiving portion comprises a barrel having at least one open end and an interior surface shaped in a complementary manner to a rail. Such a complementary shape may provide an interference fit, such as for preventing rotation of the rail within the barrel.

Preferably, the kit comprises at least one rail. The kit may also comprise at least one newel post.

Preferably, the kit comprises a secondary rail and a further one or more of the connectors for attaching the secondary rail to one or more newel posts.

Preferably, the kit ftirther comprises one or more balusters for hanging from the rail. The balusters may be hung between the rail and the or a secondary rail. Alternatively, the balusters may be hung between the rail and a string of a staircase or the rail and a surface, e.g. a top surface, of a staircase tread.

Preferably, the kit comprises securing means for securing the one or more balusters to the rail.

Preferably, the kit frirther comprises a newel cap for filling to the top of the or a newel post.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a safety device for a cut string staircase comprising an elongate member and securing means for holding the elongate member to or adjacent to a string of the staircase.

The securing means or a part thereof may be attachable to a surface, e.g. a top surface, of a staircase tread, a surface, e.g. a vertical surface, of a riser, an outer face of the string, or an outer surface of a post, e.g. a newel post.

In a further embodiment, the invention relates to a kit for providing a safety device for a cut string staircase, the kit comprising an elongate member and securing means for holding the elongate member to or adjacent to a string of the staircase.

Preferably, the securing means comprises a first securing member for attaching to the elongate member. Preferably, the first securing member may be threaded onto the elongate member.

Moreover, the first securing member is preferably arranged to be further attached to a second elongate member.

Preferably, the safety device prevents the passage of a sphere of a given diameter between the elongate member and the staircase.

Preferably, the given diameter of the sphere may be less than 200mm. For example, the given diameter of the sphere may be about 150mm, 125mm or 100mm.

In some embodiments, the first securing member may be pivotably attached to a second securing member. The second securing member preferably comprises a flat surface for attachment to a tread of the staircase, a surface, e.g. a vertical surface, of a riser, an outer surface of the string or an outer surface of a post, e.g. a newel post.

Preferably, the safety device further comprises a cap for fitting to an end of the elongate member.

In a further embodiment, the invention relates to a method of fitting a safety device for a cut string staircase, the method comprising securing an elongate member to a part, e.g. a part of the string, of the staircase so as to prevent the passage of a sphere of a given diameter between the elongate member and the staircase.

The method may comprise the step of attaching the securing means or a part thereof to a surface, e.g. a top surface, of a staircase tread, a surface, e.g. a vertical surface, of a riser, an outer face of the string, or an outer surface of a post, e.g. a newel post.

Preferably, the step of securing the elongate member to the string comprises attaching a first securing member to the elongate member. More preferably, the securing step comprises securing the first securing member to a second securing member. Most preferably, the securing step comprises attaching the second securing member to a tread of the staircase.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to an intermediate bracket for supporting a rail, the intermediate bracket comprising a cradle portion for supporting the rail, the cradle portion attached to a securing portion.

The cradle portion may comprise a barrel or tube through which the rail may be threaded.

Alternatively, the cradle portion may comprise a curved or flat plate on which the rail may rest.

Preferably, the securing portion comprises means for securing the intermediate bracket to a wall, such as a securing plate. Alternatively, the securing portion provides means for securing the intermediate bracket to a newel post, such as an intermediate newel post.

In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a sleeve for increasing the cross-sectional area of the end of a rail. Preferably, the sleeve is formed from a plastic, for example polypropylene.

In a further aspect, the invention comprises a combination of any of the components herein described.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a kit comprising a combination of any or all of the components herein described.

Other aspects and preferred features of the invention are set out in the claims and the following description of various embodiments, which is made, by way of example, with respect to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a handrail attached to a wall adjacent a staircase.

Figures 2A and 2B show differing views of a rail return connector.

Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E and 5 show component parts of a rail return connector.

Figures 6A and 6B show a wall bracket for a rail.

Figure 7A and 7B show a corner connector.

Figures 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 9A, 9B, 9C, 1OA, lOB and 1OC show component parts of a corner connector.

Figure 11 shows a transition connector.

Figures 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 13A, 13B and 13C show component parts of a transition connector.

Figure 14 shows a balustrade assembly.

Figures iSA and 15B show a newel connector.

Figures 16A, 16B, 16C and 16D show a component part of a newel connector.

Figure 17 shows a newel cap.

Figure 18 shows a void filling safety device assembly fitted to a cut-string staircase.

Figures 19A, 19B, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, 21A, 21B and 21C show component parts of a void filling safety device.

Figures 22A and 22B show an intermediate newel connector.

Figures 23A, 23B, 23C and 23D show a component part of an intermediate newel connector.

Figure 24 shows a sleeve for increasing the cross-sectional area of the end of a rail.

In one embodiment, the invention relates to a handrail and fixtures for a handrail.

Figure 1 displays a handrail 10 affixed to a wall W adjacent some stairs 8 in the manner of a banister. A pair of returns 14 and brackets 12 fastens the handrail to the wall W such that the handrail 10 is parallel to the wall and to the pitch of the stairs 8.

The rail 10 is substantially circular in cross-section, although at least a portion of the rail 10 may be cut away to provide, for example, a flat surface, such that a correspondingly shaped or adapted barrel (as described below) may be able to key with the rail 10 to form a fit, preventing rotation of the rail 10 relative to that barrel. In any case, the perimeter of the rail 10 will preferably be of complementary shape to the internal perimeter of the barrel (at least in that portion where they engage) so as to afford a snug fit of the rail within the barrel.

The return 14 and its component parts are shown in more detail in Figures 2A to 5.

As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the return 14 comprises three parts, a wall fixing 141, a rail fixing 142 and a cover means 143.

The wall fixing 141, as shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D and 3E comprises a circular plate 151 having bore holes 152a, 152b, 152c for receiving screws for fixing the wall fixing 141 to a wall.

The bore holes 152a, 152b and 152c may be equi-spaced and are preferably located about or towards the perimeter of the plate 151.

The edges of bore holes 152 adjoining the outward facing surface 153 of the circular plate 151 may be countersunk so as to accommodate at least a part of the head of a fastening screw.

Attached to circular plate 151 is an off set flange 154 which has a planar surface 155 which extends perpendicularly from the outward facing surface 153 of the circular plate 151.

The flange 154 is preferably positioned on the surface 153 of the circular plate 151 such that the planar surface 155 passes through the centre point of the surface 153 of the annular plate 151.

A pair of bore holes 156a, 156b is provided in the planar surface 155 of the flange 154 for receiving attachment screws (not shown).

An upper (as shown) surface 157 of the flange 154 may be curved such that the cross-section of the flange 154 describes a rounded portion, e.g. a semi-circle.

The flange 154 is preferably integrally formed with the annular plate 151. However, in some embodiments of the invention, the flange 154 is attached to the circular plate 151 such that it is freely rotatable around the circumference of the plate 151 in such a manner that the planar surface 155 of the flange 154 remains adjacent to the centre point of the outward facing surface 153 of the circular plate 151.

The wall fixing 141 ftirther comprises a, e.g. radial, protrusion 158 which extends outside of the perimeter, e.g. the circumference, of the annular plate 151. In embodiments where the flange 154 is rotatable around the circumference of the circular plate 151, the protrusion 158 is integrally formed with the flange 154.

The rail fixing 142 is more clearly shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D and 4E.

The rail fixing 142 comprises a connection plate 159 having a recess or rebate 160 and a circumferential lip 161, extending at an angle, e.g. perpendicularly, from the plate 159 to have a support-facing distal edge. The connection plate 159 is dimensioned to fit over, preferably snugly onto, the annular plate 151 of the wall fixing 141, the recess 160 being shaped to fit around the flange 154 and the protrusion 158, and the lip 161 to abut the sides of the annular plate 151 of the wall fixing 141, so as to prevent relative lateral movement of the rail fixing 142 with respect to the wall fixing 141. The protrusion 158, in use, fills the gap in the lip 161 so as to provide a continuous or at least quasi-continuous surface (as shown in Figure 2B).

A shaft 162 protrudes from the connection plate 159, at an angle, e.g. perpendicularly, to the plane defined by at least a part of (or as a tangent to) the facing surface of the connection plate 159, which surface may be planar or curved. A hollow barrel 163, having one closed end 164 and one open end 165, for receiving a rail, is attached to the distal end of the shaft 162.

The shaft 162 is cut away (or otherwise rebated) to provide a shaft flange surface 166, which is aligned with the recess 160 such that when the rail fixing 142 is mated with the wall fixing 141, the planar surface 155 of wall fixing flange 154 and the shaft flange surface 166 are held in adjacent facial contact, e.g. preferably adjacent and/or abutting.

Bore holes 167a, 167b are provided through the shaft 162, emerging at positions on the shaft flange surface 166 to correspond, in use and when mated, with bore holes 156a, 156b in the wall fixing flange 154.

A depression 169 is formed in the outer edge of the shaft 162 encompassing the outer openings of the bore holes 167a, 167b, which are preferably countersunk. A third borehole 170 is formed between the bore holes 167a, 167b.

Formed through the side wall of the barrel 163 are bore holes 168a, 168b for receiving screws for securing a rail therein. These bore holes 168a, 168b have countersunk openings and are positioned adjacent the shaft flange surface 166 such that they may be obscured by the wall fixing flange 154 when the wall fixing 141 is mated with the rail fixing 142.

In an alternative embodiment, the hollow barrel may be open at both ends. A separate cap portion may be provided for closing one of the ends.

The return 14 further comprises a cover means 143, which is shown in detail in Figure 5.

The cover means 143 comprises a cover plate 171 which is shaped to fit within the depression 169 on the outer surface of the shaft 162 of the rail fixing 142. A shank 172 protrudes from the inner surface of the cover plate 171 and is receivable in the third bore hole 170 in the depression 169 to secure the cover means 143 in place, preferably flush with the outer surface of the shaft 162.

In alternative embodiments, the returns may comprise different features from those described hereinbefore.

For instance, the plate of the wall fixing may be of any shape including polygonal shapes such as triangles, quadrilaterals, e.g. rectangles or diamonds, pentagons, hexagons etc. Other curved and curvilinear shapes may also be provided, e.g. semi-circles, ellipses, ovals, segments or sectors of a circle.

The plate may also be adapted for fixing to curved walls. Alternatively, the plate may be adapted for fixing at sharp, angular corner locations on walls.

The bore holes passing for receiving screws for fixing the wall fixing to a wall may be spaced differently and provided at different locations.

As will be appreciated, accurate mating of the wall fixing with the rail fixing is desirable.

Accordingly, the shapes of the portions of the flange of the wall fixing and that of the recess of the rail fixing, which engage, in use, will complement one another, preferably so as to prevent rotation of the two parts. As will be appreciated, the flange or the part thereof which engages with the recess may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, e.g. a shape comprising a notch or straight side.

Alternatively, it will be appreciated that the wall fixing may be provided with a receiving portion, while the rail fixing may be provided with a complementarily-shaped flange or protrusion thereon or therein for mating, in use, with the receiving portion. Again, what is important is that the components mate accurately, such that when they are engaged, in use, they do not rotate.

The wall brackets 12 are shown in more detail in Figures 6A and 6B.

The wall brackets 12 each comprise a tube 124 through which a rail 10 may be threaded and by which the rail 10 is completely encircled. Bore holes 125a, 125b, 125c, 125d are formed through the intended lowermost wall of the tube to enable screws to secure the rail 10 in place. The tube 124 preferably has an internal surface which comprises an, intended, lowermost portion having a surface, e.g. a flat surface 126, so as to mate with a correspondingly shaped surface of the handrail.

The tube 124 is attached to a wall mounting plate 121 by a curved shaft 123. The wall mounting plate 121 is provided with bore holes 122a, 122b and 122c, the edges of which may be countersunk, for fixing to a wall.

In use, a first end of a rail 10 is inserted into the barrel 163 of the rail fixing 142 of a return 14 and secured by securing screws through the bore holes 168a, 168b in the barrel 163.

A number, e.g. a pair, of wall brackets 12 is then threaded onto the rail 10 and the second end of the rail 10 is inserted into the barrel 163 of the rail fixing 142 of a second return 14. Clearly, because the mating surface 126 of the tube 124 25 mates or engages the rail all of the wall brackets 12 will have the same orientation with respect to the rail 10 and wall W. The wall fixing 141 is then secured to a wall W adjacent a flight of stairs 8 at a height appropriate for a handrail and such that the wall fixing flange 141 faces in the intended direction of the rail 10.

The wall fixing 141 of the first return 14 is mated with its corresponding rail fixing 142 by aligning the wall fixing flange surface 157 and the rail fixing shaft flange surface 166, the recess of the rail fixing 142 and the protrusion 158 of the wall fixing 141, and the connection plate 159 of the rail fixing 142 and the circular plate 151 of the wall fixing 141.

The wall fixing 141 and the rail fixing 142 are then secured together using bolts through the bore holes 167a, 167b in the shaft 162 of the rail fixing 142 to engage the flange 154 of the wall fixing 141.

The second rail fixing 142 may then be aligned, to ensure that it will be held perpendicular to the wall, and secured in position by screws through the bore holes 168a, 168b in the barrel 163.

The second wall fixing 141 is then secured to the wall such that the wall fixing flange faces in the intended direction of the rail, and at a height to ensure that the rail will be fixed parallel to the pitch of the stairs. The second rail fixing 142 is then secured to a second wall fixing 141 in the same manner as is described above.

The cover means 143 are then introduced to the depression 169 in the shafts 162 of the rail fixings 142, the shaft 172 being inserted into the appropriate bore hole 170 to secure the cover plate 171 flush with the surface of the shaft 162.

The second return 14 is then fixed to the wall, taking care to ensure that the pitch of the rail is parallel to the pitch of the stairs.

Finally, wall brackets 12 are secured to the wall, by means of screws through the bore holes 122a, 122b, 122c in the wall mounting plates 121. The wall brackets may be secured to the wall such that there is a distance of around 80 cm between them.

The number of wall brackets threaded on to the rail and the final distance between the wall brackets when the handrail is fixed to a wall will depend on a number of factors, including technical, aesthetic and practical or logistical considerations, As will be appreciated, the handrail must be sufficiently strongly attached to the wall to meet local building regulations. Accordingly, from a technical or engineering perspective, the number of wall brackets required may be governed by factors including the length of the rail, the density or the rail and the standard of the wall to which it is to be attached, e.g. whether it is a solid structural wall or a thinner partition.

From an aesthetic perspective, the spacing between wall brackets may be chosen to match surrounding or associated structures or features, e.g. a balustrade.

As described above, the wall brackets may be threaded along a length of rail to an intended location. Alternatively, it will be appreciated that the wall brackets may be located such that they receive end portions of two separate lengths of rail. Preferably, in such a configuration, the wall brackets provide a sleeve which conceals the join between the two separate lengths of rail, giving the impression that the rail is continuous.

Advantageously, this allows long handrails having the appearance of being continuous to be assembled from a series of shorter lengths of handrail, which may be easier to display in store, package, e.g. in boxes, for kits, store and manipulate during installation.

As will be appreciated almost any number of wall brackets may be required depending on the length of rail and chosen spacing between wall brackets. For a very short length of rail between returns, no wall brackets may be required.

Further embodiments of the invention provide means for adapting, enhancing or replacing the system described above to allow rails to be mounted to complex walls, such as those having internal or external corners, or those adjacent to stairs having landings where a continuous rail is required.

A four-part corner connector 18 to enable the provision of a rail 10 around internal and external corners is shown in Figures 7A to 11.

The corner connector 18, as shown in complete form in Figure 7, comprises a pair of connectors 181a, 181b each comprising a collar 182 and a hand member 183a, 183b.

A collar 182 is shown in detail in Figures 8A, SB, 8C and 8D.

The collar 182 comprises a hollow barrel 189 for receiving the end of a rail 10, the barrel 189 having one open end which may be chamfered, and one closed end 184 around which, and in the axial direction of the barrel 189, runs a protruding rim 192. The closed end 184 has a central bore hole 185 for receiving a bolt or screw for securing the collar 182 to a hand member 183, A small plate 186 dimensioned to fit along the length of the barrel 184, is secured to the inside wall of the barrel 189, the leading edge of the plate 186 forming a cord across the circular cross-section of the barrel 189. A pair of parallel ridges 1 87a, 1 87b run along the length of the plate between the closed end 184 and the open end 190 of the barrel 189. Alternatively, the component 186 may be integrally formed, e.g. moulded.

The plate 186 has formed therethrough a pair of bore holes 191a, 191b which are aligned to corresponding bore holes 188a, 188b in the wall of the barrel 189. The bore holes 188a, 188b in the barrel 189 are countersunk for receiving screw heads, the screws being for securing a rail 10 within the collar 182.

The hand members 183a, 183b are shown in more detail in Figures 9A, 9B, 9C, bA, lOBand 1OD.

Each hand member comprises a circular base 193 which serves as an interface between the hand member 183 and the collar 182. A bore hole 194 is positioned in the centre of the circular base 193 for receiving a bolt protruding from the bole hole 185 in the centre of the closed end 184 of the collar barrel 189 in order to rotatably secure the circular base 193 around the rim 192 of the collar 182.

A mating face 196 extends perpendicularly from the circular base 193. The end 196 of the mating face 195 that is distal from the circular base 193 is preferably rounded.

In the centre of the mating face 195 of the first hand member 183a is a bore hole 197 which extends through the entire hand member 183a to emerge through the back wall 198.

A corresponding bore hole 199 is formed in the centre of the mating face 195 of the second hand member 183b, as is shown in Figure 10. However, the bore hole 199 in the mating face 195 of the second hand member 183b does not extend through the back 198 of that member.

In fitting the corner connector 18, each of the collars 182 is fitted to the first and second hand members 183a, 183b, by means of bolts through the bore holes in the circular base 193 of the hand members 1 82a, 1 82b and the closed ends 184 of the collars 182 such that the collars 182 are freely rotatable with respect to the hand members 183a, 183b.

The hand members 183a, 183b may then be joined by bringing the mating faces 195 into intimate facial contact and fastening them together by providing a bolt or screw through the bore hole 197 in the back 198 of the first hand member 183a and into the bore hole 199 in the mating face 195 of the second hand member 183b. The hand members 183 are preferably able to pivot with respect to one another to allow for angular adjustments appropriate for the particular corner.

It is possible, however, to fix the hand members 183 in a desired angle.

The corner connector 18 may then be used in place of a return 14 to join two 10 rails together around a corner, either internally or externally. The ends of a first rail 10 are introduced to the open end of one of the collars 182. The ridges 187a, 187b provide grip on the end of the rail 10 while screws are inserted screwed through the bore holes 191a, 191b in the wall of the barrel 189 to provide a secure fastening.

A second rail is introduced to and secured within the other collar 182 in the same manner. The rails may then be fixed in place on adjacent walls by means of the necessary wall brackets 12 and returns 14 described above, as will be understood by one skilled in the art.

In addition to the flexibility of the angle at which the corner connector 18 may be set, by virtue of the hinging hand means 183, the freely rotating collars 182 allow the adjustment of the pitch of the rails. If, for instance, the corner in question is adjacent to a landing in the flight of stairs, it may be necessary for the rail on one side of the corner to be horizontal, but for the rail on the other side of the corner to have a downward pitch. Accordingly, the rail attached to the collar 182 of the first hand member 183a may be pitched in a downward direction by the hinging of the second hand member 1 83b relative to its collar, leaving the rail attached to the collar 182 of the second hand member 1 83b horizontal.

Of course, this arrangement is such that both rails may be pitched in an upward or downward direction relative to the corner connector 18. This may be especially useful in situations where there are lazy pitches.

A two-part transition bracket 20, to enable the adjustment of the pitch of a rail along a single straight wall, is shown in Figures 11 to 13C.

The transition bracket, as shown in Figure 11, comprises first and second transition connectors 201a, 201b for receiving the ends of a rail 10, each of the transition connectors comprising one half of a hinge 202 which acts to hingedly or pivotably join the transition connectors 201a, 201b together.

The first and second transition connectors 201a, 201b, shown in detail in Figures 12A to 12D and 13A to 13C respectively, comprise a short barrel 203 having a closed end 204, with a curved outer face, and an open end 205 for receiving the end of a rail. A pair of bore holes 206a, 206b is provided through the closed end for receiving screws for securing the rail 10 in place.

With reference to Figures 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D, the first transition connector 201a comprises an off set hinge loop 207 positioned on the closed end 204 of the barrel 203 such that an inside face 212 of the hinge loop 207 runs along a line passing through the centre of the closed end 204. A hole 208 runs from the inside face 212 to an outside face 213, the edges of the bore hole having a step along its length for the receipt (and retention) of the head of a bolt or spigot.

With reference to Figures 13A, 13B and 13C, the second transition connector 201b comprises a hinge stud 209, positioned on the closed end 204 of the barrel 203 and having a first face 211 running along a line passing through the centre of the closed end 204. In the first face 211 is provided a bore hole 210 for receiving the shaft of a bolt or spigot.

The internal surface of each barrel 203 may be shaped so as to engage with a complementary shaped end of a rail 10. In one embodiment the intended lowermost surface is flat to engage with, or lie adjacent, a flat surface of the rail 10. In this way the complementary shaped parts will only allow a small number (e.g. preferably one) possible mating orientations.

In fitting the transition bracket, the end of a rail 10 is introduced to the open ends 205 of the barrels 203 of each of the transition connectors 201a, 20 lb. Screws are then screwed through the bore holes 206a, 206b in the closed ends 204 of the barrels 203 to secure the rails 10 in place.

The first face 211 of the hinge stud 209 of the second transition connector 201b is then brought into intimate facial contact with the inside face 212 of the hinge loop 207 of the first transition connector 201a. A bolt or spigot is then threaded through the bore hole 208 in the hinge loop 207 and into the bore hole 210 in the hinge stud 209 to hingedly secure the first transition connector 201a to the second transition connector 20 lb. The resulting transition bracket 20 allows the pitch of each rail 10 to be set independently of each other, owing to the free hinging between the two transition connectors 201 a, 20 lb. The rails may be held in their desired positions along a wall by use of appropriate returns 14 and wall brackets 12, as is understood by one skilled in the art.

In yet further embodiments, the invention relates to the fixtures and fittings of a full balustrade.

Such an arrangement is shown in Figure 14, where a rail 10 is strung between a first square newel post 22 and a second square newel post 24. The ends of the rail 10 are attached to the first and second newel posts 22, 24 by storey newel brackets 32. A rod 28 is strung between the newels 22, 24 by means of sockets 30.

Balusters 26 hang between the rail 10 and the rod 28 and are connected to each by means of pivotable baluster brackets 34.

The storey newel bracket 32 is shown in more detail in Figures 15 to 16.

As is demonstrated in Figures 15A and 15B, the storey newel bracket 32 comprises a newel mounting 321 and rail mounting 322 for receiving a rail 10. The newel mounting 321 comprises a mounting plate 324 in which bore holes 325a, 325b provide a means for securing the newel mounting 321 to a vertical face of a newel (or other preferably vertical support). An offset fin 326 protrudes (e.g. perpendicularly) from the mounting plate 324 In such a position that an inside face of the fin 326 runs through the centre point of the mounting plate 324. A bore hole is provided through the fin 326.

The rail mounting 322 is shown in more detail in Figure 16A, 16B, 16C and 16D. It comprises a short barrel 327 having a closed end 328 and an open end 329 for receiving the end of a rail. A pair of bore holes 330a, 330b is provided through the closed end for receiving screws for securing the rail 10 in place. A plate 332 is affixed inside the barrel 327 so as to form a cord is formed in the cross-section of the barrel 327. A pair of ridges 333a, 333b run along the plate 332 in the direction along the length of the barrel 327 to interface with the cut-away section of the rail 10.

Alternatively, the mounting 322 may be integrally formed, e.g. moulded.

The plate 332 provides means for ensuring accurate insertion of a complementary handrail end therein. Other formations may be used to achieve the same effect, as is the case with the other components.

The rail mounting 332 further comprises an off set hinge member 331 positioned on the closed end 328 of the barrel 327 such that an inside face 334 of the hinge member 331 runs along a line passing through the centre of the closed end 328. A bore hole 337 runs from the inside face 334 to an outside face 335, the bore hole 337 comprising a step along its length to enable the receipt and retention of the head of a bolt or spigot.

By further reference to Figure 14, there is also provided a secondary rail 28 which is preferably of similar profile to the rail 10, though of smaller cross section. The secondary rail 28 may be secured between the newels 22, 24 by means of secondary rail newel brackets 30, which are preferably of similar construction to the storey newel brackets 32. Balusters 26 may be hung between the rail 10 and the secondary rail 28, each of which may be secured by pairs of baluster brackets 34 or other securing means.

In assembly, a rail 10 may be hung between two square newels 22, 24 by means of a pair of storey newel brackets 32. The rail mountings 322 are affixed to either end of the rail by inserting the ends of the rail into the open ends 329 of the barrel 327 and secured by screws 323 through the bore holes 330a, 330b in the closed end 328 of the barrel 327.

The newel mountings 321 are attached to opposing faces of the square newels 22, 24 by means of screws turned through the bore holes 325a, 325b in the mounting plate 324. Each of the newel mountings 321 is aligned such that the fins 326 are vertically aligned.

The rail 10 may then be attached to the square newels 22, 24. The inside face 334 of the hinge loop 331 of one of the rail mountings 322 is brought into intimate facial contact with the inside face of the fin 326 of one of the newel mountings 321, with the cut-away section of the rail 10 facing downward. A bolt or spigot is then threaded through the bore hole 337 in the hinge loop 331 and the bore hole in the fin 326 to hingedly secure the rail mounting 322 to the newel mounting 321. The pitch of the rail 10 may then be manually adjusted to bring the inside face 334 of the hinge loop 331 of the other rail mounting 322 may be brought into intimate facial contact with the fin 326 of the other newel mounting 321, which in turn are secured in the same way.

The secondary rail 28 is attached between the newels 22, 24 in the same manner as the rail 10, with the cut-away section of the rail in an upward facing direction. The balusters 26 may then be secured between the rail 10 and secondary rail 28, parallel to the newels 22, 24. The baluster securing means 34 are attached by such means as screws to the cut-away portions of the rail 10 and secondary rail 28.

In some embodiments, a square newel cap 40 is provided for fitting to the top of the first and second square newel posts 22, 24. Such a square newel cap 40 is shown in detail in Figure 17.

The square newel cap 40 comprises a square top 401 and four sides 402, 403, 404, 405 which define a cavity for receiving the top of a newel post. One pair of opposing sides 402, 404 each take rectangular form with a first side 402 being larger than the second side 404. The other pair of opposing sides 403,405 are substantially trapezoidal in shape, and/or have one curved edge to compensate for the differing sizes of the first pair 402, 404.

Some embodiments of the invention also comprise a void filler 42, as shown in Figure 18. The void filler 42 is of particular use on open or cut-string stairs where it is necessary to prevent the passage of objects between the balustrade and the treads of the stairs.

The void filler 42 comprises at least one rod 421, at least two void filler brackets 425 and two end caps 424. The void filler brackets 425 each comprise a stair fixer 423 and a rod fixer 422.

A stair fixer 423 is shown in more detail in Figures 19A and 19B. The stair fixer 423 comprises an elongate barrel 426 having a flat surface 427 running along its length. Bore holes 428a, 428b are formed through the barrel 426 from the flat surface 427 to its upper edge for receiving screws for attaching the stair fixer to stair treads. One end of the barrel comprises a protrusion 430, in which is formed a further bore hole 429 for receiving a spigot or bolt attached to the rod fixer 422.

A rod fixer 422 is shown in more detail in Figures 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E and 20F. The rod fixer 422 comprises a tubular member 431 having end apertures 432a, 432b for receiving a rod or rods. A bore hole 433 is provided through the middle of the side wall of the tube 431 for receiving a spigot or bolt for attachment to the tread fixer 423. Four ftirther bore holes 434a, 434b, 434c, 434d are provided through the side of the tube 431 for receiving screws for gripping the rod or rods in place.

The endcap 424 is shown in more detail in Figures 21A, 21B and 21C. The endcap 424 comprises a short barrel 435 having an open end 437 and a closed end 438 and an internal diameter sized to receive the end of the rod 421. A bore hole 438 in the side of the barrel 435 is provided to receive a grub screw for gripping the endcap to the end of the rod 421.

In assembly, a first stair fixer 423 is affixed, by turning screws through the bore holes 428a, 428b in the elongate barrel 426 to the lowest tread of a flight of stairs at a distance of, say, 40mm from the newel post and such that the opening of the bore hole 429 in the protrusion 430 is flush with the cut string of the stairs.

A second stair fixer 423 is affixed to the tread of a higher stair in the same way, the higher stair being selected by the length of the rod 421 and/or the position of the next newel post. Ideally, the second stair fixer 423 is affixed on a tread adjacent a newel post and at a distance of, say, 40mm from that newel post.

If a second rod 421b is required for the void filler 42 to run along the entire length of the stair string, a third stair fixer may be affixed to the tread of a further stair.

The first, second and third rod fixers 422a, 422b, 422c are attached respectively to the first, second and third stair fixers 423a, 423b, 423c by means of spigots or bolts through the bore holes 433 through the middle of the side walls of the tubes 431 and into the bore holes 429 in the projections 430 of the stair fixers 423. The bolt or spigot is preferably positioned such that its head is flush with the internal wall of the tubular member 431, thereby allowing the passing of the rod therethrough.

The first rod 421a is then threaded through the first and second rod fixers 422a, 422b. The first rod 421a is secured, by turning screws through the bore holes in the side walls of the tubular members 431, in such a position that one end of the rod 421 a is positioned in the mid-point of the tubular member 431 of the second rod fixer 422b. A certain length of the rod 421a, say around 4cm to 8cm, is allowed to protrude through the lower end of the first rod fixer 422a.

A second rod 421b may be fixed between the second and third rod fixers 422b, 422c in the same manner, one end of the second rod 421b abutting against the end of the first rod 421a at the mid-point of the tubular member 431 of the second rod fixer 422b. A certain length of the rod 421b, say around 4cm to 8cm, is allowed to protrude through the upper end of the third rod fixer 422c.

The completed void filler 42 thus provides a barrier at the edge of a cut string staircase to prevent the passage of a sphere of 100mm or less in diameter between it and the treads of the stairs. This safeguards against, for example, users catching their ankles in the gaps in the event of a slip or fall, or small children becoming stuck as a result of curious misadventure.

In a further or an alternative embodiment, there is provided an intermediate newel connector 45, as is shown in Figures 22A and 22B, for connecting a rail 10 to a newel 22 part way along the rail's length.

The intermediate newel connector 45 comprises a top connector 451 hingedly attached to a bottom connector 452. The top connector, which is shown in more detail in Figures 23A, 23B, 23C and 23D, comprises an elongate plate 453 which is curved so as to cradle a substantially cylindrical rail 10 in its longitudinal direction.

A flat plate 454 is affixed inside the curved elongate plate 453 for engaging with the flat surface of the rail 10. Bore holes 455a, 455b, 455c, 455d are formed through both the flat plate 454 and the elongate plate 453 for receiving screws to secure the top connector 451 to the rail 10.

A hinge portion 456 of the top connector 451 extends downwardly from the curved elongate plate 453 and has a bore hole 457 for receiving a bolt or spigot to hingedly attach the top connector 451 to the bottom connector 452.

The bottom connector 452 comprises a hollow barrel 458 for receiving the end of a newel 22, the barrel 458 having one open end 461 which may be chamfered, and one closed end 462. Bore holes (not shown) are provided through the barrel 458 for receiving screws to secure the bottom connector to a newel post 22.

A fin 459 protrudes perpendicularly from the closed end 462 of the barrel. A bore hole (not shown) is formed through the fin 459 for receiving a bolt or spigot for hingedly securing the bottom connector 452 to the top connector 451. A ridge 460 may be provided on the fin to limit the hinging movement of the top connector 451 when attached.

In fitting the intermediate newel connector 45, a newel post 22 is introduced to the barrel 458 of the bottom connector 452. The fin 459 is aligned to run parallel to the desired direction of the rail 10 and screws are turned through the bore holes in the barrel 458 to secure the bottom connector 452 to the newel 22.

The rail 10 is then cradled in the curved elongate plate 451 of the top connector 451, with its flat surface in intimate facial contact with the flat plate 454 of the top connector 451. Screws may then be turned through the bore holes 455a, 455b, 455c, 455d in the top connector 451 to secure the rail 10 thereto.

The top connector 451 may then be hingedly secured to the bottom connector 452 by bringing the hinge portion 456 and the fin 459 into facial contact and securing a bolt or spigot through the bore holes in each. The rail 10 may, by means of the hinged connection, have its gradient adjusted to be appropriate to the staircase.

In a further embodiment, as shown in Figure 24, a sleeve 47 is provided for increasing the local diameter of a rail 10 to ensure a snug fit within any of the fittings and connectors herein described. The sleeve 47, preferably made from plastics {e.g. polypropylene), is shaped in a complementary manner to both the end of the rail 10 and to the inside of the fittings. Once the rail is fitted into the connector, any excess portion of the sleeve remaining visible may be cut away by the filler.

The sleeve 47 enables rails of differing dimensions to be used with standard sized fittings, thus affording an aesthetic finish while keeping manufacturing costs down.

It will be appreciated that the assembly and components thereof are particularly suited to a round' aesthetic, e.g. the rails. Of course, this can be altered to suit particular design needs.

However, the exemplary embodiments do provide a way in which the relatively unskilled worker can construct a balustrade having a round' aesthetic which has heretofore been difficult.

The provision of matched internal surfaces of component parts to handrails allows for a small number of configuration interactions, thereby ensuring that the rail and support can have a small number of degrees of relative freedom.

As will be appreciated, the provision of matched internal surfaces of component parts with the cross-sectional shapes of rails, e.g. handrails, or portions thereof receivable therein will facilitate and simplifiy the installation of handrails and structures, e.g. staircases or baluster assemblies. It is preferred that, in use, the rails, e.g. handrails, or portions thereof are unable to rotate when received in the appropriate component parts.

Moreover, the securing means may comprise a variety of known systems for securing articles together, for example, the fillings used to secure the connectors to the newel post and/or the rail may be resiliently urged, they may comprise friction fillings or snap fillings.

The connectors and other components described herein may be formed from stainless steel or chrome or any other metal. Alternatively, the components may be moulded and covered in a metal veneer or other finish so as to give the appearance of metal. The rails are preferably formed from wood, e.g. from a single piece or in a laminate which may also comprise other materials or from reformed wood. The rails may be solid or hollow. However, it is also envisaged that some or all of the connectors, components and rails described herein could be made from any material, including plastics, stones and other minerals, woods and metals.

It will be appreciated that, although several distinct embodiments have been disclosed, those embodiments may be combined and/or elements of each may be combined, substituted or deleted, the scope of the invention being determined by the broadest statements of invention and/or the Claims appended hereto. For example, any of the components may be provided with any of the other components to provide a kit. Features from one component may be used with a different component. Those features may be incorporated in place of or in addition to features from another component.

Further, while the embodiments described herein have generally been disclosed in the setting of a wall-mounted handrail running adjacent a staircase, it will be appreciated that the components and handrail assemblies incorporating the components of the invention may have utility in other settings. For instance, the handrails may be affixed to any suitable supporting surface, e.g. one or more posts, e.g. newel posts, or pillars. Further, the handrails may be installed in any location, whether flat or inclined, where they may assist people, e.g. with walking. Such locations where the handrails may be installed include along corridors, alongside ramps, walkways, landings and balconies.

Claims

Claims 1. A handrail connector for securing a rail to a wall, the connector having a receiving part for receiving a rail and a securing part for securing to a wall, wherein the receiving part is detachably mountable on the securing part, the securing part has a securing portion for attachment to a wall, said securing portion includes a fixture point through which the securing part may be fixedly attached to the wall, and the receiving part acts a cover to conceal the fixture point, when mounted on the securing part in use.
2. A connector according to claim 1, wherein the securing portion includes one or more bore holes for receiving screws for attaching the securing part to a wall.
3. A connector according to claim 1 wherein the securing portion comprises a round plate for attachment to a wall.
4. A connector according to any of claims 1 to 3 wherein the securing part comprises an attachment portion protruding from the securing portion and presenting an attachment surface for attachment to the receiving part.
5. A connector according to claim 4, wherein the receiving part comprises a fastening surface for attachment to the attachment surface of the securing part.
6. A connector according to claim 5, wherein the fastening surface and the attachment surface are shaped in a complementary manner, so as to mate in use.
7. A connector according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the fastening and attachment surfaces are flat.
8. A connector according to claim 5, claim 6, or claim 7, wherein the fastening surface and the attachment surface are of the same or similar dimension.
9. A connector according to claim 4, wherein the receiving part comprises a receiving portion for the rail and a fastening portion for fastening to the securing part, wherein the fastening surface on the fastening portion.
10. A connector according to claim 9, wherein the fastening and attachment portions, together, and in use, provide a continuous or at least quasi-continuous perimeter of a regular shape.
11. A connector according to claim 9, wherein one or other of the fastening portion and attachment portion has a rebate, which the other, in use, is shaped to fill.
12. A connector according to claim 9, wherein fastening means are provided to fasten the fastening portion of the receiving part to the attachment portion of the securing part.
13. A connector according to claim 12, wherein the fastening means comprise corresponding bore holes in the attachment portion and fastening portion for receiving bolts or screws.
14. A connector according to claim 12 wherein the fastening means are concealed in use.
15. A connector according to any preceding claim wherein the receiving part includes a receiving portion for a rail, wherein the receiving portion includes one or more bore for screwing through into the rail, and wherein the bore holes are concealed by the securing part when mounted on the receiving part in use.
16. A handrail corner connector for connecting two hand rails together at a corner, the connector having two parts, each part having a receiving portion for receiving an end of a rail and a connection portion for connecting the two parts together, wherein the connection portions are pivotable in a first plane to account for varying corner angles.
17. A connector according to claim 16, wherein the receiving portions are rotatable with respect to their corresponding connection portions in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane.
18. A connector according to claim 16 or claim 17 wherein the two receiving portions are identical.
19. A connector according to claim 16, claim 17 or claim 18 wherein the two connector portions are identical.
20. A connector according to any of claims 16 to 19, wherein the receiving portions are removably attached to the connection portions.
21. A connector according to any of claims 16 to 20, wherein at least one of the receiving portions comprises a collar for substantially enclosing an end of a rail.
22. A connector according to any of claims 16 to 21, wherein each of the connection portions comprises a flat surface, which define opposing hinge surfaces in use.
23. A connector according to any of claims 16 to 22, wherein at least one of the receiving portions defines a female part configured to receive a rail, the female part having an internal profile complimentary to the external profile of the rail.
24. A method of connecting two rails as part of a handrail assembly, comprising the steps of providing first and second rails, providing a corner connector for connecting the two rails together at a corner, the connector comprising two parts which are hingedly connectable, each part having a receiving portion for receiving an end of a rail and a connection portion for connecting the two parts together, the method further including the steps of adjusting the configuration of the two parts to arrange the longitudinal axes of the two rails at a desired angle of incidence.
25. A method according to claim 24, wherein the method further includes the step of rotating the receiving portion of at least one of the two parts relative to the connecting portion of said part in order to adjust the position of the associated rail.
26. A method according to claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the receiving portion and connecting portion of at least one of said parts is rotatable in a plane perpendicular to the plane in which the first and second connecting portions are pivotable.
27. A kit for securing a rail to a wall, the kit comprising a multipart connector according to any of claims 1 to 15.
28. A kit for a handrail assembly, the kit comprising a connector according to any of claims 16 to 23.