US20120174524A1 - Frame assembly for supporting a wall panel - Google Patents
Frame assembly for supporting a wall panel Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120174524A1 US20120174524A1 US13/344,209 US201213344209A US2012174524A1 US 20120174524 A1 US20120174524 A1 US 20120174524A1 US 201213344209 A US201213344209 A US 201213344209A US 2012174524 A1 US2012174524 A1 US 2012174524A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame assembly
- longitudinal axis
- track member
- engagement member
- stud
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 31
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 for example Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2/76—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal
- E04B2/766—T-connections
- E04B2/767—Connections between wall studs and upper or lower locating rails
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2/76—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal
- E04B2/78—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame members as far as important for securing wall panels to a framework with or without the help of cover-strips
- E04B2/7854—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame members as far as important for securing wall panels to a framework with or without the help of cover-strips of open profile
- E04B2/789—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge with framework or posts of metal characterised by special cross-section of the frame members as far as important for securing wall panels to a framework with or without the help of cover-strips of open profile of substantially U- or C- section
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
- E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
- E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
- E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
- E04C3/06—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal with substantially solid, i.e. unapertured, web
- E04C3/07—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal with substantially solid, i.e. unapertured, web at least partly of bent or otherwise deformed strip- or sheet-like material
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
- E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
- E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
- E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
- E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
- E04C2003/0408—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section
- E04C2003/0421—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by assembly or the cross-section comprising one single unitary part
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
- E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
- E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
- E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
- E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
- E04C2003/0426—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by material distribution in cross section
- E04C2003/0434—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by material distribution in cross section the open cross-section free of enclosed cavities
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
- E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
- E04C3/02—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces
- E04C3/04—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal
- E04C2003/0404—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects
- E04C2003/0443—Joists; Girders, trusses, or trusslike structures, e.g. prefabricated; Lintels; Transoms; Braces of metal beams, girders, or joists characterised by cross-sectional aspects characterised by substantial shape of the cross-section
- E04C2003/0473—U- or C-shaped
Definitions
- the present invention relates to frame assemblies for supporting wall panels.
- the invention provides a frame assembly for supporting a wall panel.
- the frame assembly includes a stud configured to engage and support the wall panel.
- the stud includes an end portion.
- a track member has a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls. The track member defines a longitudinal axis.
- An engagement member is coupled to the base of the track member and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. The engagement member defines a slot that receives the end portion of the stud to support the stud.
- the invention provides a frame assembly for supporting a wall panel.
- the frame assembly includes a plurality of studs.
- Each stud has a grooved surface and a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion.
- the plurality of studs are configured to engage and support the wall panel along the grooved surface.
- a first track member has a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls. The first track member defines a first longitudinal axis.
- a first engagement member is coupled to the base of the first track member and extends parallel to the first longitudinal axis.
- the first engagement member defines a first plurality of slots spaced apart along the first longitudinal axis. The first plurality of slots receives the first end portions of the plurality of studs.
- a second track member has a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls.
- the second track member defines a second longitudinal axis.
- a second engagement member is coupled to the base of the second track member and extends parallel to the second longitudinal axis.
- the second engagement member defines a second plurality of slots spaced apart along the second longitudinal axis. The second plurality of slots receives the second end portions of the plurality of studs to support the plurality of studs between the first track member and the second track member.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a frame assembly embodying the invention.
- FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the frame assembly shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a plan view of a stud for use with the frame assembly shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged end view of the stud shown in FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 5 is a plan view of a track member for use with the frame assembly shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the track member shown in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged end view of the track member shown in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of another track member for use with a frame assembly.
- FIG. 9 illustrates another frame assembly embodying the invention.
- FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the frame assembly shown in FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of another portion of the frame assembly shown in FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of a stud for use with the frame assembly shown in FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 13 is an enlarged end view of a stud according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of the stud of FIG. 13 .
- FIGS. 1-2 illustrate a frame assembly 20 embodying the invention.
- the frame assembly 20 is configured to support one or more wall panels, such as, for example, drywall sheets, wood panels, glass panels, sheetrock, or other vertical wall panels.
- the frame assembly 20 may be configured to support other types of panels or may be configured to support other vertical or non-vertical members.
- the illustrated frame assembly 20 includes a plurality of studs 24 and a track member 28 .
- each stud 24 is an elongated member having a C-shaped cross-section defined by a web 32 and two sidewalls 36 , 40 .
- the sidewalls 36 , 40 extend generally perpendicularly from the web 32 to define a channel 44 therebetween. Edge portions 48 , 52 of the sidewalls 36 , 40 are bent or rolled over to provide smooth edges and increase the stiffness of the sidewalls 36 , 40 .
- the studs 24 may be composed of, for example, polyvinylchloride (PVC) or other plastic materials.
- the studs 24 may be composed of rolled steel or other metallic materials. In still other constructions, the studs 24 may be composed of wood.
- the studs 24 are configured to engage and support the wall panels. For example, a wall panel may extend over two or more successive studs 24 and be secured thereto. In some constructions, the wall panels may be nailed, screwed, adhesively bonded or otherwise secured to the sidewalls 36 , 40 of the studs 24 .
- the track member 28 is an elongated member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base 56 and two sidewalls 60 , 64 .
- the sidewalls 60 , 64 extend generally perpendicularly from the base 56 to define a channel 68 therebetween.
- the track member 28 defines a longitudinal axis 72 extending the length of the member 28 .
- the track member 28 is composed of PVC and may be extruded in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 72 .
- the track member 28 may be composed of other suitable rolled or extruded materials such as, for example, steel or extrudable plastics.
- the track member 28 may be coupled (e.g., nailed, screwed, glued, or otherwise fixedly secured) to, for example, a floor or baseboard to support the studs 24 in a generally vertical manner.
- the track member 28 also includes a pair of engagement members 76 , 80 .
- the illustrated engagement members 76 , 80 includes projections or protrusions that are coupled to the base 56 of the track member 28 and extend into the channel 68 defined by the sidewalls 60 , 64 .
- the engagement members 76 , 80 are integrally formed as a single piece with the base 56 of the track member 28 such that the engagement members 76 , 80 may be extruded as a single piece with the track member 28 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 72 .
- the engagement members 76 , 80 and the track member 28 may be roll formed in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 72 .
- the engagement members 76 , 80 and the track member 28 may be machined or formed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
- the engagement members 76 , 80 may be integrally formed with the track member 28 using other suitable molding, machining, stamping, or forming techniques.
- the engagement members 76 , 80 may be separate elements that are removably or permanently coupled to the track member 28 .
- the illustrated track member 28 includes two engagement members 76 , 80 that are spaced apart from one another, spaced apart from the sidewalls 60 , 64 , and extend along the base 56 parallel to the longitudinal axis 72 .
- the track member 28 may include a single engagement member that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 72 .
- the track member 28 may include three or more engagement members that are spaced apart from one another and extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 72 .
- the engagement members 76 , 80 extend along the entire length of the base 56 of the track member 28 .
- the engagement members 76 , 80 may extend along only a portion of the base 56 of the track member 28 .
- each engagement member 76 , 80 defines a plurality of slots 84 , 88 that receive end portions 92 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) of the studs 24 to support the studs 24 .
- the slots 84 , 88 extend transversely, and more particularly perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis 72 of the track member 28 .
- Each slot 84 , 88 of one engagement member 76 , 80 is generally aligned with a corresponding slot 84 , 88 of the other engagement member 76 , 80 .
- an axis or straight line extending transversely to the longitudinal axis 72 extends parallel to and through one of the slots 84 of the first engagement member 76 and one of the slots 88 of the second engagement member 80 .
- each stud 24 is received in and engaged by both engagement members 76 , 80 to support the stud 24 in the generally vertical manner.
- the slots 84 , 88 are evenly spaced apart along the longitudinal axis 72 to support the studs 24 at predetermined distances from one another.
- the slots 84 , 88 of each engagement member 76 , 80 may be formed every 16′′ or 24′′ such that the studs 24 are spaced 16′′ or 24′′ apart when coupled to the track member 28 .
- the slots 84 , 88 may be formed relatively closer together (e.g., every 8′′ or 4′′) such that a user may adjust the spacing between adjacent studs 24 without having to use every slot.
- each stud 24 is received in a pair of corresponding slots 84 , 88 of the engagement members 76 , 80 such that the studs 24 extend generally perpendicularly from the base 56 of the track member 28 .
- the frame assembly 20 can also include a second track member including similar engagement members. Slots in the engagement members of the second track member receive an opposite end portion (e.g., top) of each stud 24 to capture and support the studs 24 between the track members (i.e., between an upper track member and a lower track member).
- the sidewalls 60 , 64 of the track member 28 engage the sidewalls 36 , 40 of the studs 24 to inhibit lateral movement of the studs 24 relative to the track member 28 .
- the engagement members 76 , 80 engage the webs 32 of the studs 24 to inhibit longitudinal movement of the studs 24 relative to the track member 28 .
- the studs 24 are thereby vertically supported by the track member 28 without using additional fasteners or securing elements, such as screws, nails, brackets, or clips.
- FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative construction of a track member 96 for use with the frame assembly 20 shown in FIG. 1 .
- the illustrated track member 96 is an elongated member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base 100 and two sidewalls 104 , 108 .
- the sidewalls 104 , 108 extend generally perpendicularly from the base 100 to define a channel 112 therebetween.
- the track member 96 defines a longitudinal axis 116 extending the length of the member 96 .
- the track member 96 also includes engagement members 120 , 124 that are coupled to the base 100 and extend into the channel 112 .
- the illustrated engagement members 120 , 124 are integrally formed as a single piece with the track member 96 , but only extend along a portion of the base 100 . In other constructions, the engagement members 120 , 124 may be separate elements that are removably or permanently coupled to the track member 96 . Similar to the engagement members 76 , 80 discussed above, each of the illustrated engagement members 120 , 124 defines a slot 128 , 132 configured to receive a stud (e.g., one of the studs 24 shown in FIGS. 1-2 ).
- the track member 96 includes multiple sets or pairs of engagement members 120 , 124 at evenly spaced intervals (e.g., every 4′′, 8′′, 16′′, 24′′, etc.) to support multiple studs.
- FIGS. 9-11 illustrate another frame assembly 136 embodying the invention. Similar to the frame assembly 20 shown in FIGS. 1-2 , the illustrated frame assembly 136 includes a plurality of studs 140 , a first or upper track member 144 , and a second or lower track member 148 . Although not illustrated or described in detail, the track members 144 , 148 may be similar to the track member 28 shown in FIGS. 5-7 or to the track member 96 shown in FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 12 illustrates one of the studs 140 of the frame assembly 136 in detail.
- the stud 140 is an elongated member having a C-shaped cross-section defined by a web 152 and two sidewalls 156 , 160 .
- the sidewalls 156 , 160 extend generally perpendicularly from the web 152 to define a channel 164 therebetween.
- two gaps or cutouts 168 , 172 are formed at an end portion 176 of the stud 140 .
- the first gap 168 is formed between the web 152 and the first sidewall 156 and the second gap 172 is formed between the web 152 and the second sidewall 160 such that the web 152 is disconnected from the sidewalls 156 , 160 at the end portion 176 .
- Such an arrangement allows movement of a portion 180 of the web 152 relative to the sidewalls 156 , 160 to facilitate assembly of the studs 140 with the track members 144 , 148 .
- the disconnected portion 180 of the web 152 may bend or deflect relative to the sidewalls 156 , 160 to provide clearance for engagement members (e.g., the engagement members 76 , 80 shown in FIGS. 1-2 or the engagement members 120 , 124 shown in FIG. 8 ) during assembly.
- a portion of the web 152 may also be similarly disconnected from the sidewalls 156 , 160 at the opposite end of the stud 140 .
- the upper track member 144 and the lower track member 148 are coupled (e.g., nailed, screwed, glued, or otherwise fixedly secured) to, for example, a ceiling and a floor, respectively.
- An end portion 184 (e.g., top) of each stud 140 is inserted into slots in the engagement members of the upper track member 144 .
- the studs 140 are pivoted relative to the track members 144 , 148 such that the other end portion 176 (e.g., bottom) of each stud 140 is received in slots in the engagement members on the lower track member 148 .
- the studs 140 may be coupled to the lower track member 148 first and then pivoted to couple to the upper track member 144 .
- the disconnected portion 180 ( FIG. 12 ) of the web 152 contacts the engagement members of the lower track member 148 and is deflected.
- the stud 140 can thereby continue to pivot relative to the lower track member 148 until the disconnected portion 180 is aligned with the slots in the engagement members and snaps into place.
- the slots in the lower track member 148 are generally aligned with the slots in the upper track member 144 such that, when the disconnected portion 180 snaps into the slots, the stud 140 extends generally perpendicularly between the upper and lower track members 144 , 148 .
- the frame assembly 136 may be assembled in a similar manner. However, rather than only deflecting a portion of the web 152 relative to the sidewalls 156 , 160 , the entire end portion 176 of the stud 140 may bend or deflect slightly to clear the engagement members until the web 152 is aligned with the slots and snaps into place.
- FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a stud 224 according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the stud 224 can be used in place of stud 24 in any of the frame assemblies 20 , 136 disclosed above, among others.
- the stud 224 can be an elongated member having a generally C-shaped cross-section (taken transversely to the longitudinal dimension of the stud) which includes a web 232 and two sidewalls 236 , 240 .
- the sidewalls 236 , 240 can extend generally perpendicularly from the web 232 to define a channel 244 therebetween.
- Edge portions 248 , 252 of the sidewalls 236 , 240 can be bent or rolled over to provide smooth edges and increase the stiffness of the sidewalls 236 , 240 .
- Stud 224 can be configured to engage and support wall panels or other loads, which can be nailed, screwed, or otherwise secured to the web 232 or sidewalls 236 , 240 of one or more studs 224 .
- FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate an embodiment in which sidewalls 236 , 240 include grooves 260 on one or more surfaces.
- One or more grooves 260 can facilitate the securing of a wall panel to the stud 224 with a fastener (screw, nail, etc.) by providing a seat for the tip of the fastener as it is being installed, and can improve the stiffness, stability, and/or strength of the sidewall 236 , 240 and the stud 224 .
- dimples or similar notches in the surface of a sidewall 236 , 240 and/or web can serve the same or similar purpose.
- stud 224 can have a different number of webs 232 and/or sidewalls 236 , 240 connected in various configurations and resulting in different cross-sectional shapes (L-shaped, I-shaped, T-shaped, triangular, quadrilateral, etc.).
- Alternative embodiments of stud 224 can be hollow, solid, or have both hollow and solid cross-sections (taken transversely to the longitudinal dimension of the stud), and can include grooved, dimpled, and/or smooth surfaces for securing a wall panel thereto.
- Each groove 260 in the illustrated embodiment is V-shaped (in cross-section taken transversely to the longitudinal dimension of the stud), extends along the length, L of the sidewall 236 , 240 , and is positioned immediately adjacent another groove 260 such that a series of grooves 260 extends along the width, W of each sidewall 236 , 240 .
- each groove 260 on one surface 236 a of the sidewall is offset from a groove 260 on the opposite surface 236 b of the sidewall such that the thickness, T of the sidewall 236 remains constant.
- one or more grooves 260 can extend along the entire length of the sidewalls 236 , 240 or web 232 of a stud 224 , or any portion thereof. Similarly, adjacent grooves 260 in a series can be spaced apart by various distances. The grooves 260 can be oriented to extend in any direction, can have any cross-sectional shape, and can vary in length, width, and height.
- the stud 224 can be composed of, for example, polyvinylchloride (PVC) or other plastic materials or wood composite or other composite materials, and can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, or and/or other processes.
- the studs 24 may be composed of steel or other metallic materials, and can be formed by extrusion, stamping, folding, and/or other processes.
- the studs 224 can be composed of wood. The grooves can be formed during or after the manufacture of the stud.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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- Structural Engineering (AREA)
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- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Load-Bearing And Curtain Walls (AREA)
Abstract
A frame assembly for supporting a wall panel includes a stud configured to engage and support the wall panel, the stud having an end portion. The frame assembly also includes a track member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls. The track member defines a longitudinal axis. The frame assembly further includes an engagement member coupled to the base of the track member and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. The engagement member defines a slot that receives the end portion of the stud to support the stud.
Description
- The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/430,866, filed Jan. 7, 2011, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
- The present invention relates to frame assemblies for supporting wall panels.
- In one embodiment, the invention provides a frame assembly for supporting a wall panel. The frame assembly includes a stud configured to engage and support the wall panel. The stud includes an end portion. A track member has a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls. The track member defines a longitudinal axis. An engagement member is coupled to the base of the track member and extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. The engagement member defines a slot that receives the end portion of the stud to support the stud.
- In another embodiment, the invention provides a frame assembly for supporting a wall panel. The frame assembly includes a plurality of studs. Each stud has a grooved surface and a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. The plurality of studs are configured to engage and support the wall panel along the grooved surface. A first track member has a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls. The first track member defines a first longitudinal axis. A first engagement member is coupled to the base of the first track member and extends parallel to the first longitudinal axis. The first engagement member defines a first plurality of slots spaced apart along the first longitudinal axis. The first plurality of slots receives the first end portions of the plurality of studs. A second track member has a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls. The second track member defines a second longitudinal axis. A second engagement member is coupled to the base of the second track member and extends parallel to the second longitudinal axis. The second engagement member defines a second plurality of slots spaced apart along the second longitudinal axis. The second plurality of slots receives the second end portions of the plurality of studs to support the plurality of studs between the first track member and the second track member.
- Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a frame assembly embodying the invention. -
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the frame assembly shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a plan view of a stud for use with the frame assembly shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is an enlarged end view of the stud shown inFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 is a plan view of a track member for use with the frame assembly shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the track member shown inFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 is an enlarged end view of the track member shown inFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of another track member for use with a frame assembly. -
FIG. 9 illustrates another frame assembly embodying the invention. -
FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the frame assembly shown inFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of another portion of the frame assembly shown inFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of a stud for use with the frame assembly shown inFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 13 is an enlarged end view of a stud according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of the stud ofFIG. 13 . - Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.
-
FIGS. 1-2 illustrate aframe assembly 20 embodying the invention. In the illustrated construction, theframe assembly 20 is configured to support one or more wall panels, such as, for example, drywall sheets, wood panels, glass panels, sheetrock, or other vertical wall panels. In other constructions, theframe assembly 20 may be configured to support other types of panels or may be configured to support other vertical or non-vertical members. - The illustrated
frame assembly 20 includes a plurality ofstuds 24 and atrack member 28. As shown inFIGS. 1-4 , eachstud 24 is an elongated member having a C-shaped cross-section defined by aweb 32 and twosidewalls sidewalls web 32 to define achannel 44 therebetween.Edge portions sidewalls sidewalls studs 24 may be composed of, for example, polyvinylchloride (PVC) or other plastic materials. In other constructions, thestuds 24 may be composed of rolled steel or other metallic materials. In still other constructions, thestuds 24 may be composed of wood. Thestuds 24 are configured to engage and support the wall panels. For example, a wall panel may extend over two or moresuccessive studs 24 and be secured thereto. In some constructions, the wall panels may be nailed, screwed, adhesively bonded or otherwise secured to thesidewalls studs 24. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-2 and 5-7, thetrack member 28 is an elongated member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by abase 56 and twosidewalls sidewalls base 56 to define achannel 68 therebetween. Thetrack member 28 defines alongitudinal axis 72 extending the length of themember 28. In the illustrated construction, thetrack member 28 is composed of PVC and may be extruded in a direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis 72. In other constructions, thetrack member 28 may be composed of other suitable rolled or extruded materials such as, for example, steel or extrudable plastics. Thetrack member 28 may be coupled (e.g., nailed, screwed, glued, or otherwise fixedly secured) to, for example, a floor or baseboard to support thestuds 24 in a generally vertical manner. - The
track member 28 also includes a pair ofengagement members engagement members base 56 of thetrack member 28 and extend into thechannel 68 defined by thesidewalls engagement members base 56 of thetrack member 28 such that theengagement members track member 28 in a direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis 72. In other constructions, theengagement members track member 28 may be roll formed in the direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis 72. Alternatively, theengagement members track member 28 may be machined or formed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In still other constructions, theengagement members track member 28 using other suitable molding, machining, stamping, or forming techniques. In further constructions, theengagement members track member 28. - The illustrated
track member 28 includes twoengagement members sidewalls longitudinal axis 72. In other constructions, thetrack member 28 may include a single engagement member that extends parallel to thelongitudinal axis 72. In still other constructions, thetrack member 28 may include three or more engagement members that are spaced apart from one another and extend parallel to thelongitudinal axis 72. In the illustrated construction, theengagement members base 56 of thetrack member 28. In other constructions, such as the construction illustrated inFIG. 8 , theengagement members base 56 of thetrack member 28. - As shown in
FIGS. 5-7 , eachengagement member slots FIGS. 1-2 ) of thestuds 24 to support thestuds 24. In the illustrated construction, theslots longitudinal axis 72 of thetrack member 28. Eachslot engagement member corresponding slot other engagement member longitudinal axis 72 extends parallel to and through one of theslots 84 of thefirst engagement member 76 and one of theslots 88 of thesecond engagement member 80. As such, eachstud 24 is received in and engaged by bothengagement members stud 24 in the generally vertical manner. - In the illustrated construction, the
slots longitudinal axis 72 to support thestuds 24 at predetermined distances from one another. For example, in one construction, theslots engagement member studs 24 are spaced 16″ or 24″ apart when coupled to thetrack member 28. In other constructions, theslots adjacent studs 24 without having to use every slot. - Referring to
FIGS. 1-2 , the end portion 92 (e.g., bottom) of eachstud 24 is received in a pair ofcorresponding slots engagement members studs 24 extend generally perpendicularly from thebase 56 of thetrack member 28. Although not shown, it should be readily understood that theframe assembly 20 can also include a second track member including similar engagement members. Slots in the engagement members of the second track member receive an opposite end portion (e.g., top) of eachstud 24 to capture and support thestuds 24 between the track members (i.e., between an upper track member and a lower track member). When theend portions 92 of thestuds 24 are received in theslots sidewalls track member 28 engage thesidewalls studs 24 to inhibit lateral movement of thestuds 24 relative to thetrack member 28. Similarly, theengagement members webs 32 of thestuds 24 to inhibit longitudinal movement of thestuds 24 relative to thetrack member 28. Thestuds 24 are thereby vertically supported by thetrack member 28 without using additional fasteners or securing elements, such as screws, nails, brackets, or clips. -
FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative construction of atrack member 96 for use with theframe assembly 20 shown inFIG. 1 . Similar to thetrack member 28 shown inFIGS. 5-7 , the illustratedtrack member 96 is an elongated member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by abase 100 and twosidewalls sidewalls channel 112 therebetween. Thetrack member 96 defines alongitudinal axis 116 extending the length of themember 96. - The
track member 96 also includesengagement members base 100 and extend into thechannel 112. The illustratedengagement members track member 96, but only extend along a portion of thebase 100. In other constructions, theengagement members track member 96. Similar to theengagement members engagement members slot studs 24 shown inFIGS. 1-2 ). However, since theengagement members base 100, thetrack member 96 includes multiple sets or pairs ofengagement members -
FIGS. 9-11 illustrate anotherframe assembly 136 embodying the invention. Similar to theframe assembly 20 shown inFIGS. 1-2 , the illustratedframe assembly 136 includes a plurality ofstuds 140, a first orupper track member 144, and a second orlower track member 148. Although not illustrated or described in detail, thetrack members track member 28 shown inFIGS. 5-7 or to thetrack member 96 shown inFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 12 illustrates one of thestuds 140 of theframe assembly 136 in detail. Thestud 140 is an elongated member having a C-shaped cross-section defined by aweb 152 and twosidewalls sidewalls web 152 to define achannel 164 therebetween. In the illustrated construction, two gaps orcutouts end portion 176 of thestud 140. Thefirst gap 168 is formed between theweb 152 and thefirst sidewall 156 and thesecond gap 172 is formed between theweb 152 and thesecond sidewall 160 such that theweb 152 is disconnected from thesidewalls end portion 176. Such an arrangement allows movement of aportion 180 of theweb 152 relative to thesidewalls studs 140 with thetrack members portion 180 of theweb 152 may bend or deflect relative to thesidewalls engagement members FIGS. 1-2 or theengagement members FIG. 8 ) during assembly. In some constructions, a portion of theweb 152 may also be similarly disconnected from thesidewalls stud 140. - Referring back to
FIGS. 9-11 , during installation and assembly, theupper track member 144 and thelower track member 148 are coupled (e.g., nailed, screwed, glued, or otherwise fixedly secured) to, for example, a ceiling and a floor, respectively. An end portion 184 (e.g., top) of eachstud 140 is inserted into slots in the engagement members of theupper track member 144. Once coupled to theupper track member 144, thestuds 140 are pivoted relative to thetrack members stud 140 is received in slots in the engagement members on thelower track member 148. In some constructions, thestuds 140 may be coupled to thelower track member 148 first and then pivoted to couple to theupper track member 144. As eachstud 140 swings relative to thelower track member 148, the disconnected portion 180 (FIG. 12 ) of theweb 152 contacts the engagement members of thelower track member 148 and is deflected. Thestud 140 can thereby continue to pivot relative to thelower track member 148 until the disconnectedportion 180 is aligned with the slots in the engagement members and snaps into place. The slots in thelower track member 148 are generally aligned with the slots in theupper track member 144 such that, when the disconnectedportion 180 snaps into the slots, thestud 140 extends generally perpendicularly between the upper andlower track members - In constructions where the
web 152 of thestud 140 is not disconnected from thesidewalls stud 24 illustrated inFIGS. 3-4 , theframe assembly 136 may be assembled in a similar manner. However, rather than only deflecting a portion of theweb 152 relative to thesidewalls entire end portion 176 of thestud 140 may bend or deflect slightly to clear the engagement members until theweb 152 is aligned with the slots and snaps into place. -
FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate astud 224 according to another embodiment of the invention. Although not illustrated or described in detail, thestud 224 can be used in place ofstud 24 in any of theframe assemblies - As described with respect to the embodiment of
FIGS. 3 and 4 , thestud 224 can be an elongated member having a generally C-shaped cross-section (taken transversely to the longitudinal dimension of the stud) which includes aweb 232 and twosidewalls sidewalls web 232 to define achannel 244 therebetween.Edge portions sidewalls sidewalls Stud 224 can be configured to engage and support wall panels or other loads, which can be nailed, screwed, or otherwise secured to theweb 232 orsidewalls more studs 224. -
FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate an embodiment in which sidewalls 236, 240 includegrooves 260 on one or more surfaces. One ormore grooves 260 can facilitate the securing of a wall panel to thestud 224 with a fastener (screw, nail, etc.) by providing a seat for the tip of the fastener as it is being installed, and can improve the stiffness, stability, and/or strength of thesidewall stud 224. - Alternatively, or in addition, dimples or similar notches in the surface of a
sidewall stud 224 can have a different number ofwebs 232 and/orsidewalls stud 224 can be hollow, solid, or have both hollow and solid cross-sections (taken transversely to the longitudinal dimension of the stud), and can include grooved, dimpled, and/or smooth surfaces for securing a wall panel thereto. - Each
groove 260 in the illustrated embodiment is V-shaped (in cross-section taken transversely to the longitudinal dimension of the stud), extends along the length, L of thesidewall groove 260 such that a series ofgrooves 260 extends along the width, W of eachsidewall FIG. 13 , eachgroove 260 on onesurface 236 a of the sidewall is offset from agroove 260 on theopposite surface 236 b of the sidewall such that the thickness, T of thesidewall 236 remains constant. - In some embodiments, one or
more grooves 260 can extend along the entire length of thesidewalls web 232 of astud 224, or any portion thereof. Similarly,adjacent grooves 260 in a series can be spaced apart by various distances. Thegrooves 260 can be oriented to extend in any direction, can have any cross-sectional shape, and can vary in length, width, and height. - In the illustrated construction, the
stud 224 can be composed of, for example, polyvinylchloride (PVC) or other plastic materials or wood composite or other composite materials, and can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, or and/or other processes. In other constructions, thestuds 24 may be composed of steel or other metallic materials, and can be formed by extrusion, stamping, folding, and/or other processes. In still other constructions, thestuds 224 can be composed of wood. The grooves can be formed during or after the manufacture of the stud. - Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention as described. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. A frame assembly for supporting a wall panel comprising:
a stud configured to engage and support the wall panel, the stud having an end portion;
a track member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls, the track member defining a longitudinal axis; and
an engagement member coupled to the base of the track member and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, the engagement member defining a slot that receives the end portion of the stud to support the stud.
2. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the engagement member is integrally formed as one piece with the base.
3. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the engagement member, base, and sidewalls are integrally formed as one piece.
4. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the engagement member is removably coupled with the base.
5. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the slot has an orientation substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
6. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the slot comprises a plurality of slots substantially, evenly spaced apart with respect to the longitudinal axis.
7. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the track member has a longitudinal length, and wherein the engagement member extends substantially the entire longitudinal length.
8. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the engagement member includes a first engagement member and a second engagement member.
9. The frame of claim 7 , wherein the first engagement member and the second engagement member extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.
10. The frame assembly of claim 8 , where the first engagement member defines a first slot and the second engagement member defines a second slot, the first slot and the second slot being substantially aligned along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis.
11. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the engagement member includes a plurality of discrete engagement members substantially, evenly spaced apart with respect to the longitudinal axis.
12. The frame assembly of claim 11 , wherein each of the plurality of discrete engagement members defines a slot.
13. The frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the stud has a C-shaped cross section defined by a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a web extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.
14. The frame assembly of claim 13 , wherein at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall includes a grooved surface.
15. A frame assembly for supporting a wall panel, comprising:
a plurality of studs, each stud having a grooved surface and a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion, the plurality of studs configured to engage and support the wall panel along the grooved surface;
a first track member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls, the first track member defining a first longitudinal axis;
a first engagement member coupled to the base of the first track member and extending parallel to the first longitudinal axis, the first engagement member defining a first plurality of slots spaced apart along the first longitudinal axis, the first plurality of slots receiving the first end portions of the plurality of studs;
a second track member having a generally U-shaped cross-section defined by a base and two sidewalls, the second track member defining a second longitudinal axis; and
a second engagement member coupled to the base of the second track member and extending parallel to the second longitudinal axis, the second engagement member defining a second plurality of slots spaced apart along the second longitudinal axis, the second plurality of slots receiving the second end portions of the plurality of studs to support the plurality of studs between the first track member and the second track member.
16. The frame assembly of claim 15 , wherein each stud comprises a first side wall, a second sidewall, and a web extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.
17. The frame assembly of claim 16 , wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes the grooved surface.
18. The frame assembly of claim 15 , wherein each slot of the first plurality of slots has an orientation substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.
19. The frame assembly of claim 18 , where each slot of the second plurality of slots has an orientation substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis.
20. The frame assembly of claim 15 , wherein each slot of the first plurality of slots is substantially aligned with a slot of the second plurality of slots.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/344,209 US20120174524A1 (en) | 2011-01-07 | 2012-01-05 | Frame assembly for supporting a wall panel |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201161430866P | 2011-01-07 | 2011-01-07 | |
US13/344,209 US20120174524A1 (en) | 2011-01-07 | 2012-01-05 | Frame assembly for supporting a wall panel |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20120174524A1 true US20120174524A1 (en) | 2012-07-12 |
Family
ID=46454130
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US13/344,209 Abandoned US20120174524A1 (en) | 2011-01-07 | 2012-01-05 | Frame assembly for supporting a wall panel |
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US (1) | US20120174524A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2018526656A (en) * | 2015-06-19 | 2018-09-13 | オーエムジー インコーポレイテッド | Mounting system and method for mapping building components |
USD1021151S1 (en) | 2021-04-26 | 2024-04-02 | Jaimes Industries, Inc. | Framing member |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3989399A (en) * | 1974-10-04 | 1976-11-02 | Slowbe Joseph A | Structural joint assembly |
US5325651A (en) * | 1988-06-24 | 1994-07-05 | Uniframes Holdings Pty. Limited | Wall frame structure |
US6748705B2 (en) * | 2002-08-21 | 2004-06-15 | Leszek Orszulak | Slotted M-track support |
US6983569B1 (en) * | 1999-08-09 | 2006-01-10 | Zev Rosenberg | Modular metal wall framing system |
US7451573B2 (en) * | 2005-02-25 | 2008-11-18 | Leszek Orszulak | Slotted M-track beam structures and related wall assemblies |
-
2012
- 2012-01-05 US US13/344,209 patent/US20120174524A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3989399A (en) * | 1974-10-04 | 1976-11-02 | Slowbe Joseph A | Structural joint assembly |
US5325651A (en) * | 1988-06-24 | 1994-07-05 | Uniframes Holdings Pty. Limited | Wall frame structure |
US6983569B1 (en) * | 1999-08-09 | 2006-01-10 | Zev Rosenberg | Modular metal wall framing system |
US6748705B2 (en) * | 2002-08-21 | 2004-06-15 | Leszek Orszulak | Slotted M-track support |
US7451573B2 (en) * | 2005-02-25 | 2008-11-18 | Leszek Orszulak | Slotted M-track beam structures and related wall assemblies |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2018526656A (en) * | 2015-06-19 | 2018-09-13 | オーエムジー インコーポレイテッド | Mounting system and method for mapping building components |
USD1021151S1 (en) | 2021-04-26 | 2024-04-02 | Jaimes Industries, Inc. | Framing member |
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