FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a fastening assembly for a structure. The invention also relates to a structural assembly, and to a method of assembling a structure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The fastening of structural components, such as decking planks, or similar structural components, to a substructure, such as an array of joists is traditionally done by nailing or screwing the structural components to the substructure to form a structure, such as a deck or decking. This requires that each structural component be evenly spaced from a preceding structural component prior to fastening the structural component to the substructure. When the structure is a deck or decking, it is usual for spacers to be used to achieve such consistent spacing between the decking planks.

However, it remains a relatively difficult job for a layperson to secure decking planks to joists in an aesthetically and functionally acceptable manner. One of the issues is the fact that individual openings are often required to be drilled through the decking planks and partially into the joists prior to screwing in the screws, or otherwise driving fasteners, such as nails, through the openings and the joists. This drilling of openings is particularly necessary with hardwoods to avoid splitting, or deformation of the screws or nails during the fastening process. Not only is the process time-consuming, but there is the added aesthetic requirement that the openings be evenly spaced so that heads of the fasteners are set out in an acceptable pattern.

An issue with the fastening of planks to joists by using fasteners that pass through the planks is that it can be difficult to dismantle the decking without damaging the planks. This is particularly undesirable when the planks have high value, such as hardwood planks, and are required to be re-used or recycled. Even if the planks can be removed without splintering or cracking, the fasteners need to be removed, leaving openings in the planks. This limits the ability to recycle the planks.

A variety of fastening arrangements have become available, which are directed to achieving a quicker and simpler deck assembly process.

However, such fastening arrangements often require that the decking planks be modified to suit the fastening arrangements. This can include a groove or shoulder extending along vertical sides of the decking planks. As a result, such fastening arrangements are not suitable for conventional planks, thus limiting the choice of decking. Furthermore, planks of high-value timber, such as various hardwoods, are generally not provided with such grooves or shoulders. Such planks are often recycled and refurbished from older sites, so are usually conventional, with generally flat sides. It follows that such fastening arrangements are not suitable for such planks.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening assembly for a structure having a plurality of structural components fastened to a substructure, the fastening assembly comprising: a spacer for positioning on a substructure between adjacent structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the structural components; and at least one gripping member, the, or each, gripping member including opposed arms and a web that interconnects the arms, with the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured so that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent structural components to secure the structural components to the spacer.

The spacer may define at least one passage that extends, top to bottom, through the spacer, the web of the, or each, gripping member defining an opening, so that a shank of a fastener can be received through the web and the passage to engage the substructure and drive the, or each, gripping member towards the substructure so that the spacer is received between the arms, as the spacer is fastened to the substructure.

The spacer may include end locating formations and an intermediate portion interposed between the end locating formations, the intermediate portion being receivable between the arms of the, or each, gripping member, the intermediate portion and the arms being configured so that when the intermediate portion is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that the free ends of the arms bear against the respective adjacent sides of said adjacent structural components.

The intermediate portion may define at least one spreader formation that is receivable between the arms of the, or each respective, gripping member to drive the arms apart as the gripping member is driven towards the substructure.

The, or each, spreader formation may have opposed sloped surfaces that extend downwardly and outwardly from the upper face of the spacer to facilitate driving the arms apart as the, or each, gripping member is driven towards the substructure.

Each arm of the, or each, gripping member may have a gripping portion that terminates the arm. The gripping portions may extend outwardly to correspond with the sloped surfaces of the spreader formation.

Each gripping portion may define a pointed end that can be driven into the structural components as the gripping member is driven towards the substructure.

The intermediate portion may define guide slots on respective sides of the, or each, spreader formation, the, or each respective, gripping member having opposed walls that depend from respective sides of the web, each wall having two slots to define the arm and two legs, with the arm interposed between the legs, the legs and the guide slots being configured so that the legs can slide into the guide slots as the, or each, gripping member is driven towards the substructure.

The fastening assembly may include two spreader formations, the intermediate portion defining a central portion interposed between end portions, each end portion being interposed between the central portion and one of the end locating formations, and each end portion defining one of the spreader formations.

The central portion may define opposed faces, and each spreader formation may define opposed faces that terminate the sloped surfaces, the faces of the central portion and spreader formations being substantially aligned with each other.

The fastening assembly may include one gripping member and one corresponding spreader formation, the spreader formation being interposed between the end locating formations.

The fastening assembly may include at least one cover mechanism that is operatively engageable with the spacer to cover the, or each respective, gripping member to protect the gripping member. The cover mechanism may include a cover that is engageable with the spacer. The, or each, cover may be hinged to the spacer and pivotal between an operative position in which the cover is located over the, or each respective, gripping member, and an inoperative position in which the cover is positioned away from the, or each respective, gripping member to facilitate access to the gripping member.

The substructure may include a plurality of joists and the spacer may be shaped to accommodate an upper side of a joist, to facilitate positioning of the spacer on the joist.

The spacer may define at least one recess on each of the sides of the spacer, and accessible from an upper face of the spacer. Each arm of the gripping member may be slidably receivable, from the upper face towards a lower face of the spacer, in a respective one of the recesses, the recesses being shaped so that the arms are driven away from each other as the arms slide downwardly in the respective recesses.

At least a portion of a floor of each recess may be ramped outwardly and downwardly to cause the arms to be driven away from each other as the gripping member is driven downwardly.

The free end of each arm may define an outwardly extending ridge for embedding in the structural components when the arms are driven away from each other.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a structural assembly that comprises: a substructure; a plurality of structural components positioned on the structural components; and a plurality of fastening assemblies as described above.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assembling a structural assembly as described above, the method comprising the steps of: positioning the structural components on the substructure; positioning the spacer between adjacent structural components to set a spacing between the structural components; and driving the, or each, gripping member towards the substructure so that the spacer is received between the arms and the arms are driven away from each other to bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent structural components. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a structural assembly that comprises: a substructure; a plurality of structural components positioned on the substructure; and a plurality of fastening assemblies, each fastening assembly comprising: a spacer for positioning on the substructure between adjacent structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the structural components; and at least one gripping member, the gripping member including opposed arms and a web that interconnects the arms, with the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured so that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent structural components to secure the structural components to the spacer.

The substructure may include a plurality of joists, and the structural components may include a series of decking planks positioned on the joists. The spacer may be configured for positioning on one of the joists.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assembling a structural assembly having a plurality of structural components fastened to a substructure with a fastening assembly that comprises a spacer for positioning on the substructure between adjacent structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the structural components, and at least one gripping member, the, or each, gripping member including opposed arms and a web that interconnects the arms, with the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured so that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent structural components to secure the structural components to the spacer, the method comprising the steps of: positioning at least two of the structural components on the substructure; positioning the spacer between the structural components to set a spacing between the structural components; and driving the, or each, gripping member towards the substructure so that the spacer is received between the arms and the arms are driven away from each other to bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent structural components. The structural assembly may be a decking assembly. The substructure may include a plurality of joists, and the structural components may include a plurality of decking planks positioned on the joist.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening assembly for a structure having a plurality of structural components fastened to a substructure, the fastening assembly comprising: a spacer for positioning on a substructure between adjacent structural components, the spacer being configured to maintain a desired spacing between the structural components and being fastenable to either the substructure or the structural components, or to both the substructure and the structural components; and a cover mechanism that is arranged on the spacer, in a detachable manner, for at least partially covering an operatively upper face of the spacer.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a fastening assembly for decking having a plurality of joists with planks positioned on the joists, the fastening assembly comprising: a spacer for positioning on a joist between adjacent planks, the spacer having a predetermined overall thickness so that the spacer serves to maintain a desired spacing between the planks; and at least one gripping member, the gripping member including opposed arms and a web that interconnects the arms, with the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured so that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent planks to secure the planks to the spacer.

The spacer may define at least one passage that extends top to bottom, through the spacer, the web of the, or each, gripping member defining an opening, so that a shank of a fastener can be received through the web and the passage to engage the joist and drive the gripping member towards the joist so that the spacer is received between the arms, as the spacer is fastened to the joist.

The spacer may include end locating formations with a width corresponding to the predetermined thickness, and an intermediate portion interposed between the end locating formations, the intermediate portion being receivable between the arms of the, or each, gripping member, the intermediate portion and the arms being configured so that when the intermediate portion is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that the free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent planks.

The intermediate portion may define at least one spreader formation that is receivable between the arms of the gripping member to spread the arms as the gripping member is driven downwardly.

The, or each, spreader formation may have opposed sloped surfaces that extend downwardly and outwardly from the upper face of the spacer to facilitate spreading of the arms as the gripping member is driven downwardly.

Each arm of the gripping member may have a gripping portion that terminates the arm, the gripping portions extending outwardly to complement the sloped surfaces of the spreader formation.

Each gripping portion may define a sharpened point that can be driven into the planks, as the gripping member is driven towards the joist.

The intermediate portion may define guide slots on respective sides of the, or each, spreader formation, the gripping member having opposed walls that depend from respective sides of the web, each wall having two slots to define the arm and two legs, with the arm interposed between the legs, the legs and the guide slots being configured so that the legs can slide into the guide slots to bring the opening in the web into register with the passage through the spacer.

The fastening assembly may include two spreader formations, the intermediate portion defining a central portion interposed between end portions, each end portion being interposed between the central portion and one of the end locating formations, each end portion defining one of the spreader formations.

The central portion may define opposed faces, and each spreader formation may define opposed faces that terminate the sloped surfaces, the faces of the central portion and spreader formations being aligned with each other.

Opposed feet may extend from respective faces of the central portion.

The fastening assembly may include one gripping member and one corresponding spreader formation, the spreader formation being interposed between the end locating formations. The fastening assembly may include a cover mechanism that is operatively engageable with the spacer to cover the, or each, gripping member to protect the gripping member.

The cover mechanism may include at least one cover that is engageable with the spacer, the, or each, cover being hinged to the spacer and pivotal between an operative position in which the cover is located over the gripping member, and an inoperative position in which the cover is positioned away from the gripping member to facilitate access to the gripping member.

The, or each, cover and the spacer may include complementary, releasable securing formations so that the cover can be secured to the spacer in the operative position, and released from the spacer to be pivoted into the inoperative position.

The spacer may be shaped to accommodate an upper side of the joist, to facilitate positioning of the spacer on the joist.

The spacer may define at least one recess on each of the sides of the spacer, and accessible from the upper face of the spacer, each arm of the gripping member being slidably receivable, from the upper face towards a lower face of the spacer, in a respective one of the recesses, the recesses being shaped so that the arms are driven away from each other as the arms slide downwardly in the respective recesses.

At least a portion of a floor of each recess may be ramped outwardly and downwardly to cause the arms to be driven away from each other as the gripping member is driven downwardly.

The free end of each arm may define an outwardly extending ridge for embedding in the planks when the arms are driven away from each other.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a decking assembly that comprises: a series of spaced joists; a series of decking planks positioned, side-by-side on the joists, transversely with respect to the joists; and a plurality of fastening assemblies interposed between the decking planks, each fastening assembly comprising: a spacer for positioning on one of the joists between adjacent planks, the spacer having a predetermined overall thickness so that the opposed sides serve to maintain a spacing between the planks; and at least one gripping member, the gripping member including opposed arms and a web that interconnects the arms, with the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured so that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent planks to secure the planks to the spacer.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assembling a deck with the fastening assembly described above, the method comprising the steps of: positioning at least two decking planks on a set of joists; positioning the spacer of the fastening assembly between the planks to set a spacing between the decking planks; and driving the gripping member towards the joist so that the spacer is received between the arms and the arms are driven away from each other to bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent planks.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assembling decking having a plurality of joists with planks positioned on the joists, with a fastening assembly that comprises a spacer for positioning on a joist between adjacent planks, the spacer having a predetermined overall thickness so that the spacer serves to maintain a desired spacing between the planks, and at least one gripping member including opposed arms and a web that interconnects the arms, with the spacer being receivable between the arms, the spacer and the arms being configured so that when the spacer is received between the arms, the arms are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent planks to secure the planks to the spacer, the method comprising the steps of: positioning at least two decking planks on a set of joists; positioning the spacer between the planks to set a spacing between the decking planks; and driving the gripping member towards the joist so that the spacer is received between the arms and the arms are driven away from each other to bear against respective adjacent sides of said adjacent planks.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided decking assembled according to the above method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a three dimensional, exploded view of one embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a structure in the form of a deck or decking, in use.

Figure 2 shows the fastening assembly of figure 1 , in use.

Figure 3 shows a schematic, sectioned side view of the fastening assembly of figure 1 , in use.

Figures 4a-4c show three consecutive stages in the use of the fastening assembly of figure 1.

Figure 5 shows a three-dimensional view of a spacer of the fastening assembly of figure 1.

Figure 6 shows a three dimensional, exploded view of one embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a structure in the form of a deck or decking, in use.

Figure 7 shows the fastening assembly of figure 6, in use, with cover mechanisms in an open condition.

Figure 8 shows the fastening assembly of figure 6, in use, with cover mechanisms in a closed condition.

Figure 9 shows a schematic, sectioned side view of the fastening assembly of figure 6, in use. Figure 10 shows a detailed view of the part “A” in figure 9.

Figures 11 a-11d show four consecutive stages in the use of the fastening assembly of figure 6.

Figure 12 shows a three-dimensional view of a spacer of the fastening assembly of figure 6.

Figure 13 shows an embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a structure in the form of a deck or decking, in a partially exploded condition.

Figure 14 shows a three-dimensional view of a spacer of the fastening assembly of figure 13.

Figure 15 shows a plurality of the fastening assemblies of figure 6 used for fastening decking planks to joists to form a deck.

Figure 16 shows a deck that has been assembled using the fastening assemblies of figure 6.

Figure 17 shows a three-dimensional view of one embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a deck or decking, in use.

Figure 18 shows a plurality of the fastening assemblies of figure 17 used for fastening decking planks to joists to form a deck.

Figure 19 shows part of a deck that has been assembled using the fastening assemblies of figure 17.

Figure 20 shows a three-dimensional view of a gripping member of the fastening assembly of figure 17.

Figure 21 shows a three-dimensional view of a spacer of the fastening assembly of figure 17.

Figure 22 shows a schematic, sectioned view of a structure with the fastening assembly of figure 17, in use.

Figure 23 shows a detailed view of the part “A” in figure 22.

Figures 24a-24d show four consecutive stages in the use of the fastening assembly of figure 17. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the drawings, reference numeral 10 generally indicates an embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a structural assembly in the form of a decking assembly or decking 12, also in accordance with the invention.

The decking 12 includes a substructure in the form of a plurality of joists, one of which is shown at 14, and structural components in the form of decking planks 16 positioned on the joists 14 (figure 16).

The fastening assembly 10 includes a spacer 18 for positioning on a joist 14 between adjacent planks 16.1 , 16.2. The spacer 18 is fastenable to the joists 14. For convenience and ease of description, one joist 14 and two planks 16.1 , 16.2 are shown. It will readily be appreciated that the decking 12 includes a plurality of the joists 14 and planks 16 (see figures 15, 16).

The spacer 18 has opposed upper and lower faces 20, 22, and opposed sides 24, 26 (figure 4a, 4b, 5). The spacer 18 has a predetermined overall thickness so that the spacer 18 can serve to maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16. It will be appreciated that the spacer 18 can have a wide range of dimensions, whether it be height, width, or overall thickness, to suit various dimensions of joists and planks.

The fastening assembly 10 includes two gripping members 28. Each gripping member 28 includes opposed arms 30.1 , 30.2 and a web 32 that interconnects the arms 30. The spacer 18 is receivable between the arms 30.1 , 30.2. The spacer 18 and the arms 30.1 , 30.2 are configured so that when the spacer 18 is received between the arms 30.1 , 30.2, the arms 30.1 , 30.2 are driven away from each other, or spread, as the web 32 is displaced or driven towards the upper face 20, so that free ends 42 of the arms 30 bear against respective adjacent vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 of said adjacent planks 16. This is shown in figure 3, where the displacement of the arms 30.1 , 30.2 is exaggerated for illustrative purposes.

The spacer 18 defines two recesses 36 in the side 24, and two recesses 38 in the side 26, the recesses 36 being aligned with respective recesses 38 (figure 5). The recesses 36, 38 are accessible from the upper face 20. Thus, when viewed from above, a profile of the spacer 18 defines two, spaced narrowed portions 40. Each recess 36, 38 includes an operatively vertical floor 44 having a lower sloped or ramped portion 46 that is sloped or ramped outwardly and downwardly. The arms 30.1 , 30.2 of each gripping member 28 have a width that corresponds generally with a width of the recesses 36, 38. The arms 30.1 , 30.2 are spaced to correspond generally with a thickness of each narrowed portion 40. Thus, each gripping member 28 can be slid into engagement with the spacer 18 such that the narrowed portions 40 are interposed between the arms 30.1 , 30.2 of respective gripping members 28. Furthermore, when the ramped portions 46 of each floor 44 engage respective arms 30.1 , 30.2, the arms 30.1 , 30.2 are driven apart.

Thus, in use, when the spacer 18 is interposed between vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 of the decking planks 16.1 , 16.2, respectively, the gripping members 28 can be slid into engagement with the spacer 18 until the arms 30.1 , 30.2 are driven apart and bear against the vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 to grip the planks 16.1 , 16.2, as described above.

The spacer 18 defines two passages 48 that extend, top to bottom, through the spacer 18, from the upper face 20, at the narrowed portion 40, to the lower face 22. The web 32 of each gripping member 28 defines an opening 50 (figure 4a). The openings 50 and the passages 48 are positioned so that, when each narrowed portion 40 is received between the respective two arms 30.1 , 30.2, the openings 50 are brought into alignment with the respective passages 48. A threaded shank 52 of a fastener in the form of a screw 54 is received through corresponding respective openings 50 and passages 48 and driven into the joist 14. During that operation, a head 56 of each screw 54 bears against the web 32, to drive the arms 30.1 , 30.2 over the associated ramped portions 46. This causes the arms 30.1 , 30.2 to be displaced outwardly, to bear against the sides 34.1 , 34.2 (figure 3). The screws 54 can be self-tapping screws suitable for screwing into wooden joists without the need for drilling.

The free ends 42 of the arms 30.1 , 30.2 are defined by an outwardly extending rib or ridge 58 (figure 4c). Thus, when the arms 30 are driven outwardly, the ridges 58 dig into the sides 34.1 , 34.2, to lock the planks 16 relative to the gripping members 28. At the same time, the fasteners 54 serve to fasten the gripping members 28 and the spacer 18 to the joist 14. Thus, the planks 16 are secured to the joist 14 when the screws 54 are driven into the joist 14.

The lower face 22 of the spacer 18 is shaped to accommodate the joists 14 to facilitate positioning of the spacers 18 on the joist 14. To that end, the lower face 22 defines a recess 59 (figures 1 , 4a) that is dimensioned so that the joist 14 can nest in the recess 59. It will be appreciated that the recess 59 can have a range of dimensions suited to various joists. In one example, the recess 59 can have a width that complements a standard joist width.

The spacer 18 is dimensioned so that the heads 56 of the screws 54 are positioned below or flush with a decking surface 62 (figures 2, 8, 16, 19) once the planks 16 are fastened to the joist 14. This facilitates sanding, oiling, or other operations or activities on the decking surface 62 without interference by the screws 54.

In use, the planks 16.1 , 16.2 are laid side-by-side with the spacer 18 interposed between the adjacent vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 of the planks 16.1 , 16.2 (see for example, figure 15). The spacer 18, together with the planks 16.1 , 16.2, can be slidably adjusted relative to the joist 14. This is facilitated by the nesting of the joist 14 in the recess 59. As can be seen in figure 1 , the recesses 36, 38 and the associated vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 of the planks 16.1 , 16.2 define openings 60 when the planks 16.1 , 16.2 are in position (figure 1). The arms 30.1 , 30.2 of each gripping member 28 are received in respective openings 60. The shanks 52 of the screws 54 are then received through the openings 50 and passages 48 and driven into the joist 14. This results in the gripping members 28 being driven towards the joist 14, causing the ridges 58 to dig into the vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 to fasten the planks 16 to the joist 14.

The gripping members 28 are of a resiliently flexible material with sufficient structural integrity to facilitate the necessary gripping action when they are driven towards the joist 14. Thus, the gripping members 28 can be of steel, such as spring steel.

It will be appreciated that it is not necessary to drive any fasteners through the planks 16, or to drill holes in the planks 16, in order to fasten the planks 16 to the joist 14. Furthermore, the planks 16 can be conventional planks of any material, such as hardwood, because the arms 30 grip the planks 16 without the need for grooves or any other formations on the vertical sides 34 of the planks 16. The fact that the planks 16 do not have fasteners driven though them or holes drilled through them significantly reduces the risk of damage to the planks 16.

In figure 6, reference numeral 100 generally indicates an embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a structure in the form of decking 102, also in accordance with the invention (figures 15, 16). With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only and is not intended to narrow the scope of the appended claims, or the above summary. Furthermore, the parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 10 can be interchanged, where feasible, with parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 100.

The fastening assembly 100 includes a spacer 104 (see figure 12 for detail of the spacer 104) for positioning on the joist 14 between the adjacent planks 16.1 , 16.2 (figure 7, 8). As before, for convenience and ease of description, one joist 14 and two planks 16.1 , 16.2 are shown. In figures 15 and 16 a plurality of planks 16 can be seen on two of the joists 14.

The spacer 104 is configured to maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16.1 , 16.2. Thus, the spacer 104 has an overall thickness so that the spacer 104 can maintain the desired spacing between the planks 16.1 , 16.2. during assembly of the decking 102.

The fastening assembly 100 includes two gripping members 114. Each gripping member 114 includes opposed arms 116.1 , 116.2, and a web 118 that interconnects the arms 116.1 , 116.2 The spacer 104 is receivable between the arms 116.1 , 116.2. The spacer 104 and the arms 116.1 , 116.2 are configured so that when the spacer 104 is received between the arms 116.1 , 116.2, and driven towards the joist 14, the arms 116.1 , 116.2 are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms 116.1 , 116.2 bear against the respective adjacent vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 of the adjacent planks 16 (figure 10) to grip the planks 16.1 , 16.2.

Each gripping member 114 includes opposed walls 115.1 , 115.2 (figure 11a). Each wall 115.1 , 115.2 defines two slots 124 extending from the web 118 (figure 11 b). The slots 124 provide or define each arm 116.1 , 116.2, and two legs 128, each arm 116.1 , 116.2 being interposed between the legs 128. The gripping member 114 is of a resiliently flexible material, such as steel, so that the arms 116.1 , 116.2 can flex independently of the legs 128. Each gripping member 114 is of a resiliently flexible material with sufficient structural integrity to facilitate the necessary gripping action when the gripping members 114 are driven towards the joist 14. Thus, the gripping members 114 can be of steel, such as spring steel.

The spacer 104 includes end locating formations, or locators 130, with a width that is the predetermined thickness referenced above (see figure 12 for a detailed view). An intermediate portion 132 is interposed between the locators 130. The intermediate portion 132 and upper ends of the locators 130 are flush to define an upper face 106 of the spacer 104. The intermediate portion 132 includes a central portion 134 interposed between two end portions 136. The central portion 134 has opposed, generally flat faces 138 and a width that is substantially the same as a width of the locators 130. A foot 140 extends from each face 138.

Each end portion 136 defines a spreader formation 144. Each spreader formation 144 includes opposed, raised faces 146 that are in alignment with adjacent faces 138 of the central portion 134. Each end portion 136 defines two spaced guide slots 142 so that each spreader formation 144 is interposed between two sets of two opposed guide slots 142. Each slot 142 is dimensioned to accommodate one of the legs 128, in a sliding fit, to guide movement of the gripping member 114. The legs 128 and the slots 142 also facilitate correct positioning of the gripping member 114 with respect to the spacer 104 prior to driving the gripping member 114 towards the joist 14.

The spreader formation 144 has opposed sloped faces 148 that extend outwardly and downwardly from the upper face 106 to terminate at respective raised faces 146 to facilitate spreading of the arms 116.1 ,116.2 as the gripping member 114 is driven downwardly towards the joist 14.

When the spacer 104 is seated or positioned between the consecutive planks 16.1 , 16.2, the sides 34.1 , 34.2 are retained in a spaced manner with respect to each other by the locators 130, the opposed faces 146 of the spreader formations 144, and the flat faces 138 of the central portion 134 during assembly of the decking 12.

Each arm 116.1 , 116.2 includes an outwardly and downwardly extending end or gripping portion 150 that cooperates with the sloped face 148 of the spreader formation 144 (figure 11b). The sloped faces 148 and the gripping portions 150 are configured so that the legs 128 can be received in respective slots 142 and the gripping member 114 can be driven downwardly so that the sloped faces 148 interact with the gripping portions 150 to spread the arms 116.1 , 116.2 into the condition shown in figures 11 c and 11 d, for example. The gripping portions 150 are dimensioned and shaped to define pointed ends 151 (figure 10, 11c) that can be driven into the associated sides 34.1 , 34.2 when the web 118 is driven towards the intermediate portion 132. This is illustrated in figure 10.

The intermediate portion 132 and the locators 130 are shaped to accommodate an upper side of each joist 14. Thus, a generally rectangular recess 154 (figure 6) is defined by the locators 130 and the intermediate portion 132. The locators 130 and intermediate portion 132 are configured so that the joist 14 can be received in the recess 154 in a manner in which the spacer 104 is located on the joist 14 to facilitate sliding of the spacer 104 to-and-fro on the joist 14 for positional adjustment. Each locator 130 includes a downwardly projecting leg 152 such that the recess 154 is defined between the legs 152.

The web 118 of each gripping member 114 defines an opening 156 (figure 11 a) through which the threaded shank 52 of the screw 54 can be received. The intermediate portion 132 of the spacer 104 defines two passages 160, each between the two raised faces 146 of respective spreader formations 144 and extending, top to bottom, from the upper face 106 through the intermediate portion 132. Thus, each threaded shank 52 can be received through respective aligned openings 156 and passages 160 to be screwed into the joists 14 while the web 118 is driven towards the intermediate portion 132 and the joist 14 by the fastening action of the screw 54, and the spreader formations 144 are received between the arms 116.1 , 116.2 of respective gripping members 114.

In use, two or more of the spacers 104 are positioned or located on the joists 14 to space the planks 16, as shown in figures 7, 8, and 15. In that position, the locators 130, and the faces 138, 146 bear against the adjacent sides 34.1 , 34. 2 to maintain a spacing between the decking planks 16 that is equivalent to the predetermined overall width. The legs 128 can be located partially in the slots 142 with the gripping portions 150 of the gripping members 114 in sliding engagement with the sloped faces 148. The threaded shanks 52 are inserted through the openings 156 and the passages 160 and screwed into the joists 14. During that operation, the head 56 bears against the web 118 and drives it towards the intermediate portion 132, causing the arms 116.1 , 116.2 to be driven away from each other or spread so that the pointed ends 151 are driven into the sides 34.1 , 34.2 to secure the fastening assembly 100 to the planks 16.1 , 16.2, and to the joists 14. Figure 10 shows the orientation of the arms 116.1 , 116.2 in their operative condition.

The fastening assembly 100 includes two cover mechanisms 164 that are operatively engaged with the spacer 104 to cover the gripping members 114 and screws 54 to protect those components. The cover mechanism 164 is configured to be detachably arranged on a body 126 (figure 11c) of the spacer 104 to cover the gripping members 114 and the heads 56 of the screws 54 once the decking planks 16 are secured to the joists 14, as described above.

Each cover mechanism 164 includes a cover 166, for respective gripping members 114 and associated screws 54. Each cover 166 includes a cover body 168 with a width that is substantially the same as the overall width of the body 126 of the spacer 104. This allows the cover body 168 to be received snugly between the planks 16. Each cover 166 includes a hinge 170 that pivotally connects an edge of the cover body 168 to one respective locator 130. The cover body 168 is dimensioned so that it can pivot between an inoperative position (figures 6, 7, 11c), in which the heads 56 and gripping members 114 are uncovered to an operative position (figures 8, 9, 11d), in which the heads 56 and gripping members 114 are covered by the cover bodies 168. The covers 166 are dimensioned so that, when the gripping members 114 are covered, the covers 166 are flush with, or below, the decking surface 62, to facilitate sanding, oiling, and other operations and activities carried out on the decking 12, without interference.

Each of the cover bodies 168 defines a recess 172 (figure 11c) that is configured to accommodate the head 56 of the screw 54. A projection 174 extends from a free end of the cover body 168. The intermediate portion 132 defines two holes 176 (figure 12) that correspond with respective projections 174. The holes 176 and projections 174 are dimensioned so that the projections 174 are a friction fit in the respective holes 176 to secure the covers 166 in their operative positions, allowing the projections 174 to be released from the holes 176 so that the covers 166 can be manipulated into the inoperative positions.

In figure 13, reference numeral 180 generally indicates an embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only and is not intended to narrow the scope of the appended claims, or the above summary. Furthermore, the parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 10, 100 can be interchanged, where feasible, with parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 180.

The fastening assembly 180 has one gripping member 114 and associated screw 54. The fastening assembly 180 is not intended to straddle or nest with the joist 14, as is the case with the assemblies 10, 100. Rather, the fastening assembly 180 is seated on the joist 14, in a desired location.

The fastening assembly 180 includes a spacer 182. The spacer 182 is generally rectangular. The spacer 182 includes two locating formations, or locators 184, and an intermediate portion 186 interposed between the locators 184. Two, opposed feet 188 extend from the locators 184 to rest on the joist 14. The locators 184 and the intermediate portion 186 provide an overall width of the spacer 182 to determine a desired spacing of the planks 16. The intermediate portion 186 includes one spreader formation 190 that is centrally positioned between the locators 184. The spreader formation 190 is substantially the same as the spreader formation 144, with opposed raised faces 192 and opposed sloped faces 196 that extend downwardly and outwardly from an upper end or face 187 of the intermediate portion 186. The faces 192, 196 are substantially the same as the faces 146, 148.

The locators 184 and the spreader formation 190 have substantially the same thickness such that the locators 184 and the raised faces 192, 196 bear against the sides 34.1 , 34,2 to maintain the desired spacing between the planks 16.

The locators 184 and the spreader formation 190 define two spaced slots 193 on each side of the intermediate portion 186. The legs 128 of the gripping member 114 can be received in respective slots 193. The spaced slots 193 serve the same function as the slots 142. The legs 128 of the gripping member 114 can be received in respective slots 193, with the raised and sloped faces 192, 196 interposed between respective two spaced slots 193.

A passage 194 extends from top to bottom through the intermediate portion 186, between the two raised faces 192 to be centrally located between the locators 184. Thus, as can be seen in figure 13, the shank 52 is received through the opening 156 and the passage 194 so that when the gripping member 114 is driven downwardly, as described above, the pointed ends 151 can dig into the sides 34.1 , 34.2, as with the fastening assembly 100, to secure the fastening assembly 180 to the joist 14 and the planks 16.

The fastening assembly 180 includes the cover mechanism 164, with the cover 166 pivotally secured to one of the locators 184 with the hinge 170, and operable as described above.

In figure 17, reference numeral 200 generally indicates an embodiment of a fastening assembly, in accordance with the invention, for a deck or decking 202, also in accordance with the invention (figure 18, 19). With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only and is not intended to narrow the scope of the appended claims, or the above summary. Furthermore, the parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 10, 100 can be interchanged, where feasible, with parts shown with reference to the fastening assembly 200. The fastening assembly 200 includes a spacer 204 (see figure 21 for detail of the spacer 202) for positioning on the joist 14 between the adjacent planks 16.1 , 16.2. As before, for convenience and ease of description, a part of the decking 202 is shown in figure 19 with one joist 14 and the two planks 16.1 , 16.2. In figure 18, a plurality of the planks 16 can be seen on one of the joists 14.

The spacer 204 is configured to maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16.1 ,

16.2. Thus, the spacer 204 has an overall thickness so that the spacer 204 can maintain a desired spacing between the planks 16.1 , 16.2 during assembly of decking 202. Thus, the spacer 204 can be provided with various overall thicknesses depending on the desired spacing.

The fastening assembly 200 is used in the same way as the fastening assembly 100.

The fastening assembly 200 includes two gripping members 206, one of which is shown in detail in figure 20. Each gripping member 206 includes opposed arms

208.1 . 208.2, and a web 210 that interconnects the arms 208.1 , 208.2. The spacer 204 is receivable between the arms 208.1 , 208.2. The spacer 204 and the arms 208.1 , 208.2 are configured so that when the spacer 204 is received between the arms 208.1 , 208.2, and driven towards the joist 14, the arms 208.1 , 208.2 are driven away from each other so that free ends of the arms 208.1 , 208.2 bear against the respective adjacent vertical sides 34.1 , 34.2 of the adjacent planks 16 to grip the planks 16.1 , 16.2 (figures 22, 23).

Each gripping member 206 includes opposed walls 212.1 , 212.2 for positioning between respective sides 34.1 , 34.2 of the planks 16.1 , 16.2. Each wall 212.1 , 212.2 defines two slots 214 extending from the web 210. The slots 214 define or provide each arm 208.1 , 208.2, and two legs 216, each arm 208.1 , 208.2 being interposed between the legs 216. The gripping member 206 is of a resiliently flexible material, such as steel, so that the arms 208.1 , 208.2 can flex independently of the legs 216. Each gripping member 206 is of a resiliently flexible material with sufficient structural integrity to facilitate the necessary gripping action when the gripping members 206 are driven towards the joist 14, as shown in figures 24b and 24c. Thus, the gripping members 206 can be of steel, such as spring steel.

The spacer 204 includes end locating formations, or locators 218. The locators 218 have a width that is the overall thickness referenced above. An intermediate portion 220 with an upper face 222 is interposed between the locators 218. The intermediate portion 220 includes a central portion 224 interposed between two end portions 226. The central portion 224 has opposed, generally flat faces 228 and a width that is substantially the same as a width of the locators 218.

Each end portion 226 defines a spreader formation 232. Each spreader formation 232 includes opposed raised faces 234 that are in alignment with respective adjacent opposed faces 236 of the central portion 224. Each end portion 226 defines two spaced guide slots 237 so that each spreader formation 232 is interposed between two sets of two opposed guide slots 237. Each slot 237 is dimensioned to accommodate one of the legs 216, in a sliding fit, to guide movement of the gripping member 206 (figure 24b). The legs 216 and the slots 237 also facilitate correct positioning of the gripping member 206 with respect to the spacer 204 prior to driving the gripping member 206 towards the joist 14.

The spreader formation 232 has opposed sloped faces 238 that extend outwardly and downwardly from the upper face 222 to terminate at respective raised faces 234 to facilitate spreading of the arms 208.1 , 208.2 as the gripping member 206 is driven downwardly towards the joist 14 (figure 24b and 24c).

When the spacer 204 is seated or positioned between the consecutive planks 16.1 , 16.2, the sides 34.1 , 34.2, of the planks 16.1 , 16.2 are retained in a spaced manner with respect to each other by the locators 218, the spreader formations 232, and the central portion 224 during assembly of the decking 12.

The end 212 of each arm 208.1 , 208.2 extends outwardly and downwardly to define a gripping portion 240 that cooperates with the sloped face 238 of the spreader formation 232 (figure 24b). The sloped faces 238 and the gripping portions 240 are configured so that the legs 216 can be received in respective slots 237 and the gripping member 206 can be driven downwardly so that the sloped faces 238 interact with the gripping portions 242 to spread the arms 208.1 , 208.2. The gripping portions 240 are dimensioned and shaped to define pointed ends 242 that can be driven into the associated sides 34.1 , 34.2 when the web 210 is driven towards the intermediate portion 220. This is illustrated in figure 23.

The intermediate portion 220 and the locators 218 are shaped to accommodate an upper side of each joist 14. Thus, a generally rectangular recess 246 (figure 17) is defined by the locators 218 and the intermediate portion 220. The locators 218 and intermediate portion 220 are configured so that the joist 14 can be received in the recess 246 in the manner in which the spacer 204 is located on the joist 14 to facilitate sliding of the spacer 204 to and fro on the joist 14 for positional adjustment. Each locator 218 includes a downwardly projecting leg 244 such that the recess 246 is defined between the legs 244. Each leg 244 has an inwardly curved profile so that an inherent resilience of the spacer material can be employed to provide the legs 244 with a gripping effect on the joist 14, to further facilitate location of the spacer 204 on the joist 14. The spacer material can be a plastics material that is resiliently flexible, or any other suitable resiliently flexible material. This applies to the spacers of the other embodiments described herein.

The web 210 of each gripping member 206 defines an opening 248 through which the threaded shank 52 of the screw 54 can be received. The intermediate portion 220 defines two passages 250, each between the two raised faces 234 of respective spreader formations 232 and extending, top to bottom, from the upper face 222 through the intermediate portion 220. Thus, each threaded shank 52 can be received through respective aligned openings 248 and passages 250 to be screwed into the joists 14 while the web 210 is driven towards the intermediate portion 220 and the joist 14 by the fastening action of the screw 54, and the spreader formations 232 received between the arms 208.1 , 208.2 of respective gripping members 206.

In use, two or more of the spacers 204 are positioned or located on the joists 14 to space the planks 16. In that position, the locators 218, the raised faces 234 of the spreader formations 232, and the opposed faces 236 of the central portion 224 bear against the adjacent sides 34.1 , 34.2 to maintain a spacing between the decking planks 16 that is equivalent to the overall width of the spacer 204. The legs 216 are positioned partially in the slots 237 (figure 24b) with the gripping portions 240 of the gripping members 206 in sliding engagement with the sloped faces 238. The threaded shanks 52 are inserted through the openings 248 and the passages 250 and screwed into the joists 14. During that operation, the head 56 bears against the web 210 and drives it towards the intermediate portion 220, causing the arms 208.1 , 208.2 to be driven away from each other or to spread so that the pointed ends 242 are driven into the sides 34.1 , 34.2 to secure the fastening assembly 200 to the planks 16.1 , 16.2, and to the joists 14 (figure 24c). Figure 23 shows the orientation of the arms 208.1 , 208.2 in their operative condition.

The fastening assembly 200 includes two cover mechanisms 254 that are operatively engaged with the spacer 204 to cover the gripping members 206 and screws 54 to protect those components. Each cover mechanism 254 is configured to be detachably arranged on a body 256 of the spacer 104 to cover respective gripping members 206 and heads 56 of the screws 54 once the decking planks 16 are secured to the joists 14, as described above.

Each cover mechanism 254 includes a cover 258 for respective gripping members 206 and associated screws 54. Each cover 258 includes a cover body 260 with a width that is substantially the same as the overall width of the body 256 of the spacer 204. This allows the cover body 260 to be received snugly between the planks 16. Each cover 258 includes a hinge 262 that pivotally connects an edge of the cover body 260 to one respective locator 218. The cover body 260 is dimensioned so that it can pivot between an inoperative position (figure 17, 21 , 24c), in which the heads 56 and gripping members 206 are uncovered to an operative position (figure 19, 24d), in which the heads 56 and gripping members 206 are covered by the cover bodies 260. The covers 258 are dimensioned so that, when the gripping members 206 are covered, the covers 258 are flush with, or below, the decking surface 62, to facilitate sanding, oiling, and other operations and activities carried out on the decking 12, without interference.

The covers 258 are dimensioned so that, in the operative position, free ends of the respective covers 258 are adjacent, or touch each other (as can be seen in figure 19, 24d). This serves to facilitate or achieve substantially full coverage of the spacer 204 to enhance protection against the ingress of moisture and detritus.

Each of the cover bodies 260 defines a recess 264 that is configured to accommodate the head 56 of the screw 54. A projection 266 extends from a free end of the cover body 260. The intermediate portion 220 defines two holes 268 that correspond with respective projections 266. The holes 268 and projections 266 are dimensioned so that the projections 266 are a friction fit in the respective holes 268 to secure the covers 258 in their operative positions, allowing the projections 266 to be released from the holes 268 so that the covers 258 can be manipulated into the inoperative positions.

An embodiment of the fastening assembly includes one of the spreader formations 232 interposed between the locators 218 such that the fastening assembly relates to the fastening assembly 200 in the same way as the fastening assembly 180 relates to the fastening assembly 100.

It is envisaged that an embodiment of the fastening assembly can include a generic, or conventional spacer for structural components, and at least one of the cover mechanisms 164, 254 detachably connected to the spacer for protection of the spacer and associated fastener(s).

The preceding description describes fastening assemblies with one or two gripping members. It is envisaged that fastening assemblies with three or more gripping members can be provided, depending on requirements of the application.

The spacers 18, 104, 182, 204, described above can have overall dimensions of height, width, and length to suit a range of applications and differently dimensioned planks and joists.

The fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 provides a convenient and easy way to fasten conventional structural components such as decking planks to a substructure such as an array of joists, to form a structure or structural assembly, such as a decking assembly, without the need for specialist skills or tools. The fact that the fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 can be used with a wide variety of conventional decking planks allows the supply of a single kit of parts that includes the spacers 18, 104, 182, 204, the gripping members 28, 114, 206, and the screws 54. It will be appreciated that the kit of parts need not be supplied with structural components such as planks, allowing a consumer to source their own structural components or planks, which could be high-value planks that may have been recycled. An example of such a recycled high-value planks are those of hardwood or other rare timbers.

It will also be appreciated that the fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 facilitates the removal of structural components such as the decking planks 16, from the substructure, such as the joists 14, with a reduced risk of damage to the planks 16. In order to remove the planks 16, the covers 166, 258 can be levered with a suitable tool to pivot into the inoperative position. The screws 54 can be unscrewed, and the gripping members 28, 114, 206 prised off the spacers 18, 104, 182, 204, out of engagement with the sides 34.1 , 34.2, of the planks 16. The planks 16 can then be lifted from the joists 14 without the need to pry the planks 16 off the joists 14. Thus, the planks 16 can be recycled without openings or other damage, in close to their original condition, before they were fastened to the joists 14.

The fastening assembly 100, 180, 200 includes the cover mechanism 164, 254 that can be used both to protect the gripping members 114, 206 and screws 54 from corrosion and other damage arising from the ingress of water, and to enhance an appearance of the finished structural assembly such as the decking 12, 102, 202. This is apparent in figures 8, 16, and 19, where the covers 166, 258 provide a neat finish to the space or gap between the planks 16.

In addition to its normal meaning, the word “plank” is to be understood to include panels, or similar articles, which could also be fastened to joists or beams with the fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 in the manner described herein.

Thus, the word “deck” or “decking” is to be regarded, in addition to its normal English meaning, as covering any structure that has structural components, planks, or planklike elements or panels, fastened to a substructure, such as an array of joists, beams, or battens, or the like. This can be in the form of various structures, including low-level decks, balconies, boardwalks, and similar structures. It is not limited to a structure that is connected to a house or other building. It will also be readily appreciated that the fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 can be used to achieve any structure or structural assembly in which structural components such as planks, or plank-like elements or panels, are to be fastened consecutively to a substructure such as an array of joists, beams, battens, or the like. This could include vertical or horizontal structures such as vertical or horizontal screens, or other architectural structures. Thus, the fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 finds use for any application in which a consistent, evenly spaced layout of structural components on a substructure is desired. Furthermore, the assembly 10, 100, 180, 200 is capable of achieving such a consistent, evenly spaced layout without the need to customise the structural components, such as the planks or panels. It will therefore be appreciated that the spacer 18, 104, 182, 204 can have a range of different overall dimensions to suit the application of the fastening assembly 10, 100, 180, 200. For example, the spacer 18, 104, 182, 204 can be supplied to suit joists or planks having a standard size, according to local building requirements.

The appended claims are to be considered as incorporated into the above description.

Throughout this specification, reference to any advantages, promises, objects or the like should not be regarded as cumulative, composite, and/or collective and should be regarded as preferable or desirable rather than stated as a warranty.

Throughout this specification, unless otherwise indicated, "comprise," "comprises," and "comprising," (and variants thereof) or related terms such as "includes" (and variants thereof)," are used inclusively rather than exclusively, so that a stated integer or group of integers may include one or more other non-stated integers or groups of integers.

Words indicating direction or orientation, such as “front”, “rear”, “back”, “down”, “up”, etc, are used for convenience. It is envisaged that various embodiments can be used in a non-operative configuration, such as when presented for sale. Thus, such words are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

Features which are described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used together and/or be interchangeable. Similarly, features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

It is to be understood that the terminology employed above is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The described embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the invention, without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of being practised with various modifications and additions as will readily occur to those skilled in the art.