TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a structural support device for the building industry. More particularly, the structural support device is used in woodworking, joinery, facades and multiple materials applications for the building industry.

BACKGROUND

[0002] With the improvement of materials and an increasing desire for simple appearance structures, there has been a growing need to find structures and methods which assist with hiding joints and supporting structures. A number of different finishes may be desired when attaching wood, medium-density fibreboard (MDF), chipboard, plasterboard, aluminium, light weight steel or similar products.

[0003] Common devices used for supporting shelving structures are brackets which are typically used to support a shelf at approximately a perpendicular angle relative to the ground. These supporting structures are primarily visible and require a significant portion of space, such as a wall space, to allow mounting of the shelf, especially if there are relatively large loads to be supported on the shelf.

[0004] Other supports include legs, such as entry tables, which are required to touch the floor or ground relatively below the element to be supported. Again, these supports are generally openly visible and consume a large area which could be utilised for other purposes.

[0005] Some joining techniques to join two pieces of material require an intermediate element such as a biscuit, dowel, split Batten like system or peg which are engaged in a plurality of slot portions. The slot portions are typically formed in each of the two pieces of material to be connected and the intermediate element is disposed in the slot portions of each of the two pieces such that the two pieces can abut. However, these require gluing which may take a substantial amount of time and are generally a weak form of join relative to other joining techniques. [0006] Offset concealed brackets are one previously known option which may assist with holding shelving. The brackets generally comprise a wall mounting part and a protrusion which extends from the wall mounting part. However, these devices are typically not able to support significant loads as the wall mounting portion is generally limited to the same height as the shelf to be supported. Further, these devices do not retain a shelf in a desired location, but rather slide into an aperture of the shelf. In addition, these devices do not have a securing means to allow for a one way connection.

[0007] Joins and connections may also rely on the depth of the join or connection which will further impact the strength of the joint or connection. However, the depth of the joint or connection may be limited by the material being used. Further, the strength of the joint may also be impact by the thickness of the materials being joined or how an intermediate element is joined in a slot.

[0008] One Icnown concealed snap in fixing device is manufactures by InnoM>ood™. The device has a number of problems regarding placement and is only designed to be used with synthetic or hybrid woods (wood-plastic-composites) which are shaped to specifically fit the device. These devices cannot be used with organic materials and are relatively large to be able to support the synthetic material. Further, these devices have difficulties with being seated or positioned in a desired position without damage to the wall the device is being fixed to, notably the device comprises ribs which can dig into a wall causing permanent damage to the wall. The Innowood™ devices also have a one way fixing which only allows for an exact one-to-one fitting, and therefore small variances in the connection between the device and synthetic wood can cause issues with appearance and suitability of the final product. These devices are also only suited for a one way fit and do not allow for the synthetic wood material to be removed.

[0009] As such it may be advantageous to have a hidden support which consumes little space, has a relatively small cross-section, and/or may be easy to mount, or may provide for a superior supporting means. Further, known devices generally encounter problems with regards to bending or shearing. [0010] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

SUMMARY

[0011] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED

[0012] It may be advantageous to provide a structural support device which may be embedded into a structural material.

[0013] It may be advantageous to provide a structural support device which may be hidden from view when in use.

[0014] It may be advantageous to provide a structural support device which may allow for improved loading relative to known devices.

[0015] It may be advantageous to provide a structural support device which may allow for improved moment resistance.

[0016] It may be an advantage to provide a device with improved mating between a female portion and a male portion.

[0017] It may be an advantage to provide a device with an improved mating means to form a hidden mounting means.

[0018] It may be advantageous to provide a structural support device which is readily mountable.

[0019] It may be advantageous to provide a one way securing means for a mating structural support device. [0020] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0021] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

[0022] A first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a structural support device comprising a female portion having a female base a first female arm and a second female arm and a male portion having a male base and a first male arm and a second male arm. Each of the first female arm and the second female arm may comprise an array of projections and each respective male arm may comprise at least one corresponding projection. The male portion may be adapted to be inserted into the female portion to be retained therein, with the array of projections of the female portion and the at least one corresponding projection of the male portion forming a mating relationship such that the at least one corresponding projection abuts a portion of the array of projections; and wherein a void is formed between the first female arm and a respective first male arm in the mating relationship.

[0023] In at least one preferred embodiment, the male portion may be inserted into the female portion a tactile sensation is generated. Preferably, the female portion has a proximal end at the female base and a distal end at a free end of female arms, in which the array of projections may have a proximal side and a distal side, in which a portion of the proximal side of one of the array of projections may abut the at least one

corresponding projection on one of the first male arm or the second male arm.

Preferably, the proximal side of the array of projections comprise may be at least partially curved. Preferably, the array of projections may be a plurality of tines. Preferably, at least one of the male base and the female base comprises a securing means location. Preferably, the securing means location comprises a countersink. Preferably, each outer side of the first female arm and the second female arm may comprise at least one protrusion. Preferably, when the male portion is in the mating relationship a distal end of the male arms may abut the base of the female portion. Preferably, the first male arm and the second male arm may be adapted to be biased towards each other when inserted into the female portion. [0024] In a further aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a device for supporting an element. The device comprising a first portion and a second portion in which the second portion being insertable into the first portion to form a mating relationship therein. The inner side of the first portion comprise an array of projections and the outer side of the second portion comprises at least one corresponding projection. The array of projections and the at least one corresponding projection may form a mating relationship such that the at least one corresponding projection abuts a portion of the array of projections and wherein a void may be formed between the inner side of the first portion and the outer side of the second portion adjacent to corresponding projection when the first portion and the second portion are in said mating relationship.

[0025] Preferably, when the male portion is inserted into the female portion a tactile sensation may be generated. Preferably, each of the array of projections are curved. Preferably, the mating relationship is a one way mating relationship. Preferably, at least one of the first portion and the second portion may comprise a securing means location.

[0026] In another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a device for supporting an element. The device comprising a female portion and a male portion. The male portion being insertable into the female portion to form a mating relationship therein. The inner side of the female portion comprises a lip and the outer side of the male portion comprises a flange. The flange and lip form a mating relationship such that the flange abuts a portion of the lip and wherein a void is formed between the flange and a proximal end of the female portion when the female portion and the male portion are in said mating relationship.

[0027] Preferably, a tactile sensation may be generated when the flange forms a mating relationship with the lip. Preferably, the mating relationship may be a one way mating relationship. Preferably, each of the female portion and the male portion comprise a securing means location. [0028] In the context of the present invention, the words "comprise", "comprising" and the like are to be construed in their inclusive, as opposed to their exclusive, sense, that is in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

[0029] The invention is to be interpreted with reference to the at least one of the technical problems described or affiliated with the background art. The present aims to solve or ameliorate at least one of the technical problems and this may result in one or more advantageous effects as defined by this specification and described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0030] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a structural support device of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the structural support device of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a structural support device;

[0033] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of a further embodiment of a structural support device;

[0034] Figure 5 illustrates a front view of yet another embodiment of a structural support device;

[0035] Figure 6a illustrates a further embodiment of a female portion of a structural support device which is cut into an element;

[0036] Figure 6b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 6a; [0037] Figure 7a illustrates a side view of yet another embodiment of a female portion of a structural support device with a plurality of teeth cut into an element;

[0038] Figure 7b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 7a;

[0039] Figure 8a illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a double ended male portion which may be retained by a female portion;

[0040] Figure 8b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 8a;

[0041] Figure 9a illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a double ended male portion with a plurality of teeth which may be retained by a female portion;

[0042] Figure 9b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 9a;

[0043] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the female portion of Figure 6a with the male portion of Figure 8a mounted therein;

[0044] Figure 11 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the female portion of Figure 7a with the male portion of Figure 9a mounted therein;

[0045] Figure 12 illustrates a side view of yet another embodiment of a mountable female portion with deflectable arms;

[0046] Figure 12b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 12a;

[0047] Figure 13 illustrates a side view of yet a further embodiment of a mountable female portion with deflectable arms;

[0048] Figure 13b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 13a; [0049] Figure 14a illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a male portion in which the arms of the device are positioned inwardly relative to the extremities of the base portion;

[0050] Figure 14b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 14a;

[0051] Figure 15a illustrates a side view of a further embodiment of a male portion in which the arms with a plurality of teeth, in which the arms are positioned inwardly relative to the extremities of the base portion;

[0052] Figure 15b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 15a;

[0053] Figure 16a illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a tool which can be used to form a female portion in an element;

[0054] Figure 16b illustrates an embodiment of the tool of Figure 16a which is shown in the groove/key cut into an element;

[0055] Figure 17a illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a female portion with engagement means at the distal ends of the arms;

[0056] Figure 17b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 17a;

[0057] Figure 18a illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a male portion with engagement means at the distal ends of the arms;

[0058] Figure 18b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 18a;

[0059] Figure 19a illustrates a side view of a further embodiment of a female portion with a securing means guide;

[0060] Figure 19b illustrates an isometric view of Figure 19a; [0061] Figure 20 illustrates an isometric view of the female portion of Figure 7a with a male portion of Figure 15a mounted therein, and a further female portion of Figure 19 mounted on the second male end of the male portion;

[0062] Figure 21 illustrates a front view of Figure 20;

[0063] Figure 22 illustrates a side view of Figure 20; and

[0064] Figure 23 shows an exploded view of Figure 6a, Figure 14a, an inverted Figure 14a and a variant of Figure 19.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0065] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and non-limiting examples.

[0066] Referring to Figure 1 there is illustrated a structural support device 10 for use in construction. The device 10 comprises two main components, a female portion 100 and a male portion 200 which are adapted to form a mating relationship. The device 10 may be used for joinery purposes and is preferably used to conceal connection points between elements and structural locations. Concealing joints or joins is typically desirable to provide a high quality finish to a structure and also prohibits persons from tampering with the joining location. Throughout this specification the term 'element' may mean a shelf, a table, a planar object, a piece of wood, wood composite, medium-density fibreboard (MDF), chipboard, plasterboard, rubber, metal sheet, moulded plastic, plastic material or any other item to which the device 10 may be fixed to support, but more generally the element is used to receive and support a load.

[0067] The female portion 100 and optionally the male portion 200 and the may be similar to a 'U bracket' in that the female portion 100 comprises a pair of flanges or arms 102 and a base portion 104. A securing location may preferably be provided which allows the device 10 to be secured or fixed to a desired location. The male component 200 may also be in the form of a U-shape with arms 202 and a base 204 from which the arms 202 extend, or may instead be a solid portion which is adapted to be inserted into the female portion 100. The male portion may alternatively be any predetermined shape which can be received within the female portion 100, such as a balbis, square, squircle, truss or any other regular shape.

[0068] It will be appreciated that the female portion may be formed, cut or keyed into an element to be supported, as shown in Figures 6a, 6b, 7a and 7b. Forming the female portion in the element allows for an easier mounting as the female portion need not be mounted into the element, as it is formed therein. In addition, the strength of the element may be superior to that of a female portion mounted in the element and secured by a securing means. This may also be of particular advantage if the element to be supported is relatively thin and a securing means may be too thin to receive a securing means without the potential of damage to the exterior surface of the element. An embodiment of a tool for forming the female portion is shown in Figures 16a and 16b.

[0069] Each of female portion 100 and the male portion 200 comprise a mating means which allows for the male portion 200 to be retained within the female portion 100 in use. The female portion 100 preferably has a mating means 114 disposed on the inner side 126 of the arms 102, and the male portion 200 has mating means 214 on the outer side 224 of the arms 202. The mating means 214 of the male portion 200 is complimentary to the mating means 114 of the female portion 100. The male portion 100 is preferably inserted into the female portion 200 and in doing so, the mating means of the male portion 200 and female portion 100 engage in a mating configuration. The mating means 114, 214 preferably provide for a one way mating engagement such that the male portion 200 is not removable unless undue force is applied to the device 10. It will be appreciated that only one of the male portion arms 202, and one of the female portion arms 202 may comprise a mating means. In an unillustrated embodiment, both the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 are devoid of a mating means, and instead rely on friction. The mating means may alternatively be a thread and groove type arrangement such that the female portion can be twisted onto the male portion, or vice versa.

[0070] In a further embodiment, the arms 102 female portion 100 comprises at least one protrusion 108 on the outer side 124 of the arms 102 which is preferably adapted to be embedded at least partially into the element to be supported. The protrusions 108 may be rounded, spiked, barbed or any other predetermined shape, such that when embedded, the protrusions 108 can be retained in the embedded locations. If the protrusions 108 are barbs the male portion 200 may be adapted to be over-inserted into the female portion 100 such that the barbs can securely engage into the element as the male portion is partly withdrawn from the over-inserted portion.

[0071] Figures 1 depicts an embodiment of the device 10. The device 10 comprises a female portion 100 with the male portion 200 mounted therein. The female portion 100 mating means is shown as a plurality of tines 114. The tines 114 may also be referred to as teeth 114 and may have any desired cross sectional shape or be formed as a bead. The tines 114 preferably engage with the complimentary mating means 214 on the male portion 200. The. complimentary mating means 214 are shown as a plurality of protuberances 214. The protuberances 214 may optionally instead be at least one of a nub, dome like or semi-circular. The protuberances 214 may be disposed on the arms 202 in a pattern or array such that a plurality of protuberances 214 may be in a column or a row in said pattern or array. In a mating configuration the proximal side of the tines 114 abut or otherwise engage with the proximal side of the protuberances 214, respectively. It will be appreciated that any references to a proximal side or a distal side throughout this specification are with reference to the proximal end or the distal end of the respective female portion 100 or the male portion 200 to which the feature is associated with.

[0072] The proximal side 116 of the tines 114 of the arms 102 is preferably an abutting side which may form the mating engagement. The tines 114 have a proximal side 116 and a distal side. The distal side of the tines 114 may be used for strengthening the abutting side of the tines 114, such as to resist removal of a male portion 200 inserted into the female portion 100, and/or allowing the tines 114 to flex in a desired manner to allow for insertion of the male portion 200 into the female portion 100. For example, the tines 114 may flex in a proximal direction when the male portion 200 is being inserted into the female portion 100 and substantially or completely return to a pre-flexed position. It will be appreciated that the proximal side and the distal side of the tines 114 may be reversed such that the distal side of the tines 114 is to abut the protuberances 214 of the male portion 200.

[0073] Voids 150 are preferably formed between the arms when the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 are mated. The voids 150 may be bound by a protuberance 214 and the proximal side of a first tine 114, the distal side of a second adjacent tine 114 and optionally a portion of the arm 202. The voids 150 may alternatively be bound by a protuberance 214 and the distal side of a first tine 114 and the proximal side of a second adjacent tine 114. At least one of the tines is preferably abutting the protuberance 214 when forming the void 150. The void 150 provides a significant advantage as this allow the device to absorb at least part of the energy from impacts and therefore reduce the potential for damage. Further, the void 150 formed between the respective arms allows for a relatively tighter fit than without a void 150 as the tines 114 may be biased away from an at rest position and from a larger compressive force against the protuberances 214 and/or the arms 202 of the male portion 200. The voids 150 also allows for an enhanced tactile sensation to be imparted when the male portion 200 is being inserted into the female portion 100. The voids 150 may also allow for compensation of temperature variations of the material the device 10 is formed from to expand and contract without causing damage to the device 10. It will be appreciated that the tines 114 and the protuberances 214 may instead be disposed the male portion 200 and the female portion 100 respectively.

[0074] Referring to Figure 2 depicts another embodiment of the device 10, the proximal portions of the tines 114 are linear and with the linear plane project at an approximately perpendicular angle from the inner side of the arms 102 of the female portion 100. The distal portion of the tines 114 are linear with the angle of the linear plane being acutely angled relative to the proximal portion linear plane of the tines 114 with the acute angle originating from the abutting location of the tine 114. Essentially, the tines 114 are generally triangular in appearance with the corner of the triangle used to abut a protuberance 214 of the male portion 200 being rounded, a half squircle or otherwise shaped to strengthen the abutting end of the tine 114. A half squircle is may mean two rounded corners with a linear portion therebetween.

[0075] Turning to Figure 3 there is depicted yet another embodiment of the device 10, the proximal portions of the tines 114 have an arcuate shape, or a shape which corresponds to a non-linear function. The arcuate shape may be symmetrical or more preferably asymmetrical in appearance. The distal portion of the tines 114 may also be curved or may be linear. If the distal portion of the tines 114 are curved the curvature may be generally the shape of the arcuate shape of the proximal side.

[0076] Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of the device 10 in which the proximal side of the tines 114 are formed with a linear portion which engages and abuts with the protuberances 214 of the male portion 200. Distal relative to the abutting location an arcuate or curved portion which extends from the linear portion. The shape of the proximal side of the tines 114 are formed with a linear function followed by a non-linear function. The curved portion of the proximal side of the tine 114 may allow for a desired flexure or a frangible zone to form. The curved portion may further reduce the potential for stress zones or fractures to form if the device 10 is impacted or loaded excessively.

[0077] Turning to Figure 5, there is shown yet a further embodiment of the device 10 of the present disclosure. The device 10 comprises a female portion 100 and a male portion 200 being receivable in the female portion 100. The female portion comprises a plurality of tines 114, with at least one tine 114A having a linear proximal side 116 A. At least one further tine 114B having a linear distal side 114B. The distal side 114B of the at least one further tine 114B is preferably adapted to abut a stopper portion 170. Preferably, each of the arms 202 include a stopper portion 170. Each stopper portion 170 projects outwardly from a respective arm 202 such that the stoppers 170 can abut a respective tine 114B. As shown, the stopper 170 and the protuberance 260 abut respective tines, 114B, 114 A. In this configuration, the fit between the male portion 200 and the female portion 100 is such that axial movement and/or removal of the male portion 200 is at least one of; eliminated, restricted or difficult. Preferably, the distance between proximal side 116A of the at least one tine 114A and the distal side 116B of the at least one further tine 114B (on the same arm 102) is approximately the same as the distance between the stopper 170 and the protuberance 260 of the (of the same arm of the male portion). It will be appreciated that minor variances in the distance between the stopper 170 and the protuberance 260 may provide for a more reliable mating between the male portion 200 and the female portion 100. For example, the distance between the stopper 170 and the protuberance 160 may be in the range of 0.1mm to 5mm, but more preferably around lmm.

[0078] A depression 265 may be disposed on each arm 202 adjacent to the protuberance 260, such that the depression may assist with flexure of the arms 202 during insertion of the male portion 200 into the female portion 100. As illustrated, the arms 202, 204 may have a stepped profile. The stepped profile can be seen as step 155 on arm 102 and step 255 on ami 202. The stepped portions may allow for a desired flexure or bending of the respective portion. Further, as the step 155 of the female portion 100 projects outwardly, the base 104 is of a relatively smaller width, which may of advantage as countersinks or apertures formed in an element to be supported may have defects or a smaller diameter at the base of the aperture, and therefore instalment of the female portion 100 in the element may be quickened and simplified if the base of the aperture need not be cleaned thoroughly. The base 104 corners may be bevelled or tapered 230, which reduces the amount of material required to form the female portion 100 and also facilitates mounting the female portion 100 in a tapered portion of an aperture, such as in a countersink.

[0079] The step 255 of the male portion is directed inwardly such that the arms 202, distal the step 255, are relatively closer. This may allow for insertion of the male portion 100 with less flexure of the male portion 100, which may reduce the potential for the male portion to be plastically deformed. [0080] In an unillustrated embodiment, the stopper 170 may extend to the base portion 204 of the male portion 200 such that there is no void between the distal end of the arms 102 and the male portion 100 near to the base 204.

[0081] The at least one further tine 114B may be referred to as a reverse tine 114B as tines 114A and 114B preferably have the same cross section, and differ in that the reverse tines 114B mirrors at least one of the tines 114 A. While it is preferred that the cross section of the tines 114A and 114B are generally the same, the tines 114B may be of a different shape than that of the tines 114A.

[0082] Optionally, the corners between the base 104 and the arms 102 are curved to reduce stress fractures forming. Alternatively, the corners may comprise reinforcement to reduce the potential for fractures to form while the device 10 is in use. Similarly, base 204 and arms 202 may have a similar stress reducing feature.

[0083] Referring to Figures 6a and 6b, there is illustrated an embodiment of a female portion which is formed in an element 1. The female element 600 has been cut into the element 1, but may also be formed in the element if the element 1 is extruded or manufactured. A rotary tool, shaped router bit, router tool or other similar tool may be used to form the female portion 600.

[0084] The female portion 600 comprises a pair of tines 614 (or teeth 614) which project relatively towards each other. An underside 615 of the tines 614 are preferably used to form a mating relationship with a male portion, to retain said male portion. The upper side 616 of the tines 614 are preferably sloped or angled such that a male portion can be easily mounted in the female portion 600. A corresponding mating means of a male portion can be retained between the underside 615 of the tines 614 and the base 604,

[0085] Another embodiment of a female portion formed in an element 1 is illustrated in Figures 7a and 7b. A plurality of tines 714 are illustrated which may receive and retain a male portion. The base 604, 704 of the female portions formed in the element are preferably formed with a linear and/or regular shape. Alternatively, the base 604, 704 may be rounded such that a bulbous end or a rounded male portion can be received by the female portion.

[0086] In at least one embodiment, the male portions may be a double ended male portion, in which two ends of the male portion may be adapted to be received and retained by separate female portions. Some examples of these embodiments are illustrated in Figures 8a, 8b, 9a and 9b.

[0087] A single protuberance or tooth 814 is illustrated on the arms 802 of Figures 8a and 8b. The tooth 814 is of a similar tine shape 614, 714 as that shown in Figures 6a and 7a. The teeth 814 of the arms 802 extend in a first direction, and form the first end of the male portion. The second end of the male portion 800, 900 comprises at least one further tooth 814A, but preferably a plurality of teeth 814A on each of the front and back surfaces of the upper end. The teeth 814A extend in a second direction, which is illustrated to be generally perpendicular to the first direction. It will be appreciated that the tines 814A may also be formed to extend in the first direction instead of a second direction. It will further be appreciated that the second direction can be any desired direction and need not be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0088] An aperture 875, 975 on the upper surface of the male portion 800, 900 may receive a securing means to secure the male portion to an element or a substrate. A structure 870 may be formed at the upper end of the male portion 800, 900 which houses a securing means guide 880 for the aperture 875. The aperture 875, 975 may extend through the second end of the male portion. The securing means guide 880 may also be used to provide structural support and improve the integrity of the male portion, such that compressional forced received by the male portion do not cause fractures or failures. As shown, the securing means guide is a cylinder within the structure. The shape of the teeth 814 and 814A may be different such that only a predetermined female portion may be received on a respective end.

[0089] The first end of the male portion is defined by the arms, and the second portion is defined as the end extending in the direction away from the arms 802, 902. As depicted in Figures 9a and 9b, arms 902 are shown with a rail 990 which extends in a direction substantially parallel (i.e. the first direction) to that of the teeth 914. The rail may provide strength to the arms 902 and may assist with placement and/or removal of the male portion arms 902 from a female portion. A distal end 920 of the arms 902 may be formed with a tine or tooth 914 which is thicker than other teeth or tines on the arms to strengthen the most distal tine 914. In this way the distal most tooth may also fill a relatively larger portion of space bound between a proximal tine and a base of the female portion, see for example Figures 10 and 11 in which the distal tines of the male portion abut the base of the female portion.

[0090] In yet another embodiment, the male portion may be devoid or substantially free of protuberances 214. Instead of protuberances 214 a number of apertures (not shown) may be disposed in the arms 204 of the male portion 200. The aperture size is preferably of a diameter to only allow a portion of at least one tine 114 to enter into the aperture, such that there is a void or space between the outer side 224 of the male portion 200 and the inner side 126 of the female portion 100. The void between the two devices will allow for an improved engagement between the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 which can be advantageous for elements with a short length, width or height.

Optionally, the ratio of the base portion to the length of the arms may be in the range of 2: 1 to 1 :3 or any desired interval there between. In this way, the arms of the female portion and/or male portion 200 can be of a length which is longer than a respective base portion, which is of significant importance for elements which are relatively thin. Thin elements may be more common in residential fixtures compared to commercial structures, and therefore the present device has a wider range of use, while not needing to sacrifice strength. When the tines 114 project into the apertures of the arms 204, the tines 114 may act as barbs to further resist a separation force between the female and male portions 100, 200. Optionally, in this arrangement the tines 114 are formed with barbules (not shown) to allow for improved engagement of the apertures.

[0091] It will be appreciated at least in one preferred embodiment that mating of the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 may be disengageable or separable when the device 10 is accessible, in other words not mounted in an element or generally in use. At least one of the male portion 200 and the female portion 100 may be urged apart or urged together such that mating arrangement is released. For example, to release the male portion 200 the arms 102 of the female portion 100 may be urged apart relative to each other. Conversely to release the female portion 100 from the male portion 200 the arms 204 can be urged together relative to each other.

[0092] In yet another embodiment, at least one of the female portion 100 or the male portion 200 is fitted with a rail or other guiding means to facilitate mating. The rail may include a portion of a ratchet mechanism, such as that of a zip tie or cable tie type arrangement, with the other portion of the ratchet mechanism being on the other of the male or female portion 200, 100. The ratchet mechanism may further assist with a one way connection between the female and the male portions 100, 200.

[0093] It will be appreciated that the tines 114 may be all uniform in appearance or may be any predetermined shape. The tines 114 may be disposed in an array, a sequence of alternating shapes, a random array of shapes, or a linear array of shapes. The spacing between the tines 114 may correspond to a logarithmic function, a ratio, a pattern, a sequence, a uniform spacing, an arbitrary spacing, a random spacing or any other predetermined or other desired spacing. Similarly, the spacing 112 between the protrusions may also coiTespond to a logarithmic function, a ratio, a pattern, a sequence, a uniform spacing, an arbitrary spacing, a random spacing or any other predetermined or other desired spacing.

[0094] In yet another embodiment, at least one of the male portion 200 and the female portion 100 comprises a frangible zone (not shown). The frangible zone is adapted to either plastically deform or be broken such that the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 can be separated. At least one of the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 may need to be replaced after a frangible zone break. If a portion 100, 200 need be replaced, it is preferably the male portion which is damaged to be replaced. [0095] In an embodiment, the female portion 100 comprises a pair of arms 102A, 102B which are connected via a base portion 104. The base portion of the female portion 100 may comprise a recess 217 which may allow for placement of a securing means, such as a screw, bolt, nail or dowel, or may be used to allow for a controlled deformation or flexure when the device is being mounted. The securing means preferably extends from the recess face 217 to the contact face 205, in which the contact face contacts a substrate or wall. Flexure of the base 104 can allow the arms 102A, 102B to move from a relatively parallel position to a position in which the distal portion 120 of the arms 102A, 102B converge relative to each other. It will be appreciated that the convergence of the arms 102A, 102B may only be minor, for example one or more degrees relative to each other. If the device 10 is adapted to allow for a degree or more of flexure of the arms the arms are preferably resiliently biased such that the arms 102A, 102B will be urged to return to a pre-flexure position.

[0096] In yet another embodiment, it will be appreciated that the arms 102A, 102B and/or the base 104 of the female portion 100 may be adapted to flex such that the female portion 100 can be mounted or biased into a desired position. The proximal end 122 portion of the arms 102 A, 102B may have a linear portion 110 with the distal end 120 portion of the arms 102A, 102B comprising an array or at least one mating means, such as a tine 114. Throughout this specification arm 102A may be referred to as a 'first arm' or an 'upper arm'. Throughout this specification arm 102B may be referred to as a 'second arm' or a 'lower arm'.

[0097] In yet a further embodiment, arms 202A, 202B and/or the base 204 of the male portion 200 may be adapted to flex such that the male portion 200 can be mounted or biased in the female portion 100. The distal end 220 portion of each of the arms 202A, 202B are adapted to project towards the base portion of the base 104 female portion 100. It is preferred that the arms 202 project perpendicularly from the base 204 or between 1 to 15 (one to fifteen) degrees obtusely, with the angle defined by the inner angle of the base relative to the inner side of the arms. It will be appreciated that the arms 202 may have differing projection angles relative to the base 204, and the arms 202 of the male portion 200 may be of sufficient length to abut the base 104 of the female portion 100. Throughout this specification arm 202A may be referred to as a 'first inner arm' or an 'inner upper arm'. Throughout this specification arm 102B may be referred to as a 'second inner arm' or an 'inner lower arm'.

[0098] The arms 102A, 102B preferably extend from near to, or at, a periphery of the base 104. More preferably, the aims extend from opposing peripheries of the base 104 and form a U-shape. The arms may instead may be parallel, converge or diverge relative to each other. The arms may be of the same length, width and/or thickness, or may have a differing length width and/or thickness relatively based on anticipated loading. For example, the device 10 is installed in an element to be loaded, an upper arm 102A may be of a length relatively longer than the lower arm 102B. Further increasing the width or cross sectional area of one of the arms 102A, 102B may allow for the device to support a higher load relative to arms 102 with the same cross sectional area.

[0099] The cross-sectional area of the arms 102A, 102B may be a ratio of the length of the base 104 or the length of the arms. The cross-section may correspond to the anticipated loading such that the potential for failure is reduced. Further, the length of at least one of the arms may be a ratio relative to the base 104. If the arms 102 A, 102B are of differing lengths, the arms 102 A, 102B may also be in a ratio. The above ratios may be at least one of the following ratios 3 :1 to 1 :3 inclusive, for example. More preferably, the ratio of the arms 102 to the base 104 of the female portion 100 is around 1.66: 1. Preferably, the ratio of the male arms 102A, 102B to the male base portion 204 is around 2: 1. However, it will be appreciated that any predetermined ratio may be selected for the arms and/or base. The arm ratio may also be dependent on whether the base 104 and/or base 204 are adjustable in length. The countersink or bore of the securing means location 117, 217 may also govern the thiclcness or cross sectional area of the base and/or the arms of the female portion 100 and the male portion 200.

[00100] The distance between the arms 102A and 102B may be dependent on the desired loading of the device 10 or be dependent on the size of the male portion 200. For example, limitations on the cross sectional area of the arms may depend on the anticipated loading of the device 10 or the size of the element to be supported.

[00101] The spacing of the protrusions may be proportional to the thickness or depth of the respective arm the protrusions 108 are on. The protrusions 108 may be any desired shape, such as a semi-circle or other regular shape. The protrusions 108 may form an array, pattern, undulating surface or texture on the outer side of the arm 102A, 102B. It will be appreciated that the protrusions on the first arm 102 A and the protrusions on the second arm 102B may be different to impart a desired property to the device 10 such as at least one of a predetermined; flexure, stiffness, rigidity, torque resistance or friction. The protrusions on arm 102 A may be barbed (not shown) such that the protrusions 108 may be embedded into a material of the element to be retained, and the protrusions 108 on the lower arm 102B may be a texture which has a high friction, such as in the range of 0.5 to 1.3 μ ₈ or any interval therebetween, to resist movement under loading.

[00102] In another embodiment the base 104 comprises at least one securing means location 117 such that a screw, bolt, nail, dowel or any other suitable securing means may be installed into at least two of the plurality of securing means locations. The securing means location 117 may be an aperture with a countersink or may be a countersink only such that the securing means need penetrate the base 104 if countersink is not pre-bored. It can be seen from Figure 1 that the base 104 may instead be free of securing means locations 117 to allow for a securing means (not shown) to be fixed at any desired location on the base 104.

[00103] It will be appreciated that in at least one embodiment the male portion 200 may have a similar base configuration as that of the female portion 100. The securing means location 217 of the male portion optionally be larger than the securing means location 117 of the female portion 100. Having a larger securing means location 217 on the male portion may assist with securing and retaining the device 10 to a wall or other structure as a larger securing means may be required to resist shearing or bending. [00104] In another embodiment of the female portion 100 has a base 104 which can be resized. The base 104 comprises a first base section and a second base section (not shown) wherein the first base section is a grooved section and the second base section is a tongued section. The first base section and the second base section may be adapted to form an engaging relationship such that the tongue of the second base section is insertable into the groove of the first base section. Optionally, the tongue may be of a larger length than the groove which can be cut to a desired length for insertion into the groove, if the tongue is not cut, a portion of the tongue may not be received into the groove. As the base 104 will likely be bound by the aperture formed in the element, the first section and the second section are not needed to be bonded, fused, welded or otherwise permanently joined together before being inserted into the element. This is a significant advantage as this reduces the time required before the device 10 can be used as there is no fixing requirement prior to use.

[00105] In yet another embodiment, the base 104 comprises both a first base section and a second base section which are groove portions, which may receive an intermediate base section (not shown) which can space the first base section and the second base section at a desired distance relative to each other. It will be appreciated that the intermediate base section may have at least one tongue portion receivable in each of the groove portions of the first base section and the second base section. It will be appreciated that the desired distance may be 0mm, such that the first and second base portions abut each other.

[00106] In yet a further embodiment, the intermediate section is not required and the first base section and the second base section can be mounted inside the element, in which the first base section and the second base section are spaced relative to each other (not shown). Optionally, the gap formed between the first base section and the second base section may be at least partially filled by a filled by a central extension member which extends from the base portion to be positioned between said gap. The male portion 200 can be a solid element or a frame which generally fills the negative space formed by the female portion 100. While the male portion 200 may fill the negative space formed by the female portion 100, the voids may still be formed between respective mating means. The male portion 200 may be hollow.

[00107] As the male portion 200 is inserted into the female portion 100 the protuberances 214 on the arms 202 of the male portion 200 cause a joggle action which can provide a tactile sensation to the user to indicate that the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 are mating and engaging correctly. Other tactile sensations may also be imparted via the use of different mating means. It will be appreciated that the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 may alternatively be formed with only a single tine 114 or pair of tines 114 and a corresponding number of projections 214. A corresponding number of projections 214 may be equal to the number of tines 114, or any other predetermined number, but the number of projections is preferably equal to or less than the number of tines. At least one of the tines 114 or the protuberances 214 may be adapted to pierce or be embedded into a corresponding arm to form a mating engagement with.

[00108] Optionally, a cross brace (not shown) is disposed between the arms 204 of the male portion 200. The cross member, such as a cross brace, may extend from a distal end of arm 204A to a proximal end of the opposite arm 204B. The cross brace may further provide support to allow for relatively larger loads to be imparted to the device 10, in use. In addition, the female portion may also be provided with a cross member or brace which is frangible such that the cross member or brace is broken upon insertion of the male portion the brace is urged to near the base or the proximal end of the female arms by the distal end of the male arms. This may allow for the user, upon insertion, to determine whether the female portion has previously been used or is potentially damaged if the brace is no longer in place. For example, the male portion in Figure 9a, and the female portion 13b may have bridging members or a cross brace to support at least a portion of the arms. The female portion may have a cross brace which extends between arm portions 1302C and 1302A, or between 1302C and the base 1304. Other brace configurations may also be used, depending on which portion of the arm may require support. [00109] At least one of the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 may be formed as a unitary structure such as from a single sheet of metal or from moulded plastic. Optionally, the female portion may be formed in the element to be supported. The device 10 may be formed from any suitable materials which allows for a desired flexure and stiffness. Each of the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 can be formed from different materials to allow for a desired mating configuration. Materials which may be used to fabricate the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 may include metals, plastics, wood or a combination thereof. Composite materials may also be suitable for use, such as polycarbonate, Kevlar™, or carbon fibre.

[00110] Referring to Figures 12a to 13b there is shown an embodiment of a female portion which is formed as a unitary structure from a single sheet of metal or from moulded plastic. The arms 1202 are formed into a predetermined shape, with the arms 1202, 1302 having at least two portions. The arms 1202 as shown comprise three portions, 1202 A, 1202B and 1202C. The arms may also comprise a further portion, such as portion 1202D. While it is preferred that the arms of the male portion deflect, in this embodiment, it may instead be the arms of the female portion which bend, deflect or otherwise flex to accommodate the male portion. In the illustrated embodiment, preferably the arm portions 1202B and/or 1202C deflect when a male portion is inserted, and once a mating relationship is fomied between the male and female portions, the arms 1202 will return to a biased or at rest position, while also retaining the male portion. Optionally, the space between the female portion arms can be relatively more narrow than the width of a male portion to be received such that an improved mating or fit can be achieved between said male and female portions.

[00111] The arms 1202, 1302 may function as a spring clip wherein the arms are resiliently biased and return to substantially the same position after having a body received between the arms. Preferably, the arms are designed to flex or elastically deform in a direction towards the base 1204, 1304 such that inserting a male portion between the arms deflects at least one arm portion towards the base. After release of the male portion the teeth/tines 1214 will engage with the teeth of the male portion received therein and resist removal of the male portion.

[00112] Preferred metal materials may include at least one selected from the group of; stainless steel, steel, copper, Zincalume™, aluminium (aluminum), aluminium alloy (aluminum alloy), tin, lead, zinc, copper alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, iron, ferrous alloys or any other suitable metal material. The device 10 female and male portions 100, 200 may be formed by an extrusion process, which is of particular advantage if at least one of the male and/or female portions are formed from a polymer. The extruded material may be sized to a desired length and preferably the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 are of substantially equal length such that when the female and male portions 100, 200 are mated there is no overhang of the male portion 200.

[001 13] Preferred polymer materials may include at least one selected from the group of; phenol formaldehyde resin (Bakelite), neoprene, nylon, polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl), polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyacrylonitrile, PVB, silicone, or any other suitable polymer. Optionally, a pattern, undulation or texture may be formed on the arms to increase the friction between the male and female portions to assist with reducing movement between the respective portions.

[00114] The device 10 may be able to resist substantial bending moments of between 0.1 Nm to lOkNm, depending on the size of the device 10. The cross sectional area of the arms 102, 202 of the female portion 100 and the male portion 200, respectively, may further assist with resisting shearing or failure of the device under ^¬ loading.

[00115] In yet another embodiment, the female portion 100 is provided with any number of arms 102. The number of arms 102 may coiTespond to the number of edges of the base 104. It will be appreciated that any number of arms may extend from the base portion, and need not be at a periphery of the female portion 100. The arms 102 may also have a number of slots formed therein which may also be adapted to receive a tang (not shown) formed on the male portion 200. [00116] The female base 100 may further comprise an extension member (not shown) which extends from the base 104. The extension member may be received in a corresponding aperture adapted to receive the extension member distal end. The extension member is preferably parallel to at least one of the amis extending from the base portion 102. The extension member may provide easier mating between the female portion 100 and the male portion 200.

[00117] In a further embodiment shown in in Figures 14a and 14b, the female 1400 may have a base portion which is relatively larger than the length of the arms. For example, the ratio of the base width to arm length is around 4.5 : 1 to 3 : 1. In this way the male portion 1400 may be used to mount a relatively flat element thereto. The arms 1402 may have a flange 1419 at the distal 1420 end of the arms 1402. The flange 1419 may be used to form a mating relationship with a lip of a corresponding female portion (see Figure 10 for example). The flange 1419 may be disposed at any predetermined angle, such as perpendicular to the arms, and parallel to the base 1404, or may be disposed at an angle between 30 to 90 degrees from the longitudinal axis of a respective arm 1402 of the female portion 1400. The flange may project outwardly from the arms, and act as an outer flange 1419 A. An inner flange 1419B may tooth 1414 be formed which projects relatively inwardly, which can provide additional strength to the structure to resist plastic deformation and/or brittle failure of the male portion in cold conditions. The inner flange 1419A may extend from the outer flange 1419A in relatively the same plane.

[00118] In an alternative embodiment, the outer flanges 1419 A forms a mating relationship with another female portion, such that the female portion 600 acts as a male portion. This is of particular use for mounting the female portion in a bore or aperture of an element to be supported.

[00119] The inner tooth 614 may retain a corresponding tooth 1414 of a male portion such that the corresponding tooth 614 is retained between the tooth 1414 and the base portion 604 of the female portion 600. Further, the base portion 604 of the male portion 604 may extend beyond the position of the arms 602. The extensions 1440 of the base 1404 may be positioned above the teeth 1414 on the arms 1402. [00120] The general shape of the device of Figure 14a is similar to that of a pi symbol (π) with each arm comprising at least one tooth for mating with a female portion. It is preferred that the male portion 1400 is resiliently biased. Further, it will be appreciated that any of the embodiments discussed herein, for the male portion and/or the female portion may be resilient, resiliently bias, and/or

[00121] Optionally, the male portion may be formed as a frangible piece, such that it can be removed from the female portion. It is preferred that the male and/or female portions can be formed via extrusion methods, or press shaping methods if the female portion and/or male portion is not cut, keyed or otherwise formed an element to be supported.

[00122] As illustrated, the extensions 1440 can be rounded (Figure 14a) and/or straight edged (Figure 15a). The shape of the extensions 1440 may allow for easier placement of the devices adjacent to a further device, and may allow for easier handling and securing.

[00123] Yet another embodiment of the male portion 1500 is shown in Figures 15a and 15b. The base 1504 extend away from the base relatively further than the teeth 1514 extend from the arms 1502. A plurality of teeth 1514 are shown on the arms 1502 proximal the distal end 1520. A rail 1590 is also disposed on the each arm 1502, which also extends in the first direction. While the teeth 1514 and the rail 1590 are illustrated as continuous, the teeth 1514 and/or the rail 1590 may be any predetermined shape or array, and may be formed at predetermined or intermittent intervals. It is preferred that the teeth 1514 are spaced proximal of the distal ends 5120 of the arms. Spacing the teeth 1514 from the extremities of the most distal portion of the arms may improve the mating relationship with the female portion, and may reduce the potential for the teeth 1514 to plastically deform, or fail in use. The shape of the teeth 1514 on the arms 1502 correspond to the teeth of the female portion to be mated with, such as teeth 714 as shown in Figure 7. The contact surface of the teeth 1514 are generally flat, but may be a complimentary shape to that of the teeth of the female portion. The base 1504 may also include extensions 1540. Extensions 1540 are shown as having square ends, but may be rounded similar to the extensions 1440 of Figure 14. The shape of the extensions may assist with mating the male and female portions to provide a flush or level fit between the element 1 and the device 10, such that the device 10 cannot be seen when installed.

Square extension ends may assist with eliminating voids between the male portion and the element 1 such that undesirable materials or organisms may not ingress therebetween.

[00124] Figures 16a and 16b depict an embodiment of a tool 300 for forming a female portion in an element 1. The tool has a cutting head 310 which may be interchanged, or formed with any desired shape such that a desired female portion can be formed in an element 1. The element 1 may be the element 1 to be supported, such that the device 10 is formed in part from the element, and a corresponding male portion. The male portion may be any desired male portion which is suitable to form a mating relationship with the female portion of the element 1.

[00125] Preferably, the tool 300 is a rotary tool, shaped router bit, router tool which can form a female portion 100 by cutting, sanding, keying or otherwise removing material from an element 1 such that a male portion can be received in the cut. The tool 300 can be shaped to form any desired predetermined female portion, or receiving means for a female portion to be mounted therein. The tool may be adapted to be mounted or fit with a router or other similar tool.

[00126] A further simplified embodiment of a female portion is illustrated in Figures 17a and 17b. This female portion may be manufactured by conventional sheet metal forming methods, such as for example press brake forming methods or stamping. These methods may allow for materials, particularly metal materials, to be deformed into a desired shape and may provide a resilient bias to the formed shape. Alternatively, the portion may be extruded or otherwise cast in the desired shape.

[00127] A further embodiment of a male portion Figures 18a and 18b, the male portion may be formed from a sheet of material by conventional methods, such as press brake forming methods, stamping or extrusion. The male portion 1800 is shown with a base 1804 and a pair of anus 1802. Each of the arms 1802 each have a first portion 1802A and a second portion 1802B. The first portions of the respective arms 1802 are generally parallel, and the second arm portions 1802B project outwardly and

downwardly. It will be appreciated that "downwardly" is in the direction of the base 1804. The arms 1802 may have a third portion 1802C which is between the first 1802A and second portions 1802B of the arms. The third portion of the arms 1802C is generally parallel to the base 1804. Each portion of the arms 1802 may be formed with any number of arm portions to result in desired shape. The shape of the arm 1802 should be suitable to be received and retained by a corresponding female portion, whether the female portion be formed in an element 1 or be a mountable female element 100 to be fixed to an element 1. The underside of the arm portion 1802C may abut the arm portion 1702B when mated to improve the connection between the male and female portions by restricting lateral movement after the male and female portions have been mated.

[00128] It is preferred in at least one embodiment, that the locations at which the arms meet the base are curved or rounded, such that the potential for stress fractures are reduced as the arms of the male portion may be desired to bend one or more times. The locations where the arms 1802 meet the base 1804 are cured in Figures 18a and 18b.

[00129] Figures 19a and 19b depict another embodiment of a female portion. As shown the arms 1902 comprise a plurality of tines 1914 which are disposed near to the distal ends 1920 of the arms 1902. The arms of the female portion are relatively short in the illustrated embodiment, with the arms being of a length which is around half or less than half the width of the base 1904. In the middle of the base is a groove or other securing means location 1917, and is suitable for mounting a securing means therein. A securing menas location may also include an undulation, a divot, a recess, an aperture or any other suitable means. A securing means may include nails, glue, pegs, dowel, grommets, screws, fasteners, hook and loop fasteners, or any other suitable means.

[00130] Figures 20 to 22 illustrate an embodiment of a female portion, similar to that of female portion 700, formed in an element 1. A male portion is mounted in a female portion; more particularly the female portion 700 illustrated is the embodiment of Figure 7. It will be appreciated that any predetermined male and/or female portions may be used. The male portion is disposed between two female portions, in which the first and second ends of the male portion are mated and engaged with two different female portions. As shown, the female portions may be spaced apart from each other by the male portion, but in another embodiment may be abutting each other when mounted with the male portion. The female portions may be mounted perpendicular to each other, or in the first direction and the second direction, but may be disposed in any predetermined orientation.

[00131] An exploded view is shown in Figure 23 which comprises variants of Figures 6, 19 and 14. A female portion 700 has been keyed (cut) into the element 1, and is adapted to receive male portion 1400. The male portion 1400 comprises an aperture which can be used to connect a further male portion 1400 to the base portion. Each of the male portion respective base portions can be fixed together via at least one of; adhesive, a connection means, a securing means, a member mounted in each of the base apertures, magnets, or any other predetermined method. A width of the first base portion 1400 is preferably the length of the second base portion, such that the base of at least one of the male portions matches fits within or corresponds approximately to the dimensions of the respective base portion. For example, the base portions 1404 A of the first male portion 1400 A is approximately the same dimension as that of the base portion 1404B of the second male portion 1400B. Connection of the male portions may be such that the arms of the first male portion 1400 A and the arms of the second male portion 1400B are perpendicular respectively, or otherwise arranged at around ninety degrees relatively.

[00132] Mating the base portions of the respective male portions may allow for angling or rotation of the element relative to the further female portion, such that when mounted, the element can be disposed at any predetermined or desired angle or orientation. However, the embodiments as shown in Figures 20 to 22 all illustrate the longitudinal axis of the second female portion being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first female portion.

[00133] Each of the male portions 1400A and 1400B re preferably mated together before being mounted with the respective female portions. Preferably, the male portions 1400 A and 1400B are interchangeable such that either of the male portions can be received in either of the first female portion and/or the second female portion. In another embodiment, each of the male portions corresponds to a predetermined and different female portion such that mating of the male and female portions is predetermined to ensure correct placement.

[00134] As shown, an aperture is formed in each of the base portion of the second female portion and the male portions which allows for a securing means (not shown) to be positioned therein to secure the device 10 to a substrate and/or an element 1. In an alternate embodiment, male portion 1400 A is formed with a securing means on the base portion which can be received in the second male portion 1400B. Preferably, the mating relationship between the first male portion and the second male portion is one-way such that after mating, the portions are fixed together, but may optionally allow for rotation in the plane where the faces of the base members meet.

[00135] It will be appreciated that if the tines of the female portion are engaged and/or abutting the teeth or tines of the male portion, the male and female portions are generally considered to be engaged or mated. The mating of the male and female portions forms the device 10.

[00136] In yet another embodiment, the male portion 200 is provided with an aperture to allow for filling of the internal space between the male arms to assist with compressional forces applied to the device 10. If the male portion 200 is a solid portion, i.e. there is substantially no space or gap between the arms, the male portion 200 may apply a shaft adhesion force sufficient to resist removal of the male portion 200 from the female portion 100 when in use. If the male portion 200 is not a solid portion, the arms or the peripheries of the male portion 200 may be adapted to apply an outward force, such as a radially outward force or an outward opposing force (in the case of two arms providing a diverging force), the arms 202 may allow for the provision of a shaft adhesion force or a frictional force. The shaft adhesion may be provided by a high friction surface on at least one of the female and/or the male anus 102, 202. A high friction surface may have a coefficient of friction of between 0.5 to 1.3 μ„. It will be appreciated that the female portion 100 may instead be free of tines 114 and instead may be provided with a frictional surface.

[00137] In yet another unillustrated embodiment, a solid male portion 200 is formed with attachment means extending perpendicularly from the base portion. The attachment means can be fixed to a wall or other planar surface. Alternatively, a countersink may be disposed at the distal end of the male portion 200, which can have a bore extend from the distal end to the proximal end of the male portion such that a securing means can be placed therein the secure the male portion to a structure. The bore may be pre-bored or bored at, or near to, the time of attachment to a structure.

[00138] In yet a further unillustrated embodiment, the female portion 100 comprises a raised portion on each respective arm 102 instead of the tines 114 and a linear portion 110. The raised portion may project from the respective arm 102 and be of a similar height as that of tines 114. The term "similar height" will mean the

perpendicular length from the abutting portion of a tine 114 to the plane of the linear portion 110 of the arm 102. The raised portion and the linear portion 110 of the arms 102 of the female portion 100 may resemble half a splice joint in which the ledge portion is of a thicker relative to the linear portion 110, wherein the thickness is in the direction of the arm outer side 124 to the arm inner side 126. A lip is defined by the difference in thickness of the raised portion and the linear portion 110. The raised portion of arm 102 A preferably projects towards the raised portion of arm 102B.

[00139] The male portion 200 arms 202 comprise a flange at the distal end of each arm 202 and the outer surface (or outer side) of the arms 224 being relatively linear or complimentary to the inner side surface 226 of the raised portion. The flange projecting in the direction of the outer side 224 of the arms 202, and preferably at an angle perpendicular from the plane defined by the outer side aims 202. The each flange being adapted to engage with a respective lip of the female arms 102 to form a one way press fit. In this embodiment the male portion 200 arms 202 are biased outwardly and optionally the female portion 100 arms 102 are biased inwardly. The male portion 100 may be similar in function to that of a split pin. [00140] It will be appreciated that the device 10 may be a single male portion which mounts into a keyed or cut female portion formed in an element 1. Collectively the male portion and the female portion form the device, or part thereof.

[00141] In another embodiment, a structural support device comprises a female portion 100 having a female base 104 a first female arm 102 A and a second female arm 102B and a male portion 200 having a male base 204 and a first male arm 202A and a second male ami 202B. Each of the first female ami 102A and the second female arm 102B may comprise an array of projections, such as tines 114, and each respective male arm may comprise at least one corresponding projection, such as protuberances 214. The male portion 200 may be adapted to be inserted into the female portion 100 to be retained therein, with the array of projections of the female portion 100 and the at least one corresponding projection of the male portion 200 forming a mating relationship such that the at least one corresponding projection abuts a portion of the array of projections; and wherein a void 150 is formed between the first female arm 102A and a respective first male arm 202A in the mating relationship. The male portion may be inserted into the female portion a tactile sensation is generated. Preferably, the female portion has a proximal end at the female base and a distal end at a free end of female arms, in which the array of projections may have a proximal side and a distal side, in which a portion of the proximal side of one of the array of projections may abut the at least one

corresponding projection on one of the first male arm or the second male arm.

Preferably, the proximal side of the array of projections comprise may be at least partially curved. Preferably, the array of projections may be a plurality of tines. Preferably, at least one of the male base and the female base comprises a securing means location. Preferably, the securing means location comprises a countersink. Preferably, each outer side of the first female arm and the second female arm may comprise at least one protrusion. Preferably, when the male portion is in the mating relationship a distal end of the male arms may abut the base of the female portion. Preferably, the first male arm and the second male arm may be adapted to be biased towards each other when inserted into the female portion. [00142] In a further embodiment, the device for supporting an element comprises a first portion 100 and a second portion 200 with the second portion 200 being insertable into the first portion 100 to form a mating relationship therein. The inner side of the first portion 100 comprises an array of projections 214 and the outer side of the second portion 200 comprises at least one corresponding projection 214. The array of projections 114 and the at least one corresponding projection 214 may form a mating relationship such that the at least one corresponding projection abuts a portion of the array of projections and wherein a void 150 may be formed between the inner side of the first portion and the outer side of the second portion adjacent to corresponding projection when the first portion 100 and the second portion 200 are in said mating relationship. It will be appreciated that the first portion may be formed in the element to be supported. For example, the element may have a keyed section, bore or a cut away portion which forms the first portion. The keyed section of the element acting as the female portion may be similar to a rail or guide channel which can receive the male portion. Preferably, when the male portion is inserted into the female portion a tactile sensation may be generated. Preferably, each of the array of projections are curved. Preferably, the mating

relationship is a one way mating relationship. Preferably, at least one of the first portion and the second portion may comprise a securing means location.

[00143] In yet a further embodiment, the device 10 comprises a female portion 100 and a male portion 200. The male portion 200 being insertable into the female portion 100 to form a mating relationship therein. The female portion 100 may be formed in the element to be supported, or may be a second element which is mounted in/on the element to be supported. The inner side of the female portion comprises a lip and the outer side of the male portion 200 comprises a flange. The flange and lip form a mating relationship such that the flange abuts a portion of the lip and wherein a void is formed between the flange and a proximal end of the female portion 100 when the female portion 100 and the male portion 200 are in said mating relationship. Preferably, a tactile sensation may be generated when the flange forms a mating relationship with the lip, and the mating relationship between the male and the female portions is a one-to-many relationship, such that an exact matching arrangement is not required between the male portion 200 and the female portion. Preferably, the mating relationship may be a one way mating

relationship. Preferably, each of the female portion and the male portion comprise a securing means location.

[00144] It will be appreciated that the dimensions of the device 10 may be any desired dimensions, and the length of the device 10 may be of any desired length. An element 1 supported by the device 10 or part thereof, may typically be elongate and the male portion of the device may also be of the same, or substantially the same length, or may be a plurality of smaller lengths spaced along the element 1 to be supported.

[00145] When inserting the male portion into the female portion, the arms of the male portion preferably deflect, flex or bend towards each other respectively. The deflection, flexure, or bending is elastic such that the arms return to the original pre- insertion positions. The arms are preferably bias to spring back, or return to the original pre-insertion position, or if the arms cannot return to the original positon the arms will be biased at the positon which is closest to the at rest position. For example, if the female portion is slightly more narrow than the at rest arm position, the arms will be pressed, at least in part, against the female portion sides and may have an improved mating due to the tighter fit between the male and female portions.

[00146] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms, in keeping with the broad principles and the spirit of the invention described herein.

[00147] The present invention and the described preferred embodiments specifically include at least one feature that is industrial applicable.