The present invention relates to an inverted T main runner for forming support structures for false ceilings.

Structural support elements for false ceilings are known consisting of a plurality of longitudinally coupled-together main runners (of about 3 metres in length ) wh ich extend m utual ly paral lel and are connected together by a plurality of cross runners inserted at their end into suitable vertical slotted holes provided in the main runner webs.

The object of the invention is to provide an inverted T main runner which can be easily coupled to the adjacent main runner while at the same time enabling simple disengagement without the use of special equipment.

This object is attained according to the invention by an inverted T main runner for forming support structures, as defined in claim 1 .

A preferred embodiment of the present invention is further clarified hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of the end of a main runner according to the invention, seen from one side,

Figure 2 shows it in perspective view from the other side,

Figure 3 is a perspective view of two mutually engaged main runners,

Figure 4 is a lateral view of two main runners mutually disengaged,

Figure 5 is a longitudinal section therethrough in the engaged configuration.

As can be seen from the figures, the inverted T main runner according to the invention is obtained by bend ing and shaping a metal strip to form a central web 4 which extends from an upper tube 6 and terminates lowerly in two horizontal flanges 8. Each end of the central web of the profile comprises two parallel long itud inal cuts defin ing an elastically deformable band 1 2 contain ing a curved portion 14 term inating in a depressed seat 1 6 with an append ix 1 8 facing outwards and comprising a tooth 20 facing the web.

In particular, the curved portion 14 projects from one side of the web 4 whereas the depressed seat 16 projects from the other side of the web.

Each end of the web extends into a substantially rectangular tab 22 having the same height as the depressed seat 1 6m and projecting from the web 4 from that side from which the curved portion 14 projects. The tab 22 comprises a dished portion 24 and a cut 26 the height dimensions of which are suitable for its engagement by the tooth 20.

To engage the T-shaped main runners the procedure is as follows.

Two T-shaped main runners are abutted at their ends and each tab 22 is inserted into the depressed seat 1 8 of the adjacent main run ner wh ile maintaining the dished portions 24 facing outwards such that the teeth 20 of each main runner become inserted into the cuts 26 of the other main runner, to ensure stability of the connection.

To disengage the profiles, the external surface of the curved portions 1 4 of the elastically deformable bands 1 2 are pressed with the fingers to cause disengagement of the teeth 20 from the cuts 26.

From the aforesaid it is clear that the inverted T main runner according to the invention can be engaged with and disengaged from the adjacent main runner in a simple and comfortable manner using only the hands.