Static structures (e.g. – buildings) – Facer held by stiffener-type frame – Facer back abuts and conceals frame
Patent
1996-04-01
1999-03-23
Friedman, Carl D.
Static structures (e.g., buildings)
Facer held by stiffener-type frame
Facer back abuts and conceals frame
521271, 521278, 52714, 5274911, 248300, 248544, E04B 282, E04F 2100
Patent
active
058844473
DESCRIPTION:
BRIEF SUMMARY
The present invention relates to a device for supporting a second panel in edge-to-edge relationship with a fixed panel. In particular, the preferred embodiment of the invention relates to the device for assisting in the fixing of plasterboard and other sheet materials to walls, ceilings and partitions.
Walls, ceilings and partitions of many buildings incorporate plasterboard which leaves a smooth surface to the wall or ceiling. Plasterboard is much easier, quicker and less messy to erect than wet plaster is to apply. Since plasterboard is supplied in flat panels, a plasterboard fixer must cut the panel to a desired size and attach it to the wall, ceiling or partition usually by means of screws or nails.
A framework is usually constructed to suit the dimensions of the panel so that the very edge of the fixed panel is supported by a frame member to which the panel is fixed. The framework is usually made from metal or wood.
Plasterboard is quite brittle and will easily snap under its own weight if not supported correctly. Plasterboard panels are difficult to support correctly whilst being offered up to the framework, particularly if the panel is to be fixed to a ceiling. Furthermore, larger plasterboard panels are difficult to handle since they are very heavy. A plasterboard fixer will offer the panel into the desired position using two hands to give adequate support. The plasterboard fixer must then remove one hand to hold a hammer or screwdriver and the other hand to hold a nail or screw in order that the panel may be fixed into position. During the fixing of the panel, the fixer will often use his head to support the panel. The fixer may also use temporary propping e.g. a "deadman". This has the disadvantages that the panel may move during the attachment leaving large or uneven gaps between adjacent panels, or the panel is in danger of damage due to incorrect support.
These disadvantages apply for example, to fixing plasterboard to walls, ceilings, soffits and partitions.
It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least reduce some of the above disadvantages.
One aspect of the present invention is a device for supporting a second panel in edge to edge relationship with a previously fixed panel, the support device including a support plate, means to permit the support plate to be attached against the fixed panel, and means for aligning the support plate to overhang the fixed panel by an amount sufficient to support the second panel to be fixed in the said relationship.
Preferably the support plate includes a lip to assist in placing the second panel, to be fixed, on the support plate.
Preferably also, the alignment means aligns the support plate so that the attachment permitting means is aligned with the fixed panel.
According to the preferred embodiment, the means to permit the support plate to be attached against the fixed panel includes holes through the support plate.
It is an advantage to further include spacer means disposed on the support plate for spacing the support plate from the fixed panel. Normally the fixed panel is fixed against a support member and the spacer means spaces the support plate away from the fixed panel to assist in placing the second panel between the support plate and the support member.
Preferably the alignment means includes a flange extending from the support plate and disposed across the support plate to abut against the edge of the fixed panel.
In most situations, the edge of the fixed panel is fixed to a frame member of a framework so that the frame member overlaps the edge of the fixed panel and the device is attached directly to the frame member through the fixed panel.
Preferably the alignment means aligns the support plate so that the attachment permitting means permits the device to be attached to the framework member.
The device may be provided with a handle or hook, preferably at one end thereof, for example, by bending part of the support plate into a U-shaped portion or by providing a separate handle attached to the support plate.
Further, the de
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Friedman Carl D.
Yip Winnie S.
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