HIDDEN DECK CLIP SYSTEM

Abstract

A deck patio is described with hidden fasteners that can comprise a clip body defined by a web extending in length from a first end to a second end, wherein the web defines a web width, web top, and web bottom. There are two retaining lips extending outwardly from the web width at the web top between the ends, which in certain embodiments the web top. The retaining lips are configured to extend into deck plank side slots. The clip further comprises at least one plank spacer that is equal to or wider than the web width. The plank spacer located between the web top and the web bottom. Extending from the bottom part of the clip body is a runner slot plate, which is spaced apart from the web bottom via a connector peg. The runner plate is sized to slidingly engage with a deck joist runner channel in a joist runner.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This U.S. Patent Application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional Patent Application No.: 63/037,124 entitled MODULAR DECK INSTALLATION SYSTEM WITH SLIDABLE CLIPS, filed on Jun. 10, 2020, the entire disclosure is incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to decking installation and more specifically hidden deck fastener arrangements.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

One approach for enhancing the aesthetics of floorboards used for decks has been to use floorboards having grooves running along their longitudinal edges or sides using hidden fasteners. The problem with the present day hidden fasteners is their lack of flexibility along the top of a joist and there cumbersome attachment configurations. It is to improvement directed to this subject matter that embodiments of the present invention are generally directed.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention that are shown in the drawings are summarized below. These and other embodiments are more fully described in the Detailed Description section. It is to be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the forms described in this Summary of the Invention or in the Detailed Description. One skilled in the art can recognize that there are numerous modifications, equivalents and alternative constructions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as expressed in the claims.

With that said one embodiment of the present invention contemplates a deck patio hidden fastener, or simply clip, can comprise a clip body defined by a web extending in length from a first end to a second end, the web further defining a web width , web top, and web bottom. There are two retaining lips extending outwardly from the web width at the web top between the ends, which in certain embodiments the web top is essentially flat. The retaining lips are configured to extend into deck plank side slots. The clip further comprises at least one plank spacer that is equal to or wider than the web width. The at least one plank spacer is located between the web top and the web bottom. Extending from the bottom part of the clip body is a runner slot plate, which is spaced apart from the web bottom via a connector peg. The runner plate is sized to slidingly engage with a deck joist runner channel in a joist runner.

Yet another embodiment of a hidden fastener arrangement for a deck patio can comprise a clip defining a clip body, a runner slot plate and a connector peg, the clip body defined by a web extending in length from a first end to a second end. The web further defines a web width, web top, and web bottom. The clip further including two retaining lips extending outwardly from the web width at the web top, the retaining lips extend into deck plank side slots. The runner slot plate is spaced apart from the web bottom via the connector peg. The runner plate is envisioned to be slidingly engaged with a deck joist runner channel in a joist runner.

Still another embodiment of a hidden fastener arrangement can comprise a hidden deck clip that mates with adjacent deck planks via retaining lips extending from the deck clip. The hidden fastener arrangement having a runner slot plate that slidingly engages a joist runner via a joist runner channel . The deck planks rest atop the joist runner and the runner plate as part of the hidden deck clip. The hidden deck clip is vertically captured by the joist runner, wherein the hidden deck clip is a component of a deck patio.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various advantages and a more complete understanding of the present invention are apparent and more readily appreciated by reference to the following Detailed Description and to the appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a line drawing of a cut-away portion of a deck showing elements consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a line drawing of an isometric exploded view of a joist runner and joist combination consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2B is an isometric line drawing of a segment of a joist with a joist runner cooperating with a hidden fastener clip consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are isometric line drawings of a hidden fastener clip embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 4A-4C are line drawing views of the hidden fastener clip embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front view of the clip slidingly engaged with joist runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6A is a line drawing illustratively depicting a runner insert embodiment that can be used to extend a joist runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a line drawing illustratively depicting a joist runner assembly embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6C is an isometric line drawing of two joist runners connected to one another to make a longer joist runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6D is a line drawing of a runner insert and joist runner configuration covering a joist corner consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6E is a line drawing of yet another embodiment of a joist runner joiner arrangement consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6F is a line drawing illustratively depicts two joist runners being connected together by way of the connector joint of FIG. 6E consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a line drawing illustratively depicting a section of a deck plank engaged with a clip consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a line drawing a side view of a portion of a deck assembly consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a line drawing isometric view of a joist and joist runner assembly engaged with three clips consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 8B-8D are line drawings showing various top view orientations of decking configurations consistent with embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 9A-9D are line drawings of various arrangements using a single with web-spacer clip consistent with embodiments of the present invention; and

FIG. 10 is yet another embodiment of the joist runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Initially, this disclosure is by way of example only, not by limitation. Thus, although the instrumentalities described herein are for the convenience of explanation, shown and described with respect to exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated that the principles herein may be applied equally in other similar configurations involving deck hidden fasteners. The phrases “in one embodiment”, “according to one embodiment”, and the like generally mean the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention. Importantly, such phases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic. As used herein, the terms “having”, “have”, “including” and “include” are considered open language and are synonymous with the term “comprising”. The terms “essentially” and “substantially” are used herein to indicate a small deviation in what might otherwise be construed as exactly. The terms “essentially” and “substantially”, and similar terms, reflect the reality of relationships between elements. For example, the terms “essentially” and “substantially” may mean within 10% of an exact relationship between elements. In what follows, similar or identical structures may be identified using identical callouts.

The present disclosure relates generally to a decking installation for securing deck boards to trusses or joists via inverted T-slot tracks, which can be extruded inverted T-slot tracks or joist runners. In some embodiments, an inverted T-slot extruded track may be installed along the top of a truss or joist, where the truss or joist may be installed perpendicular to and underneath the deck boards to be installed. In some cases, the track/runner may be configured to receive hidden clips or fasteners that can glide within the inverted T-slot as well as an edge groove of a plank or deck board. In some aspects, the track/runner may assist in the installation of the clips and planks by allowing the clips to be slid in place along the track/runner. Furthermore, the track/runner may be adapted to envelope a top and upper sides of the truss, which may provide weather protection for the truss (e.g., acting as built-in flashing on the top and upper sides of the truss). In some examples, the clip or fastener in the decking installation may comprise a hexagonal or rounded bottom portion that can be slid into the channel in a plurality of orientations or directions. In some cases, a deck installer may select a clip orientation prior to inserting a clip into an end of the extruded track. In some cases, the hexagonal shape of the bottom portion may hinder rotation of the clip once installed in the extruded track, which may allow for a more secure fit at a predefined angle, which will set the angle of the planks on a deck. Furthermore, the top portion of the clip may comprise one or more flat edges that are configured to engage with the edge grooves of planks, such that the deck planks are attached without visibly seeing deck screws driven from the top of the deck plank. In some embodiments, the top portion of the clip may also comprise a through hole for receiving a fastener, such as a screw, to fasten or otherwise secure to the joist by way of the runner. More specifically, a screw may be installed through the hole in the clip into the joist or truss below.

To provide context for an environment where embodiment of the present invention can be practiced, FIG. 1 is a line drawing of a cut-away portion of a deck showing elements consistent with embodiments of the present invention. The cutaway portion of the deck 100 depicts the substructure of the deck 100 with the joists 102 spaced apart as shown overlaid with planks 104. The joists 102 are substantially covered by a joist runner endcap 110, or just “joist runner”. Certain other embodiments envision the joist runner 110 covering a significant portion of the joist 102, such as more than 75% of the joist length 105. A significant portion of the end joist 102a is covered with the joist runner 110 with a portion of the joist 102 not covered by the joist runner 110 to show the joist top 106.

FIG. 2A is a line drawing of an isometric exploded view of a joist runner and joist combination consistent with embodiments of the present invention. This drawing illustratively depicts a joist runner embodiment 110 in the process of being fitted over (i.e., essentially encapsulating) a deck joist top 106, as shown by the joist attachment arrow 134. In practice, certain embodiments envision the U-shaped joist runner 110 being positioned over the joist 102 and then pushed over the deck joist top 106. The U-shaped runner 110 comprises a pair of runner sides 136 that extend downward from the main center portion 111 of the joist runner 110 that includes the joist runner channel 112. When connecting the U-shaped runner 110 to the joist 102, the two runner sides 136 deflect outwardly (see arrow 133) by hinging at the flex radius 132 thereby permitting the U-shaped joist runner 110 to slide over the joist sides 128. Inwardly barbed protrusions 118 slide over the joist 102 when pushed in the direction of the joist attachment arrow 134 and then lock into the joist sides 128 if the U-shaped joist runner 110 is pulled in the direction opposite to the joist attachment arrow 134. The present joist runner embodiment 110 is a joist runner segment having a joist runner length 154 that can be joined with other joist runner segments to create a much longer joist runner, discussed more in detail in FIGS. 6A-6C. Certain embodiments of the joist runner 110 envisions it being an extruded track (e.g., an aluminum track).

FIG. 2B is an isometric line drawing of a segment of a joist 102 with a joist runner 110 cooperating with a hidden fastener clip 200, or just “clip”, consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the U-shaped joist runner 110 is fully engaged with the joist 102. The clip 200 is intended to slidingly engage the joist runner channel 112 via the runner slot plate 202 as depicted by the double arrow 204 (the clip sliding direction). By slidingly engaged (or slidingly cooperating), it is meant that the clip 200 can slide or otherwise move freely along the joist runner channel 112 via the runner slot plate 202. The runner slot plate 202 extends from the bottom of the clip 200. The runner slot plate 202 is captured in the joist runner channel 112 when engaged with the joist runner 110, i.e., the runner slot plate 202 is trapped by the runner slot 114 that is narrower than the joist runner channel 112. The joist runner endcap 110 is a U-shaped rail that essentially encapsulates a deck joist top 106 and a joist side top part 126 of the joist sides 128. In the present arrangement, the joist runner 110 is retained on the joist 102 by way of inward barbed protrusions 118 that penetrate into the joist sides 128.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are isometric line drawings of a hidden fastener clip embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3A shows a clip embodiment 200 with an empty screw receiving passageway 228 and FIG. 3B shows the clip embodiment 200 engaged with a screw 230 (partially in the screw receiving passageway 228). The screw receiving passageway 228 is a through hole that extends concentrically through the clip body top 208 , the connector peg 218 and the runner slot plate 202. The clip embodiment 200 comprises a clip body 206 defined between the clip body top 208 and a clip body bottom 210. The clip body 206 extends in length between a first clip end 212 and a second clip end 214. There are two retaining lips 222 and 224 extending outwardly from the web 226 at the clip body top 208, as shown. The two retaining lips 222 and 224 are configured to extend into deck plank side slots 105 (shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B) to fixedly attached a deck plank 104 to a joist 102. In the present embodiment, there are two plank spacers 215 each disposed at the clip ends 212 and 214 that equally space apart adjacent deck planks 104 (as shown in FIGS. 8B-8D). The runner plate 202 is spaced apart from the clip body 206 via a connector peg 218. The connector peg 218 is smaller than the runner slot 114 of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 4A-4C are line drawing views of the hidden fastener clip embodiment 200 consistent with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 4A is a top view of the clip 200 showing the two retaining lips 222 and 224 extending outwardly from the web 226. The web 226 is shown in hidden (dashed) lines because the web 226 is hidden from view. The web 226 transitions to the plank spacers 215 at the web transition locations 232. In the present embodiment, the web 226 has a width 240 that is narrower than the plank spacer width 242, which defines the plank spacer 215. However, in certain embodiments the web 226 defines the plank spacer width 242 (i.e., the web width 240 is the plank spacer width 242 as shown in FIG. 9A). In this particular arrangement, the clip body top 208 is a flat top surface that extends between the clip ends 212 and 214 to where the two retaining lips 222 and 224 distally terminate 223a and 223b.

FIG. 4B is a front view of the clip 200 showing the two retaining lips 222 and 224 extending outwardly in a “T” at the clip top 208. The two retaining lips 222 and 224 define a lip thickness 244 sized to engage deck plank side slots 108 (shown in FIG. 7A). The web 226 is shown as hidden lines behind the plank spacer 215. The web 226 has a web width 240 that in this embodiment is thinner than the plank spacer width 242 but in certain other embodiments is equal to the plank spacer width 242. For reference, the clip body 206 is defined between the clip body top 208 and the clip body bottom 210. As should be appreciated, the clip 200 extends between the clip body top 208 and the clip bottom 209. The clip body 206 is separated 252 (spaced apart) from the runner slot plate 202 via of the connector peg 218. The clip body to slot plate spacing 252 is greater than the joist runner top overhang thickness 116 defined between the thickness between the joist runner top 115 and the channel side overhang surface 130 (see FIG. 5) to facilitate clip 200 freedom of rotation and sliding in the joist runner channel 112. A runner slot plate thickness 250 of the runner slot plate 202 is defined between the clip bottom 209 and the clip top 211.

FIG. 4C is a side view of the clip 200 with the ball length of the clip body shown consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the clip body 206 is spaced apart from the runner stop plate 202 via the connector peg 218 at a distance that is greater than the thickness of the joist runner slot overhang 116. The clip body 206 defines a clip body length 246, which is the longest part of the clip in this embodiment, defined between the first clip end 212 and the second clip end 214. The clip body height 248 is defined between the clip body bottom 210 and the clip body top 208. In this configuration, the plank spacers 215 extend along the entire clip body height 248 and contribute to the clip body length 246. The web 226 extends closer to the clip ends 212 and 214 than the retaining lips 222 and 224.

Certain commercial embodiments of the present invention envision the clip 200 being easily manipulated with a person's hand and devoid of any need for screws or the like to reduce installation steps thereby reducing the time to install a deck. Accordingly, certain embodiments envision a clip 200 without a screw receiving passageway 228. In some embodiments, the web width 240 is between 0.25-0.75 inches; the plank spacer width 242 is 0.75 inches (which in certain embodiments is the web width 240); the lip thickness 244 is 0.37 inches; the clip body length 246 is 3.75 inches; the web height 248 is 1.6 inches; the runner slot plate thickness 250 is 0.51 inches; the clip body to slot plate spacing 252 is 0.24 inches; and the runner slot plate diameter 254 is 1.8 inches. In one example the tolerance of these measurements is approximately +/−0.01 inches, however the tolerance can vary depending on a manufacturer or, optionally, what is required to meet specifications of an end user. Also, other embodiments envision different measurements in different proportions without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the clip 200 slidingly engaged with joist runner 110 consistent with embodiments of the present invention. The U-shaped joist runner 100 is illustratively depicted in heavier lines than the joist 102 and the clip 200 to better illustrate the relationship of the parts in the arrangement. As depicted, the U-shaped joist runner 100 is clamped over the deck joist top 106 and the runner sides 138 are clamped on the upper portion 126 of the joist sides 128 (see FIG. 2B) via the inward barbed protrusions 118.

The runner slot plate 202 is depicted as cooperating (slidingly engaged) with the joist runner channel 112. The joist runner channel 112 and the runner channel slot 114 together extend along the length of the joist runner 110. The runner channel 112 is essentially a cavity defined by a runner channel width 146 and a runner channel height 148. The runner channel 112 is in communication with the outside environment 150 (meaning the space/environment outside of the joist runner 110) via the runner slot 114. Two runner slot overhangs 116 located on either side of the runner slot 114 define the runner slot width 152, which is narrower than the channel width 146. The narrower runner slot 114 and the wider runner channel width 146 essentially defines the cavity. The runner slot plate 202 is smaller than the joist runner channel cavity 112 in order for the clip 200 to move horizontally along the runner slot 114 and freely rotate within the joist runner channel 112. The channel width 146 is wider than the runner slot plate diameter 254 facilitating free movement of the runner slot plate 202 inside of the channel 112 and yet remain captured in the vertical direction 255 by the two joist runner top overhangs. More specifically, though the clip 200 can slide back and forth in the joist runner channel 112, the clip 200 can also rotate freely in the channel because the runner slot 114 is wider than the diameter of the connector peg 218. As shown, the clip 200 is captured in the joist runner channel 112 because the width of the runner slot 114, which is defined by the runner slot overhangs 116, is narrower than the runner slot plate diameter 254. Hence, the clip top 211 is constrained in the vertical direction 255 by the channel side overhang surface 130.

The measurements of the joist runner 110 need to be compatible with the clip 200, as should be appreciated by one skilled in the art. In that light, some commercial embodiments of the present invention envision measurements of the joist runner 110 compatible with the measurements described in conjunction with the clip 200 of FIGS. 4A-4C. For example, the side slot width 144 (of FIG. 7A) can be 0.4-0.6 inches; the runner channel width 146 can be 1.98 inches; the runner channel height 148 can be 0.6 inches; the runner slot width 152 can be 0.81 inches; and the lip thickness can be 0.15 inches. In one example the tolerance of these measurements is approximately +/−0.01 inches, however the tolerance can vary depending on a manufacturer, for example. Also, other embodiments envision different measurements in different proportions without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 6A is a line drawing illustratively depicting a runner insert embodiment 300 that can be used to extend a joist runner 110 consistent with embodiments of the present invention. The runner insert embodiment 300 is essentially an exact but abbreviated segment of the main center portion 111 (of FIG. 2A) of the joist runner 110, i.e., without runner sides 136. The runner insert 300 is configured to matingly engage a joist runner 110 by way of inserting a pair of connector pins 302 into receiving pin apertures 122 at the joist runner ends 140 in the corresponding joist runner 110, see arrows 316. When engaged, the runner insert 300 aligns with the joist runner 110 such that the runner insert top 315 is essentially in plane with the joist runner top 115. In addition, the runner slot 114 and runner channel 112 form an uninterrupted pathway with the runner insert slot 314 and the runner insert channel 112, respectively. The runner insert 300 further comprises a pair of insert pin apertures 322 configured to receive corresponding insert pins that extend from another joist runner thereby creating a longer uninterrupted joist runner assembly 304 that is disposed along the length 105 of a deck joist top 106, as shown in FIG. 6B.

FIG. 6B is a line drawing illustratively depicting an elongated joist runner assembly 304 embodiment consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, there are four joist runner segments 110a-110d connected to each other by way of three runner inserts 300a-300c thereby creating the joist runner assembly 304. As shown, the runner assembly comprises a contiguous aligned runner slot that is uninterrupted between the first runner segment 110a and the last runner segment 110d, which facilitates freedom of movement of the runner slot plate 202.

FIG. 6C is an isometric line drawing of two joist runners connected to one another to make a longer joist runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Similar to the joist runner 110 and runner insert 300 of FIG. 6A, an optional embodiment envisions a first joist runner 110a joined with the second joist runner 110b utilizing the runner connector pin 302 to pin aperture 122 arrangement discussed in conjunction with FIG. 6A. It should be appreciated that any number of joist runners 110 can be connected in this way to form a much longer joist runner 110 that essentially encapsulates the deck joist top 106 of a joist 102.

FIG. 6D is a line drawing of a runner insert 300 and joist runner 110 configuration covering a joist corner 160. More specifically, because the runner insert 300 does not have sides 116, the runner insert 300 can lengthen the runner assembly 110 and 300 to extend to the corner 160.

FIG. 6E is a line drawing of yet another embodiment of a joist runner joiner arrangement consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown here, a connector joint 340 is an independent connector comprising two sets of two opposing joint connector pins 342a and 342b that extend outwardly from either side 354a and 354b (opposite sides) of a center plate 352. In this configuration, the center plate 352 comprises a rim 350 that covers the abutting joist runner ends 140 (see FIG. 6F). The rim 350 is essentially a lip that extends outwardly from the joint connector pins 342a and 342b. That is, the rim 350 extends beyond each of the pin tops 349 and pin sides 348. The joint connector pins 342a and 342b are tapered to a pin termination end 344 (i.e., each pin 342 tapers from a larger cross sectional area at the center plate 352 to a smaller cross sectional area at the pin termination end 344). In this embodiment, the joint connector pins 342a and 342b are configured to engage or otherwise slide inside of the pin apertures 122 of the respective opposing joist runners 110a and 110b (see FIG. 6F) with the pin size at the plate end 352 closely conforming (snuggly engaging) the pin aperture 122, however other embodiments do not have a snuggly conforming engagement. In this embodiment, there is a notch 346 in the top and bottom of the center plate 352 which provides some communication between joist channels 112 of opposing joist runners 110a and 110b. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the mechanical arts that different kinds of connectors can be employed, such as latches, different male-female connector arrangements, magnets, and the like.

FIG. 6F illustratively depicts two joist runners 110a and 110b about to be connected together by way of the connector joint 340 of FIG. 6E. As should be appreciated, the associated runner slots 114 and the joist runner channels 112 line up. When connected the center plate 352 is in contact with the joist runner ends 140 and the opposing connector pins 342 are engaged in the corresponding pin apertures 122. In this arrangement, the joist runners 110a and 110b comprise weep holes 155a (discussed in detail in conjunction with FIG. 10). Also in this configuration, the joist runner channel 112 is interrupted between the two joist runners 110a and 110b by the center plate 352.

FIG. 7A is a line drawing illustratively depicting a section of a deck plank engaged with a hidden clip consistent with embodiments of the present invention. In the present arrangement, a deck plank 104 is engaged with a retaining the retaining lip 224 extending from a clip 200, wherein the opposite retaining lip 222 is free to receive another plank. The retaining clip 200 is engaged with the runner slot 114 of the joist runner 110, which is connected to or otherwise engaged with a section of a joist 102. This deck plank 104 comprises two deck plank side slots 108 on either side running along the length and in the middle of the deck plank 104. The side slots 108 require a side slot width 144 that is greater than the retaining lip thickness 244 (see FIG. 4B) in order for the retaining lip 222 or 224 to easily slide into the deck plank side slot 108. As should be appreciated, when engaged with a clip 200, the deck plank 104 cannot be moved in the vertical direction 255. Certain embodiments envision the deck plank 104 being a composite deck board while other embodiments envision the deck plank 104 composed of milled wood. The order of assembly is for the clip 200 to be moved into the runner channel 112 via the end/opening of the runner insert channel 312 of the runner insert 300 to freely move in the runner channel 112 of the main joist runner 110 where the clip 200 is captured by the joist runner top overhang 116. If the runner insert 300 were not present then the runner stopped plate 202 of the clip 200 would simply be inserted in the runner channel 112 at the end of the joist runner 110. In the present arrangement, a deck plank 104 is engaged with a retaining the retaining lip 224 on a clip 200. The opposite retaining lip 222 is free to receive another plank.

FIG. 7B is a line drawing a side view of a portion of a deck assembly 100 consistent with embodiments of the present invention. As shown, there is a segment/section of a joist 102 with a joist runner 110 extending along the length of the joist 102. There is also a runner insert 300 extending off the left end of the joist runner 110. The clip 200 is slidingly engaged with the joist runner channel 112 (which is not shown in this figure). The two deck planks 104a and 104b are constrained vertically 255 by the retaining lips 222 and 224, respectively, because the retaining lips 222 and 224 are at least partially in the corresponding deck plank side slots 108. The deck planks 104a and 104b are spaced apart 215a at the plank spacer width 242 defined by the plank spacer 215. In this way all of the deck planks 104 in the deck assembly (of FIG. 1) are equally spaced apart.

FIG. 8A is a line drawing isometric view of a joist and joist runner assembly engaged with three clips consistent with embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, a joist 102 is capped with a joist runner 110 that is connected with a runner insert 300, as shown. There are three clips 200a, 200b and 200c in various locations along the runner slot 114. Each of the clips' 200a, 200b and 200c corresponding runner slot plates 202 are slid into the joist runner channel 112 at different locations. The clips 200a, 200b and 200c are free to rotate in addition to sliding along the runner slot 114 because the diameter of the connector peg 218 is smaller than the spacing of runner slot 114 (see FIG. 5 for the spacing clearance). Freedom to rotate the clips 200a, 200b and 200c facilitates angular adjustments of the planks 104 as shown in FIGS. 8B-8D.

FIGS. 8B-8D are line drawings showing various top view orientations of decking configurations consistent with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 8B shows a segment of two deck planks 104a and 104b oriented at 90° relative to the joist 102. As shown, the planks 104a and 104b are retained by the clip 200 and spaced apart 215a by the plank spacer 215. FIG. 8C shows a segment of the two deck planks 104a and 104b oriented at 0° relative to the joist 102, i.e., in-line with the joist 102 and the joist runner 110. Because all three of the clips 200a, 200b and 200c possess constant size plank spacers 215, the two deck planks 104a and 104b are uniformly spaced apart 215a. FIG. 8D shows a segment of two deck planks 104a and 104b oriented at 45° relative to the joist 102 and joist runner 110. As shown, the planks 104a and 104b are retained by the clip 200 and uniformly spaced apart 215a by the plank spacer 215.

FIGS. 9A-9D are line drawings of various arrangements using a single with web-spacer clip consistent with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 9A is an isometric view of a web-spacer clip embodiment 400 showing the spacer web 426 is the plank spacer. The single web-spacer clip 400 can be equally used instead of (substituted for) the clip 200 shown in the previous figures and corresponding descriptions. The web-spacer clip 400 is similar to the clip 200 of FIG. 3A except that there is no independent plank spacer (215) extending outwardly somewhere along the spacer web 426. Hence, the web-spacer clip 400 comprises a web-spacer clip body 406 defined between a web-spacer clip body top 408 and a web-spacer clip body bottom 410 with a constant width spacer web 426 extending between two ends 412 and 414. There are two retaining lips 422 and 424 extending at approximately 90° outwardly at or near the web-spacer clip body top 408. The web-spacer clip body 406 is spaced apart from the runner slot plate 202 by way of a connector peg 218 facilitating functionality of the web-spacer clip 408 in a joist runner 110 (FIG. 9C) like the clip 200. The web-spacer clip 400 provides an added advantage over the clip 200 in that there are possibly less manufacturing steps regarding the constant width spacer web 426 because the constant width spacer web 426 is a uniform ‘bar’, as shown. As should be appreciated, the spacer web 426 ensures unified spacing between the planks 104 (such as the planks 104a and 104b shown in FIG. 8A-8C).

FIG. 9B is a top view of the web-spacer clip embodiment 400 showing the constant width spacer web 426. As shown, the spacer web 426 has a uniform width 442 that extends uniformly from the first clip end 412 to the second clip end 414. Shown by the curved dashed (hidden) lines, the passageway housing 428 for the screw receiving passageway 228 has a larger diameter than the uniform width 442 of the spacer web 426. Yet other embodiments contemplate an adequately wide spacer web 426 that can fully house a passageway 228 and therefore does not required a passageway housing 428.

FIG. 9C is an isometric line drawing similar to FIG. 8A but with the web-spacer clip embodiment 400 in place of the clip 200. As shown, just like in FIG. 8A, the three web-spacer clips 400a, 400b and 400c are oriented in different rotations along the runner slot 114 in the joist runner 110 and runner insert 300. The joist runner 110 is joined with a section of a joist 102. The three web-spacer clips 400a, 400b and 400c are retained in the runner slot 114 via their corresponding runner slot plate 202.

FIG. 9D is a top view line drawing of the three web-spacer clips 400a, 400b and 400c oriented in different rotations along the runner slot 114 in the joist runner 110 and runner insert 300.

FIG. 10 is yet another embodiment of the joist runner consistent with embodiments of the present invention. The joist runner embodiment 111 is essentially the same as the joist runner 110 except that it comprises weep holes 155 that allows water that may build up in the joist runner channel 112 to seep out thereby avoiding the problem of standing water in the joist runner channel 112. Water can enter into the joist runner channel 112 via the runner slot 114. As shown here, there are two weep holes 155a (weep perforations) extending through the runner side 138a between the joist runner top 115 and the runner side panels 136. There is at least one weep hole 155a in the other runner side 138b. Any water building up in the joist runner channel 112 exits the channel 112 via at least one inner weep hole 155b in the channel side wall 125 of the joist runner channel 112. The fact that the weep holes 155a are above the runner side panels 136 reduces the chance that water building up in the joist runner channel 112 simply rolls down the joist sides 128 of the joist 102.

With the present description in mind, below are some examples of certain embodiments illustratively complementing some of the methods and apparatus embodiments discussed above and presented in the figures to aid the reader. The elements called out below are provided by example to assist in the understanding of the present invention and should not be considered limiting. The reader will appreciate that the below elements and configurations can be interchangeable within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

For example, in one embodiment, a deck patio hidden fastener 200, or simply clip, can comprise a clip body 206 defined by a web 226 extending in length 246 from a first end 212 to a second end 214, the web 226 further defining a web width 240, web top 208, and web bottom 210. There are two retaining lips 222 and 224 extending outwardly from the web width 240 at the web top 208 between the ends 212 and 214, which in certain embodiments the web top 208 is essentially (more or less) flat. The retaining lips 222 and 224 are configured to extend into deck plank side slots 108. The clip 200 further comprises at least one plank spacer 215 that is equal to or wider than the web width 240. The at least one plank spacer 215 is located between the web top 208 and the web bottom 210. Extending from the bottom part of the clip body 206 is a runner slot plate 202, which is spaced apart from the web bottom 210 via a connector peg 218. The runner plate 202 is sized to slidingly engage with a deck joist runner channel 112 in a joist runner 110.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 further contemplating wherein there are two plank spacers 215 each extending outwardly from the web 226 at the ends 212 and 214.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 further considering wherein the runner slot plate 202 is circular.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 further pondering wherein the joist runner 110 extends lengthwise along a joist length 105 over at least 75% of the joist length 105 of a deck joist top 106 of a joist 102. The joist runner 110 can include a joist runner channel 112 that can be defined by a cavity that extends essentially uniformly along a joist runner length 154 that is partially exposed by a runner slot 114 that is narrower than a runner channel width 146 of the runner channel 112. The joist runner 110 can comprise runner side panels 136 extending from joist runner sides 138 of the joist runner 110, the runner side panels 136 cover a joist top part 126 on corresponding joist sides 128 of a joist 102.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 further imagining wherein the two retaining lips 222 and 224 define a flat surface at the web top 208.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 further envisioning wherein the clip body 206 comprises a screw receiving passageway 228 configured to receive a screw 230, the screw receiving passageway 228 extending concentrically through the web top 208, the connector peg 218 and the runner slot plate 202.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 further pondering wherein the joist runner 110a is configured to connect to a second joist runner 110b by way of an abbreviated joist runner connector 300. The abbreviated joist runner connector 300 establishes an uninterrupted channel that includes the joist runner channel 112.

The deck patio hidden fastener embodiment 200 is further imagined wherein the web width 240 is the at least one plank spacer 215.

Yet another embodiment of a hidden fastener arrangement for a deck patio 100 can comprise a clip 102 defining a clip body 206, a runner slot plate 202 and a connector peg 212, the clip body 206 defined by a web 226 extending in length 246 from a first end 212 to a second end 214. The web 226 further defines a web width 240, web top 208, and web bottom 210. The clip 200 further including two retaining lips 222 and 224 extending outwardly from the web width 240 at the web top 208, the retaining lips 222 and 224 extend into deck plank side slots 108. The runner slot plate 202 is spaced apart from the web bottom 210 via the connector peg 218. The runner plate 202 is envisioned to be slidingly engaged with a deck joist runner channel 112 in a joist runner 110.

The hidden fastener arrangement can further comprise a deck joist 102 defined by a deck joist top 106 and deck joist sides 128, the deck joist top 106 and an upper portion 126 of the deck joist sides 128 essentially covered by the deck joist runner 110. The deck joist runner 110 can additionally include runner side panels 136 that covers the upper portion 126 of the deck joist sides 128.

The hidden fastener arrangement is imagined wherein the web width 240 defines separation 215a between a first deck plank 104a and a second deck plank 104b.

The hidden fastener arrangement is envisioned wherein the clip 102 is configured to slide along and rotate in the joist runner channel 112. Here the clip 102 can be constrained in a vertical direction 255 by a runner slot 114 in communication with the joist runner channel 112. The runner slot 114 is narrower than a runner slot plate diameter 254 whereby the runner slot 114 is defined by a pair of runner slot overhangs 116 that partially cover the joist runner channel 112.

The hidden fastener arrangement is envisioned wherein the runner slot plate 202 is circular or optionally faceted to position the clip 200 in the runner channel 112 at a particular/desired angle. The desired angle will determine the angle of the planks 104 on the deck 100.

The hidden fastener arrangement is further imagined wherein the joist runner 110 is comprised of a first joist runner segment 110a connected to a second joist runner segment 110b.

It is further pondered that the joist runner 110 of the hidden fastener arrangement is connected to a runner insert 300 that forms an uninterrupted joist runner channel 112.

Still another embodiment of a hidden fastener arrangement can comprise a hidden deck clip 200 that mates with adjacent deck planks 104a and 104b via retaining lips 222 and 224 extending from the deck clip 200. The hidden fastener arrangement having a runner slot plate 202 that slidingly engages a joist runner 110 via a joist runner channel 112. The deck planks 104a and 104b rest atop the joist runner 110 and the runner plate 202 as part of the hidden deck clip 200. The hidden deck clip 200 is vertically captured by the joist runner 110, wherein the hidden deck clip 200 is a component of a deck patio 100.

The hidden fastener arrangement further ponders wherein the adjacent deck planks 104a and 104b are uniformly spaced apart 215a via a spacer defined by a web width 240 of the hidden deck clip 200.

The above embodiments are not intended to be limiting to the scope of the invention whatsoever because many more embodiments are easily conceived within the teachings and scope of the instant specification. Moreover, the corresponding elements in the above example should not be considered limiting.

It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of various embodiments of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with the details of the structure and function of various embodiments of the invention, this disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of structure and arrangement of parts within the principles of the present invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed. For example, variations of hidden clip shapes can be employed while maintaining the functionality of a trapped runner slot plate 202 and retaining lips 222 and 224 while still maintaining substantially the same functionality without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Another example can include providing various shaped runner slot plates that meet or expand the functionality of angularly positioning the deck planks 104 on a deck 100 without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Yet another example can include variations of the joist runner that has different kinds of connections with different kind of pin arrangements without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Still another example are though the two web retaining lips are at the top of the clip, certain embodiments envision them along the length of the web or simply not at the top of the clip. It should be appreciated that elements of various embodiments described herein can be combined in obvious manners by a person skilled in the art that understands the content of the present specification without departing from the scope of the subject matter presented herein. Further, the term “one” is synonymous with “a”, which may be a first of a plurality.

It will be clear that the present invention is well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. While presently preferred embodiments have been described for purposes of this disclosure, numerous changes may be made which readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed in the spirit of the invention disclosed.

Claims

1. A deck patio hidden fastener comprising:

a clip body defined by a web extending in length from a first end to a second end, the web further defining a web width, web top, and web bottom;

two retaining lips extending outwardly from the web width at the web top between the ends, the retaining lips are configured to extend into deck plank side slots;

at least one plank spacer that is equal to or wider than the web width, the at least one plank spacer located between the web top and the web bottom; and

a runner slot plate spaced apart from the web bottom via a connector peg, the runner plate is sized to slidingly engage with a deck joist runner channel in a joist runner.

2. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein there are two plank spacers each extending outwardly from the web at the ends.

3. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein the runner slot plate is circular.

4. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein the joist runner extends lengthwise along a joist length over at least 75% of the joist length of a deck joist top of a joist.

5. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 4 wherein the joist runner channel is defined by a cavity that extends essentially uniformly along a joist runner length that is partially exposed by a runner slot that is narrower than a runner channel width of the runner channel.

6. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 4 further comprising runner side panels extending from joist runner sides of the joist runner, the runner side panels cover a joist top part on corresponding joist sides of a joist.

7. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein the two retaining lips define a flat surface at the web top.

8. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein the clip body comprises a screw receiving passageway configured to receive a screw, the screw receiving passageway extending concentrically through the web top, the connector peg and the runner slot plate.

9. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein the joist runner is configured to connect to a second joist runner by way of an abbreviated joist runner connector, the abbreviated joist runner connector establishes an uninterrupted channel that includes the joist runner channel.

10. The deck patio hidden fastener of claim 1 wherein the web width is the at least one plank spacer.

11. A hidden fastener arrangement for a deck patio comprising:

a clip defining a clip body, a runner slot plate and a connector peg clip, the clip body defined by a web extending in length from a first end to a second end, the web further defining a web width, web top, and web bottom;

two retaining lips extending outwardly from the web width at the web top, the retaining lips extend into deck plank side slots;

the runner slot plate spaced apart from the web bottom via the connector peg, the runner plate is slidingly engaged with a deck joist runner channel in a joist runner.

12. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 11 further comprising a deck joist defined by a deck joist top and deck joist sides, the deck joist top and an upper portion of the deck joist sides essentially covered by the deck joist runner.

13. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 12 wherein the deck joist runner comprises runner side panels that covers the upper portion of the deck joist sides.

14. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 11 wherein the web width defines separation between a first deck plank and a second deck plank.

15. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 11 wherein the clip is configured to slide along and rotate in the joist runner channel, the clip is constrained in a vertical direction by a runner slot in communication with the joist runner channel, the runner slot narrower than a runner slot plate diameter, the runner slot defined by a pair of runner slot overhangs that partially cover the joist runner channel.

16. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 11 wherein the runner slot plate is circular.

17. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 11 wherein the joist runner is comprised of a first joist runner segment connected to a second joist runner segment.

18. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 11 wherein the joist runner is connected to a runner insert that forms an uninterrupted joist runner channel.

19. A hidden fastener arrangement comprising:

a hidden deck clip that mates with adjacent deck planks via retaining lips extending from the deck clip;

a runner slot plate that slidingly engages a joist runner via a joist runner channel, the deck planks rest atop the joist runner, the runner plate as part of the hidden deck clip;

the hidden deck clip is vertically captured by the joist runner,

the hidden deck clip is a component of a deck patio.

20. The hidden fastener arrangement of claim 19 wherein the adjacent deck planks are uniformly spaced apart via a spacer defined by a web width of the hidden deck clip.