WO2015021505A1

WO2015021505A1 - Connector

Info

Publication number: WO2015021505A1
Application number: PCT/AU2014/050174
Authority: WO
Inventors: Charlie GUBBINS
Original assignee: ROBERTSONS BUILDING PRODUCTS Pty Ltd
Current assignee: ROBERTSONS BUILDING PRODUCTS Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2013-08-16
Filing date: 2014-08-07
Publication date: 2015-02-19
Anticipated expiration: 2016-02-16
Also published as: AU2014306359A1

Abstract

A connector (20) and method for connecting first (32) and second slabs (34) having at least one hole (40, 42) in their connectable sides (36, 38). Connector (20) including a body (21) including at least one protrusion (26) depending from a first side (22) and at least one protrusion (28) depending from a second side (24), each adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole( 40, 42), wherein when fitted to the first and second slabs (32, 34), the body (21) is adapted to deform such that, if the relative movement of the slabs occurs, the connector (20) allows the slabs (32, 34) to remain connected.

Description

CONNECTOR

FIELD OF THE I VENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector. The connector may be useful for connecting slabs, such as pavers and other types of pathway or flooring material. The connector may also be used for connecting slabs which are positioned vertically in a construction, such as concrete wall slabs.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND PRIOR ART

[0002] Many pathways are formed from separate pavers which abut against each other to form a line of pavers in the direction of the pathway. Similarly, pavers are used to form areas on the ground, such as courtyard or patio type areas. Typically, the adjacent pavers are not connected with each other, so that if there is movement in the ground, or if there is growth of vegetative matter under at least some of the pavers, the pavers will move relative to each other such that the sides of some pavers stick up, which is unsightly and causes a trip hazard.

[0003] One particularly difficult problem occurs with pathways near trees. When the trees grow, they often have root systems which can form so as to deform the pathway by movement of at least some of the pavers forming the pathway. Again, this is unsightly and causes a trip hazard and/or problems for conveyances like bicycles, prams, strollers and mobility carts.

[0004] Previously, paving slabs and similar construction items have been joined together, for example, metal bars. Whilst providing a degree of flexibility, the metal is prone to rusting and other degradation. Furthermore, as the paving slabs abut directly against each other, when the slabs move at an angle with respect to each other, then there will be stresses placed on the metal joiners or the material of the slabs. These stresses can cause the metal rods to break or the slab material to crack and break. [0005] Other means of joining slabs together have also been previously used.

However, such joining means are often only useable when forming the slabs, such as when pouring a concrete slab. In this regard, the joining means are placed, say, in one slab which has been poured and then allowed to set, then a second slab is poured on top with the joining means providing a connection with the top slab and the bottom slab. Often such joining means are used with a layer of insulation between the top slab and the bottom slab of concrete.

[0006] Yet other joining means have required sleeves to be fitted in the slabs to allow the joiners to be used in joining the slabs.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to overcome, or at least ameliorate, at least one of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, and or to overcome, or at least ameliorate, at least one problem in the prior art which has not yet been mentioned above, and/or to provide at least a useful alternative to prior art devices, systems and/or methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention provides a connector for connection of a first and a second slab, the first slab having a connectable side with at least one hole and the second slab having a connectable side with a least one hole, the connected slabs being subject to possible relative movement with respect to each other, the connector including:

a body having a first side and a second side, the body including:

at least one protrusion depending from the first side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the first slab; and.

at least one protrusion depending from the second side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the second slab,

wherein, when fitted to the first and second slabs, the body is adapted to deform such that, if the relative movement occurs, the connector allows the slabs to remain connected from an initial configuration to a moved configuration. [0009] In another aspect, the present invention provides a connector system in which a first and a second slab are connected by a connector, the first slab having a connected side with at least one hole and the second slab having a connected side with at least one hole, the connected slabs being subject to possible relative movement with respect to each other, the connector including:

a body having a first side and a second side, the body including:

at least one protrusion depending from the first side and fitting snugly in the at least one hole in the first slab; and,

at least one protrusion depending from the second side and fitting snugly in the at least one hole in the second slab.

wherein the body is adapted to deform such that, if the relative movement occurs, the connector allows the slabs to remain connected from an initial configuration to a moved configuration.

[0010] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method for connecting a first and a second slab, the first slab having a connectable side with at least one hole and the second slab having a connectable side with at least one hole, the connected slabs being subject to possible relative movement with respect to each other, the method including:

positioning the first and the second slabs such that the connectable sides of each slab are facing each other,

placing a connector in the at least one hole of one of the first and the second slabs;

moving the slabs towards each other such that the connector is placed in a corresponding at least one hole of the other of the first and the second slabs;

stopping moving the slabs towards each other when the connectable sides are a selected distance apart and the connector is fitted to the first and second slabs,

wherein the connector includes:

a body having a first side and a second side, the body including:

at least one protrusion depending from the first side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the first slab; and,

at least one protrusion depending from the second side and adapted to it snugly in the at least one hole in the second slab, and wherein, when fitted to (he first and second slabs, (he body is adapted 10 deform such that, if the relative movement occurs, the connector allows the slabs to remain connected from an initial configuration to a moved configuration.

SUMMARY OF OPTIONAL EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[001] ] Tn one embodiment, the relative movement between the slabs includes rotational movement. In another embodiment, the relative movement includes translational movement. In a further embodiment, the movement may include components of both rotational and translation movement.

[0012] Where the movement is rotational, it may be around a notional axis substantially parallel to the connectable sides of the connected slabs. Further, the body may have a predetermined deforming tolerance allowing up to and including 45° rotation between the first and second slabs, In yet another embodiment, the snug fit allows each protrusion to move within its respective hole during rotational movement.

[0013] Where the movement is translational, the snug fit may allow each protrusion to move within its respective hole during translation or movement.

[0014] In embodiments, the connector may deform where a part of the body of the connector flexes and/or a part of the body stretches and/or compresses.

[0015] In an embodiment, the connector further includes a cushion located at or towards a notional centre of the body and between the connectable sides of the connected slabs to substantially prevent direct contact between the connectable sides in at least the initial configuration.

[0016] In another embodiment, the cushion is adapted to compress and/or expand during the relative movement.

[0017] tn an optional embodiment, each protrusion is substantially cylindrically shaped such that each protrusion is adapted to fit snugly in its respective hole formed as a substantially cylindrically shaped bore. In such an embodiment, each protrusion may be tapered towards its end away from a notional centre of the body. Alternatively, each protrusion may include one or more barbs located radially around the protrusion. Where the protrusions include barbs, at least one of the barbs may be formed with a circular cross- section radially around the protrusions.

[0018] In another embodiment, the cushion assembly may be annularly shaped, in such an embodiment, the body may include a radial groove and the inner hole of the annular cushion sits in the groove.

[0019] In an alternative embodiment, the body is disc shaped such that each protrusion is formed by a notional minor segment of the disc such that each protrusion is adapted to fit snugly in a respective hole formed as a slot. In such an embodiment, each slot is shaped and sized to accommodate one protrusion. However, as an alternative, each slot may also be formed along the entire connectable side of its respective slab. Where the body is disc shaped, the cushion may be substantially cylindrically shaped. Further, the body may have a hole at or towards its notional centre so as to accommodate the cushion, which fits snugly in the hole.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, the body is formed from a plastic including polycarbonate. In another embodiment, the cushion may be formed from a plastic, including ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber.

[002] ] In certain embodiments, the slab is formed from a material including any one or more of: concrete, steel, re-enforced concrete, a clay product, natural stone and artificial stone.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] For a belter understanding of the invention, and to show how it may be performed, optional embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art pathway showing the pavers being disrupted by the growth of a nearby tree; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of one optional embodiment of a connector, Fig. 3 is a side elevation view of (he embodiment of the connector shown in

Fig. 2;

Fig.4 is an end elevation view of a connector shown in Fig. 2:

Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the connector shown in Fig. 2 being used to connect to adjacent slabs (pavers):

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a connector.

Fig. 7 is a side elevation view of the connector shown in Fig. 6;

Fig. 8 is an end elevation view of the connector shown in Fig. 6;

Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the connector of Fig. 6 being used to connect to adjacent slabs (pavers):

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the connector of Fig. 6 connecting to adjacent slabs (pavers), wherein the slabs are in a "normal" position, as they might be. for instance, when a pathway has been recently built:

Fig. 1 1 is a cross-sectional side elevation view showing a configuration of the two adjacent slabs connected by the connector of Fig. 6, when those slabs have moved angularly with respect to each other, say, if they had been disturbed by a tree root;

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a connector;

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the connector of Fig. 12. shown without the cushion;

Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the cushion of the connector shown in Fig. Fig. 15 is a side elevation view of the connector of Fig. 12;

Fig. 16 is an end elevation view of the connector shown in Fig. 12;

Fig. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the connector of Fig. 12 shown connecting to adjacent slabs, wherein each slab has a slot-shaped hole for receiving its respective pan of the connector;

Fig. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the connector of Fig. 12 shown connecting two adjacent slabs, wherein the shape of the holes in the slabs is semi-circular.

Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of two adjacent slabs (pavers) in a "'normal" position, say, after having recently being made to form a pathway, wherein the slabs are connected by a connector of Fig. 12;

Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional side elevation view showing the two slabs of Fig. 19 having been moved rotationally with respect to each other by an angle of Y°;

Fig.21 shows a pathway with slabs connected using the connectors of Fig.6 and Fig. 12, with details of those connections shown circled in Figs. 22, 23. 24, 25 and 26;

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a detail from Fig. 21;

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a detail from Fig. 21 ;

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a detail from Fig. 21 ;

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a detail from Fig. 21;

Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a detail from Fig. 21; and.

Fig. 27 is a graph showing details of testing performed on a connector similar to that shown in Fig. 6. connecting two concrete slabs, which were moved with respect to each other. DETAILED DESCRlPTfON OF OPTIONAL EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Fig. 1 shows a prior art pathway 10 madc-up of paving slabs 12 laid end-to- end to form the pathway in a conventional manner. In this example, the pathway 10 has been laid near a tree 14, which has grown overtime so that the roots 16 of the tree 14 have grown under and up through the pathway 10, thus upsetting the arrangement of the pavers 12.

[0024] Accordingly, between at least some of the pavers 12, there is a "twisted" formation 18. which creates a trip hazard on the pathway 10. and is also unsightly. The present invention provides solutions in its various embodiments to overcome or at least ameliorate the problem of the twisted formation 18 in the prior art pathway 10.

[0025] Fig. 2 shows one embodiment of a connector 20, which has a body 21. From the body 21 there is a first side 22 of the connector 20 and a second side 24 of the connector 20, wherein the first side 22 includes a protrusion 26 and the second side 24 also includes a protrusion 28.

[0026] It will be understood that it is within the scope of the presently described and defined invention to have a connector which includes more than one protrusion from each of its sides. However, all embodiments described herein are shown with a single protrusion on each side of the connector.

[0027] The connector 20 in Fig. 2 also shows a cushion 30. In this embodiment, the cushion 30 is annular-shaped and sits in a groove in the body 21 of the connector 20.

[0028] In this and other embodiments of the connector, the body and protrusions may be formed from a plastic including polycarbonate, and the cushion may be formed from a plastic material, including ethylene propylene dicne monomer (EPDM) rubber. [0029] The protrusions 26. 28 are shaped so that they taper to he a smaller diameter away from the notional centre of the body 21 of the connector 20. This allows for easier insertion of the connector 20 into a hole of a slab to be connected by the connector.

[0030] Figs. 3 and 4 show the features of the connector 20 in a side elevation view and an end elevation view, respectively. In embodiments, the connector 20 from end-to- end may be 50mm in length. The protrusions may taper from being 12mm in diameter to being about 10mm in diameter. The diameter of the annular cushion may be about 25mm, with a thickness of about 4mm. The diameter of the groove in the body 21 may be about 10mm. with the hole in the annular cushion 30 also being about 10mm, or smaller, so as to provide a tight fit around the groove in the body 21 ,

[0031] It will be appreciated that the above-described dimensions arc optional, and may be varied either singularly or multiply so as to suit the application of th invention. For example, if using larger slabs, the connector may be created to be a larger size. If requiring greater friction in the interface between the connector 20 and the slab into which the connector is inserted, the taper may be more gradual or a lesser total taper. Further, the length of the protrusions 26.28 may be increased.

[0032] Fig. 5 shows the connector 20 of Fig. 2 used for connecting two slabs, a first slab 32 and a second slab 34. The first slab has a connectable side 36. adapted to be connected to the corresponding connectable side 38 of the second slab 34. The

connectable side 36 of the first slab 32 includes two holes 40, which in this example are bores into the connectable side 36. Such bores 40 may be created by, for example, drilling the slab 32 with a masonry drill. Of course, similar manufacturing techniques can be applied to the second slab 34 to create holes 42 in the connectable side 38 of that second slab. Alternatively, the slabs may be pre-formed with suitable holes.

[0033] As can be readily seen in Fig.5, the protrusion 26 on the first side 22 of the two connectors 20 is adapted to slide into its respective hole 40, so as to be a snug fit in that hole. Correspondingly, the protrusion 28 on the second side 24 of each of the connectors 20 is adapted to slide into its respective hole 42 in the second slab 34 so as to be a snug fit. [0034] As will be explained in detail for further embodiments of the invention later in this description, if the slabs 32, 34 are caused to move with respect to each other by, for example, growth of a tree root under the slabs, then the connectors 20 will keep the slabs substantially connected, but with freedom to move angularly and/or translationally with respect to each other, thus causing the slabs to form a "hill" shape, rather than to be in a "twisted" formation. The '"hill" formation, though perhaps not ideal compared with a flat pathway, will be an improvement over the "twisted" formation, as there will be at least a substantially ameliorated problem with the slabs becoming a trip hazard.

[0035] In order for the above-mentioned angular rotation of the slabs 32. 34 with respect to each other when connected, the connectors 20 must be able to at least Hex. In this regard, the connectors 20 are formed so that, in this embodiment, the flexing is favoured in the body 21 of the connector 20 towards the centre of the connector.

[0036] Further, in this embodiment, the connectors 20 are designed so that, though the fit of the protrusions 26.28 into their respect holes 40. 42 is snug, movement of the slabs 32, 4 with respect to each other may cause the protrusions 26. 28 to move in their respective holes 40.42, without becoming dislodged therefrom. Such movement of the protrusions in the holes assists with the flexing process of the connectors 20. Such movement of the protrusions within their respective holes may also assist where the movement of the slabs 32, 34 with respect to each other is primarily lateral or translational. such as when the slabs are caused to move away from each other or towards each other, say. with ground movement and expansion. The cushion 30 of the connectors 20 provides a means of keeping the slabs 32, 34 separated. If the slabs move towards each other in a form of lateral or translational movement, then the cushion 30 will become compressed, whilst maintaining at least some separation between the moved slabs. Furthermore, if the movement of the slabs is an angular rotation type movement , the cushion 30 will provide a means of resisting the movement of the slabs conneclable side 36, 38 towards each other on the inner side (that is. towards the point of the angle) of such angular rotation or movement.

[0037] Fig. 6 shows another embodiment of the connector 44 having a body 46. a first side 48 and a second side 50. There is a protrusion 52 from the first side 48 of the connector and a protrusion 54 from the second side SO of the connector. The connector 44 also has a cushion 56 which is annular-shaped and sits in a groove in the body 46.

[0038] Different from the embodiment of the connector 20 shown in Fig. 2, is the barbs 58 toward the ends of the protrusions 52. 54. the barbs being located away from the centre of the body 46 of the connector 44. These barbs provide a higher friction fit of the connector 44 in the holes of the connected slab towards the end of the respective protrusions 52. 54.

[0039] As can be seen in Fig. 6. the barbs are formed radially around the ends of the respective protrusions 52.54 such that the friction fit extends around the circumference of the hole into which the connector is fitted.

[0040] Figs. 7 and 8. respectively, show a side elevation and end elevation view of the connector 44 of Fig. 6. Fig. 7 shows parallel dashed lines through the cushion 56, thus indicating that the cushion and the groove in the body 46 of the connector 44 may be formed to be various widths, being larger or smaller than that shown in Fig. 7.

[0041] Fig. 9 shows the embodiment of the connector 44 in use with slabs 32. 34 having connectable sides 36. 38 and holes 40.42 in the connectable sides of those slabs. It will be appreciated that the views shown in Figs. 5. , 17 and 1 arc exploded views, and that when used in a construction, the slabs 32. 4 (86.88 in Fig. 17 and 98, 100 in Fig. 1 ) are moved towards each other so as to abut the sides of the cushion (30, 56. 4 in its various embodiments).

[0042] Fig. 10 shows the first slab 32 and the second slab 34 when connected with the connector 44 of Fig. 6. As can be seen, the connectable side 36 of the first slab 32 and the connectable side 38 of the second slab 34 arc pressed against the sides of the cushion 56 so as to be separated by a distance A. Further, the hole 40.42 in respective first and second slabs 32, 34 are formed so that the respective protrusions 52. 54 inserted into those holes 40.42, each have a respective end face 60, 62 which meets a respective end face 64, 66 of the hole 40.42. [0043] II will be understood thai in other embodiments, the end faces 60, 62 of the protrusions 52, 54 may not meet the end faces 64, 6 of the holes 40.42, so as to leave a gap between the end faces 60, 62 and the end faces 64.66. This may be desirable where movement of the slabs towards each other in a lateral direction is anticipated.

[0044] It will also be appreciated that the configuration shown in Fig. 10 is a configuration of the slabs and the connector which would be expected when the slabs have been newly laid to construct, for example, a pathway. In this regard, the slabs 32, 34 in Fig. 10 are separated by distance A and are not angularly rotated with respect to each other.

[0045] Fig. 1 1 , however, shows the slabs 32, 4 when moved, for example, by a tree root growing underneath one or both of those slabs. The slabs are shown as being angularly rotated with respect to each other at an angle X°, wherein in the connector 44 is flexed so as to deform part of the body 46 of the connector 44. which in this example includes stretching of an upper part of the body and compressing of a lower part of the body. Further, as can be seen in Fig. 11 , the cushion 56 is compressed at a lower part thereof, being an inner part towards the closure of the angle X°. Furthermore, Fig. 11 shows that there is a gap 68 formed between the end face 60 of the first protrusion 52 and the end face 64 of the hole 40 in the first slab 32, along with a gap 70 formed between the end face 62 of the protrusion 54 on the second side 50 of the connector 44 and the end face 66 of the hole 42 in th second slab 34.

[0046] The gaps 68. 70 indicate that movement of each protrusion within its respective hole during the rotational movement depicted in Fig. 11. As will be understood by a person skilled in the present technology, the snug fractional fit of each protrusion 52. 54 in its respective hole 40, 42. allows for uch movement, though maintaining a snug fit.

[0047] Fig. 12 shows yet another embodiment of the connector 72 in which the body 74 and the protrusions 80, 82 of the connector 72 are formed by a disc 73. In this regard, the body 74 is disc-shaped, such that each protrusion 80, 82 is formed by a notional minor segment of the disc 73. and such that each protrusion 80, 82 is adapted to fit snugly in a respective hole formed as a slot in a slab. [0048] Ιι will be understood thai the part of the disc that formed by each protrusion will be determined when the disc 73 of the connector 72 is inserted into a slot in the slab to be connected.

[0049] The embodiment of the connector 72 shown in Fig. 12 includes a cushion 84 which is cylinder shaped. The cylindrical cushion 84 fits snugly in a hole 75 in the disc 73.

[0050] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12. the body 74 may be formed from a polycarbonate material and the cushion formed from EPDM rubber, as for previous embodiments of the connector described. Also, as with previously described

embodiments, the connector 72 has a first side 76 including protrusion 80 and a second side 78 including protrusion 82.

[0051] Figs. 13 and 14, respectively, show components of the connector 72. Fig. 13 shows the disc 73 comprising the body 74 with a hole 75 therein towards its centre. Fig. 14 shows the cylindrical cushion 84, which fits snugly within the hole 75 in the disc 73 of the connector 72. Figs. 15 and 16, respectively, show side elevation and end elevation views of the connector 72.

[0052] Fig. 17 shows one embodiment of the connector 72 in use. wherein the first and second slabs 86, 8 each have an elongate slot 94.96 in their respective connectable sides 90, 2. The protrusion 80 on the first side 76 of the connector 72 slides snugly into slot 94. Similarly, the protrusion 82 on the second side 78 of the connectors 72 slides snugly into the slot 96 in the second slab 88. The connectable sides 90.92 of the slabs 86, 88 are moved towards each other, such that they abut the sides of the cylinder shaped cushion 84 of the connectors 72.

[0053] Fig. 18 shows an alternative embodiment of the connector 72 in use.

wherein the first and second slabs 98. 100 have semi-circular shaped slots 106, 108 for snugly fitting the respective protrusions 80. 82 of the connectors 72. It will be understood by those skilled in the technology that the slots 106, 108 may not be full semi-circles, but portions thereof, such that the respective protrusions 80, 82 fit into those slots 106, 108 and (111 the slot when the slabs 98, 100 are in a connected formation, so as to leave at least some gap between the slabs in that connected formation.

[0054] Fig. 19 shows the slabs of either Fig. 17 or Fig. 18 <86, 8; 88. 100) in connected formation, wherein the slabs have not been subjected to any movement. There is a gap of width B between the slabs, with the connectable sides of the slabs (90. 102; 92, 104) abutting against the sides of the cushion 84.

[0055] Fig. 20 shows the slabs (86, 8: 88.100) in a moved formation, wherein the slabs are rotated with respect to each other at an angle Y°. As can be seen in Fig. 20, gaps 110. 112, have formed because of movement of the protrusions 80. 82 in their respective holes (94. 106; 96. 108). The cushion 84 has been compressed at its end towards the inner part of the angle Y°.

[0056] As can be seen in Fig. 20. the disc 73 of the connector 72 is deformed when the slabs move relative to each other through an angular rotation or movement. This allows the slabs to remain connected despite such movement and prevents the twisted formation from occurring between the slabs.

[0057] Fig. 21 shows the pathway 10. which is now connected between adjacent slabs using various embodiments of the connector 44 and 72, as shown in Figs. 6 and 12. respectively. The tree 14 next to the path 10 has a root system 16 which has grown under, through and upwardly into the pathway 10. However, due to the path being connected by the connectors 44. 72, instead of having the twisted formation 18, as shown in Fig. 1, the path 10 has a "hill" formation, which prevents or substantially ameliorates trip hazards and the unsightly appearance of a twisted pathway.

[0058] The pathway 10 consists of pavers 122, each of which has holes in its connectable sides, being both sides of each of the pavers. Some of the pavers have not been disturbed by the roots 16 of the tree 14 and therefore have a "normal" formation 126 therebetween. In this regard, the pavers are in formation much the same as they would have been when the path was first constructed. However, those pavers 122 which have been disturbed by the roots 16 have a "benf formation 124 therebetween. [0059] One possible embodiment of the present invention is shown wilh paver 128. which is adapted to accommodate a connector 44 from Fig. 6 on one side and another type of connector 72 from Fig. 12 on the other side. Of course, it will be understood that the slabs in the invention can be adapted to accommodate any particular embodiment of the invention, along with multiples and mixtures thereof.

[0060] Fig. 21 includes five dashed circles depicting details and referenced as 22.

23. 24, 25 and 26. These details are shown in the following Figures.

[0061] Fig. 22 is a detail (22) from Fig. 21. It shows a connection between t o slabs 32. 34 in the pathway 10. wherein the connection is performed by a connector 44. as depicted in Fig. 6. Although not shown clearly in Fig. 22. the slabs 32. 34 would include holes in their respective connectable side to accommodate the protrusions 52. 54 of the connector 44. The root system depicted in Fig. 21 has not disturbed these two slabs, and so they have a "normal" formation 126 between them.

[0062] Fig. 23 is a similar view to Fig. 22, but shown between two slabs (pavers) further along the path in Fig. 21. As can be seen in Fig. 23, the slabs have been rotated angularly with respect to each other, so that a wider gap has formed at the bottom of the interface between the connectable sides of the slabs 32, 34 than at the top of the interface. This results in a "benf formation 124.

[0063] Similarly, in Fig. 24 the slabs (pavers) are shown in a "bent" formation 124. However, this formation has a wider gap at the top of the interface between the

connectable sides of the slabs 32. 34 than at the bottom of that interface.

[0064] Fig. 25 shows two slabs 88, 100: 86.98 as depicted in previous figures connected by another embodiment of the connector 72. Again, similarly to Fig. 23, the slabs are in a "bent" formation 124, with a wider gap at the bottom of the interface between the connectable sides of the two slabs than at the top of that interface. It should be noted that, in Fig. 25, the slab referenced as 88, 100 is slab 128 in Fig. 21. being, the slab adapted for two types of connector 44 and 72, on opposing connectable sides. [0065] Fig. 26 is a similar view to that in Fig. 24. but wherein the slabs are adapted to be connected by the embodiment of the connector 72 shown in Fig. 12. The "bent" formation 124 has a very slightly wider gap at the top of the interface between the connectabte sides of the slabs than at the bottom of that interface.

[0066] Although not shown in Figs. 25 and 26, it will be understood that the slabs have slots (holes) created therein to accommodate the connectors 72.

[0067] As previously mentioned, the cushions in the various embodiments of the connectors may be made from EPDM rubber. This rubber is a synthetic rubber and may have excellent ozone and high temperature resistance. The EPDM rubber may also display resistance to a wide range of chemicals and acids. Further, the EPDM rubber may also be formed with nylon monofilament reinforcement for improved tear strength and gasket (cushion) stability.

[0068] The following Table 1 shows properties of an example EPDM rubber:

TABLE 1: Technical Properties of EPDM

[0069] In the various embodiments of the connectors, the body and protrusions of the body may be formed from polycarbonate. This type of thermoplastic usually has the properties of having very high impact strength and high modulus of elasticity. Further, polycarbonate often has a high heat deflection temperature and absorbs very little moisture. Polycarbonate h available in different grades, having varying properties and transparency. In some embodiments, the polycarbonate may include glass fibres in various amounts, for example, 10%. 20%, 30% and 40%, to increase tensile strength, stiffness, compressive strength, and providing a lower thermal expansion coefficient.

[0070] The following Table 2 shows example properties of polycarbonate:

[0071] Tests h ve been conducted (shear testing) using square concrete pavers and an embodiment of a connector 44 shown in Fig. 6. The concrete pavers have the following dimensions 200mm wide x 200mm long x 40mm thick, the connectors have the dimensions 10mm diameter x 21mm long, separated by two 3mm thick EPDM washers comprising the cushion.

[0072] In the lest procedure, a compressive force was applied progressively to the central paver (the assembly of pavers consisted of three pavers with the two outer pavers supported by the base of the testing machine, with a compressive shear load being applied to the raised central paver) inducing a shear load to the connectors. The testing was continued until permanent shear bending of the connectors and/or spelling fracture of the concrete pavers occur. Three repeat tests were conducted.

[0073] In each of the tests, the result was that the load versus displacement performance was observed to be reasonably linear until about 4.5 kN, at which stage permanent shear bending in the connectors 44 was evident and the load started to decrease. After severe deformation of the connectors 44. the load rebounded and continued to increase until rupture of the concrete pavers occurred. The test results are provided in Table 3.

[0074] Fig. 27 shows a graph 1 SO indicating Force (kN) 160 measured against Displacement (mm) 162. being respectively the Y and X axes of the graph. The graph shows the results for tests 1 (170), 2 (172) and 3 ( 174), being the displacement

performance whilst reasonably linear.

[0075] It will be appreciated that the invention can be applied in other contexts than connecting pathway paver slabs. For example, the connector can be adapted and used for connecting slabs of building material, such as pre-formed concrete slabs, which are used to construct vertical, horizontal and other angled surfaces in buildings. The connectors may also be used to connect natural stones, whether in a shaped form or in original, natural form.

[0076] The invention is susceptible to variations, modifications and or additions other than those specifically described, and it is to be understood that the invention includes all such variations, modifications, and/or additions, which fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0077] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0078] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

Claims

1. A connector for connection of a first and a second slab, the first slab having a connectable side with at least one hole and the second slab having a connectable side with at least one hole, the connected slabs being subject to possible relative movement with respect to each other, the connector including: a body having a first side and a second side, the body including: at least one protrusion depending from the first side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the first slab; and. at least one protrusion depending from the second side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the second slab, wherein, when fitted to the first and second slabs, the body is adapted to deform such that, if the relative movement occurs, the connector allows the slabs to remain connected from an initial configuration to a moved configuration.

2. A connector according to claim 1 , wherein the relative movement includes rotational movement.

3. A connector according to claim 2, wherein the rotational movement is around a notional axis substantially parallel to the connectable sides of the connected slabs.

4. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3. wherein the body has a predetermined deforming tolerance allowing up to and including 45 "rotation between the first and second slabs.

5. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the snug fit allows each protrusion to move within its respective hole during rotational movement.

6. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5. wherein the relative movement includes translational movement.

7. A connector according to claim 6, wherein the snug fit allows each protrusion to move within its respective hole during translational movement.

8. A connector according to any one of claims I to 7, wherein the deforming includes flexing of a part of the body.

9. A connector according to any one of claims I to 8, wherein the deforming includes stretching of a part of the body.

10. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the deforming includes compressing of a part of the body.

11. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further including a cushion located at or towards a notional centre of the body and between the conneciable sides of the connected slabs to substantially prevent direct contact between the conneciable sides in at least the initial configuration.

12. A connector according to claim 11. wherein the cushion is adapted to compress and/or expand during the relative movement.

1 . A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 12. wherein each protrusion is substantially cylindrically shaped such that each protrusion is adapted to fit snugly in its respective hole formed as a substantially cylindrically shaped bore.

14. A connector according to any one of claims I to 13. wherein each protrusion is tapered towards its end away from a notional centre of the body.

15. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein each protrusion includes one or more barbs located radially around the protrusion.

1 . A connector according to claim I 5. wherein at least one of the barbs is formed with a circular cross-section radially around the protrusion.

17. A connector according to either claim 11 or claim 12. or any one of claims 13 to 16 when appended to either claim 11 or claim 12. wherein the cushion is annularly shaped.

18. A connector according to claim 17, wherein the body includes a radial groove and the inner hole of the annular cushion sits in the groove.

19. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the body is di sc shaped such that each protrusion is formed by a notional minor segment of the disc such that each protrusion is adapted to fit snugly in a respective hole formed as a slot.

20. A connector according to claim 19, wherein each slot is shaped and sized to accommodate one protrusion.

21. A connector according to claim 19, wherein each slot is along the entire connectable side of its respective slab.

22. A connector according to any one of claims 19 to 21 , when claim 19 is appended to either claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the cushion is substantially cylindrically shaped.

23. A connector according to claim 22, wherein the body has a hole at or towards its notional centre and the cushion fits snugly in the hole.

24. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the body is formed from aplastic including polycarbonate.

25. A connector according to cither claim 1 1 or claim 12, or any one of claims 13 to 24 when appended either directly or indirectly to either claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the cushion is formed from a plastic including ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPD ) rubber.

26. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 25. wherein the slab is formed from a material including any one or more of: concrete, steel re-enforced concrete, a clay product, natural stone and artificial stone.

27. A connector system in which a first and a second slab are connected by a connector, the first slab having a connected side with at least one hole and the second slab having a connected side with at least one hole, the connected slabs being subject to possible relative movement with respect to each other, the connector including: a body having a first side and a second side, the body including: at least one protrusion depending from the first side and fitting snugly in the at least one hole in the first slab; and. at least one protrusion depending from the second side and fitting snugly in the at least one hole in the second slab. wherein the body is adapted to deform such that, if the relative movement occurs, the connector allows the slabs to remain connected from an initial configuration to a moved configuration.

28. A method for connecting a first and a second slab, the first slab having a connectable side with at least one hole and the second slab having a conncctablc side with at least one hole, the connected slabs being subject to possible relative movement with respect to each other, the method including: positioning the first and the second slabs such that the connectable sides of each slab arc facing each other; placing a connector in the at least one hole of one of the first and the second slabs; moving the slabs towards each other such that the connector is placed in a corresponding at least one hole of the other of the first and the second slabs; stopping moving the slabs towards each other when the connectable sides arc a selected distance apart and the connector is fitted to the first and second slabs. wherein the connector includes: a body having a first side and a second side, the body including: at least one protrusion depending from the first side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the first slab; and, at least one protrusion depending from the second side and adapted to fit snugly in the at least one hole in the second slab, and wherein, when fitted to the first and second slabs, the body is adapted to deform such that, if the relative movement occurs, the connector allows the slabs to remain connected from an initial configuration to a moved configuration.