Snap-on cross brace for docks, decks and scaffolds

Abstract

A snap-on cross brace is easily coupled to, and removed from, spaced-apart structural members of the type used in the assembly of docks, decks, and scaffolds. With respect to a structure having first and second spaced-apart support members, each with an outer diameter, a cross brace according to the invention comprises an elongate member having two ends spaced apart at a distance greater than the spacing of the support members, and first and second swiveling snap-on elements, one disposed at a respective one of the two ends of the elongate member. Each snap-on element having a c-shaped cross section with an inner diameter slightly less than the outer diameter of the support members, such that each snap-on element may be oriented over a respective one of the support members and engaged at different heights through the application of pressure fixing the elongate member at an angle therebetween. Each snap-on element comprises a spring metal cylindrical cradle having a lengthwise opening with sides spaced apart slightly less than the outer diameter of the spaced-apart support members. A fastener extends through the cradle and the elongate member at an angle perpendicular to the central axis facilitating rotation about the fastener.

1 . A cross brace for a dock having first and second spaced-apart vertical support members, each with an outer diameter, the cross brace comprising:
 an elongate member having two ends spaced apart at a distance greater than the spacing of the vertical members;   first and second swiveling snap-on elements, one disposed at a respective one of the two ends of the elongate member, each snap-on element having a c-shaped cross section with an inner diameter slightly less than the outer diameter of the vertical support members,   such that each snap-on element may be oriented over a respective one of the vertical support members and engaged at different heights through the application of pressure fixing the elongate member at an angle therebetween.   
   
   
       2 . The cross brace of  claim 1 , wherein the elongate member and snap-on elements are constructed of aluminum or an alloy thereof. 
   
   
       3 . The cross brace of  claim 1 , wherein the elongate member is a hollow tube. 
   
   
       4 . The cross brace of  claim 1 , wherein each snap-on element comprises a spring metal cylindrical cradle having a lengthwise opening with sides spaced apart slightly less than the outer diameter of the apart vertical support members. 
   
   
       5 . The cross brace of  claim 1 , wherein each snap-on element comprises a cylindrical cradle having a lengthwise central axis; and
 a fastener extending through the cradle and the elongate member at an angle perpendicular to the central axis facilitating rotation about the fastener.