Connectors used in making highly insulated composite wall structures

Abstract

Highly insulating connectors used in making highly insulative composite wall structures. At least a substantial portion of the connector is injection molded in a single step from an appropriate resinous material or moldable plastic. The connector has a substantially pointed end in a penetrating segment for facilitating penetration of the connector through an insulating layer and a yet unhardened structural material, such as concrete, that will harden into a first structural layer. The opposite end, or gripping segment, includes arcuate wings for facilitating gripping of the connector during placement in the insulating layer and first unhardened structural layer, and also for anchoring the connectors upon hardening of a second structural layer. A middle or mesial segment resides within the insulating layer, which is sandwiched between the first and second structural layer. The arcuate wings are curved toward the penetrating end and terminate in an elongated surface to limit the depth of penetration of the connector when inserted through the insulating material. An optional enlarged head at the end of the gripping segment can receive an impact, such as by a hammer or mallet, or serve to more comfortably receive pressure from the palm of the hand during placement of the connector.