Abstract: The present invention relates to an earthquake-proofing device wherein a superstructure is placed and supported for horizontal movement on a foundation structure so as to increase the natural vibration period of the superstructure, thereby protecting the superstructure against earthquake energy and traffic vibration. More particularly, the outer periphery of an elastic body, visco-elastic body or viscous body which hardly exhibits rigidity by itself is surrounded by a restrainer which restrains it from bulging outward, thereby enabling the body to develop high vertical rigidity while allowing it to retain horizontal deformability, the body being used as a load carrier. The restrainer and/or load carrier absorbs vibration energy by frictional damping action.

Abstract: A vertical post mounted to a base in an orthogonal relationship includes plural columns of clip members, with each clip member arranged to mount a cap thereto for display and organization of a plurality of such cap members. A modification of the invention includes flexible alignment rods wound about a spool within the post adjacent each clip projecting through an opening in the post aligned with an upper terminal end of each clip to provide underlying support for a cap member assocated with each clip. The alignment rods are retractably contained within the post when not in use.

Abstract: In high-rise and mid-rise buildings wherein a concrete slab serves as a floor for one level and a ceiling for the level below it, it is necessary to secure vertical plumbing pipes to the slab wherein the plumbing pipes penetrate the slab through holes passing between the levels. An apparatus for securing these pipes includes a first and second member. Each of the members includes a base having a first and second end. Each of the members include one or more ribs attaching perpendicular to the base and extending between the ends of the base. The ribs on each of the members taper from the first end toward the second end of the base such that in side view each of the members is wedge shape in cross-section. The first member is located in the hole in the slab adjacent to the pipe by inserting from the top and the second member is located by so inserting through the bottom. This orients the members such that the large ends of their tapers are distal from each other.