Patents by Inventor Richard G. Starks, Jr.

Richard G. Starks, Jr. has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 11548048
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methodology contemplating a portable sheet metal folding apparatus that folds a sheet metal panel profile into a different predetermined shape, the profile having straight elements joined together by arcs. The apparatus has consecutive roller die sets configured to perform a series of folds on a first element of the profile toward a second element of the profile. Each roller die set has opposing roller dies operably contacting only the first and second elements, not contacting any arc. The opposing roller dies are arranged to define a minimal gap between them equal to or more than the radius of the arc joining the first and second elements together. The gap provides a material relief space that is sized to clearingly permit the arc to positionally shift during folding to relieve stress and strain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Inventors: Richard G. Starks, Jr., Ralph L. Herren, Robert Lytle
  • Patent number: 10428517
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated method contemplating a roof assembly having a plurality of roof structurals. A rake plate having a panel flange is configured for attaching a roof panel thereto. A fastener connects the rake plate to the building structural. A rake plate retainer has a retention flange defining a fastener opening through which the fastener passes, and defines a standoff boss apart from the fastener that is configured to define a predetermined gap for the rake plate that permits operable movement of the rake plate relative to the building structural.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: Building Research Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard G. Starks, Jr., Ralph L. Herren
  • Patent number: 8997410
    Abstract: A seam stabilizer for maintaining standing seam roof panels on module during installation, the seam stabilizer having profile members that provide pressing force on the standing seam for maintaining and aligning the horizontal and vertical shape of the standing seam formed at interconnected upstanding corrugations along the length of adjacent panels; a pressing mechanism moves the profile members into pressing engagement with the standing seam during installation. Further, a module set gauge extends between the profile members to fit over the opposing upstanding edge of the adjacent panel and secure same on module as the edge is secured to the underlying support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Building Research Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard G. Starks, Jr., Ralph L. Herren