Abstract: A retractable window covering panel including spaced apart parallel sheets of flexible fabric with vanes adhesively secured therebetween. The covering includes a roller or head rail with a wrinkle and buckle compensating structure such as longitudinal lobes or ribs to prevent creasing, wrinkling, or buckling of the window covering when rolled up. The head rail has means for attaching the window covering to insure proper alignment of the window covering. A bottom rail is secured to one or both sheets. An anti-skew device is provided.

Abstract: Tonneau cover apparatus for rail mounted tonneau cover systems for pick-up truck beds and the like are provided. The invention included a spacer member for a accommodating seasonal dimensional variations in covers; adjustable corner connector apparatus for non-rectangular truck beds; improved adjustable snap-type closure members for covers, and an improved snapless cover fastener.

Abstract: A tailgate sealing arrangement for sport utility and other vehicles having a removable, flexible top. The sealing arrangement includes an elongated, rigid member attached to the lower section of the rear portion of the flexible top. The rigid member is removably mounted to extend across the tailgate opening and has a flexible seal depending downwardly from it. The tailgate in the preferred embodiment is mounted for pivotal movement about a vertical axis and has a horizontally extending, flat, upper surface. In operation and as the tailgate is closed, the depending seal contacts and wipes across the flat, upper surface of the tailgate to form an effective sealing arrangement. All of this is done without having to disturb or otherwise manipulate the top.

Abstract: A molding system having a mechanism for securing an air barrier across the area bounded by the molding system. The molding system comprises: a bracket member and a retaining cap strip. The bracket member has a bracket width, a longitudinal axis, and a first grooved channel formed therein. The first grooved channel is oriented substantially in parallel with the longitudinal axis and has a predetermined maximum groove width. In use, the bracket member is secured to the frame work which forms the window, or other opening, with nails, screws or other fastening devices. The retaining cap strip has a cap member and an insertion member. The insertion member is dimensioned in a manner such that a terminal section of the insertion member is insertable into the first grooved channel and retained therein by contact between a portion of the terminal section and a portion of the bracket member defining the grooved channel. The cap member has a cap width greater than the predetermined maximum groove width.

Abstract: A device and method for locating an electret in an electret-type radon gas detector, so it is wrinkle free, uses a sloped pedestal over which the electret sheet is placed. A ring with a beveled interior surface and a minor diameter smaller than the top of the pedestal is forced down over the electret sheet and pedestal, and into a groove surrounding the pedestal formed by a wall projecting from the base of the device. The movement of the ring causes the electret to stretch and eliminates any wrinkles. Also, forcing the ring over the pedestal causes the ring to rotate about its circular centroid axis and to dig into the walls of the groove, thus locking the assembly together.

Abstract: A method of installing insulation under a pre-existing roof of a building of a type having a spaced apart structural beams standing in one direction under the roof and a plurality of spaced apart elongated purlins extending transversely to the structural beams and being supported by the structural beams. Perlin clips are used which connect to the perlins at the top and to a lower support member at the bottom thereof. The method includes installing an upper support member across from one to the other of an adjacent pair of perlins. An upper strip of insulation is positioned between adjacent pairs of perlins above the upper support member whereby the strip of insulation will be supported by the upper support member. A lower strip of insulation is attached at one end into one of the structural beams, under the upper layer of insulation, and to the other of the structural beams at the other end thereof.

Abstract: A convertible top comprises a frame having a header and three transverse bows, a fabric cover for the frame, side stay pads, a panel containing a backlite, and an interior headliner. The bows and header are interconnected by articulated side linkages. The header and the #2, #3 and #4 bows have elongated open ended extrusions with transverse channels extending along their surfaces. The #4 bow includes an extra transverse channel. The fabric cover is initially attached to the header. The fabric cover, the headliner, and the stay pads all have transverse resilient attachment strips adjacent the header and/or each bow which are inserted into the bow channels to mount them on the top frame. The upper edge of the backlite also has a mounting strip received in the extra channel of the #4 bow. The attachment strips each has an arrow-shaped cross section including a wide arrowhead that is compressible for insertion through a narrow entry slot into a channel.

Abstract: A covered wall unit, especially suitable for use in office furniture applications, includes an upright structure having an outer, peripheral, open channel loosely surrounded by a tubular-shaped flexible cover. A tension bar is received in the channel for pushing the cover therein and tensioning the cover to lie taut against the structure.

Abstract: In order to facilitate the fastening of a length of material to the cold-rolled profile tube (1) of a canvas-blind tube, the wall of said profile tube has formed therein an essentially tangentially extending first recess by folding the wall of said profile tube first inwards onto itself and by bending it then back into an L-shape, the long leg portion (9) extending in parallel spaced relationship with said double-folded wall and the shorter L-leg portion (10) extending towards the outer surface of said profile tube (1) and delimiting the opening of said first recess. Furthermore, a second, radially extending recess is provided subsequent to said shorter L-leg portion (10) by bending the wall inwards in a U-shape. These recesses have inserted therein a strip of plastic material comprising a tongue, which extends into the first recess, and a foot portion, which follows said tongue and which extends into the second recess (11), the length of canvas-blind material being placed round said tongue.

Abstract: A greenhouse in which a foil (2) is affixed in a profiled frame (3) of "V"-form by a snap-on frame (1) also of "V"-form and in which at least one of the legs (3a) is provided with an extending edge (4). In a particular embodiment one of the legs of the profiled snap-on frame (1) is provided with another extending edge (5) and possibly a flap (6). The new construction has not only the advantage of simplicity but also the advantage that it is easy to fit and easy to remove.

Abstract: A needlework frame of the scrolling variety, created to simplify use, which provides a non-slip method of attachment of the needlework base fabric to the scrolling rods that reduces the possibility of damage to the fabric and/or the accomplished needlework; that makes it possible to easily remove the needlework from, or return it to the frame and; that makes it possible to exert the desired tension upon the fabric without danger of the fabric slipping, distorting or becoming disengaged from either the supply or the take-up rod.

Abstract: A construction system comprising a method and an article employed in said method which is used to engage the edge of adjacent membranes along the top of a beam constituting an arch in a tension membrane structure and pull the membranes toward each other by tightening alternate bolts attached to the beam and the edge of the membrane.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and an apparatus for mounting and deployment of retractable covering devices, in particular, light control window covering including a lobed head rail to prevent creasing and/or skewing of the window covering when rolled up, the head rail having means for attaching the window covering which insures proper alignment of the window covering. Also included are a bottom rear rail having an antiskewing device which comprises a slidable weight for compensating for skewed roll up; a flip-catch device for preventing wrong-way roll up of the window covering; and a top-catch mechanism for preventing both wrong-way roll up and over rotation in the proper roll up direction.

Abstract: A screen enclosure device comprising a first frame member having an interior face and a second frame member having an interior face wherein the first and second frame members are configured to join at their interior faces to form a single frame structure. Serrated contacting structure including a plurality of rows of teeth extends substantially along and is interposed in contacting relationship between the substantial full perimeter of the opposing faces of these first and second frame members. Screen material is drawn tightly across the opening of the frame and is retained in this tight configuration by forces supplied by the serrated contacting structure in its sandwiched configuration between the opposing faces of the first and second frame members.

Abstract: A gangway bellows for fastening to the end of a vehicle, the bellows having a clamping cable along its peripheral edge which cooperates with a channel carried by the end of the vehicle for attaching the end of the bellows to the vehicle. A connecting strip of elastic material, such as rubber, extends along the peripheral edge of the bellows and embraces the clamping cable. The connecting strip is located between the clamping cable and the channel on the vehicle and serves to resiliently clamp the cable to retain the latter within the channel.

Abstract: An awning structure of the type having a frame work in which some parts are bent into a radius, and a fabric cover secured snugly over the frame, the curved frame parts extending generally between a vertical and a lower portion, and some of the frame parts being of identical cross-section, defining a generally U-shaped channel, with opposed side walls, and a bottom wall joining the side walls, and the side walls defining an open mouth remote from the bottom wall, an intermediate bracing wall extending from the bottom wall between the side walls, the side walls and the intermediate wall lying in planes parallel to one another and spaced apart from one another, and the intermediate wall defining a free edge, terminating substantially adjacent the open mouth, a bridge wall extending between each side wall and the intermediate wall, the bridge wall being spaced inwardly from the open mouth, and defining a generally arch shape in section.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a curtain retainer. The curtain retainer is comprised of a retainer element having a pair of parallel elongate members having a gap therebetween and having inside and outside faces. A support is provided to support the retaining element from a wall, ceiling, head rail of a window blind or curtain, or the like. A plug is provided for insertion into and retained within the gap in the retaining element. The plug clampingly engages fabric of a curtain between itself and corresponding inside faces of the members. The plug is retained in a partly recessed position within the gap and is capable, in this position, of retaining the fabric sufficiently loosely to allow for positioning of the fabric in pleats or the like.

Abstract: A construction assembly for attaching a flexible covering material to a fixture. The construction assembly employs a reusable support member having a pair of substantially circular openings with griping teeth protruding therefrom. At least one elongated locking bead employed for securely positioning a covering within the circular openings and an elongated trim pad operatively associated with the support member for securely maintaining locking beads in position.

Abstract: A barrier panel for enclosures and shield with a self-supporting framework of rigid tubes encompassing at least one through opening. The opening is enclosed by a cover sheet of flexible plastic film releasably secured to the framework by snap-on clips and a complementary retainer attached to a side face of the framework.

Abstract: Molding, which is attached directly to the outside of a house around a window, includes a continuous groove for receiving the edges of a sheet of flexible screening. A strip of flexible tubular rubber is used to force the screen into the groove and operates to frictionally retain the screen in engagement with the molding, and a decorative cap can then be snap fitted into the groove to further hold the screen in place. A flexible retaining strip may be removably attached to the decorative cap and can include a plurality of barbed tacks which engage the tubular rubber holding ring. The barbed tacks operate to remove the tubular rubber member when the decorative cap is pulled away from the molding so as to facilitate an easy removal of the screen for purposes of replacement or repair.

Abstract: The wall covering assembly includes a flexible, resilient, preferably sound-deadening, fire-resistant sheet of wall covering, preferably of plastic and/or cloth. The assembly also includes one or a spaced number of preferably parallel wall covering anchoring strips releasably connected to the rear of the wall covering. The strips can be anchored to the exposed surface of a wall to hold the wall covering over and spaced from the wall. Each strip may be of plastic, wood, metal, ceramic or the like and includes a rear base plate adapted to be connected, as by adhesive, screws, etc. to a wall. It also includes a front plate spaced forward of the base plate by integral struts, preferably parallel therewith and defining therebetween an acoustical space. The front plate bears anchoring hooks attachable to the rear of the wall covering. Preferably, the strips bear breakaway segments on one side thereof, removably blocking access to the space.

Abstract: A device for zone-by-zone tensioning of a flat material, especially an embroidery hoop. According to one possible solution, tensioning and clamping are brought about by a change in the circumferential length of a tensioning member that can be filled, by a gas or a fluid and another solution brings this about by twisting a tensioning member. To generate a strong tensioning force in the material, it is proposed in the first solution that the tensioning member be designed as a crease-free tube with a body. By selecting a cord angle of the body, tensioning can be achieved by increasing or decreasing the pressure and by increasing or decreasing the circumferential length. According to another solution, the tensioning member is designed as a torsion body that can be twisted in itself, preferably as a reinforced hollow body, which may also form a closed ring. To increase the tensioning force without unduly stressing the material, the device is designed with a rigid outer ring and a twistable inner ring.

Abstract: A gripping device for securing a covering to an upholstered bead is described. The device is a rigid elongated member having a longitudinal hollowed out portion with an internal constriction so that when the bead and covering are received therein the construction will wedge the same against the internal walls of said device.

Abstract: The present invention discloses various novel methods of conjoining parallel structural members of awning or other fabric framing structures, as well as an apparatus for accomplishing those methods. By properly orienting the structural members to be conjoined and securing them together with a properly formed clamp, the existing staple channel cover may also serve as a light and water tight seal between fabric covered sections of such structures. Various combinations of such structural members are disclosed, with methods described of conjoining those members and providing for sealing between such members.

Abstract: A construction for supporting a flexible sheet is disclosed which includes a U-shaped channel having opposing flanges that are adapted to receive a complimentary spline member for frictionally engaging a flexible sheet, such as window screen, between a surface of the spline member and an adjacent inner surface of one flange of the U-shaped channel. The structure has several practical applications including the construction of window screens, electrostatic air filters of the charged media type, storm windows of plastic film and the like. An improved construction for an electrostatic air filter of the charged media type is also disclosed.

Abstract: A smooth, flat plastic film sheet forms a ceiling covering. The dimensions of the room are measured. The dimensions are proportionately reduced. A plastic sheet film is prepared to the reduced dimensions. A plastic edge connector is ultrasonically welded to the entire periphery. A connector strip is fastened to the upper wall entirely around the room. Hot air is blown to the top of the room. The edge connector at the edge of the film is snapped into the connector strip, starting at the corners. The film and edge connector are of a plastic that stretches when hot. The edge connector, when completely fitted into the connector strip pulls the film taut as the film shrinks when cooled to room temperature to provide a perfectly fitted, wrinkle free covering. The same invention may be used to cover a wall. The special edge connector is provided with a snap latching feature to provide audible indication of correct locking in place and the edge connector has a provision for easy unlatching for removing the covering.

Abstract: A screen enclosure apparatus, for use in screened windows, porches, doors and other screened-in builiding structures, capable of controllably breaking away upon excessive impact of resultant wind pressures on the frame of the apparatus. A frame structure having a channel running along the frame's length, serves to releasably or frangibly receive spline material which displaces or fractures at a predetermined resultant pressure. The spline serves to releasably secure a screen sheet, within the channel of the frame itself, so as to preclude damage which would otherwise occur not only to the screen sheet, but also to the supporting frame structures, when such high wind pressures are exerted thereon--to reduce the structural rigidity requirements for such frames.

Abstract: A fabric awning assembly, method of assembling the same from multiple sections of awning frames, and a novel divider bead for spanning the joint between adjacent sections of awning frames. Staple receiving channels in awning frame extrusions at the end of each section face like channels in adjacent sections so as to facilitate the use of only one divider bead between adjacent sections. The divider beads include protrusions for securing awning fabric within the channels and for protection from pooling moisture. The divider beads, when installed between adjacent sections of fabric awning frames, create the aesthetic impression that the adjacent sections are actually one continuous assembly.

Abstract: A spline channel in a frame member is used in combination with a spline for securing a screen to the frame member. The spline channel includes a bottom wall having two end walls extending upwardly therefrom and terminating in inwardly extending lips. One of the lips extends further inwardly than the other of the two lips. The spline includes opposite side edges, one of which is forced into the recess beneath the longest lip so as to force the screen into the recess between the spline and the end wall of the channel. The opposite edge of the spline is then pressed downwardly until it snaps into the channel and holds the screen in place.

Abstract: An end part fixing device for a vehicular hood adapted to be fixed to a main frame at a position corresponding to the end part of the vehicular hood, the end part fixing device including a pair of capturing members of which inner configuration substantially corresponds to the outer configuration of a rod secured to the end part of the vehicular hood to defined a recess between the pair of capturing members so as to allow the end part of the vehicular hood to be fixed to the main frame by engaging the rod with the recess while the pair of capturing members are deformed elastically, wherein a projection member is provided for preventing the rod from being introduced into a hollow space defined between the upper capturing member and a weather strip located in the proximity of the upper capturing member.

Abstract: A fastener for sheet material includes a fork member mounted on a fixture and having a pair of outwardly diverging arms, and a keeper member which is placeable in a locking position between the arms. A portion of sheet material disposed between the fork member and the keeper member is held therebetween even when a tensioning force is applied to the portion, since the portion thereby applies a torsional force to the keeper member to bias the keeper member into a locking position within the fork member.

Abstract: A locking device is provided for anchoring the side edges of a roll-up awning to prevent wrinkles in the awning. The awning includes a hem which is positioned in a groove of a roll-up bar. The locking device comprises a body portion which is sized to be slidably received in the groove for longitudinal sliding movement therein and a radially enlarged portion for clamping the awning against the wall of the groove. A screw on the body portion is screwed into engagement with the wall of the groove to anchor the locking device against longitudinal movement.

Abstract: A track structure for retaining the liner of a liner type in-ground swimming pool is comprised of two component parts including an elongated length of a channel-like body section adapted to be secured about the perimeter of a liner-type pool and a channel-like insert adapted to be removably disposed within the body section. Both components are formed of polymeric plastic composition and both are configured at least partially complementary, so as to enable the insert to effect a snap-in interfit for securing the insert within the body. The insert when disposed within the body cooperates with an internal body surface wall to define a narrow clearance through which the liner can extend while securing the beaded edge of the liner against withdrawal. When the body and insert are assembled, a single exposed channel is provided, enabling a form board to be positioned thereat for the pouring and setting of aggregate deciking about the pool.

Abstract: A frame for canvas or other cloth is made up of rectilinear sections assembled to form a predetermined polygonal shape having rectilinear sections of channel members (10, 12, 14) having several sides. Each channel member have at least one longitudinal groove (20) along one of the sides thereof. The groove receives the edge of a cloth (28) mounted to the frame. An elonagted tensioner (26) extends around the entire frame and is held securely in the groove (20); the latter being provided with a narrow slit (24).

Abstract: A construction assembly for closures, including awnings, canopies, boat coverings, signs and displays having a frame composed of aluminum and the like including channelled, joinable members preferably for assembly by welding into a frame, a covering material formed from a textile, and flexible trim pads for interlocking the covering material into the channels of the joinable members. The assembly includes staples to act as anchors to hold the material into place before forced insertion of the flexible fasteners. In cross section, the joinable members have a round or a multi-sided configuration.

Abstract: A molding strip assembly is provided to secure a flexible covering on a support surface. The assembly includes a molding element attachable to the surface, and a mounting element that snap-fits into and is secured by the molding element. Each molding element has a retaining channel to lockably receive a latching structure that projects downwardly from a support wall of the mounting element. The covering may extend along the support wall and be retained by the latching structure. Prefabricated contour elements may be used at angular intersections of two or more molding elements, and an optional base molding element may be used to form routing channels for electrical wires. Molding strip assemblies are combined into framework systems to cover wall or other surface areas with great flexibility of design.

Abstract: A perimeter securement assembly for a roof deck covering involving a one-piece fabricated coved securement base with resilient compression retainers for positively securing said waterproofing membrane roof deck covering therein.

Abstract: A retainer strip assembly for securing screening and the like to a framing member comprises a base strip fastened to the framing member and having preferably two grooves parallel to the long dimension of the base strip, each groove for holding one spline with the marginal portion of the screen wound thereabout and separated by a channel defined by a left and a right wall and a floor, and a cap strip releasibly secured to the base strip by downwardly depending catches hooking onto inwardly protruding lips formed on the left and right walls of the channel.

Abstract: An upholstery system for a vehicle accessory includes a substrate with a U-shaped channel adjacent an edge and including alternately staggered apertures and slots in its floor. A trim member with alternately staggered pins and locking tabs compressibly holds an edge of upholstery material in the channel with the pins extending through the material and into the apertures and the tabs lockably holding the trim member by fitting into the slots.

Abstract: An improved fluidizable patient support system including an oval tank, a perforated plate received in the tank atop a plurality of spacers, a diffuser board located atop the perforated plate and sealed around its edge, a mass of granular material received atop the diffuser board, a flexible sheet removably secured around upper edges of the tank by snap fitting elements, a wheeled support pedestal for the tank which has a fluid pressure generator therewithin. Pivotal steps and side rails may be associated with the pedestal and tank respectively. A support frame may also be secured to the tank, extending thereabove to receive treatment apparatus.

Abstract: A stretch frame in combination with a fabric anchoring member is formed from a lower section having a concave upper surface and a transparent flexible plastic upper section. Fabric is grasped between the sections when they are drawn compressably together. The curved surface grasps the fabric ends without damaging the fabric which is particularly advantageous with hemmed ends. The clear upper section allows the artist to visually observe the coloration of the fabric ends. The anchoring members are mounted on light weight side frame members to form a frame easily handled and placed on the artist's easel.

Abstract: An improved track and spline or clip member defining a mechanical fastening system for attaching sheet or cover material to the track in a positive manner, wherein the track includes a channel having an improved configuration comprising a base member with a central V-shaped bottom wall surface fluted at the outer edges thereof, inclined inner side wall surfaces, a dual durometer plastic insert clip or spline having a central semi-rigid body member, and integrally formed outer rigid wing members arranged to be inserted in the channel for locking engagement therein with the sheet material being interposed between the track cahnnel and the spline.

Abstract: A molding strip assembly is provided to secure a flexible covering on a support surface. The assembly includes a molding element attachable to the surface, and a mounting element that snap-fits into and is secured by the molding element. Each molding element has a retaining channel to lockably receive a latching structure that projects downwardly from a support wall of the mounting element. The covering may extend along the support wall and be retained by the latching structure. Prefabricated contour elements may be used at angular intersections of two or more molding elements, and an optional base molding element may be used to form routing channels for electrical wires. Molding strip assemblies are combined into framework systems to cover wall or other surface areas with great flexibility of design.

Abstract: A sheet gripping assembly for gripping either single ply or double ply thin pliable sheet material such as plastic film. The gripping assembly has a mating channel to be secured to a support with the sheet material spanning the open channel side, and a channel-shaped cap which snaps over the base channel to grip the sheet material between the channel and cap in such a way that edgewise tension in the sheet material tending to separate the cap from the base channel urges their sheet gripping edges into more firm sheet gripping relation, thereby to more firmly grip the sheet material. The primary application of the invention is securing plastic film to an open frame structure to form a greenhouse enclosure.

Abstract: A process and a system for applying insulation and water sealing to roofs such as house trailers includes a sealing strip that fastens completely around the upper wall. This strip seals the edges of successive layers of a first waterproof membrane, a layer of thermal insulation and a second waterproof membrane. The combination provides a layer of thermal insulation completely enclosed in waterproof membranes. This maintains the effectiveness of the insulation by preventing the entry of moisture. The system permits use of readily available, inexpensive materials. The system may be applied by the owner because it requires no special tools or skills.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved tongue and groove connector for detachably fastening a stretchable fabric panel to a rigid frame which is characterized by a tongue-forming element attached along a line intermediate the side edges thereof to the panel in face-to-face relation to the latter, the tongue being of a width substantially greater than the groove is deep so as to define an insertable portion to be seated in the groove and a projecting portion extending therebeyond which defines a handhold. The invention also encompasses the novel method of making the aforesaid connection which comprises grasping the handhold to stretch the fabric to a point where the leading edge of the insertable portion lies adjacent the entryway into the groove and thereafter releasing the hold upon the projecting portion of the strap thereby permitting the stretched fabric to pull the insertable portion into seated relation in the bottom of the groove.

Abstract: A sheet gripping assembly for thin pliable sheet material, such as plastic film comprising either a single sheet or two separate sheets disposed face to face. The sheet gripping assembly has an elongate base with a longitudinal channel opening through one longitudinal side of the base for receiving the sheet material to be gripped and a sheet lock insert which coacts with the channel side walls to grip the sheet material between interengaging longitudinal edge formations on the sidewalls and insert. A second sheet lock insert is provided to secure one sheet of dual sheet material within a second channel in the base.

Abstract: A sheet gripping assembly for thin pliable sheet material, such as plastic film, having a channel shaped base member with a side opening through which may be inserted a fold of the sheet material to be secured, and innerlock and gripping bar members insertable into the base member through its side opening to assembled positions within the fold of sheet material within the base member wherein the sheet material is gripped between the base member and the innerlock and gripping bar members and the innerlock member recesses expulsion of the gripping bar member from the base member by tension in the sheet material being gripped. According to an important feature of the invention, the innerlock member has a lip which pojects externally of the base member through its side opening and the innerlock member is laterally flexible by finger pressure on the lip to facilitate insertion of the innerlock member into and removal of the innerlock member from the base member.

Abstract: An awning having a modular frame with frame pieces, having longitudinal recesses, junctions joining the frame pieces to form a composite awning frame, flexible plastic panels stretched over the composite frame and fastened in the longitudinal recesses, and, elongated flexible wedging strips shaped to be force-fitted into the recesses together with portions of the flexible panels thereby wedging the portions of the flexible panels and securing them.

Abstract: An upholstery system for a vehicle accessory includes a substrate with a U-shaped channel adjacent an edge and including alternately staggered apertures and slots in its floor. A trim member with alternately staggered pins and locking tabs compressibly holds an edge of upholstery material in the channel with the pins extending through the material and into the apertures and the tabs lockably holding the trim member by fitting into the slots.