Three Or More Members Connected At Single Locus Patents (Class 403/217)
  • Patent number: 11946245
    Abstract: A connector assembly, having an upper connector, a pin coupling the upper connector to a lower connector and a gusset plate sandwiched between the upper and lower connectors. Also, disclosed is a hoistable connector assembly, a lifting frame assembly, a coupling system for modular frame units, a method for assembling a module unit using the connector assembly, and a modular frame unit and building having the connector assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: Z-MODULAR HOLDING, INC.
    Inventor: Julian Bowron
  • Patent number: 11920618
    Abstract: A fastener unit and related method for securing a board to a support is provided. The fastener unit includes a spacer block, a grip element extending from the spacer block and configured to fit in and engage a groove of the board, and one or more resilient compression elements extending from the spacer block. The one or more resilient compression elements can be a joist leg configured to engage a joist, or it can be vertically compressible toward a first plane that is transverse to a vertical axis of the spacer block so that portions of it can compress from an open mode to a compressed mode and fit within, then forcibly expand within the groove, thereby securing the spacer block in a position adjacent the groove to establish a gap between the board and another board. A related method of use also is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: National Nail Corp.
    Inventors: Roger A. Vandenberg, Douglas F. Hutchings
  • Patent number: 11919142
    Abstract: A tool comprising a nubbin, or projection, is used to press on a recessed pushbutton of a shaft coupler. In one embodiment, a circular structure or a C shape structure fits a finger of the user's hand. A nubbin extends from the structure exterior. An arch, or a pair of projections, extend transversely to the user finger length, to contact one or both adjacent fingers during use and limit rotation of the tool. Another embodiment comprises a first element and a second element, each comprising two arches connected end-to-end; the two-arch openings face each other. To fit different diameter fingers, the spacing between the two elements is adjustable; a shaft integral with one element slides within a boss that is integral with the other element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Inventor: Gregory Lee Newth
  • Patent number: 11851880
    Abstract: In a first aspect there is disclosed a reinforcing spacer (10) for use in constructing a concrete slab. The spacer (10) includes a first reinforcing arm (12) having a first arm base (16), a first arm wall (18) and a first arm support surface (20) provided on the first arm wall (18). The spacer (10) further includes a second reinforcing arm (14), transverse to the first reinforcing arm (12). The second reinforcing arm (14) has a second arm base (22), a second arm wall (24), and a second arm support surface (26) provided on the second arm wall (24). The first arm support surface (20) includes a first arm recess (36), and a first arm inclined surface (46) which slopes towards the first arm recess (36). The second arm support surface (20) includes a second arm recess (56) and a second arm inclined surface (60) which slopes towards the second arm recess (56). In use the spacer is located on a top surface of a pod to support a reinforcing mesh.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Aus Chairs Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Bodin Rajkovic, Francesco Iaconis
  • Patent number: 11821207
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are various methods, systems, and devices relating to vertical structural supports, including acute Z-shaped piers and further including vertical structural features that provide additional structural support for various types of piers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: Priefert Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: William Dean Priefert, Rocky Christenberry, Tracy Metzger
  • Patent number: 11814840
    Abstract: A ceiling grid strut is provided that includes a rail and a strut channel that is integral to the rail. A ceiling grid assembly is provided that includes a first ceiling grid strut, a second ceiling grid strut, a first threaded fastener, a second threaded fastener, and a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: POLARGY, INC.
    Inventors: Cary Frame, Ethan Koval
  • Patent number: 11542128
    Abstract: A lift system includes a trolley member defining an aperture extending through the trolley member, a locking unit coupled to the trolley member, the locking unit including a locking unit body and a pin that extends outward from the locking unit body, where the pin is repositionable between an engaged position, in which the pin extends through and outward from the aperture of the trolley member, and a disengaged position, a cable extending between and terminating at an actuator end that is engaged with the actuator and a subject lift end positioned opposite the actuator end, where the cable is selectively drawn to the trolley member or paid out from the trolley member upon actuation of the actuator, and a subject lift connecting member coupled the subject lift end of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: LIKO RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventors: Samuel Svintozelsky, Sravan Mamidi, Joseph Tari, Renee Tozer, Abidemi Ajayi, Tyler Nigolian
  • Patent number: 11479961
    Abstract: A connector assembly, which in one embodiment has an upper connector and in another embodiment has a lower connector. The assembly can have a gusset plate sandwiched between the upper and lower connectors. Also, disclosed is a hoistable connector assembly, a lifting frame assembly, a coupling system for modular frame units, a method for assembling a module unit using the connector assembly, and a modular frame unit and building having the connector assembly. Also, a system for coupling adjacent modular frame units for forming a modular building and a method for coupling modular frame units for forming a modular building are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Z-MODULAR HOLDING, INC.
    Inventors: Julian Bowron, John Gulliford, Erik Churchill, John Cerone, Jonathan Mallie
  • Patent number: 11131088
    Abstract: A hinged connector is used to attach two generally coplanar first and second structural members while allowing for pivotal movement of the structural members in the plane of the structural members about an axis that is transverse or perpendicular to the plane in which the structural members rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Benton, Rachel Marie Holland, Thomas G. Evans, Timothy M. Stauffer
  • Patent number: 11064803
    Abstract: A kit of parts for forming a kitchen unit (100) includes a first frame component (110) having a plurality of tubular edge elements (111-114), a second frame component (120) having a plurality of tubular edge elements (121-123) and a plurality of tubular legs (130,140). The plurality of tubular legs include a plurality of end legs (130), to be secured to the first frame component 110 in a recess (116) disposed between adjacent edge elements (111-114) of the first frame component (110) and a plurality of intermediate legs (140) configured to be secured to the first frame component (110) and the second frame component (120) in a recess defined by an edge element (111-114) of the first frame component (110) and an edge element (121-123) of the second component (120). The kit of parts permits a wide range of kitchen units, such as free-standing towers and islands, to be assembled from a relatively small set of basic components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: THE WEST RETAIL GROUP LIMITED
    Inventors: Darren Watts, Mark Sellars
  • Patent number: 11032928
    Abstract: A system is provided for releaseably connecting a first device housing with a second device housing. The system includes at least three connection units, wherein each of which includes a headed bolt and a corresponding keyhole-shaped recess. The keyhole-shaped recess is configured for receiving the headed bolt such that the headed bolt can be inserted into the recess in a first section and held in the recess in a second section. At least one of the connection units includes a locking mechanism configured for locking the bolt in the second section of the recess. The locking mechanism includes a movable locking element which is movable with respect to the headed bolt and configured to hold the headed bolt in the second section of the recess in a locking position. Another configuration uses a corresponding connection arrangement includes such a system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Fischl, Thomas Walger
  • Patent number: 10907342
    Abstract: A connection node assembly for use in connecting an upper prefabricated building module to a lower module. Hollow vertical edge supports of the building modules have top and bottom connection parts. A connecting bolt can be passed through the top part of an upper vertical support in the upper building module and seated within the bottom part of that vertical support with the shank extending downward. The shank engages a threaded aperture in a connecting nut secured within the top part of a corresponding lower vertical support in the lower building module. Diaphragm plates sandwiched between the upper and lower vertical supports are used to tie horizontally placed modules together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Assembly OSM, Inc.
    Inventors: Leon Parkhouse, Andrea Vittadini, Matthew Charles John Clark, Simone Andreatta, Victoire Morgane Chloe Saby
  • Patent number: 10877237
    Abstract: A mirror system is disclosed. The mirror system can include a primary mirror, and a secondary mirror supported relative to the primary mirror. The primary mirror and the secondary mirror can have different coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE). A negative CTE strut is also disclosed. The negative CTE strut can include a main body portion. The negative CTE strut can also include a first coupling portion and a second coupling portion disposed opposite one another about the main body portion and defining a strut length. The first and second coupling portions can each be configured to interface with an external structure. In addition, the negative CTE strut can include an offsetting extension member having a first end coupled to the main body portion and a second end coupled to the first coupling portion by an intermediate extension member. The first end can be between the first coupling portion and the second end. The first and second ends can define an offset length parallel to the strut length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Keith Carrigan, John F. Silny
  • Patent number: 10662814
    Abstract: A shroud for a turbomachine stator includes a first portion and a second portion configured to sandwich around at least a portion of a stator vane assembly, a first pin hole defined in the first portion at an angle relative to an axial direction of the turbomachine, and a second pin hole defined in the second portion at the angle of the first portion, wherein the first pin hole is aligned and in communication with the second pin hole to accommodate a pin configured to be seated in the first and second pin holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: RAYTHEON TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventor: David Maliniak
  • Patent number: 10634177
    Abstract: Disclosed is a precursor for a clip and a clip formed by the precursor. The clip is configured for mounting a furring channel to a load-bearing member and is a generally U-shaped member having a pair of sidewalls, each of which includes a pair of tabs projecting therefrom. The clip is arranged to receive the load-bearing member between its sidewalls, such that the tabs can be snap-fit under inwardly directed flanges of the furring channel. Also disclosed is a method of forming the clip from the precursor, by bending portions of the precursor to form the sidewalls of the clip, and a method for mounting a furring channel onto a load-bearing member using the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventors: Brandon C. Winn, Ken Huber
  • Patent number: 10576698
    Abstract: A combined composite and metal hybrid component and a method of forming said component, are disclosed, the component comprising a substantially sheet-like or web-like body portion, made of a composite material, at least one stiffening member made of a metal and at least one made of a composite material, and curing the component in a vacuum bag, such that the metal stiffening member is formed against the composite stiffening member and the metal stiffening member remains a part of the hybrid composite component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: Airbus Operations Limited
    Inventor: Steven Evans
  • Patent number: 10494782
    Abstract: A set of components that can be used to construct a structurally sound dock are disclosed. The components can be extruded and the components are shaped such that interconnected components provide support for the other components thereby alleviating weak points due to welded only joints. A fascia channel provides additional strength by including structures that improve the vertical and horizontal strength of the fascia channel. HDPE plastic inserts and sheaves provide sound dampening for metal to metal contact points. Other components include a corner connector, a post system and a hinge system. The focus of this disclosure is the corner connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: Wahoo Docks, LLC
    Inventors: Harold Hawkins, III, Tim Osby, Michael Lyle
  • Patent number: 10284137
    Abstract: Roof brackets for attaching a structure such as a patio cover to a building, and methods for installing the brackets. The brackets have a saddle for receiving a support beam of the structure. The brackets can be attached to the building roof, but do not penetrate the roof substrate, thus preventing leakage and other structural problems. The roof brackets comprise a plate that is installed between the roof substrate and the shingles or tile on the roof. The brackets are available in different configurations depending on the roof pitch for easy installation. One roof bracket has a riser so that the saddle is lifted above the roof. Another roof bracket is configured so that when installed the saddle is located beyond the edge of the roof. Other brackets can be attached to the rafters under the roof. These also come in different configurations depending on roof pitch, and they are configured to extend below and outward from the fascia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Inventor: Russ Edward Meznarich
  • Patent number: 10240340
    Abstract: A mounting system for mounting an external structure, such as a deck, with a building includes an anchor frame that couples with structural elements of the building and a bracket that couples with both the external structure and the anchor frame for securement. The anchor frame includes a plate element configured for mounting against a board of a building and anchor elements extending from the plate element and configured for mounting against a second board of a building. The bracket has a first face portion configured for coupling with the anchor frame and a second face portion spaced from the first face portion and configured for mounting with an external structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Studer Residential Designs Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Studer, Michael Frimming, Michael A. Studer, Donald Roenker
  • Patent number: 10174497
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a prefabricated construction system and method, for erecting constructions by means of the assembly of prefabricated structural elements obtained by cutting flat materials, forming structural nodes by means of coupling at least a first coupling configuration formed by first slots made in a plurality of parallel boards forming a first structural element with at least a second coupling configuration formed by second slots made in a plurality of parallel boards forming a second structural element, providing a structural core in the form of an array having interstitial openings going through it which allow the coupling of third and fourth coupling configurations of third and fourth structural elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventors: Manuel Perez-Romero, Jaime Tarazona-Lizarraga
  • Patent number: 10107003
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for providing self-standing, self-supporting, rapid-deployable (S4RD) towers for communications and similar applications, and in particular to ballast base systems that enable the self-standing, self-supporting, rapid-deployable features while eliminating the need for a permanent foundation for the tower. Novel and inventive tower designs, wherein a user may climb through an interior volume of the tower while using the tower structure as both ladder and man cage, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: ADAPTIVE COMMUNICATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Tracy David Harmer
  • Patent number: 10094108
    Abstract: The invention provides suspended or “dropped” ceiling systems based upon the use of standard inverted T-bar lattices. The ceiling panels are constructed from two pieces which, when assembled in place, capture the T-bar in a manner that prevents the panels from shaking loose. A suspended ceiling assembled with the panels of this invention will withstand the forces of an earthquake without experiencing panel drop-outs, and the ceiling will remain intact so long as the T-bars remain suspended from the structural ceiling above. The panels of the invention can, in preferred embodiments, carry lighting fixtures, and the required wiring can be installed and concealed below the T-bars rather than within the plenum space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Inventor: Takehiro Murao
  • Patent number: 10066404
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a formwork for a ribbed or waffle concrete slab is provided. The apparatus includes a rectangular block having a ledge around the base, the ledge having a dimension of half the desired width of the base ribs of the concrete slab, and a keystone connector. The keystone connector has an engagement portion configured to attach to an engagement portion on each block. In a method, the blocks are laid out so that the ledges of adjacent blocks are in contact. A keystone connector is then placed at each intersection of four blocks by attaching the respective engagement portions of the keystone connector and each block so that the keystone connector holds each of the four blocks in place relative to one another. The keystone connector is also configured to retain a reinforcing rod laid in the channel between adjacent blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Inventor: Fabio Parodi
  • Patent number: 10060460
    Abstract: Disclosed is a precursor for a clip and a clip formed by the precursor. The clip is configured for mounting a furring channel to a load-bearing member and is a generally U-shaped member having a pair of sidewalls, each of which includes a pair of tabs projecting therefrom. The clip is arranged to receive the load-bearing member between its sidewalls, such that the tabs can be snap-fit under inwardly directed flanges of the furring channel. Also disclosed is a method of forming the clip from the precursor, by bending portions of the precursor to form the sidewalls of the clip, and a method for mounting a furring channel onto a load-bearing member using the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Inventor: Brandon C. Winn
  • Patent number: 9854906
    Abstract: A shelving structure may include at least four vertical posts, at least four annular spacers, and at least a shelf board, and the posts are configured to be mounted on the shelf board through the annular spacers. The shelf board has a frame and a panel, and a convex portion is formed at an inner edge of the frame. At least eight horizontal supporting boards are formed at four upper edges and four lower edges of the frame respectively. Each two adjacent supporting boards are not connected to each other, and each of four corners of the frame is bent to form a concave groove. Moreover, four arc boards are respectively assembled with the four concave grooves, and each of the arc boards has two wings configured to be welded with the convex portion of the frame to improve the structural strength of the shelving structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Chia-Nan Ke
  • Patent number: 9822521
    Abstract: An assembly outdoor balcony are made up of a plurality of columns, cross beams, beams, adjustable hanging elements, wall-assembled hanging elements and balcony panels, wherein the columns are disposed at interval to form the whole periphery of the balcony; the cross beams can be quickly assembled onto the columns through a beam hanger; the adjustable hanging element allows the joint angle between two beams to be different depending on the environment and needs. All component elements are aluminum alloy materials, which are assembled by mutual engagement. Therefore, the assembly outdoor balcony can be assembled, disassembled and adjusted quickly based on the on-site environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Inventors: Chingyao Kuo, Norman William Liefke
  • Patent number: 9731808
    Abstract: An upper joint of a wing assembly of an aircraft includes an outboard upper wing panel, a center upper wing panel, a rib, and an upper joint assembly operatively interconnecting the outboard upper wing panel, the center upper wing panel, and the rib. For a substantial fore/aft span of the upper joint, a first subset of a plurality of center upper stringers is operatively coupled to the upper joint assembly, and a second subset of the plurality of center upper stringers terminates without being directly coupled to the upper joint assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Jordan Daniel Charles, Jason Hamada
  • Patent number: 9719243
    Abstract: A strut connector for use with a hollow strut having at least one a pair of opposed openings formed in the strut. A pair of identical connector portions are rotatably coupled together, with one of the connector portions inverted. Each connector portion is a flat blade having a body portion and an arm portion extending from the body portion. The body portion has a first hole and a second hole. The arm portion has at least one tab extending from the arm portion at an angle. The arm portions are coupled together via the first hole, then rotated to engage respective openings on the strut with the tabs. The second holes are aligned and a fastener secured through the second holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Inventor: Paul H. Mason
  • Patent number: 9605705
    Abstract: A method of forming an assembly including a first workpiece having a surface provided with a mortise and a second workpiece provided with a tenon inserted into the mortise joining the workpieces together in which the second workpiece is disposed in a certain orientation relative to the first workpiece to provide a certain disposition of the workpieces when joined together, generally consisting of providing identifying marks on the surface of the first workpiece and the tenon of the second workpiece at locations assuming a certain disposition when the second workpiece is disposed in a certain orientation and the tenon is registered with the mortise; positioning the second workpiece relative to the first workpiece wherein the second workpiece is disposed in the certain orientation relative to the first workpiece, the tenon is registered with the mortise and the marks are disposed in the certain mark disposition; and displacing the second workpiece toward the first workpiece and inserting the tenon into the mort
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Thermwood Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Susnjara
  • Patent number: 9475570
    Abstract: An upper joint of a wing assembly of an aircraft includes an outboard upper wing panel, a center upper wing panel, a rib, and an upper joint assembly operatively interconnecting the outboard upper wing panel, the center upper wing panel, and the rib. In some embodiments, outboard upper stringers may be configured differently than center upper stringers. In some embodiments, a subset of the center upper stringers may not directly oppose the outboard upper stringers. In other embodiments, for at least a substantial fore/aft span of the upper joint, each of the center upper stringers may directly oppose an outboard upper stringer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Jordan Daniel Charles, Jason Hamada
  • Patent number: 9328764
    Abstract: A fastening system includes a removable stud and a retaining plate. The removable stud includes a threaded portion configured to be removably threaded into a threaded bore of a housing, a shank portion arranged coaxially with the threaded portion and configured to be inserted through a bore of a housing of a line replaceable component, and an anti-rotation portion disposed between the threaded portion and the shank portion. The retaining plate is configured to be mounted between the housing and the line replaceable component. The retaining plate includes a mating hole configured to mate with the anti-rotation portion of the removable stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Mark R. Plickys
  • Patent number: 9259136
    Abstract: A tubular frame assembly for a door type warewashing machine includes four tubular legs, and two upper cross-braces and two lower cross-braces. The cross-braces are received through cross-brace receiving openings in the tubular legs, and the cross-braces are bolted together within the legs by nut and bolt assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Meiko USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Ferguson, Dwayne A. Becknell
  • Patent number: 9187898
    Abstract: A perimeter trim attachment clip formed as a single piece sheet metal stamping, the clip having a base, top and bottom rearwardly extending trim engaging grips on the base, the grips having a free edge distal from the base adapted to engage respective top and bottom hems of a perimeter trim channel, a standoff projecting rearwardly of the base beyond the grip edges, the standoff being adapted to abut the side of a grid runner extending parallel along the periphery of a free edge of a ceiling, a squaring tab connected to the base and configured to extend over the parallel extending grid runner and be attached to a reinforcing bulb of a grid runner intersecting the parallel grid runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: USG INTERIORS, LLC
    Inventors: Abraham M. Underkofler, Peder J. Gulbrandsen, Mark R. Paulsen
  • Publication number: 20150068590
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The coupling may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis. The apparatus may further provide a rotating portion and locking portion, mounting brackets for direct connection to a mounting surface, grounding teeth, and a twist-lock engagement means for interlocking and aligning PV modules in the array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Hans-Christoph Haenlein
  • Patent number: 8967401
    Abstract: A supporting base for an angle iron post includes an angle bar and a column. The angle bar has two walls arranged at right angle to each other to be attached to two respective walls of the angle iron post. The column is disposed in between the two walls of the angle bar and has an upper small-diameter section, a lower large-diameter section and a shoulder defined at the junction between the upper small-diameter section and the lower large-diameter section. As such, the two walls of the angle iron post are allowed to be rested on the shoulder of the column and held in position between the walls of the angle bar and the upper small-diameter section of the column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Meng-Tsung Wu
  • Patent number: 8959867
    Abstract: A post-and-beam type structure includes: a connector having four plate portions forming a cruciform cross-section for the connector, the cruciform cross-section extending in a vertical direction, wherein the four plate portions define four quadrants; a first column configured for detachably coupling to a bottom portion of the connector; and a first beam with a first end configured for detachably coupling to a first one of the plate portions; wherein the first beam comprises a first beam member and a second beam member that are coupled to each other, and wherein the first end of the first beam is configured for placement in a first quadrant of the four quadrants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: John A. Schold
  • Patent number: 8955928
    Abstract: A joining connector is provided which can be fitted by the turning part of the frame bar of the shelf board. The joining connector includes a base plate having inner and outer sides. Recessed joining parts are formed on the outer side and define a vertical and a horizontal wall. The vertical wall and horizontal wall can match the outer edge of the turning part of the frame bar. Limiting projections are formed on the outer side of the base plate in a preset concrete shape, and located on a position between but spaced from the vertical and horizontal walls of the recessed joining part, so that the turning part of the frame bar can be pushed and fitted into the recessed joining part from the direction of the outer side of the base plate, and the limiting projection can correspondingly limit the inner edge of the turning part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Donido Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kun-Lung Cheng
  • Publication number: 20150040337
    Abstract: The invention relates to an end piece (11) of a windshield wiper comprising at least one wiper blade (1). Said end piece (11) has a first part (12) and a second part (13) which are connected to each other by a removable attachment means, and a blocking means (28) for preventing the wiper blade (1) from moving relative to the end piece (11), said blocking means (28) comprising a securing device (33) and an actuating element (51). The securing device (33) is designed to pinch the wiper blade (1) and is subject to a force exerted by the actuating element (51). The end piece is for use in motor vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: VALEO SYSTÈMES D'ESSUYAGE
    Inventor: Philippe Espinasse
  • Publication number: 20150043961
    Abstract: A member-fastening structure permits three members to be fastened and fixed such that a first member and a second member holds a third member therebetween. The fastening of three members is accomplished with a meter visor that has a first through-hole formed therein. A speaker ring has a projecting part formed thereon which is inserted into the first through-hole. The projecting part has a second through-hole formed therein in a direction perpendicular to a projecting direction of the projecting part. A speaker grille is positioned on the meter visor, and the projecting part of the speaker ring is then caused to project downward through the first through-hole of the meter visor. A clip is inserted into the second through-hole of the projecting part projecting from an underside of the meter visor, and is engaged with the second through-hole of the projecting part and the underside of the meter visor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Shota SUZUKI
  • Publication number: 20150030378
    Abstract: A construction for a boom such as a dragline boom provides a spade plate that connects lacing members to a main chord at a cluster. The spade plate is curved. One edge of the spade plate has tabs attached to the lacing members. Another edge of the spade plate is attached to the main chord. The spade plate may be applied for new construction or repair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Charles Peter CONSTANCON, Arlon John Thomas RATCLIFF, Harold BYDEMAST
  • Publication number: 20140314470
    Abstract: A connector for a modular rack includes a base and a plurality of connecting members. The base includes a connecting pipe which has a circular inner passage, and the inner passage has a top open end and a lower open end larger in diameter than the top open end. The base includes a connecting platform, on which is formed a plurality of upward-extending stop pieces alternatively disposed with respect to the connecting portions, and between each of the stop pieces and the connecting pipe is defined an inserting slot. The connecting members each include an engaging portion and two lateral wing portions. The engaging portion is inserted in the connecting portions, the rear surface is abutted against the connecting pipe, and the two wing portions are inserted in the inserting slots, and between front and rear surfaces of the connecting members is formed an inserting hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Yueh-Kuei Lee
  • Publication number: 20140314469
    Abstract: Building or structural panels may be joined, such as to form walls or floors. The panels may be connected in various orientations via one or more connectors. The connectors may mount to anchors associated with the panels. The panels may have outer skins located over an expanded core comprising a matrix of supporting elongate members and voids or openings, with the anchors located at edges of the panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph C. Fleming, III
  • Publication number: 20140305047
    Abstract: Described herein is a structure that comprises a plurality of spherical triangular units on a plurality of levels. The structure has a superior ability to survive disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes etc. It is cost-efficient, energy efficient, extremely durable and easily maintained. The plurality of spherical triangular units on one level of the plurality of levels are essentially identical to each other, and are essentially equally spaced radially relative to a center of the sphere; each of the plurality of spherical triangular units comprises three planar panels, each with an end surface comprising a minor arc of a great circle of the sphere; a spherical triangular unit on a level above the first level of the structure is configured to be joined with two neighboring spherical triangular units on the level below; the structure is substantially a dome.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Xiaoping SUN
  • Publication number: 20140261107
    Abstract: A compression lock on a connector for a shelving post has upper and lower, mating collar parts having distal ends encircling more than 180 degrees of the post but separated by a gap through which the post can pass. Each distal end has an axially extending projection with a rounded end and a recess adjoining the projection. The projections of one collar part mate with the recesses of the other collar part to interlock the collar parts around a compression sleeve and form a frusto-conical inner surface that wedges the a mating sleeve against the post to affix a shelf attached to the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: PRO-MART INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Azad Sabounjian
  • Publication number: 20140255087
    Abstract: A multifunctional adaptor (10) for connecting at least one vehicle component to a vehicle support member (120) includes a body (30) having a base (50) and a shaft (70) that extends from the base (50). The base (50) terminates at a first axial end surface (52) and the shaft (70) terminates at a second axial end surface (80). A first passage (42) extends from the first axial end surface (52) towards the second axial end surface (80) for receiving a first fastener (100) to secure the adaptor (10) to the support member (120). A second passage (44) extends from the second axial end surface (80) towards the first axial end surface (52) for receiving a second fastener (104) to secure a first vehicle component to the adaptor. A third passage (90) extends transverse to the first passage (42) and the second passage (44) and entirely through the body (30) for receiving a third fastener (106) to secure a second component to the adaptor (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Michael Massengill
  • Patent number: 8739476
    Abstract: A building assembly kit with roof ring having an open-ended plurality of hollow cuboid tube joints radially disposed around an open center of a roof ring and a plurality of parallelepiped strut members disposed between each of the plurality of cube joints, each of said cube joints and strut members disposed to interconnect endwise with a plurality of extant rafters, said rafters then interconnectable with a plurality of top brackets disposed to interconnect each of said plurality of rafters at a juncture between a pair of horizontally disposed extant wall top beams and a vertically oriented corner post, said corner post connected at a juncture of a pair of base runners at a base bracket, wherein a structure is expediently erected by inserting each rafter, wall top beam, corner post, and base runner into a corresponding tube joint, top bracket, and base bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: David Royer
  • Patent number: 8635830
    Abstract: A system having a beam having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the first end is offset relative to the longitudinal axis in a first direction, and wherein the second end is offset relative to the longitudinal axis in a second direction that is opposite of the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: John A. Schold
  • Publication number: 20130294817
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking device designed to lock objects to tubes or other elongated elements. The locking device generally comprises one or more lock plates and lock housings. In one exemplary embodiment, when assembling the locking device to a tube, two lock housings are put together with open sides against each other around a tube with a dimension corresponding to approximately half of a recess which is found on the lock housing's sides and are oriented in the tube's axial direction. The two lock housings form a closed geometry around the tube. Lock plates are used to connect the two lock housings together. By applying a screw in a threaded hole in one of the lock housings' cover, the through tube is pressed against an opposite lock housing at substantially the same time as the lock plates hold the lock housings together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: FQ IP AB
    Inventors: Per Augustsson, Per Elvèn
  • Patent number: 8573240
    Abstract: A collapsible truss assembly is described herein. One component includes a layered u-bracket including a first u-bracket connected to the collapsible truss assembly, having a first channel, a first surface opposing the channel, and a first aperture that spans from the first surface to the first channel and is of a particular diameter. The layered u-bracket also includes a second u-bracket having a second channel, a second surface opposing the second channel, and a second aperture that spans from the second surface to the second channel and is of the particular diameter. For the layered u-bracket, the second channel is flush with the first surface, and the first and second apertures are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Go Papa, LLLP
    Inventors: Steven E. Mallookis, Steven B. Mallookis
  • Patent number: 8511623
    Abstract: A conduit hardware article includes a body forming an approximately rectangular solid defining a first threaded bore extending between generally opposed first and second sides thereof, and a second threaded bore extending between generally opposed third and fourth sides thereof generally perpendicular to the first threaded bore. Slots opening onto the first side can be defined in fifth and sixth sides of the body. The hardware article can be used to attach multiple conduit hardware components to a single threaded rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: SNK Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Jimmy Maurice Shiner, Jr., Kevin Paul Kruger