Mutually Contacting Patents (Class 403/219)
  • Patent number: 11933336
    Abstract: A coupling member includes: first, second, and third portions each having a flat plate-like shape; and a fillet portion. The first portion has a first side and a second side orthogonal to each other. The second portion is bent at the first side relative to the first portion, and extends to an inner surface of the first portion. The third portion is bent at the second side relative to the first portion, and extends to an inner surface of the first portion. A bend radius of an outer surface of the coupling member at the first side is equal to a bend radius of a surface of a first extending member facing the first side. A bend radius of an outer surface of the coupling member at the second side is equal to a bend radius of a surface of a second extending member facing the second side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: TOSHIBA MITSUBISHI-ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenji Suzuki, Yoshino Harada
  • Patent number: 11897147
    Abstract: Examples described herein provide a system that includes a pallet. The pallet includes a base and a support member extending from the base. The support member is configured to support another pallet upwardly adjacent to and spaced from goods on the pallet. The support member is configured with an indexing feature. The system further includes a robot including a pallet engaging member configured to engage the pallet at the indexing feature on the support member. The system further includes a control system to control the robot based on a task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Reza Ettehadi Osgouei, Eliah Everhard, Charles Thompson, Mehrdad Gharib Shirangi, Jason Norman
  • Patent number: 11857074
    Abstract: A corner bracket may include a structural portion including at least one relatively rigid first material, and a sealing portion including at least one relatively elastic second material. The corner bracket may also include a first receiver including a first retainer portion configured to be coupled to an end of a first frame member, and a first sealing interface configured to provide a substantially fluid-resistant seal between a portion of the end of the first frame member and the first receiver. The corner bracket may also include a second receiver transverse to the first receiver and including a second retainer portion configured to be coupled to an end of a second frame member, and a second sealing interface configured to provide a substantially fluid-resistant seal between a portion of the end of the second frame member and the second receiver. The corner bracket may be incorporated into a cabinet frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Corning Research & Development Corporation
    Inventors: William Julius McPhil Giraud, Brian Duane Kingsbury, Robert Tomasz Klak
  • Patent number: 11851239
    Abstract: A pallet comprises a deck. The deck comprises a product supporting surface and one or more load bearing features. The load bearing features are configured to receive lateral projections of support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: CHEP Technology Pty Limited
    Inventors: Daniel Lopez Uran, Christophe Loiseau, Malcolm Charles Cant
  • Patent number: 11737572
    Abstract: The invention relates to a detachable assembled lounge furniture, comprising a plurality of components: a component A, a component B, a component C, a component D, a component E, a component F, a component G, a component H, a component I, a component J, a component K, a component L, and a component M, which are formed into various combinations to constitute various lounge furniture. Advantages. 1. A detachable assembled lounge furniture is provided, which is designed to be divided into various components. The user can combine, add and remove the components according to his/her own needs to form a variety of furniture with different structures, models and sizes, so as to satisfy the user's needs to the maximum extent. 2. When making a move, the furniture can be disassembled into single components to move, so as to reduce the difficulty of moving up and down stairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2023
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: Nanjing Huandatong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Bingbing Zhang
  • Patent number: 11732496
    Abstract: A shelter system is shown and described. A hub for a shelter system is shown and described. A frame for a shelter system is shown and described. In one embodiment, the shelter system includes a frame and cover. The shelter may include a hub system. The frame may be collapsible. The cover is configured to fit with the frame. The hub may include a receiver slot, a receiver sleeve and an attachment projection. The result is a shelter system with reduced set up time, effort and requirements and improved strength and ease of use. The inventions may also be considered a shelter kit and/or a shelter and hub method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: DLX Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan Urhausen, Adam Barr, Donald Bierman
  • Patent number: 11346384
    Abstract: An open triangle made of rigid material planes each joined ninety degrees to one another and of sufficient thickness, rigidity, precision and construction for the triangle as a whole to serve as a brace for clamping, aligning, and joining workpieces, especially three workpieces at ninety degrees to one another; the opening of the triangular brace serving as a space for the operation of joining the workpieces, especially joining by means of high-heat welding but also by other means of joining, like drilling and fastening with bolts; the triangular brace being constructed of one piece, or a plurality of pieces in which one plane or all planes of the brace are removable and re-attachable, or rotatable in and out of position, by means of screws, bolts, pins, interlocking tongue-and-groove, magnets, axle for rotation, or other secure means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Inventor: Ralph Sloan Wilson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11261601
    Abstract: A cross runner connector for a suspended ceiling system (1) comprising a main runner (10) being provided with an opening (11) for reception of the cross runner connector and having a circumference defining an opening notch (12); and a cross runner (30), the cross runner connector comprising a guiding lip (41) and a locking lip (42) separated by a slit (43) and extending in the longitudinal direction (P2) of the cross runner connector, the guiding lip (41) having a guide edge portion (44) provided with a guide lip notch (45) and a distal guide tip (46) being offset in a first lateral direction (P3) such that the cross runner connector is laterally displaceable in the first lateral direction (P3) in response to insertion of the cross runner connector into the opening (11) of the main runner (10) with the guide edge portion (44) positioned in the opening notch (12) of the opening (11), and the locking lip (42) having a locking protrusion (48) protruding in the first lateral direction (P3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: SAINT-GOBAIN ECOPHON AB
    Inventors: Jan Wilkens, Thomas Nilsson
  • Patent number: 11248723
    Abstract: A cable management arm basket clip, comprising: a latch to secure the cable management arm basket clip to a cable management arm basket; a connection to pivotally connect the cable management arm basket clip to the cable management arm basket; and guards disposed on both sides of the cable management arm basket clip to allow for passage of cables and to protect cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP
    Inventors: Daniel W. Tower, Kevin Bold, Kevin Conn
  • Patent number: 11220819
    Abstract: An improved connector for a main tee of a suspended ceiling grid that has multiple locking elements that increase connection tensile force properties. The connector has an end tab with a forward portion bent at a lead angle and a receiving pocket with an outwardly flared entrance that, with an opposed identical connector, cooperate to provide smooth horizontal alignment. The end portion, additionally, includes an edge profile that vertically aligns itself with the receiving pocket of the opposed connector. The receiving pocket includes a spring-like resilient wall that limits the assembly force to overcome interference with projecting lock elements. The spring-like pocket wall and shape of the lock elements contribute to an audible click signaling that a connection has been completed. One of the lock elements works with a relief groove to augment self-alignment of the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: USG INTERIORS, LLC
    Inventor: Hui Zhang
  • Patent number: 11031764
    Abstract: Provided is a wiring unit in which it is possible to limit the height dimension. The wiring unit is provided with a plurality of electrical wires, a plate on which a support surface for supporting each of the electrical wires is formed, and a holding member. The holding member has a flat pressing surface arranged to be approximately parallel with the support surface of the plate. The electrical wires are arranged in a row and held between the pressing surface and the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Inventor: Yuji Kawashima
  • Patent number: 10711942
    Abstract: A fastening device, a fastening system comprising a fastening device and corresponding slots/routs are described. There is a fastening device having at least two sides. In another embodiment the fastening device has three sides. Two of the three sides are about ninety degrees to each other and each of the two sides have a fastener located on its outer surface. There is one corresponding slot for each fastener. Each corresponding slot is on the surface of two separate substrates and located approximately ten millimeters away from an outermost edge of the substrate. The fastener secures with the corresponding slot, consequently joining the two substrates at approximately ninety degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: Lockdowel, Inc.
    Inventor: Hoang Dang
  • Patent number: 10533314
    Abstract: An infill wall support clip is described. The infill wall support clip provides lateral bracing for wall panels in residential or commercial buildings. The infill wall support clip anchors to a top track of wall panels and to a bottom track of a floor truss. The infill wall support clip provides spacing between the wall panel and the floor truss such that drywall may be continuously overlaid on top of the wall panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: PatCo, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Lastowski, John Louis Vanker
  • Patent number: 10483733
    Abstract: A joint strip including a center trunk, at least one recess formed by at least one upper flange and at least one lower flange for use in bridging a gap in sheet metal, such as in cable trays, cable tray covers, or two pieces of sheet metal. The joint strip may include more than one recess. The one or more recesses are configured to accept, for example, a cable tray surface located at a gap between two cable trays. The joint strip can be inserted between cable trays, for example, without disconnecting the trays from each other or removed in existing cable trays without separating adjacent sections of cable tray or cable tray covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Cardin, Jonathan Dubé, Yves Boucher
  • Patent number: 10377421
    Abstract: In a vehicle-body structure in which a roof side rail portion of a side face portion of a vehicle body and a roof reinforcement are connected via a gusset so as to suppress that a center pillar portion comes into a cabin side when a large load is inputted from a vehicle side, a notch portion is provided at the gusset. Thereby, it is suppressed that, when the large load is inputted to the center pillar portion from the vehicle side, the gusset is so bending-deformed by a rotation of the roof side rail portion that a rotational moment caused by the rotation of the roof side rail portion acts on the roof reinforcement, suppressing that the center pillar portion comes into the cabin side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Koji Yoshitake, Toshiyuki Koga, Tomohiro Kadohata
  • Patent number: 10227771
    Abstract: An infill wall support clip is described. The infill wall support clip provides lateral bracing for wall panels in residential or commercial buildings. The infill wall support clip anchors to a top track of wall panels and to a bottom track of a floor truss. The infill wall support clip provides spacing between the wall panel and the floor truss such that drywall may be continuously overlaid on top of the wall panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: PATCO, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Lastowski, John Louis Vanker
  • Patent number: 9637918
    Abstract: A roll formed sheet metal main runner and a roll formed sheet metal cross runner intersecting the main runner from one side at a slot in the main runner, the cross runner having a sheet metal end connector extending through the slot, the connector having a lateral projection with a rearwardly facing edge and a hole rearward of the projection at which the connector is fixed to the cross runner, a stamped sheet metal anchor clip with a tongue projecting through the slot and a base connected to the tongue on a side of the main runner opposite the cross runner, the tongue having a relief area aligned with the connector projection, an edge abutting the connector projecting edge, and a hole aligned with the connector hole, and a fastener through both of said connector and tongue holes securing said clip to said connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: USG INTERIORS, LLC
    Inventor: Victor M. Carbajal
  • Patent number: 9470041
    Abstract: A rail and post assembly that allows for onsite fence and gate panel construction. A shear block is affixed to each end of a rail. The shear block and rail are then fed through an opening in a post. Fasteners then secure the shear block to the post, which thereby provides a rail and post assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Gary W. Ash
  • Patent number: 9315991
    Abstract: A connector for a ceiling framework including profile sections crossing one another at right angles for connecting the profile sections by being fitted to ends of certain profile sections which fit into apertures pierced in other profile sections. The connector includes two parts, a primary clip and a secondary clip, the two parts being associated with one another via a meltable mechanism capable of melting at a temperature of a fire to separate the two parts. In a fire, the secondary clips become detached allowing the primary clips to fit more deeply into the apertures of the profile sections, making it possible to absorb expansions due to heat of the fire and keep the framework and the ceiling sections it supports in place. The connector can be applied to the field of building construction, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: PLAFOMETAL
    Inventors: Matthieu Lillette, Phillippe Riggi, Xavier Turot
  • Patent number: 9297161
    Abstract: A roof member anti-torsion bracket device includes a base plate that is adapted to sit on a top plate of a wall construction and to receive a truss assembly. At least one transverse planar surface is oriented substantially transverse to the base plate. A locating tab extending longitudinally with respect to the base plate abuts an edge of the top plate, thereby locating the anti-torsion bracket device an offset distance from the edge of the wall construction top plate. The base plate further includes first and second fastening openings oppositely located with respect to the at least one transverse planar surface. The first and second fastening openings define first and second fastening positions in the base plate, thereby providing torsion resistance, compressive load support, and tension lifting resistance for the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: SR Systems LLC
    Inventors: Steven Zimmerman, Van T. Walworth
  • Patent number: 9151050
    Abstract: The present invention provides a splice plate suitable for use in joining beams for use in a grid that supports panels and ceiling fixtures in a suspended ceiling. In particular, the present invention provides a splice plate suitable for use in joining main beams together for use in a grid that supports panels and ceiling fixtures in a suspended ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Inventor: John Santeramo
  • Patent number: 9115488
    Abstract: A clip is provided for securing a cross tee to a main runner in a suspended ceiling grid system. The clip comprises a first leg configured to extend through the slot in the web of the main runner so as to lie alongside the web of a cross tee whose connector extends through the slot in a direction opposite to that of the first leg; a second leg extending generally perpendicularly to the first leg so as to lie alongside the web of the main runner; and a third leg extending generally perpendicularly to the second leg and generally parallel to the first leg. The third leg is sized to extend through an aperture in the web of the main runner and then be bent to lie alongside the web of the main runner on a side opposite to that of the second leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventor: Scott G. Jankovec
  • Publication number: 20150078807
    Abstract: An assembled product includes at least three elements arranged in three different planes. A first element is connected perpendicular to a second element, and a third element is connected perpendicular to the second element. The assembled product includes one or more locking devices, each comprising a flexible tongue arranged in an insertion groove one of the at least three elements. The flexible tongue cooperates with a tongue groove, at an adjacent one of the at least three elements, for locking the one element and the adjacent element together. A second edge of the second element is connected to a second edge of the third element by a first of said locking devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: VALINGE INNOVATION AB
    Inventors: Hans BRĂ„NNSTRĂ–M, Agne PĂ…LSSON, Peter DERELĂ–V
  • Publication number: 20140099157
    Abstract: A system and method to attach an object to a support structure, the system including a fastener having an anti-rotational member, a mounting plate having a raised portion adapted to receive the fastener, and an elastic membrane. The fastener is sandwiched between the mounting plate and the elastic membrane. The raised portion forms a cavity having an inner surface. The inner surface abuts against the surfaces of the fastener, which in turn restricts movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventor: Joel A. Stanley
  • Publication number: 20130189021
    Abstract: A support rib for securing a rotor pole to a flange in a gearless drive is described. The support rib is undivided and passes through an opening of the flange. The support rib can be joined with the flange and/or the rotor pole using an adhesive. The rib preferably has at least one notch that engages an edge of the flange opening to establish mechanical connection between the rib and flange. An insert with two ends that slideably engages a rib edge and rotor pole channel can be used to couple the rib to the rotor pole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: FLUOR TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Alexander Kheifets
  • Publication number: 20110146763
    Abstract: A solar cell module attachment structure according to one embodiment of the present invention is a solar cell module attachment structure for attaching, face-to-face, edges of two solar cell modules (2) that are disposed adjacent and spaced from each other on a top face (12) of an attachment base (11) disposed along the edges in a front-rear direction, wherein with the use of an upper fixing fitting 3a including a pressing plate 31 and protrusion pieces 32, a lower fixing fitting 4 including an upper plate 40 and a lower plate 50, and a bolt 8, the bolt 8 inserted from above into a pressing plate hole 33 formed in the pressing plate 31 is inserted and fixed in a lower plate connecting hole 51 formed in the lower plate 50 of the lower fixing fitting 4.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Kenichi Sagayama
  • Patent number: 7717640
    Abstract: A joint structure for directly joining a plurality of pipes is provided. A first pipe 10 has a joined end face 11 obtained by laser machining at a predetermined angle to an axis and a tenon 12 formed on a joined end face. A second pipe 20 has a joined end face 21 obtained by laser machining at a predetermined angle to an axis and a mortice 22. By fitting the tenon 12 of the first pipe 10 to the mortice 22 of the second pipe 20, a joint structure of the two pipes 10, 20 is formed. The joined end face 11 of the first pipe 10 and the joined end face 21 of the second pipe 20 are on surface contact over the entire thickness of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Yamazaki Mazak Corporation
    Inventors: Tsunehiko Yamazaki, Naoomi Miyakawa
  • Publication number: 20100086378
    Abstract: A coupler nut with multiple bore diameters that are symmetrically stepped in both directions away from the center bore diameter. The bore diameter at the center is the smallest, and each pair of steps away from the center bore increases the bore diameter. This means that the coupler nut has no single, correct vertical orientation. It has no top or bottom, and as such is vertically ambidextrous.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Jin-Jie Lin
  • Patent number: 7677010
    Abstract: A modular structural system includes a hub in the general shape of a polygon, such as a hexagon or octagon, which may be somewhat rounded or may have a regular shape. The system includes a plurality of other structural members, such as hub spokes, for interfacing adjacent the hub, and leg spokes, for interfacing with the hub or with the hub spokes. The system also includes cross braces for providing additional support between the hub spokes and leg spokes. The hub, the hub spokes, leg spokes, and cross braces are joined by bores in the individual pieces and a plurality of dowels or rods placed into the bores. From these modular pieces, and currently available structural members, many useful and recreational structures may be assembled and then disassembled, such as frames, garden structures, furniture, shelving, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Alfred H. Boots
  • Publication number: 20080121312
    Abstract: A joint between wood pieces, as of timber, laminated timber, LVL, plywood etc., where one or more bars (2, 3), as the diagonal of a truss, is connected the side of other bar (1), as the side of the truss chord whereby in the produced joint all said bars are connected to each other by a finger joint. From chord (1) wood is cut either so that asymmetrically from the one side less is cut than from the other side or so that from the middle less is cut than from the ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Tuomo Poutanen
  • Patent number: 7364243
    Abstract: A cabinet having a frame, a plurality of posts and a plurality of connector assemblies. The connector assemblies adapted to connect the posts to the frame. The connector assembly is provided with a gusset fixed to the frame, and a clamp plate connected to the gusset and received in the post so as to be engageable with a portion of the post. The clamp plate being movable with respect to the gusset such that upon movement of the clamp plate toward the gusset the clamp plate clamps the post between the clamp plate and at least one of the gusset and the frame, and a clamp plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventors: Brendan Wyatt, Barry Kiernan
  • Patent number: 6965075
    Abstract: A frame joining structure for electrical and electronic equipment housing cabinets, in which ends of frames are simplified in shape to dispense with complex cutting and which possesses excellent strength and waterproof property. Ends of outer side surfaces (4) of three mutually orthogonal frames (1a, 1b, 1c), which constitute a framework of a cabinet, are cut at two planes of ±45° relative to a plane defined by other two frames to be point-shaped. These ends are joined together directly or through a corner member (20) having the same configuration as that of the ends to constitute a firm corner portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Nitto Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazumasa Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6862854
    Abstract: A one-piece connecting member is provided that bridges or spans a beam disposed between two aligned structural members. A tunnel is formed in the beam to receive a connecting member. The connecting member attaches directly to both of the opposed structural members by means of heavy fasteners without the need of intermediary brackets. The connecting member is formed to provide both compressive and tensile resistance, and can be formed from tube steel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Fitzmyers
  • Patent number: 6837016
    Abstract: Column-beam building frame structure, wherein columns and beams are interconnected to distribute and share all lateral loads through collars that encircle columns at the nodal points of attachments between columns and beams. Each collar includes inner and outer components which seat, and gravity-lock together, during frame construction, and which also to offer a certain amount of immediate moment resistance to lateral loads. Tension bolt and nut assemblies lock the inner and outer collar components together, and with these assemblies in place, the collars (which circumsurround the beams) function to deliver beam moment loads as plural-position, angularly distributed compression loads to different side regions of columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventors: Robert J. Simmons, Walid M. Hicham Naja, Constantine J. Shuhaibar
  • Patent number: 6517293
    Abstract: A connection for securing the longitudinal wires of a soil-reinforcing mat to a face element for an earthen formation is provided by converging the lead ends of the wires toward one another and securing a connecting rod between the ends. The rod is extended into engagement with an anchor on the face element. A variety of structures are provided for securing the rod against separation from the anchor. To enable the mat to move in a horizontal plane relative to the face element, the rod may extend in a direction normal to the mat and be rotatably received in a vertically extending opening in the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas P. Taylor, William K. Hilfiker, James Scott Bagwell
  • Patent number: 6270283
    Abstract: A bearing structure for cabinets preferably containing electric and/or electronic apparatuses is provided, which comprises a predetermined number of metal section members, defining upright elements (2) and crosspiece elements (3), and connectors (4) between the section members which is adapted to be disposed in an operatively functional position to join the upright elements (2) to the crosspiece elements (3) independently of engagement of panels defining the cabinet top and base with the crosspiece elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: E.T.A. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Aldo Turati
  • Patent number: 6206605
    Abstract: A wooden piece of furniture includes at least three rod-like elements each having shorter edges, longer edges and an end portion of a rectangular cross section with a ratio of approximately two to three. The cross section is formed by the shorter and the longer edges. Slits are located in the end portion of each of the rod-like elements. The slits are arranged in the middle between and parallel to the shorter edges. The depth of the slits corresponds to the longer edges, and the width of the slits corresponds to one third of the longer edges. Cutouts are located in the end portion of each of the rod-like elements. The cutouts are arranged parallel to the longer edges, the depth of the cutouts corresponding to the shorter edges, and the width of the cutouts corresponding to half of the shorter edges. Extending times each formed by one of the slits and one of the cutouts are located in the end portion of each of the rod-like elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Peter Seeland
  • Patent number: 6132129
    Abstract: A joint system having one or more tetrahedral joints formed by three edge lapped flat pieces having complimentary open-ended slots which interlock in a construction composing one vertex of a tetrahedron. A plurality of tetrahedral joints can be interconnected by one or more interlocking flat pieces having open-ended slots at both ends to form a part of two or more tetrahedral joints in various configurations with other tetrahedral joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Robert G. Frazier
  • Patent number: 5997117
    Abstract: An improved rack frame cabinet for supporting electronic components having a plurality of elongate frame members and a plurality of corner brackets arranged to engage at least three adjacent frame members at each corner of said cabinet. Each of the elongate frame members includes a tube portion defined by walls forming a cavity therein, a first flange member, and a second flange member. The tube portion and both of the flange members extend along the length of the elongate frame member. The first flange member is aligned with one of the walls of the tube portion of each elongate frame member. The second flange member is parallel to and offset from another wall of the tube portion of each elongate frame member. The first and second flange members are substantially perpendicular to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Chatsworth Products, Inc.
    Inventor: William D. Krietzman
  • Patent number: 5848852
    Abstract: A crossmember defines guide surfaces to receive a leg tip. Preferably a screw, cam or lever applies nonimpulse force to wedge the tip against the surfaces. The tip is preferably unthreaded, exclusively noncircular in at least external cross-section, and very generally aligned with the leg axis. Preferably the screw or the like pulls the tip length-wise into the crossmember without rotating or threading the tip into the surfaces, and also retains the tip wedged in place. Also preferably a notch or analogous traction feature is formed in the leg or crossmember, and the screw (distinct from the tip) threaded to the other. The screw engages the notch to force the tip into the crossmember.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Vladimir Shpigel
  • Patent number: 5832689
    Abstract: A joint able to join three members. The joint is formed by each member having at least one channel of a width generally equal to the thickness of a member to be joined to it and a length generally equal to the width of a member to be joined to it. There is a recess in each member positionable so that, when constructed, the joint has a pathway formed by said recesses. A locking member is received by said pathway to lock the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Cariboo Bob Productions
    Inventor: Bruce Curll
  • Patent number: 5713651
    Abstract: A modular frame assembly for an equipment cabinet having a plurality of members releasably secured together is provided. A plurality of universal frame members are provided, each having a securing tab and an offset securing tab projecting therefrom. A countersunk bore is formed in each of the tabs and a plurality of fasteners are provided which are insertable into the bores to releasably secure the plurality of universal frame members together. This provides a modular frame assembly that allows disassembly of a single frame member by removing two of the fasteners at each corner. The third fastener remains in place and maintains the integrity of the remaining two frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: McQuay International
    Inventors: Robert A. Essig, James E. Olsen, James E. Larson
  • Patent number: 5704185
    Abstract: A load bearing truss constructed of composite materials. The truss is made of three or more longitudinal load bearing composite members. Bracing for the truss is a combination of perpendicular and diagonal composite cross-members or all diagonal composite cross-members. The longitudinal and cross-members of the truss are joined together by a sandwich constructed joint which encapsulates the joint area as well as spacers, thereby tying all members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Pat Lindsay
  • Patent number: 5651630
    Abstract: A device for connecting together elongated construction materials has one or more end-surface connecting parts each for being connected to an end surface of one of the materials and a side-surface connecting part for receiving and being connected to side surfaces of another one of the materials. Each end-surface connecting part has a bolt-accepting hole formed for allowing a bolt to pass through and a counter-bored part formed on the reverse side for receiving therein the head the bolt. The side-surface connecting part has an indentation for accepting therein and being connected transversely to another of elongated construction materials. Bolts are passed through holes in the side-surface connecting part to securely attach it to side surfaces of this another elongated construction material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Ryoichi Nomura
  • Patent number: 5625987
    Abstract: A method of making and erecting a framed structure, preferably single level, by milling standard pieces of lumber that are joined into a sturdy, rectangular frame is disclosed. Opposed Side Beams having dado cuts at their opposite ends are joined to opposed Face Beams having complementary dado cuts at their opposite ends. Floor joists connect opposed sidebeams and support subflooring or decking, and, to accommodate certain larger dimensional floorplans, Center Beams are built into the frame. The frame can rest on a periphery foundation or be erected over posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventor: Edward Zamerovsky
  • Patent number: 5499883
    Abstract: A stretcher or crossrib (1) for seating furniture, such as chairs, and for tables has four rib parts (4) of solid wood, preferably beech wood, in the form of flat pieces arranged at an angle to one another. Their butt ends (5) are interconnected by tenons (6) into a cross with different spacing angles .alpha., .beta. and are glued. A connecting element 7 is used to hold the butt ends (5) of the four rib parts (4) form-fittingly. Connecting element (7) is composed of a top part (8) and a bottom part (9). Top part (8) and bottom part (9) of connecting element (7) hold butt ends (5) of rib parts (4) in corresponding holes (10) form-fittingly and are screwed to rib parts (4). Top part (8) and bottom part (9) of connecting element (7) can be gussets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Kusch & Co. Sitzmobelwerke KG.
    Inventor: Eberhard Heinzel
  • Patent number: 5469678
    Abstract: A method of making and erecting a framed structure, preferably single level, by milling standard pieces of lumber that are joined into a sturdy, rectangular frame is disclosed. Opposed Side Beams having dado cuts at their opposite ends are joined to opposed Face Beams having complementary dado cuts at their opposite ends. Floor joists connect opposed sidebeams and support subflooring or decking, and, to accommodate certain larger dimensional floorplans, Center Beams are built into the frame. The frame can rest on a periphery foundation or be erected over posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: Edward Zamerovsky
  • Patent number: 5380115
    Abstract: A hip corner plate connection in which a single element sheet metal hip corner plate connector is used to connect a hip rafter most commonly occurring in wood frame buildings having a stick-framed roof of either dimensional lumber or plywood I-rafters to the top plates of the supporting walls. The sheet metal hip corner plate connector includes base members which attach to the single or double top plates of the framed wall, and flanges which attach to the hip rafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Karen W. Colonias
  • Patent number: 5236273
    Abstract: A wood rafter to wood corner plate connection in either a gazebo or a building roof having a hip roof. A single element sheet metal connector is provided having a base member connected to the corner plate, wing members connected to and tying the corner plates together, and a seat member bendably connected to the base for attaching a rafter at varying angles from 0.degree. to 90.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Tyrell T. Gilb
  • Patent number: 5214944
    Abstract: An apparatus for attachment over a hub of a vehicle wheel to prevent its rotation and prevent the wheel from being removed from its axle. The apparatus has a generally triangular shaped shell having an upper and lower triangular plate spaced apart by a series of vertical pins. The apexes of the triangular plates have openings formed therein for receiving one end of a hooked rod. The other ends of the hooked rods extend through the shell and are held in place by the vertical pins and a locking screw-threaded nut-sleeve locking assembly. The hooked ends of the rods engage the circumference or tread of the tires and are held firmly in place by tightening the locking screw against the rods. A padlock secured to the assembled device through the sleeve of the locking device prevents tampering with the apparatus when in place on a vehicle wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Inventor: Charles E. Wolthoff