Corner Joint Patents (Class 403/231)
  • Patent number: 7021022
    Abstract: An attachment system and method for coupling a wall and a floor together during and/or after construction, and for facilitating final orientation of the wall and floor, includes first and second members coupled to the respective wall and floor and pivotal about a hinge member. The wall and floor, and thus the first and second members, pivot between an assembly position, and a final position. In the assembly position, the wall or the floor is assembled, and the first and second members are coupled to the respective wall and floor. In the final position, the wall and floor are finally oriented with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Jesse L. Hearne
  • Patent number: 7021590
    Abstract: The system (31) for angular connection of mounting rails comprises a U-shaped connection member (1) that has on at least one lateral wall (2.1, 2.2, 3) openings (4.1, 4.2, 4.3) for passage therethrough of a fastener for fastening a connection member (1) to a mounting rail and a connection plate (21). The connection plate (21) has insertion projections (22.1, 22.2, 23) that can be inserted into insertion holes (5.1, 5.2, 6) provided for this purpose on the connection member (1). Using the bolt (25) the connection system (31) is fastened and at the same time the connection plate (25) is tightened with the connection member (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Armin Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7014383
    Abstract: A connector for securing a first building structural member to a second building structural member is provided. The connector includes a seat member with an opening for receiving an anchor bolt that secures the connector to the second building structural member. The connector also includes first and second side members that connect to the seat member and a back member that extends between the first and second side members, wherein the back member includes a plurality of shear openings for receiving shear fasteners that secure the connector to the first building structural member and resist shear forces only and at least one tension opening for receiving a tension fastener that secures the connector to the first building structural member and resists tension forces only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventors: Ben L. Schmid, Stephen C. Tobin
  • Patent number: 7004667
    Abstract: A connection (10) of two streamlined-section struts (12, 14) running orthogonally to one another with an essentially rectangular base cross section (18) uses a connector (16). The lateral surface (18a) of one (14) of the streamlined-section struts has a mounting groove (18b), as well as an edge flange (18c), which projects substantially orthogonally from an edge of this lateral surface (18a) at a predetermined distance (b). The connector (16) can be attached to the lateral surface (18a) of the one streamlined-section strut having the mounting groove (18b) and to the front side of the other streamlined-section strut (12). The contour of the connector (16)is accommodated substantially completely within the base cross section (18) of the other streamlined-section strut (12). In addition, the depth of the connector (16) is essentially the same as the predetermined distance (b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Bosch Rexroth AG
    Inventors: Peter Ludwig, Uwe Kaiser, Jens Henneberg
  • Patent number: 7001097
    Abstract: A joint assembly for joining first and second tubular members. The first member has flanges extending from walls of an end segment. The walls of the end segment define a receiving opening. The second member has walls and a protrusion having sides extending from the walls to an end of the protrusion. When the members are joined the protrusion is received in the opening of the end segment so that the sides of the protrusion are in facing engagement with the walls of the end segment and the flanges engage the walls of the second member. The members are secured together at some of the engaging surfaces. The protrusion reduces stress on the flanges and increases the mechanical strength of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Pei-Chung Wang, Peter C. Sun, Kenneth R. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6942418
    Abstract: To connect the mutually contacting faces of two sheets, in particular counter tops, in a simple manner such that the top surfaces lie in a common plane, the invention provides an arrangement which consists of two fitting parts (7, 12) each connected to one sheet (1, 2). The first fitting part (7) is provided with a recess (9) open to the bottom whose limiting wall (10) facing the other sheet (2) has a slot open toward the bottom. The fitting part (12) fastened to the other sheet (2) is provided with a threaded hole into which a screw (17) is inserted. The screw (17) is inserted into the slot such that the head is accommodated by the recess (9) and is supported by the limiting wall (10) accommodating the slot (11). To adjust the height, adjustment screws (12) are provided in flanges (15) of fitting part (12) which interact with the base plate of fitting part (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Kaindl, M
    Inventor: Franz Knauseder
  • Patent number: 6939075
    Abstract: A fitting for releasably connecting two plates, particularly furniture plates includes a clamping member which is rotatably mounted in a housing between a released position and a locked position, wherein the clamping member receives the head of a corresponding tightening bolt. The housing is composed of an upper part and a lower part which can be lockably connected with each other, wherein the two parts and the clamping member arranged between the two parts are manufactured in a single work step so as to be connected through intended breaking points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Häfele GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rüdiger Walz
  • Patent number: 6926613
    Abstract: A pool table (10) having a plurality of corner assemblies (12, 14, 16, and 18) which allow the pool table (10) to be easily disassembled while concomitantly allowing the pool table (10) to be sturdy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Eric Gregory Binning
  • Patent number: 6908252
    Abstract: An integrated joint assembly fastener is described for removably securing two adjoining members together along flat mating surfaces. A housing is provided with an off-center circular bore in which a rotatable element is held captive. The bottom end of the rotatable element has an offset connecting post which extends perpendicular to a slit provided in a rear sidewall of the housing. Stationary wedges on the housing front project from opposite side of the slit. A pair of connecting dowel head sections project from the front opening and are engaged by the offset connecting post of the rotatable element. The dowel head sections have a gripping ridge section at a free end and an inclined abutment formation for sliding engagement against the wedges. By rotating the rotatable element, the gripping ridge sections of the dowel head are pulled back and wedged outwardly, laterally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: 154322 Canada Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Rubano
  • Patent number: 6890121
    Abstract: Device for joining together, in a longitudinal direction (X—X), two parts arranged at 90° with respect to each other, comprising a head integral with one of the two parts to be joined, a pin integral with the other of the said parts to be joined, the head having, arranged inside it, a gearing able to be actuated in a direction (Y—Y) perpendicular to the longitudinal joining direction and operate the pin so to determine joining together of the two parts in the longitudinal direction (X—X).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: F. LLI Mauri S.r.l.
    Inventor: Gaetano Mauri
  • Patent number: 6851884
    Abstract: The present invention is an anchoring biscuit device for joining three boards. It includes, (a) a first substantially flat horizontal top element having a generally biscuit-shaped configuration, with opposite sidewalls, at least one of said sidewalls having a flat edge, and at least a portion of said sidewalls being non-parallel with respect to one another; (b) at least one substantially vertical support member attached to the underside of the top element and extending downwardly therefrom for a predetermined length for joinder of two adjacent boards which have been pre-cut with biscuit receiving slots, and, (c) an attachment orifice located at least on the top element for attachment of the anchoring biscuit device to a support board for anchoring and support of the two adjacent boards. In one preferred embodiment, a top bevel is included at the orifice to permit angled screwing at positions other than vertical positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Blue Heron Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Harry W. Eberle
  • Patent number: 6817153
    Abstract: A cornerboard assembly comprises an interlocking, opposite direction joint between cornerboard millwork components. Dual male members extend from the end of one of the respective components, forming an opening between the members. The male members and opening formed between the members have planar outer surfaces. The second component comprises an end with a single male member which is configured to be inserted into the opening of the first component. The male member of the second component and the other surfaces at this end also have planar outer surfaces. The planar outer surfaces of the two cornerboards components are configured to be positioned adjacent to each other, in surface to surface contact. An exterior construction glue or similar adhesive is placed on the planar surfaces to fixedly and permanently secure the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Steinberg, Kenneth S. Bernstein, Claudio O. Lagar, Jose R. Martos
  • Patent number: 6796623
    Abstract: A frame element for the fame of a cabinet for an electrical panel is provided. The frame element includes first and second corner joints and first and second connection elements. The first and second corner joints are each formed as a monolithic body and have first and second arms protruding from a longitudinal elongated element of the monolithic body. The first and second corner joints further include third and fourth arms for connection to additional components of the frame. The third and fourth arms are arranged parallel to each other and lie substantially at right angles to the elongated clement and the first and second arms. The first connection element has an elongated body with opposite ends that are suitable for connection to first arms of the first and second corner joints. The second connection element has an elongated body with opposite ends that are suitable for connection to second arms of the first and second corner joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: ABB Service S.r.l.
    Inventors: Rodolfo Fontana, Cristian Cagliani
  • Publication number: 20040165942
    Abstract: A connector for securing a first building structural member to a second building structural member is provided. The connector includes a seat member with an opening for receiving an anchor bolt that secures the connector to the second building structural member. The connector also includes first and second side members that connect to the seat member and a back member that extends between the first and second side members, wherein the back member includes a plurality of shear openings for receiving shear fasteners that secure the connector to the first building structural member and resist shear forces only and at least one tension opening for receiving a tension fastener that secures the connector to the first building structural member and resists tension forces only.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventors: Ben L. Schmid, Stephen C. Tobin
  • Patent number: 6758017
    Abstract: A plastic corner device for installing drywall to form an inside corner. The corner device has a large corner with a smaller corner facing it to form a right parallelepiped, whose sides equal in length the thickness of the drywall panels. The corner device and/or the panels have adhesive applied to them, and the edges of the panels abut the smaller corner to form the inside corner. Adhesive is then applied to the rearward surfaces, and the assembly of the corner device and the panels is adhered to a building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Peter P. Young
  • Patent number: 6715953
    Abstract: A panel connection device is provided for attaching a panel of an inner grid to an outer frame for a lower blanking tool of a carton die cutting machine. The panel connection device includes a plate member defining inner and outer faces. The plate member has a recess formed therein for receiving a portion of the panel and a bore extending between the inner face and the outer face along an axis at an acute angle to the outer face. A clamping structure extends into the recess in the plate member for retaining a portion of the panel therein. A fastening element extends through the bore in the plate member into a corresponding slot in the outer frame to interconnect the plate member to the outer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Blanking Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Franke E. Oetlinger, Russell A. Kempka, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6712434
    Abstract: In a cabinet, particularly an equipment cabinet for electrical and electronic components and equipment having a particularly simple construction and ensuring an optimum accessibility to the installation area as well as a high security against unauthorized opening, not only the front door and a rear wall, but also the side walls are provided with hinges and can be articulated, as desired, either on the right or left. The hinge system has upper and lower hinge pins and two hinge pin receptacles in each corner connector of a frame. The two hinge pin receptacles are in each case formed in a shoulder of the corner connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Knuerr AG
    Inventors: Josef Knab, Werner Spateneder, Stefan Gramelsberger, Siegfried Schneiderbauer, Alexander Prinz
  • Patent number: 6694700
    Abstract: A fastener for use in forming a joint of a framework for a patio enclosure. The joint includes an end of an elongated first frame member fastened to a side of an elongated second frame member. The fastener includes a body having a first end and a second end defining an outer surface therebetween. The second end is adapted to fit in a hollow portion of the first frame member. The fastener further includes a plate extending outwardly from the body. The plate is adapted to be fastened to the side portion of the second frame member. A stop extends outwardly from the outer surface of the body. The stop provides for positioning of the fastener relative to the first frame member when the second end is positioned within the hollow portion of the first frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Kraig D. Mackett
  • Publication number: 20040028466
    Abstract: A steel pipe connection device has a steel pipe, a steel frame, the steel pipe having a U-shaped taper connector having a slot, and the steel frame having a taper insertion bar disposed on an end of the steel frame. The taper insertion bar has a taper insertion end. The taper insertion bar is inserted in the slot of the U-shaped taper connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Wei-Luen Tsai
  • Publication number: 20040009031
    Abstract: A joint arrangement joining adjacent edges of two structural elements (10, 11). The joint arrangement includes a joiner element (12) which has projections (17, 18), each of which is slidingly engageable in a groove (19, 20) of the respective structural elements (10, 11). The joiner element (12) has a spine means (22) which in the assembled joint engages between profiled edge portions of the structural elements (10, 11). The distal end (24) of the spine (22) has two oppositely disposed lateral projections (25, 26) each of which engage in a groove (27, 28) formed in the profile edge of the adjacent structural element (10, 11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Manfred Johannes Frank
  • Publication number: 20030228187
    Abstract: A panel connection device is provided for attaching a panel of an inner grid to an outer frame for a lower blanking tool of a carton die cutting machine. The panel connection device includes a plate member defining inner and outer faces. The plate member has a recess formed therein for receiving a portion of the panel and a bore extending between the inner face and the outer face along an axis at an acute angle to the outer face. A clamping structure extends into the recess in the plate member for retaining a portion of the panel therein. A fastening element extends through the bore in the plate member into a corresponding slot in the outer frame to interconnect the plate member to the outer frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventors: Frank E. Oetlinger, Russell A. Kempka
  • Patent number: 6643988
    Abstract: A frame assembly for creating a flush corner appearance is disclosed. The frame assembly includes first and a second members. The first member has a plurality of sides that extend between a first and second end such that one side defines an opening extending thereinto from the first end. The opening defines a pair of lateral flanges for engaging the second member. The second member includes a plurality of sides that extend between a first and second end. The second member also includes a first connector extending from a first side and a second connector extending from a second side. A first tab extends from the first connector and is moveable between a straight position and a bent position such that the first tab guides the first member into engagement with the second member when the first tab is in the bent position. A second tab extends from the second connector and is flush with the first end of the first member when the members are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: AMSCO Engineered Products
    Inventors: Laurence P. Armstrong, Steve K. Laumann
  • Patent number: 6634824
    Abstract: A connective device in a partition and screen system comprises at least and upright post, a plurality of retaining pins, a plurality of trunking parts longitudinal, and at least a partition. The upright post is cylindrical with a homogeneous cross section with longitudinal slide grooves circumferentially disposed through the entire length thereof. The retaining pins are selectively inserted into the slide grooves and each of the retaining pins has an arched side with two opposite lateral edges. The trunking parts are connected to the respective coupling pieces so as to be positioned next to the upper end and the lower end of the upright post. The partition fits with two of the trunking parts in a way of being disposed between one next to the upper end of the upright post and the other one next to the lower end of the upright post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-An Liu
  • Publication number: 20030175070
    Abstract: The scaffolding element is used in conjunction with an upright alignment member such as a pole. The scaffolding element is provided in the form of a rectangular frame, with a pair of connector members at each end. The connector members at the opposite ends of the frame are oriented transversely relative to one another, so that the connector members of adjacent members can interlock at right angle to one another, creating a structure of interlocking scaffolding elements. The connector members can be formed from metal plate or can be castings, for example, and the frame is constructed from square section metal tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Pieter Wouter Booysen, Michael Walter Seitz
  • Patent number: 6591572
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a horizontal member with at least one vertical member in an interlocking manner includes plastic body in the shape of a cylinder, having one flat side which extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cylinder. A pin projects outwardly near a top end in of the plastic body, in a radial manner. A through hole is provided in the plastic body through which a securing screw can be threaded into at least one vertical member against which the connector is disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: CS Schmalmobel GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Edwin M{umlaut over (uu)}rmann
  • Patent number: 6575657
    Abstract: A device for fastening of attachment elements, such as mounting rails, mounting plates, deposit plates and the like on a frame leg of a switchgear cabinet rack, wherein the frame legs are designed symmetrically in relation to their cross-sectional diagonal line and are aligned with the latter with the diagonal line of the rack. On the inside of the frame legs oriented toward the interior of the rack, the frame legs form a fastening receiver with two fastening profile sides which are disposed vertically in respect to each other and extend parallel to the facing outsides of the switchgear cabinet rack. The frame legs form system fastening receivers in the form of square or rectangular openings and fastening bores and make transitions into additional profile sides having corresponding rows of fastening receivers, which extend perpendicular to the facing exteriors of the switchgear cabinet rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Rittal-Werk Rudolf Loh GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Reuter, Rolf Benner
  • Patent number: 6565279
    Abstract: For clamping one end of a first, cylindrical strut to a second, cylindrical strut crossing the end of the first strut, a clamp comprising two clamping members, each having a first portion adapted to fit one half of the end of the first strut and a second portion unitary with its first portion and adapted to fit one half of the second strut. Each clamping member has a reinforcing rib extending along its first clamping portion and extending onto its second clamping portion. Embossments of the reinforcing rib of each clamping member define margins of fastener-receiving apertures, which receive fasteners drawing the respective members tightly around the respective struts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Kiefer Pool Equipment Co.
    Inventors: Jonathan Skovronski, Paul Rumachik
  • Patent number: 6547483
    Abstract: A clamping device to hold adjacent formwork panels has a backing plate against which edges of the adjacent formwork panels can be held, at least one rod extending from the backing plate, and a clamping member able to move along the rod between a clamping position where the member clamps the formwork panels against the backing plate, and a free position where the formwork panels can be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Concrete Form Hire Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Clifford John Rae-Smith
  • Patent number: 6547477
    Abstract: A connecting fitting for releasably connecting two furniture parts is disclosed. The fitting comprises a pin-shaped member that is insertable into a hole in a first furniture part, and a fitting body insertable into a bore in a second furniture part. The fitting body comprises a tightening element. The fitting body is in the form of a circular cylindrical part defined by a curved side wall and a flat side wall. The fitting body is radially displaceable within said bore in the furniture part when not in a tightened position. The pin-shaped member protrudes from the curved side wall when in the tightened position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Julius Blum Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventors: Edgar Huber, Klaus Bereuter
  • Patent number: 6540432
    Abstract: A fastener system for joining structural members to other structural members or to supporting structures is disclosed. The fastener system includes three types of fasteners. The first type of fastener is designed for placement between adjacent planks. The second and third types of fastener are designed for placement at the ends or sides of planks which are not adjacent other planks. The first type of fastener is in the form of two rectangular, spaced apart plates which are fixed relative to one another by a rectangular plate extending perpendicularly between the two rectangular plates. The second and third types of fasteners are in the form of a rectangular plate having two rectangular, spaced apart plates projecting perpendicularly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew Albanese
  • Patent number: 6527236
    Abstract: A corner bracket comprising of two matching components held together by two bolts wherein as the two bolts are tightened, the two matching components will be urged toward each other thereby securely gripping a planar surface that is inserted between them. Another bolt is inserted through an opening in the second component through a threaded hole in the first component and protrudes into a hole in the first component where the vertical supporting member is inserted. The bolt will securely lock the corner bracket with the planar surface to the vertical supporting member inserted through the hole in the first component. The advantage of the present invention is that the force of the grip on the planar surface can be adjusted independently of the force of the grip on the vertical supporting member. Another advantage of the present invention is that the corner bracket can be used to secure a variety of planar surfaces with a relative large range of thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Yuan Rui Situ
  • Patent number: 6527278
    Abstract: A corner mold is provided for use in a seal system which protects the corner of a structure from damage and deterioration and creates a barrier covering the gap between adjacent structures. The corner mold includes two external members distanced apart by an interconnecting spacer sized to match the width of the structure. In addition to the corner mold, the seal system includes two moldings and an adhesive which is placed in joints between the corner mold and moldings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Norris Sales Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen R. Norris
  • Patent number: 6517276
    Abstract: A connector includes a first plate (10) and a second plate (30) perpendicular to the first plate. The first plate includes a base (12) defining two cutouts (16), and a perpendicular flange (14) defining a locking slot (19) and defining two openings (18) in communication with the corresponding cutouts. Two shoulders (17) are formed in the first plate on opposite sides of each cutout. The second plate includes two protrusions (32) and two hooks (44). Each protrusion defines two horizontal grooves (36), and two vertical grooves (37) for facilitating deformation of the protrusion. Two pairs of slits (38) are defined in a rearmost periphery of each protrusion, in communication with the corresponding grooves. In joining the first and second plates together, the horizontal grooves receive the corresponding shoulders. Edges of the flange adjacent each opening engage in the corresponding slits, and the hooks engage in the locking slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yun Lung Chen
  • Publication number: 20030026646
    Abstract: A guide apparatus (1) slidably supports a shaft member (2) and a column (3) relative to each other. The column (3) has a through hole (3a) formed therein and the shaft member (2) penetrates the through hole (3a). In the column (3), there is provided a slide mechanism (5) formed of a plurality of cylindrical rolling element (50) adapted to roll axially on an outer circumference (2a) of the shaft member (2). The column (3) is formed of a plurality of split members (31, 32, 33, 34) that are divided on sectional planes each perpendicular to the axial direction of the column (3). A plurality of positioning pins (9) are provided on each contact surface of the adjacent split members (31, 32, 33, 34). The adjacent split members are centered or positioned by the positioning pins (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Applicant: Isel Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masanori Mochizuki
  • Publication number: 20030020378
    Abstract: A pair of connector elements, one stapled, screwed or otherwise fastened to a countertop and the other stapled, screwed or otherwise fastened to the lower edge of a backsplash are snapped together to mount the backsplash in an upright position along the rear edge of the countertop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: James L. LaChance, Edward M. Collins
  • Patent number: 6511251
    Abstract: A corner bracket for the manufacture of a table comprises a central bridge portion 18 having an aperture for co-operation with a leg fixing 26, together with angled rail plate portions 20 to either side of the bridge portion, each having an aperture for receiving a side rail fixing. Each rail plate portion 20 includes an angled table top plate portion 22 having an aperture for receiving a table top fixing. The bracket simplifies flat pack table construction and avoids the potential weakening of the side rails associated with conventional corner arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Martin Bowell
  • Patent number: 6503020
    Abstract: A connection system for securing structural members such as posts and beams together with all connection components hidden within the structural members. Cylindrical connectors fit in apertures in the members. Each connector has transverse holes and end holes, at least some of which are threaded. Each connector is secured in the aperture by bolts or pins extending through aligned holes in a member and a transverse hole. Bolts and pins extend through one structural member into holes in the connectors in the second members to secure the members together. In some embodiments, two cooperating cylindrical connectors are secured in two apertures in ends of structural members, with bolts extending between the two connectors to secure them and the structural members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventors: Marco Mascioletti, Americo Maria Cicolani, Massimo Pulsoni
  • Publication number: 20030002915
    Abstract: A connector includes a first plate (10) and a second plate (30) perpendicular to the first plate. The first plate includes a base (12) defining two cutouts (16), and a perpendicular flange (14) defining a locking slot (19) and defining two openings (18) in communication with the corresponding cutouts. Two shoulders (17) are formed in the first plate on opposite sides of each cutout. The second plate includes two protrusions (32) and two hooks (44). Each protrusion defines two horizontal grooves (36), and two vertical grooves (37) for facilitating deformation of the protrusion. Two pairs of slits (38) are defined in a rearmost periphery of each protrusion, in communication with the corresponding grooves. In joining the first and second plates together, the horizontal grooves receive the corresponding shoulders. Edges of the flange adjacent each opening engage in the corresponding slits, and the hooks engage in the locking slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Yun Lung Chen
  • Publication number: 20020186999
    Abstract: A hydroformed tubular structure includes at least two hydroformed members connected at a joint. At least one of said members includes a flattened portion having opposite sides in engagement. One of the sides engages and is secured to a mating portion of another of the members and a hydroformed conjugate portion is formed in the one side adjacent the flattened portion and is secured in a recess of the other member. A hydroformed structural portion extends from the conjugate portion in a direction away from the flattened portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Applicant: GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Chi-Mou Ni, Tehui Peng, Thomas B. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 6491286
    Abstract: An apparatus for internally framing a vinyl gate suitable for use with vinyl fencing provides completely hidden structures formed of sheet metal and assembled for greater strength and rigidity. Beams may be formed as channels from sheet metal, which may be placed together, with open edges of the channel juxtaposed and positioned within each other, in order to provide fully closed perimeters for beams. Various types of corner ties are provided to support loads and squareness required between vertical and horizontal members of the frame. In various embodiments, vinyl sleeves may be placed over various beams before or after the beams have been fully assembled, as appropriate, possible, or required. In certain embodiments, the entire systems of gate framing may be shipped in a long format appearing primarily as linearly-extending, channel-shaped stock. Likewise sheathing can ship as long stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Vinyl Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Hadfield, Sr., Robert H. Calton
  • Patent number: 6493231
    Abstract: A housing for a microwave circuit is formed from a base made of metal matrix composite material and walls made of sheet metal. The base and the walls are joined together by diffusion soldering. Some holes to receive feedthroughs are formed at the junction of the base and a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: BAE Systems Electronics Limited
    Inventors: Brian Frederick Nicholson, David Michael Jacobson, Surinder Pal Singh Sangha, Giles Humpston, James Hugh Vincent, William Martin Lovell
  • Patent number: 6481919
    Abstract: Connectors that may be used to join two objects together comprise a body portion having a first surface for engaging a first object and an extending member that protrudes from the body portion that is configured to fit within an aperture on a second object. In these embodiments of the invention, the first surface and the extending member are inclined relative to each other. A fastener is also provided that may be used to connect the body portion to the first object. By placing the extending member in the aperture on the second object, and by using the fastener to join the connector to the first object, the connector acts to connect the first and second objects together. The distal end of the extending member may be rotated in a direction towards the first object to provide a tighter join.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Tenn-Tex Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Marsh
  • Patent number: 6481177
    Abstract: A connector is provided for structural framing members having T-slots running lengthwise along a major surface of the structural framing member. The connector includes a pair of guides, each guide being sized to fit within a T-slot of one of the framing members for linear movement. A strut diagonally connects the pair of guides holding the guides mutually perpendicular to one another. The connector further includes each of the pair of guides being elongated in the direction of linear movement within a T-slot. Each guide further has a cross sectional shape in a direction perpendicular to the direction of elongation conforming to the interior shape of the T-slot. Each guide is also open at both ends in the direction of elongation allowing introduction of the guide to an open end of a T-slot of a structural framing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: 80/20, Inc.
    Inventor: John Wood
  • Patent number: 6471434
    Abstract: A joint structure, which allows a user to individually assemble and strengthens the stability of steel pipes. The joint structure mainly comprises of a fixture element, which can be slipped into a vertical steel pipe, a joint block, which connects two transversal steel pipes on the inner sides, and a fixture screw, which fastens a joint block and the vertical steel pipe to unite both of the transversal steel pipes and the vertical steel pipe. On the bottom of the vertical steel pipe and the fixture element, there are overlapped fixture screw holes. Both of the inner ends of the transversal steel pipes having clip holes. On the bottom of the extension panels located on the lateral sides of the joint block, there are inert blocks, which fit exactly with the clip holes. In the middle of the joint block, there is a piercing hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventors: Hsueh-Hung Chin, Philip Lo
  • Patent number: 6402415
    Abstract: An anchoring biscuit device for joining three boards. It includes, (a) a first substantially flat horizontal top element having a generally biscuit-shaped configuration, (b) at least one substantially vertical support member attached to the underside of the top element and extending downwardly therefrom for a predetermined length for joinder of two adjacent boards which have been pre-cut with biscuit receiving slots, and, (c) an attachment orifice located at least on the top element for attachment of the anchoring biscuit device to a support board for anchoring and support of the two adjacent boards. In one preferred embodiment, a top bevel is included at the orifice to permit angled screwing at positions other than vertical positions. In other embodiments, the screw orifice will have an oval or elongated shape to likewise enable screwing at angles other than vertical. In yet another preferred embodiment, the orifice will both be beveled and elongated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Harry W. Eberle, III
  • Patent number: 6398448
    Abstract: A mounting element (12, 12a, 12b) for securing components, in particular profile bars, and a cap (14, 14a, 14b) for covering the mounting element (12, 12a, 12b) are provided. Indentations (31, 39) are provided in lateral ribs (22, 36) of the mounting element (12, 12a, 12b) and/or of the cap (14, 14a, 14b). This makes the grip better and/or facilitates aligning the mounting element (12, 12a, 12b) and/or the cap (14, 14a, 14b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Albrecht Benz, Joerg Walther, Torsten Buenning, Frank Rahnfeld, Olaf Kelmd
  • Patent number: 6379074
    Abstract: A coupler structure for steel pipe conjoinment that provides for user DIY assembly having a coupling block overlapping inner sides of two horizontal sections of steel piping, a bolt inserted through the coupling block to fasten together the two horizontal sections of steel piping, a locating hole formed in the ends of each inner side of the two horizontal sections of steel piping, and a threaded hold tapped at a suitable position in the front corner of a straight section of steel pipe. A junction contact element extends from each of the two ends of the coupling block with insertion tabs fitted into the locating hole in each of the two horizontal sections of the steel piping. A semi-circular opening is formed at the mutually facing ends of the two horizontal sections of the steel piping such that after the semi-circular openings are brought together, their position is in a state of alignment with the threaded hole of the straight section of steel pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventors: Hsueh-Hung Chin, Philip Lo
  • Patent number: 6374566
    Abstract: Roof trusses (2, 4, 6, 8) are fixed together by a snap-fit connection system. The roof truss assembly includes a first truss (2) including an aperture having an enlarged portion (26) and a slot portion (28) communicating with the enlarged portion and extending away from the enlarged portion in a slot direction and a second truss (4, 6) including a pin (22) having a neck portion (30) and a head portion (32). The enlarged portion (26) of the aperture is adapted to receive the head portion (32) of the pin (22) during converging relative movement of the trusses. Subsequent relative movement of the second truss (4, 6) in the slot direction causes the neck portion (30) of the pin (22) to be received in the slot portion (28) of the aperture whereat diverging relative movement of the trusses is prevented. The truss assembly further includes a locking member (24) for preventing reverse relative movement of the second truss (4, 6) in a direction opposite to the slot direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Weeks Peacock Quality Homes Pty., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kevin William Weeks
  • Patent number: 6352382
    Abstract: The present invention is a corner molding particularly useful in the construction of juvenile furniture. The corner molding has an elongate body with an interior, a first rounded side, and a second side opposite the rounded side, with a pair of acutely V-shaped channels extending along the length of the body. The first rounded side and each of the V-shaped channels preferably form a pair of rounded outer edges therebetween. Each V-shaped channel receives a substantially rectangular edge of a planar member to form a rounded corner such that the planar members are held substantially perpendicular relative to each other, with smooth joints between the outer edges and planar members. The present invention further provides a method of attaching a pair of planar members within acutely V-shaped channels of a corner molding to thereby provide a rounded corner having smooth joints between the planar members and the corner molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: ABC School Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: James T. Hatlan, David W. Ayres, Andrew Skros, Donna Furst
  • Patent number: 6341465
    Abstract: A corner element includes first and second sections that fit into legs of a framing channel, a first pair of parallel vertical panels on the first section interleave with a second pair of vertical parallel panels on the second section when the sections are rotated on an integral connecting hinge. A side of one of the panels of one section is recessed to receive one of the panels of the other section. One of the panels of one section is designed to receive a fastener that is guided by a through hole in a panel of the other section parallel to the height of panel of the other section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Harry M. Riegelman