With Indicia Patents (Class 52/105)
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Publication number: 20020112416Abstract: Building panels are provided, for applying panels, such as siding, roofing or the like to studs, to roofing rafters, or the like, wherein indicia is provided along a panel, giving spaced-apart markings, for guiding one who is applying panels to a building surface, to the location of a next support capable of supporting the panel when a fastener is applied thereto, a fixed or pre-set distance from a support such as stud, roofing rafter or the like. Thus, when adjacent studs, rafters, or the like, are spaced apart a known distance, the indicia will serve to guide the installer to a location where a fastener will engage a support to which the panel is to be applied, even if the visual location of the underlying support is visually obscured, such as by means of a sheet building material between the structural support and the panel. The indicia may take on various forms.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2002Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: David H. Beck, Robert W. Werner, Barbara E. Dennis
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Patent number: 6427413Abstract: A grooved construction lumber element for use in constructing lumber structures such as wall framing, roof trusses, load bearing beams, deck and stair railings, and the like, is described. The construction lumber element is comprised of a straight lumber piece having a plurality of spacing grooves disposed in at least one surface of the lumber piece. The spacing grooves have a predetermined depth and are configured to receive therein an associated further lumber element to construct a specific building structure. At least some of the spacing grooves are disposed at common spaced intervals. The lumber element is preferably an elongated straight wood lumber piece of rectangular cross-section and defines opposed flat parallel surfaces and opposed flat parallel side edge surfaces. The spacing grooves are formed in one of the flat surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Inventor: Claudex Lafrance
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Patent number: 6425212Abstract: A prestressed or post-tensioned concrete slab indicating device for indicating a presence of a prestressed or post-tensioned slab of concrete includes a plate member having a front surface and a back surface, a visible indication on the front surface, the visible indication communicating and warning of the presence of a prestressed or post-tensioned slab of concrete, at least one concrete penetrating projection having a proximal and a distal end, the proximal end being attached to the back surface, the projection having a flared portion at the distal end, the at least one concrete penetrating projection being at least partially embedded within a partially cured prestressed or post-tensioned concrete slab to affix the indicating device to the partially cured prestressed or post-tensioned concrete slabsuch that the front surface of the indicating device is flush with the concrete surface, the flared portion keeping the device securely attached to the slab when the prestressed or post-tensioned concrete slab isType: GrantFiled: May 12, 1999Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Inventor: Gary Lovazzano
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Publication number: 20020083667Abstract: A marking system incorporated into a suspended grid structure supporting a plurality of ceiling tiles. A first plurality of main runners are suspending from a ceiling by hanger wires and in parallel, spaced apart and elongated extending fashion. Each of the main runners defines, in cross section, a tile support lip and a web extending from the support lip. A plurality of elongated channels are formed through first and second opposite faces of the main runner web at axially spaced apart intervals and between a first end and a second end. A second plurality of cross runners extend between the main runners and each also defines in cross section a tile support lip and a web extending in substantially perpendicular fashion from a midpoint of the support lip.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventors: William Paul, Carol Paul
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Publication number: 20020083655Abstract: A wall angle for use in installing a suspended ceiling grid structure within a walled enclosure, the grid structure including a plurality of main grid runners and hanger wires suspending the main runners from an overhead support of the room enclosure. The wall angle includes an elongated body defining, in cross section, an angled profile with a first side and a second interconnecting and extending side. A first series of markings are placed at first selected one foot length intervals along the body and for marking first iterative locations for engagement of the main runners and hanger wires. A second series of markings are placed at second selected length intervals, typically at sixteen or twenty-four inch intervals, along the body and for marking locations for engagement of the wall angle to vertically extending wall studs of the walled enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventors: William Paul, Carol Paul
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Publication number: 20020083656Abstract: A wall angle for use in installing a suspended ceiling grid structure within a walled enclosure, the grid structure including a plurality of main grid runners and hanger wires suspending the main runners from an overhead support of the room enclosure. The wall angle includes an elongated body defining, in cross section, an angled profile with a first side and a second interconnecting and extending side. At least one series of punch-out, die pressed, indented or etched markings are placed at pre-selected length intervals along the body and for marking iterative locations for such as engagement of the main runners and hanger wires and marking locations for engagement of the wall angle to vertically extending wall studs of the walled enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventors: William Dale Paul, Carol J. Paul
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Publication number: 20020083669Abstract: A measurement indicia scheme applied to a main runner of a suspended grid structure to establish a correct border distance of the main runner and between an associated wall angle and interconnecting cross runners. The main runner defines, in cross section, a tile support lip, a web extending from the support lip, and a plurality of elongated channels being formed through first and second opposite faces of the web at axially spaced apart intervals and between a first end and a second end. The measurement indicia scheme is applied to the main runner and extends from at least one of the first and second ends of the runner. The indicia scheme coincides with the placement and location of at least a first of the elongated channels positioned relative the selected and main runner end. The indicia scheme further establishes a defined distance from a second and succeeding elongated channel positioned along the main runner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventor: William Paul
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Publication number: 20020083668Abstract: A marking system incorporated into a cross runner for use in a suspended grid structure extending within a walled enclosure, the grid structure supporting a plurality of ceiling tiles. A plurality of main runners are suspended from a ceiling of the enclosure in parallel, spaced apart and elongated extending fashion. Each of the main runners define, in cross section, a tile support lip and a web extending from the support lip, a plurality of elongated channels further being formed through first and second opposite faces of the web at axially spaced apart intervals and between first and second ends. A plurality of interconnecting wall angles are secured to selected surfaces of the walled enclosure, each of the wall angles having an elongated body which includes, in cross section, a first side and a second side extending from an interconnecting edge with the first side.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2001Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventors: William Paul, Carol Paul
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Patent number: 6393795Abstract: An adhesive anchor system having a ribbed anchor member with a threaded opening therein, a tube member having a first end portion connected to an end of the anchor member in alignment with the opening thereof, and a cap covering the opening at another opposite end of the anchor member. In some embodiments the tube member includes measurement indicia thereon for accurate depth placement, and may include a severable portion protruding beyond the work surface and/or a removable tube cover to prevent contamination of the threaded opening of the anchor member.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2000Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: James C. Irwin, Mark S. Timmerman, Richard J. Ernst
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Patent number: 6381907Abstract: An adjustable support system is provided for a premanufactured building structure. Struts (65, 66) are mounted at their lower or platform ends in support clevises (45, 46), and are mounted to the joists (12, 13) of the building structure. The lower or platform end (78) of the struts can be moved horizontally with respect to the support platform (36) by rotating the adjustment nut (80) on the travel screw (55) of the support clevis. This effectively reorients the strut to a greater or smaller angle with respect to the horizontal, so that the strut bears more or less of the load of the joist and the building structure. Preferably, the rotation of the adjustment nut (80) is accomplished with a torque wrench which provides the installer with an indication of the load being assumed by the strut.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2000Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
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Patent number: 6318029Abstract: Wooden framework building system consisting of semi-finished industrial product formed of glued boards. The construction according to the invention is made from only two bearing elements forming sill (1), purlin (2), ledge (4) and post (3). The cross-sections of the two bearing elements have each one side of the same size. The sizes for each particular case are determined by the requirements of the projects and plans, the statistical and physical aspects of the construction. To provide for an accurate, undismountable and resistant connection of the construction elements two dowels (9) are used per assembly. The lengths of the construction elements are determined from the module selected for the horizontal, respectively vertical elements.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1999Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventor: Erkki Huppunen
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Publication number: 20010037617Abstract: A protective corner guard includes a main body formed integrally from an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer foam material. The main body has two side walls connected to and intersecting with each other at a predetermined angle. Each of the side walls has an inner surface adapted to face a wall corner, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface, and two opposite end portions, each of which has a recessed section formed in the outer surface and a fastener hole formed in the recessed section. A fastener extends through a respective one of the fastener holes for fastening the main body to the wall corner. Light reflective pieces are received in the recessed sections for covering the fasteners, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2001Publication date: November 8, 2001Inventor: Fu-Long Chi
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Patent number: 6298630Abstract: A wall plate for attaching a horizontal or sloping beam to a vertical or nearly vertical masonry wall is disclosed. The wall plate comprises a flat plate having a multiplicity of nail holes and at least two bolt holes therethrough, at least one anchor extending from a first side of the flat plate and fixed to it, and means for threadedly attaching at least two bolts to the flat plate from its other side. A method of attaching a horizontal or sloping beam to a vertical or nearly vertical masonry wall using the wall plate is also disclosed. A vertical nailable form is erected and the wall plate is nailed to the inside of the form. Concrete is poured into the form to a height above the anchors of the wall plate. After the concrete has hardened, the forms are removed. Two angle connectors are bolted to the wall plate and a horizontal or sloping beam is bolted to the two angle connectors.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2000Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventors: Russell L. VeRost, Martin A. VeRost, Sr.
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Patent number: 6289617Abstract: An address plate is fitted over a building wall having a stepped profile configuration established by overlapped courses of shingles or clapboards. The address plate includes a generally flat display panel for displaying indicia pertaining to the address of the building and tongues inserted between the overlapped courses to hold the display panel in juxtaposition with a selected course. Tabs are placed at steps between the overlapped courses for fasteners which secure the address plate in place.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2000Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Inventor: Ralph N. Snyder
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Patent number: 6279284Abstract: A fibreboard, insulating, wall panel includes an integral air and vapor barrier of metal foil or metallized plastic film adhered to one surface of the panel. Panels are attached to a stud wall frame. Abutting panel joints are taped to provide a continuance vapor barrier. Increased thermal and acoustic insulation as well as structural integrity of the barrier is provided by the panel.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Emco LimitedInventor: Guy Moras
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Patent number: 6269595Abstract: A wallboard or drywall system with two types of measuring indicia on on side of the wallboard or drywall, and an integral, transparent vapor barrier is applied to the back side of the wallboard or drywall. In addition, the system contains adhesive coated plastic tape which can be used to seal adjacent, mating edges of wallboard or drywall panels.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1999Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Inventors: David A. Blubaugh, Elmo A. Blubaugh
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Patent number: 6264032Abstract: A memorial family finder has a container having an opening shaped to receive a message having contact information. The container is positioned in proximity to a headstone of an ancestor, thereby allowing the message to be left in proximity to the headstone of an ancestor. The memorial family finder enables a method of finding distant relatives by leaving the message in proximity to the headstone of the ancestor. Distant relatives who visit the headstone of the common ancestor can then retrieve the message and contact the user as directed by the contact information.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Inventor: Scott C. Hobbs
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Patent number: 6237288Abstract: A composition roofing shingle is described which has release material affixed thereto for the purpose of identifying the compositional shingle with process parameters for the time frame of manufacture. The identification is achieved by marking the release material with planographic idicia by means such as printing, stamping and ink-jet spray application.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1995Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: CertainTeed CorporationInventors: Robert L. Jenkins, George F. Wilkins, Michael J. Noone, Norman M. Robinson, Robert E. Oglesby
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Patent number: 6219976Abstract: A multi-purpose, positioning and fastening strap is disclosed for use in the construction of building structures. The strap is made from a flexible, durable, non-stretchable material and has a high breaking load. The strap is usable for various construction applications, such as, the fastening or holding down of tar or felt paper on a roof, the laying down of shingles on a roof, the erection of a trussing structure for a roof, the construction of a floor, etc. The durability and breaking load of the multi-purpose strap are critical physical characteristics which are necessary for its use in the aforementioned various construction applications.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: William R. Bond
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Patent number: 6212844Abstract: The construction of bearing walls is facilitated by use of superposed courses of planks that are characterized by a novel combination of composition, geometry and arrangement. These planks are composed of a homogenized dispersion of fiber and binder. This material has been found to have a suitably high compression coefficient, to be chemically inert as a practical matter from the standpoint of resistance to atmospheric conditions, and to be inexpensively produced, for example, from used newsprint and the like. The planks generally have identical dimensions, thereby enabling standardized production and ease of assembly. The planks generally are substantially greater in width than in thickness. Pairs of the planks are provided at matched end locations with aligned notches for the reception of inserts that establish spacing and weather-tight joints. The planks are nailed or otherwise interlocked in staggered courses, by which the integrity of the construction is securely maintained.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1999Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Inventor: Bernard Lange
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Patent number: 6205742Abstract: A method and apparatus for manufacturing and installing a roof structure, in which clay is formed into tiles which simulate wood shakes, and the tiles are attached atop a supporting surface in a predetermined manner in a substantially unrecognizable pattern. The tile configuration provides a structure which is light in weight yet is structurally sound, which lends itself to ready installation upon a wide variety of structures.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1996Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Assignee: United States Tile Co.Inventor: Eric Martin Hahn
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Patent number: 6199338Abstract: A strip shingle is manufactured with a perforation along a lengthwise centerline. The traditional headlap and buttlap areas are substantially identical to one another, each having a line of adhesive material near the shingle edge whereby breaking the shingle along the perforated center line yields two starter shingles which can be used with any type of roofing shingle.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: Elk Corporation of DallasInventors: Willard Calvin Hudson, Jr., Randy Alan Hughes, Casimir Paul Weaver
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Patent number: 6148578Abstract: An improved roof and method wherein each course of slate is underlain with an interlayment material layer such that the interlayment material acts as a base to the through joints, resulting in a reduction in the amount of slate used by approximately 40% to 50%. The slate meets side to side (the through joint), the underlaying interlayment material providing sufficient waterproofing to protect the roof as well as being of lighter weight and a more economical slate roof than the slate which it replaces.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1998Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Inventors: David C. Nowacek, James J. Nowacek
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Patent number: 6128866Abstract: An exterior building component for installation on a building. The component includes at least a portion thereof being of a prescribed color, the color corresponding to a manufacturer or supplier, whereby the component may be identified as a product of the manufacturer or supplier. Also, a method for forming an exterior building component which may be identified as corresponding to a manufacturer or supplier in the absence of associated packaging. A colored portion is formed on the component, the color of the colored portion corresponding to the manufacturer or supplier, whereby the component may be identified as a product of the manufacturer or supplier. Further, a method of providing exterior building component identification for distribution under multiple brands. A different color is selected for each of the brands.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Inventor: John R. Wearne
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Patent number: 6088977Abstract: A bracket for use in manufacturing a step supported by a stringer. The bracket includes an anchor block to which a tread for a step may be attached, a pair of frames flanking the anchor block and fixed thereto, and markings formed on at least one of the frames. The markings indicate a rise and a run for the step. The bracket may be used in a method for building a stairs. The method includes the steps of selecting a desired tread distance and rise distance for the stairs to be built, fastening tread receiving portions and riser-receiving portions of a bracket to a first elongate stringer to define the desired tread and riser distances, repeating the above steps with respect to a second stringer, mounting a tread to the tread-receiving portions, and mounting a riser to the riser-receiving portions.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1997Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Inventor: Michael J. Lawrence
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Patent number: 6088973Abstract: In a first aspect of the disclosure, a monument is shown having a movable element mounted in an opening therein for displaying information. The movable element may be partially or fully recessed in the opening but is constructed so as to be accessible for manual movement to change the information displayed. In a second aspect of the dislosure, a columbarium niche structure is shown having a movable element positioned behind an opening in a door. The movable element is preferably recessed so that no portion thereof extends beyond the front face of the door, but is constructed so as to be accessible for manual movement to change the information displayed. An adjustment system is provided for aligning the movable element with the door opening, and a bearing system is used to facillitate movement of the movable element.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1998Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Inventor: Hali Weiss
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Patent number: 6067757Abstract: A concrete wall panel for tilt-up construction provides polymeric peripheral elements defining panel and orifice edges and medial fastening strips extending in the panel between the peripheral elements, all of which remain as part of the finished panel to accept traditional self-penetrating nail, screw and staple fasteners historically used in wood construction. The peripheral elements are of solid configuration to provide a form for pouring plastic concrete that forms the panel embodying them. The fastening strips extend through the panel between opposed panel surfaces and are formed by two initially releasably interconnected elements defining voids therebetween to allow thickness adjustment and convenient placement and support of structural components within the panel. The fastening strips define spaced areas to receive traditional wood fasteners and may carry index strips on opposed exposed surfaces to visually indicate strip location and fastening areas.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1999Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventors: Timothy Olson, Robert Hardison
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Patent number: 6055786Abstract: A roofing membrane heat seal indicator provides a positive, visually perceptible indication that a joint or seam has been raised to a sufficiently high temperature to achieve a proper seal. The heat seal indicator is applied adjacent and parallel to an edge of a roofing membrane which will be arranged on a roof to form the upper (exposed) surface of an overlapping membrane seam. As the adjacent surfaces of the overlapped membranes are heated, heat passes through the membrane to the heat seal indicator. The heat seal indicator may be a temperature sensitive ink pigmented with material that changes color upon being subjected to a temperature indicating that the membrane surface has been subjected to a sufficiently high temperature to achieve an appropriate seal. Alternatively, the indicator may be an adhered layer of a ground or flaked polymer, such as polyethylene, which is initially opaque but melts to become translucent, thereby indicating obtainment of a proper sealing temperature.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1996Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: OMNOVA Solutions Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Hubbard, Jeannemarie DeTorre, Keith Watt, Raymond J. Weinert
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Patent number: 6035599Abstract: A multi-coursed stackable block structure having a system for forming a corner. The corner is formed by a two pieced beveled corner unit system to form a miter joint. The beveled corner units are stacked on top of one another to form the corner. A pin and aperture system may be used to reinforce and strengthen the two pieced mitered corner unit system in the wall construction. Additionally, the corner system provides for alternating the length of the corner units such that there is a substantial overlap between the corner units and standard wall block units to maintain the structural integrity of the corner and to maintain a strong structural relationship between the corner the surrounding block units. The corner system also allows for the maintenance of a running half bond in the structure to create a more stable and better visually appearing corner and wall construction.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: County Concrete CorporationInventor: Timothy J. Sonnentag
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Patent number: 6012255Abstract: A construction board having a number of marks or lines which facilitate the installation of such board to a number of supports in a building, house or the like. Such lines may have a number of different arrangements. For example, the lines may be arranged as a plurality of substantially horizontal and/or vertical lines which have a predetermined distance or distances therebetween. Such distance or distances may correspond to the standard spacing between supports (such as 16 or 24 inches). Alternatively the spacing between lines may have a relatively small value, such as 1/2 of an inch, 1 inch, 11/2 inches, 2 inches or the like. Additionally, adjacent lines may have respective characteristics (such as different colors) so as to easily distinguish between adjacent lines. As a result, a worker may easily install a construction board in a relatively small amount of time and the number of fasteners (nails, screws, or the like) which "miss" a support member may be eliminated or reduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventors: Dennis M. Smid, Richard Palmesino
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Patent number: 6006458Abstract: In a first aspect of the disclosure, a monument is shown having a movable element mounted in an opening therein for displaying information. The movable element may be partially or fully recessed in the opening but is constructed so as to be accessible for manual movement to change the information displayed. In a second aspect of the dislosure, a columbarium niche structure is shown having a movable element positioned behind an opening in a door. The movable element is preferably recessed so that no portion thereof extends beyond the front face of the door, but is constructed so as to be accessible for manual movement to change the information displayed. An adjustment system is provided for aligning the movable element with the door opening, and a bearing system is used to facillitate movement of the movable element.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Inventor: Hali Weiss
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Patent number: 6000185Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for applying building panels, such as siding panels, to building surfaces, such as walls. The panels are of a type which undergo expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature, and they are applied to a building surface, such as a wall, by nails, screws, staples or the like. In order to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the panels, the panels are provided with an attachment hem, preferably fabric-like in nature, and having a visually distinct fastener zone defined by one or more generally horizontal lines and/or horizontally spaced-apart locater spots, with said lines and/or spots being preferably different by color from the remainder of the attachment hem and from some or all of each other, to provide an installer with a preferred indication of where fasteners should be applied.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1998Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: CertainTeed CorporationInventors: David H. Beck, Walter A. Hoyt, III, Robert David Shaw
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Patent number: 5996290Abstract: A multi-purpose, positioning and fastening strap is disclosed for use in the construction of building structures. The strap is made from a flexible, durable, non-stretchable material and has a high breaking load. The strap is usable for various construction applications, such as, the fastening or holding down of tar or felt paper on a roof, the laying down of shingles on a roof, the erection of a trussing structure for a roof, the construction of a floor structure, etc. The durability and breaking load of the multi-purpose strap are critical physical characteristics which are necessary for its use in the aforementioned various construction applications.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1995Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Inventor: William Ralph Bond
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Patent number: 5953861Abstract: A channel-shaped elongated member has a first wall which is opposite a second wall, and a floor. The second wall has a distal portion, also bifurcated into a primary wall and a secondary wall, forming a receiving channel. There is also a sealing means for forming a watertight seal between an underlayment waterproofing material and the receiving channel. In one embodiment, the receiving channel is composed of a malleable material wherein the primary wall of the receiving channel is externally marked in order to provide a guideline for crimping the channel thereby ensuring a watertight seal after the application of caulk. In another embodiment, the primary wall of the receiving channel is angled toward the secondary wall in order to firmly receive an underlayment waterproofing material, thereby forming a watertight seal when caulk is added.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1998Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Inventor: Frank C. Podgwaite
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Patent number: 5950319Abstract: Construction materials such as 4-foot by 8-foot sheets of plywood, drywall, and similar materials have fiducial markings for quick visual reference of the user. Imprinted lines of equal spacings indicate to the user the location of wall studs at 16-inch or 24-inch spacings, and the sheet of material can also include oblique lines and one or more circles, for reference of the user in quickly determining the size of remnants. Similar markings may also be applied to roll-stored materials such as carpeting.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventor: David Neal Harris
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Patent number: 5946869Abstract: A garage door decorative cover assembly for use on an exterior surface of a garage door made of a plurality of door panels permitted to rotate relative to each other when the garage door moves from a closed position to an open position includes at least one flexible panel and, for each flexible panel, a first fixing means and at least one resilient second fixing means. Each flexible panel has a first end, a second end, a front surface and a back surface. With respect to each flexible panel, the first fixing means attaches the first end of the flexible panel to the exterior surface of the garage door, and the resilient second fixing means couples the second end of the flexible panel to the exterior surface of the garage door such that the flexible panel is held taut when the garage door is in both open and closed positions. The flexible panels are provided with fanciful holiday, seasonal, or other celebratory indicia.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1998Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Sun Hill IndustriesInventor: Benson Zinbarg
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Patent number: 5943828Abstract: A food vending area display structure for mounting on a counter top or other support surface comprising a front row of posts mounted on the support surface so as to extend upward therefrom, a plurality of display headers extending between adjacent posts in the row to identify separate dispensing areas, and a plurality of resilient transverse structural members extending between adjacent posts in the row to enable the posts to support one another in reacting to horizontal loads so that the posts need not pass through the support surface. The resilient transverse structural members may comprise curved metal grill bars having fittings at their ends which enable them to be fastened to the vertical posts by conventional hose clamps to facilitate assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Kraft Foods, Inc.Inventors: Michael R. Samborn, William Randolph Dudley, Jr.
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Patent number: 5937608Abstract: Bridging is provided for use in joining joists or like construction elements so as to increase the strength and stability of those elements. The present invention utilizes flexible strapping to create the bridging structure, wherein a first flexible strap is attached to a first joist and a second flexible strap is attached to a second joist. The bridging structure is created by aligning the straps between the joists and joining the straps together. The various flexible straps can be directly attached to the joists, however when applied to wooden joists, stiffened supports are preferably positioned between the joists and the flexible strapping. The stiffened supports spread the force of the flexible strapping and prevent the strapping from deforming the material of the joist. To add to the integrity of the bridging structure, the stiffened supports can be mechanically or adhesively joined to the joists and the flexible strapping can be mechanically or adhesively joined to the stiffened supports and joists.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1995Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Inventor: Mark J. Kucirka
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Patent number: 5924213Abstract: The numerical measurement indicia is placed along the width and length of sheet material like plywood or drywall to aid in cutting and nailing to the frame. The linear construction material also contains numerical measurement indicia in a lengthwise direction to assist in cutting and affixing to other structures.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Inventor: Baek Woo Lee
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Patent number: 5916103Abstract: A continuous length of roofing shingle comprising shingles interconnected with a pair of parallel reinforcing strips impregnated within the shingles, and located in the granular region of the shingles. The individual shingles have two rectangular notches on each end within which the reinforcing strips are aligned. The interconnections permit the bundling and unfolding of sets of three to nine shingles in one bundle without damaging the shingles. A series of preprinted indicia for nailing sites are provided over the impregnated lower reinforcing strip.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Inventor: Jimmie A. Roberts
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Patent number: 5901386Abstract: A swimming pool has a plurality of substantially vertical side walls, with each side wall having a top. A coping is attached to the top of a side wall of the pool and has a curved facia. A signage platform is attached to the facia of the coping. The signage platform has a substantially vertical display wall and an adjoining substantially horizontal display wall. Visual indicia are located on each of the vertical display wall and the horizontal display wall.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Jon A. Bragalone
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Patent number: 5887388Abstract: A template and method of installation of an in-the-room gas fireplace and associated cabinetry. The template coordinates the initial positioning of the gas fireplace unit, and additionally ensures that subsequently-installed plumbing and electrical connections will not obstruct or interfere with the associated cabinetry.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: March 30, 1999Assignee: Thulman Eastern CorporationInventors: Rodney A. Hempel, Jeffrey S. Grundy
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Patent number: 5887389Abstract: A decorative construction module in the form of an address tile for incorporation into the wall of a structure according to one embodiment includes a porcelain tile measuring approximately 3/8 inch thick which has an outer surface inscribed with name/number and/or address information thereon and a backing block fabricated out of expanded polystyrene material and being bonded to the porcelain tile in order to create the completed address tile. The rectangular solid form of the module is sized and shaped so as to fit appropriately within a residential brick wall based upon the typical brick sizes and spacing of the mortar joints. According to another embodiment, a porcelain address tile is bonded directly to the exterior surface of a brick wall with a structural adhesive. In order to hold the tile in place while the structural adhesive cures, a double-sided (peel and stick) adhesive material is applied to the rear surface of the porcelain tile.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1997Date of Patent: March 30, 1999Assignee: Ceramica, Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Light
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Patent number: 5870862Abstract: A hollow plastic burial vault having a base and a cover moulded as an integral unit and having a peripheral flange extending about the vault. The flange includes a first sealing surface portion, a first joint portion, a second sealing surface portion, and a second joint portion. The first sealing portion is formed to seat and seal against the second sealing surface, and the first joint portion is formed to join releasably with the second joint portion when the flange is severed along its length to separate the cover and the first sealing surface and joint portions from the base and the second sealing surface and joint portions. A method of manufacturing such a vault is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Inventor: Graham Gordon
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Patent number: 5857303Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for applying building panels, such as siding panels, to building surfaces, such as walls. The panels are of a type which undergo expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature, and they are applied to a building surface, such as a wall, by nails, screws, staples or the like. In order to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the panels, the panels are provided with an attachment hem, preferably fabric-like in nature, and having a visually distinct fastener zone defined by one or more generally horizontal lines and/or horizontally spaced-apart locater spots, with said lines and/or spots being preferably different by color from the remainder of the attachment hem and from some or all of each other, to provide an installer with a preferred indication of where fasteners should be applied.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1998Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Assignee: CertainTeed CorporationInventors: David H. Beck, Walter A. Hoyt, III, Robert David Shaw
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Patent number: 5852909Abstract: A localized fiber reinforcement places strong tensile strength fibers across a hypothetical split line near notches in beams to curtail split propagation caused by cross-grain tension that may otherwise significantly reduce the strength of a beam used as a spanning member. An adhesive coated patch may be applied after a notch is cut in the beam or fibers may be attached to a beam at a factory near the location of an anticipated notching.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1997Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventors: Lawrence A. Soltis, Robert J. Ross, Douglas R. Rammer
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Patent number: 5845442Abstract: A protective hole cover having a plurality of slots along which slide friction locks secured by screws. Since the slots extend radially outward, the protective hole cover may be releasably secured to holes of varying dimensions. To secure the hole cover, two of the friction locks are positioned at an appropriate distance from the center of the protective hole cover and secured by the screws extending through the slots and into the friction locks. The protective hole cover is then placed within a hole with the two friction locks contacting an interior surface of the hole. The third friction lock is then slid outward to engage the interior surface of the hole as well and the friction lock is thereafter tightened to secure the protective hole cover over the hole. When it is desired to remove the protective hole cover, one of the screws 40 is loosened and the friction lock slid inward toward the center of the protective hole cover.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1995Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Inventor: J. Bradshaw Strehlow
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Patent number: 5845436Abstract: A support structure that provides a stable housing for grave-markers. The grave-marker support device is highly resistant to the effects of seasonal freezing and thawing and of raining and drying cycles. The grave-marker support maintains the grave-marker in a substantially horizontally-oriented position without undesirable sinking effects. This is accomplished by forming the grave-marker with a structurally-sound flange that is reinforced by a rigid curled-under edge or lip. The flange is attached to a basin that conforms substantially to the shape of the grave-marker and within which the grave-marker rests. Grooves within the basin's bottom surface channel water to an outlet to facilitate drainage. Further, the bottom surface may include raised notches that support the grave-marker in an elevated manner within the basin to enhance drainage even more.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1998Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Inventor: Joseph C. Nota
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Patent number: 5845449Abstract: A form tie for joining the sidewalls of a polymeric concrete form comprises a pair of end trusses with an intermediate web truss. Each end truss comprises a pair of vertical struts with interior and exterior pairs of horizontal struts extending therebetween. The width of the web truss corresponds to the desired lateral distance between the interior surfaces of the form sidewalls. Upper and lower rectangular trusses and an intermediate truss are formed within each truss and rigidified by diagonal struts. The exterior struts of each end truss are embedded in the polymeric form of the sidewalls during the molding process with the interior struts of each end truss sealing the mold openings to prevent expansion of the foam from the mold. The interior struts are coplanar with the form sidewalls and serve as a visual gauge that the form and tie have been properly positioned. End ties having a height of one-half of the form sidewall are extended between the sidewalls at the ends of each form.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1996Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: I.S.M., Inc.Inventors: Jamieson R. Vaughan, Jay D. Williamson, Kenneth M. Blom, James D. Stokes, Dewayne L. Bollinger
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Patent number: 5839237Abstract: A decorative cover for a movable garage door and method of attachment thereof are provided that allow festive ornamentation of ordinary garage doors while maintaining full use of such garage doors. The decorative cover can be made of weather resistant material and printed with various festive designs on its surface. The decorative cover is installed by draping it onto the front of the garage door. The cover is then joined together by any of several tethering and attaching methods to secure the cover to the garage door to allow full opening and closing without the cover riding up or down relative to the door. The attachment methods also take up slack in the cover.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1997Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Ray E. DavidsonInventor: Ray E. Davidson