Abstract: A structural support that can be used as a truss girder bridge crane, or the like. The support includes one or more rows 13 of segments 15, that are arranged in side by side relation along the length of the support. Each row 13 has extending there through at least one tensioning element 14 which is anchored at opposite ends of the row and is pretensioned with respect to the row in order to hold the segments of the row together. A support preferably includes one row 13 of segments 15 in a lower chord 11 of the support and another row 13 of segments in an upper chord of the support. Vertical framework is mounted between the chords with ends secured adjacent the segments 15 by the tensioning element. The individual segments and the tensioning elements may be directed to a construction site at the location of use and assembled into rows and the appropriate structural construction.

Abstract: A molded pool step, a method of fabricating the pool step and a method of matching a decorative pattern on the pool step to the decorative pattern on a pool liner is disclosed. The pool step is fabricated by applying a decorative pattern to one surface of a transparent sheet of moldable material; positioning the sheet of material on a pool step mold such that the sheet contacts a molding surface of the pool step mold; molding the sheet of material on the pool step mold such that the decorative pattern is located a distance inwardly from an outer surface of the pool step and is thereby prevented being contacted by pool water or people using the pool. When the pool step is molded and installed the decorative pattern on the three-dimension pool step is substantially continuous with the decorative pattern on the liner adjacent the pool step.

Abstract: A building unit constitutes part of a two or more story building. The building unit includes: a first unit that is pre-assembled somewhere other than at a building site and constitutes one of a plurality of floors; a second unit that is pre-assembled somewhere other than at the building site and constitutes a floor above the first unit out of the plurality of floors; and a space path (upper and lower floor air circulation duct that spatially communicates with the first unit and the second unit.

Abstract: A modular unit connection system for joining together a plurality of box-shaped modular units to form a single or multistory building. The modular building units have elongated hollow structural framing members at their vertical corners and four substantially perpendicular vertical side walls extending between their vertical corner members. The side walls are topped with horizontal framing members extending between the vertical corner members. The vertical corner members lie within the planes formed by the side walls of the modular units, and their vertical corner members and their adjacent side walls abut with no significant space between them. The modular units may be connected at their vertical corner members with generally flat connection plates. Threaded tension rods may extend through the hollow vertical corner members and may be coupled to tension rods running through the hollow vertical corner members of vertically aligned modular units.

Abstract: A system providing consistent and intense sunlight to light-guiding structures for redirecting sunlight to the interior of a building is presented. One aspect of the inventive subject matter includes an illumination system comprising a solar redirector and at least one optical converter. The solar redirector can be configured to extend outward from a wall of a building and to redirect sunlight to exterior sections of the wall below the solar redirector. The optical converter can be configured to mount on at least one of the exterior sections of the wall and to receive the redirected sunlight and distribute the redirected sunlight to an interior of the building.

Abstract: A three-sided newel system and method of installation thereof simulates a four-sided newel post attached to a half wall. Newel system can include a three-sided newel, a base, molding, and a cap. The newel defines a back opening extending from adjacent the top to the bottom of the newel. Back opening is in communication with a cavity defined by the three-sided newel. When the newel system is attached to the half wall, a terminal end of the half wall is disposed within the cavity. Newel system is vertically and longitudinally adjustable relative to the half wall.

Abstract: The disclosure provides for pool step forms and related methods for forming steps in a pool formed by wall panels. The step forms may include a wall panel insert configured for insertion between adjacent pool wall panels. The step forms may include one or more step form brace configured to couple with the wall panel insert and, thereby, the wall panels. The step forms may include riser forms that from riser portions of the stairs when the step forms and riser forms are coupled. The pool stair forms may be filled with filling material to form tread portions of the stairs. The pool stair forms may include liner support members coupled to the step form braces and/or the wall panels that facilitate the coupling of a liner to the stairs formed by the pool stair forms and filling material.

Abstract: A pool stair assembly includes step members having riser panels and tread panels, the step members joined together to form a multi-step structure. In illustrative embodiments, a spacer is located between a connection flange of a first step member and a riser panel of a second step member to form a channel therebetween, with one or more detents extending into the channel. A swimming pool liner includes locking tabs at predetermined locations that correspond to the channel, the locking tabs insertable into the channel to secure the liner to the step members. When the locking tab is inserted, a lip of the locking tab is compressed against the detent to move the locking tab past the detent when sufficient downward force is applied. The lip naturally biases back to its original position after passing the detent, preventing removal of the locking tab from the channel.

Abstract: A step for ingress and egress from a swimming pool and/or a spa includes a tread including opposing side edges, a riser coupled with and extending substantially perpendicular from one of the side edges of the tread and an upper flange substantially perpendicular to said tread and coupled with and extending upwardly or downwardly from one of the opposing side edges of the tread opposite the riser. The upper flange is configured to be coupled with the riser of another step or a wall of the swimming pool or spa to form a stairway.

Abstract: A handrail installation assisting assembly includes a base that has a top side, a front edge and a rear edge. A mount is attached to and extends upwardly from the base. A rod is attached to an upper edge of the mount. The rod extending laterally away from the mount to be positioned under a banister to support the banister.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system of light weight folding stairs, especially lightweight wooden stairs, designed for installation in the ceiling of a building. For example, the light weight ladder-type stair system may be opened downwards and unfolded towards inside the room located under this ceiling. At least one ladder-type stair section is connected to a flap that fits within a frame in an opening in the ceiling, wherein the flap hinges open to access the folded stair sections. The ladder-type stair section is connected to the flap by a hook-type holder that allows installing the frame in a ceiling opening without the flap, which can be easily and quickly attached during final stage of assembly.

Abstract: A temporary railing system includes interior and exterior plates, temporary railing portions, and support arms designed to connect to the plates and support the temporary railing portions. The interior and exterior plates are designed in such a way that they are able to be installed on preexisting balusters by being placed snuggly against the balusters and bolted to each other with connecting bolts. The support arm is held into place by the two plates and is able to support the temporary railing portions. Multiple interior and exterior plate pairs can be used in a single installation to support multiple portions of temporary railing. The temporary railing portions are designed to fit seamlessly together, if desired, during installation.

Abstract: A portable pathway apparatus for providing a path over an earthen surface that includes a pliable frame member comprising one or more layers; a row of mating holes disposed on each side of the pliable frame member; a set of independently adjustable steps coupled to the pliable frame member in a first orientation direction; wherein each independently adjustable step comprises an adjustment mechanism, and wherein each independently adjustable step is coupled to the pliable frame member with a mount that aligns with the row of mating holes on each of the corresponding sides of the pliable frame member, whereby each of the independently adjustable steps is also movable along a length of the pliable frame member.

Abstract: A stair climbing system for moving objects either up or down stairs that entails placing a base and roller assembly in a first position on the stairs, rolling the object over the stationary base and roller assembly, and then advancing the base and roller assembly from a trailing position under the object to an advanced position to continue movement of the object up or down stairs. The base and roller assembly base includes first and second side panels supporting a roller, each having surfaces reacting against the stair step and the stair riser to prevent tilting of the base and roller assembly under the load of the object.

Abstract: A building connecting apparatus for receiving structural members including frames and panels. The apparatus includes a main body having a central opening for receiving an extension member attached to a slot plate. Receiving plates can be coupled to the apparatus for receiving the structural members with the extension member capable of guiding and aligning the structural members.

Abstract: A window well enclosure including a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall that engage each other. At least one step is attachable to the window well enclosure using a channel formed in at least one of the front wall, the first side wall and the second side wall.

Abstract: A handrail construction, such as for a bridge or stairway, includes a tubular handrail element, the cross section of which is defined by a closed tube wall which encloses an internal cavity, and also a series of supports fastened to the handrail element. At least one counterpiece is located in the interior of the handrail element. Each support is fastened to a counterpiece via a fastening element which protrudes through the tube wall of the handrail element. The handrail element includes a thermosetting material.

Abstract: A metal baluster is provided which has first and second metal segments, where each of these metal segments comprises a first end and a second end. The first ends of the first metal segments include extension portions from mating engagement with one another and the second end of each metal segment is adapted for attachment to the underside of an elongated handrail or to a tread or floor. The second end of each of the metal segments further comprises an ornamental portion which is proximate the elongated handrail or the tread or the floor. Connection apparatuses provided for securing the engagement of the extension portions of the first metal segment and the second metal segment. In another embodiment, a metal baluster of the present invention may comprise three metal segments where the first two metal segments are adapted for attachment to the underside of an elongated rail or to tread or floor and has an ornamental portion proximate the first end.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for changing the appearance of a staircase by draping, dressing, or covering the staircase or parts thereof with fabric are provided. A fabric is attached to a staircase to conceal a plurality of balusters of the staircase when viewed from at least a first direction. The fabric extends at least the entire length of the balusters. In some embodiments, the fabric conceals at least a part of a handrail of the staircase when viewed from the first direction.

Abstract: A corrosion resistant railing insert including a stainless steel upper body for insertion into a railing post and including channels for liquid drainage from the railing post, an elongated stainless steel mounting arm protruding from the upper body. The mounting arm has a smaller cross-sectional area than the upper body, which are integrally associated as a unitary device. The upper body is secured within a railing post while the mounting aim is inserted into a complimentary aperture or sleeve formed in a concrete substrate and secured therein with an adhesive.

Abstract: Described is a building connecting apparatus for receiving structural members including frames and panels. The apparatus includes a main body having a central opening for receiving an extension member attached to a slot plate. Receiving plates can be coupled to the apparatus for receiving the structural members with the extension member capable of guiding and aligning the structural members.

Abstract: A method of forming a deck may comprise forming components for the deck at a first location, including forming components of a perimeter support frame for the deck to extend along a perimeter of the deck. The components of the perimeter support frame may include a plurality of perimeter frame assemblies, and forming components of an interstitial support frame for the deck to position in the perimeter support frame. The components may be transported to a location where the deck is to be used. The method may include assembling the components of the deck to form the deck at the location. The assembling step may include assembling the perimeter support frame from the perimeter frame assemblies, assembling the interstitial support frame in the perimeter support frame, and assembling decking elements on the support frames to form a floor of the deck. A kit for the deck is also disclosed.

Abstract: A holding device (1) by which one or more panes of glass (2) forming a balustrade (3) is/are supported on a wall (4) or ceiling (5), consisting of a carrier rail (7) holding or supporting the panes of glass (2) and a holding plate (9) attached to the ceiling (4) or the wall (5), with the carrier rail (7) held in a horizontal direction on the holding plate (9) by means of a U-shaped hook-in pocket (25) projecting from the carrier rail (7). A box rail (11) projecting from the holding plate (9) in the direction of the carrier rail (7) is attached directly or by supporting elements (12), such that the carrier rail (7) is in contact with the box rail (11) or the supporting element (12) in the vertical direction, and one or more setscrews (16) and clamping screws (34) project from the box rail (11) in the direction of the carrier rail (7) with the screws connected to the carrier rail (7), and the distance between the box section (11) and the carrier rail (7) can be varied by means of the setscrew(s) (16).

Abstract: A stairway having an alternating series of risers and treads wherein two risers and a tread form a step structure for use in constructing the stairway. The step structure including a first riser having a front portion and a rear portion, a tread having a support surface and an opposite surface, a second riser having a front portion and a rear portion, and wherein the tread is positioned between the rear portion of the first riser and the front portion of the second riser and wherein the second riser of one step structure becomes the first riser of the next-up step structure.

Abstract: A step for ingress and egress from a swimming pool and/or a spa includes a tread including opposing side edges, a riser coupled with and extending substantially perpendicular from one of the side edges of the tread and an upper flange substantially perpendicular to said tread and coupled with and extending upwardly or downwardly from one of the opposing side edges of the tread opposite the riser. The upper flange is configured to be coupled with the riser of another step or a wall of the swimming pool or spa to form a stairway.

Abstract: An improved handrail for a staircase or ramp. In one embodiment, the handrail includes an elongated member such as a cylinder or bar that spans the length of the staircase or ramp and a riser barrier. The riser barrier has an extender portion and a riser portion. The extender portion of the riser barrier keeps the elongated member a sufficient distance horizontally from the riser portion that a person can slide his or her hand on the rail without interference. The riser portion projects vertically a sufficient distance above the elongated member to deter sliding down the elongated member. Thus, sliding on the member is deterred, while the function of the cylinder as a handrail is preserved.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a staircase that can roll to an upright position when not in use and considers safety standards. More particularly, the invention is directed to a staircase that can be used where space is limited as the staircase's footprint can be minimized when not in use.

Abstract: A handrail construction, such as for a bridge or stairway, includes a tubular handrail element, the cross section of which is defined by a closed tube wall which encloses an internal cavity, and also a series of supports fastened to the handrail element. At least one counterpiece is located in the interior of the handrail element. Each support is fastened to a counterpiece via a fastening element which protrudes through the tube wall of the handrail element. The handrail element includes a thermosetting material.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention described herein pertain to a collapsible staircase comprising a plurality of tread assemblies. Each tread assembly is disposed adjacent to at least one of another of the tread assemblies and includes a tread plate and a first and a second telescoping support member attached to a rear surface of the tread plate. The first and second telescoping support members of each tread assembly are operable to slideably engage the telescoping support members of the adjacent tread assemblies for adjusting a height of the staircase and for defining a substantially fixed angle between the tread plates of each of the tread assemblies.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus for assisted walking on stairs or other sloped surfaces. The apparatus may also be used for assisted walking on slippery surfaces. The apparatus comprises a fixed support and a moveable support. The fixed support is fixed relative to the stairs or other walking surface, while the movable support is selectively moveable relative to the stairs and fixed support in a direction substantially parallel to an incline of the stairs. The movable support is selectively positionable relative to the fixed support in one of a plurality of closely spaced discrete locking positions in which the movable support can support a personal relative to the stairs.

Abstract: A stairway having an alternating series of risers and treads wherein two risers and a tread form a step structure for use in constructing the stairway. The step structure including a first riser having a front portion and a rear portion, a tread having a support surface and an opposite surface, a second riser having a front portion and a rear portion, and wherein the tread is positioned between the rear portion of the first riser and the front portion of the second riser and wherein the second riser of one step structure becomes the first riser of the next-up step structure.

Abstract: A profiled cover strip system (1) for finishing a bottom covering (2) on a step (3) open on at least one front side (4), the system having an upper covering profiled element (12). A facing device (16) having a facing cap (18) provided with a facing plate (17) for facing the profiled cover strip system (1) on the front side, and at least one facing cover strip (19, 20) separate from the facing cap (18), for facing the bottom covering on the front side (2), is used.

Abstract: A stair climbing aid comprises two slide rails, an assist member, a control mechanism and two positioning assemblies. The slide rails and the assist member are assembled to handrails at both sides of the stairs. The control mechanism is disposed on the assist member to be controlled by the user. The positioning assemblies are disposed at both sides of the assist member, each positioning assembly is provided with an engaging portion to be engaged in the respective positioning portions of the slide rail. Thereby, an anti-slide effect is produced, so as to prevent the user from falling down the stairs and to help the user move from step to step safely.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus for assisted walking on stairs or other sloped surfaces. The apparatus may also be used for assisted walking on slippery surfaces. The apparatus comprises a fixed support and a moveable support. The fixed support is fixed relative to the stairs or other walking surface, while the movable support is selectively moveable relative to the stairs and fixed support in a direction substantially parallel to an incline of the stairs. The movable support is selectively positionable relative to the fixed support in one of a plurality of closely spaced discrete locking positions in which the movable support can support a personal relative to the stairs.

Abstract: To reduce the weight of a staircase block so as to be manually carried and installed, prevent adjacent blocks from being displaced from each other after installation, and prevent the blocks from being raised and separated from each other due to heating and cooling by conquering problems with the staircase blocks related to publicly known technologies. In this precast concrete block for building a staircase, large recesses (2) and (9) are formed in the rise surface (1) and the rear surface (8) of the block to reduce the weight, and displacement prevention grooves (7) for connecting the adjacent blocks to each other with mortar are formed in the side faces of the block, and round parts (partially cylindrical recessed surfaces) (10) with a specified radius are formed at the inner corner parts of the recess (9) in the rear surface so that an acute angle part preventing the adhesive mortar from being filled therein is not produced.

Abstract: A stairway system, kit and method for assembling the kit are provided, the system including pre-fabricated components such as steps, stringers, decorative mouldings and panels or boards, etc., on site. The kit comprises a step module and an adjacent step module, the step module comprising a riser and a tread, the riser being adapted to abut the tread on a first side thereof and being adapted to define a fastener-mating portion on a second side thereof. The tread is adapted to be secured atop the riser on one side thereof. The adjacent step module comprises a riser and a tread, the adjacent step module being adapted to be assembled with the step module by engaging a fastener with the fastener-mating portion of the step module and securing the fastener to the tread of the adjacent step module to secure the two step modules together.

Abstract: A modular exterior decorative track molding assembly including a securing track having a base section including a first channel portion, and a securing section including a second channel portion; the securing section having securing lips and a narrowed width relative to the base section; a trim module having a support rail carrying a decorative trim element received in the securing track; the support rail having a complementary shape to the base section and the securing section and including retaining channels receiving the securing lips of the securing track to resist separation between the securing track and the support rail; and, a trim element base included in the support rail carrying a decorative trim element and disposed between the retaining channels, wherein the trim element base extends through a trim module opening of the securing track.

Abstract: A modular egress window well structure which is constructed of structurally identical walls that interlock and attach to the foundation of a building via a termination strip. The identical wall members allow for ease of manufacturing and installation of the egress window well. The method of installation comprises removing soil away from the foundation of a building, securing the termination of strips to the foundation, assembling the egress window well and then backfilling the soil around the structure.

Abstract: An automated pivoting stairway system that raises and lowers through use of a drive actuator to thereby provide access to above or below floor level areas or between an elevated area and the ground floor. The system may utilize modular sections to allow on-site assembly. The stairway may be pivoted at the top of the stairway by way of a pivot drive lever attached on either side of the top step pivot frame assembly so that access on or off the stairway may be directly off the front end of the stairway, or to either side. A separate frame member may extend from the pivot point along the side of the stairway opening to a predetermined distance. This frame member may serve as the anchor point for the base end mount of the actuator. The actuator controls the length of stroke and the amount of torque that is required to operate the stairway up and down.

Abstract: An adjustable stairway system provides access between a first elevation level and a second elevation level. The system includes a pair of expandable and retractable scissor stringers and multiple spaced apart treads joining the pair of stringers. The system further includes a first mounting assembly structured to allow a top portion of the stairway to be relatively permanently secured to a landing or other man-made structure, and second, different mounting assembly that allows a bottom portion of the stairway to be removably secured to natural terrain such as a beach. The system sometimes includes a control assembly to assist in expanding or retracting of the stairway.

Abstract: The present invention is a free standing portable deck for use with recreational vehicles. The deck further comprises a polygonal shape lower support frame. The support frame further comprises a plurality of removably interconnected rails. A flat planar platform portion is being removably mounted upon the lower support frame. A plurality of leg members are being disposed underneath the lower support frame at each corner such that the platform portion is held in a substantially level position at a predetermined height in relation to the recreational vehicle door. Each leg member is removably connected to each corner of the lower support frame. The upper support frame is removably connected to the lower support frame and extends linearly upward. At least one step means provides for ingressing and regressing onto the platform portion. The at least one step means is located at a predetermined distance from the lower support frame and at a predetermined height in relation to the ground level.

Abstract: A method and system for coupling a stair platform to a tower of a wind energy turbine that includes a stair platform comprising at least one side member and a doorway formed in a portion of the tower. The doorway further includes a casing that defines an outer perimeter of the doorway. At least one connection member extends outward from the casing. At least one attachment slot is defined in at least one side member of the stair platform. The attachment slot is configured to receive a portion of the at least one connection member therein to couple the stair platform to the doorway.

Abstract: A modular window well arrangement includes one or more window well members. The window well members can be interconnected in a vertically stacked arrangement to provide the required overall height. Snap-connectors interconnect the vertically adjacent window well members, and a plurality of steps provide for escape. The window well members may have different sizes, and extension walls may be utilized to increase the size of the window well members to provide for a wide variety of configurations. The window well members may be made of a relatively lightweight structural foam material.

Abstract: Disclosed in the present invention is a step assembly that facilitates stair climbing. This can aid a person with leg or back pain, decreased range of motion or limited physical strength, due to handicap, injury or infirmity. This free standing, user customizable height step with flat expanding deck surface. The disclosed present invention is a significant improvement over previous attempts to assist individuals by creating a fully adjustable and flat tread surface for the user. The present invention step also provides user customizable heights, by adding adjustment layers, so that the present invention can be used in a variety of step heights.

Abstract: There is described a stair system insertable into a pool having a top edge surface and bottom surface, comprising a stair portion defining steps and risers each having a fixed height, the stair portion having a support portion projecting from an uppermost one of the risers and adapted to be seated against the top edge surface of the pool, and a ballasted booster positioned below the stair portion at any one of given locations in the bottom of the stair portion and lying against the bottom surface of the pool. The stair system has a height adjustable by the position of the booster with respect to the bottom of the stair portion as a function of the height between the top edge surface and the bottom of the pool.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an angle adjustable stair rail assembly comprising a top and bottom rail and a plurality of parallel balusters joined to the top rail and the bottom rail by deforming a cut-out opening in the baluster around a punched web openings in a wall of the top and bottom rails so that the rails and balusters can be moved to any angular disposition keeping the balusters parallel to each other and the top rail and bottom rail parallel to each other. The cut-out opening in the baluster can form a pair of legs. The retention of the baluster is accomplished by a simple clamping action after the legs of the baluster are received in the openings in the wall of the top or bottom rail.

Abstract: A portable deck system for recreational vehicles and fifth wheel campers for enhancing the accessibility of an elevated exterior door. The system includes a platform assembly having a top surface positionable adjacent to a threshold of the entry door, a plurality of legs extending between the ground and the platform assembly and hingeably coupled to the platform assembly. An access assembly is operationally coupleable to the platform assembly, and provides a vertical transition between the platform assembly and ground level. A railing assembly extends along at least a portion of the platform for providing a hand grip for the user.

Abstract: An affordable, sustainable building, comprising substantially entirely mass-produced, prefabricated constituent parts manufactured off-site, the prefabricated constituent parts comprising a foundation, a frame module comprising a plurality of frames, wherein the frame module is secured to the foundation, a reversible connector to connect the plurality of frames to form the frame module, a wall panel configured to be mounted onto the frame module, a floor panel configured to be mounted onto the frame module, and a ceiling panel configured to be mounted on to the frame module. Each constituent part forms part of a library of parts from which the constituent parts are selected. The constituent parts are preferably made in standardized sizes to facilitate efficient mass production. The constituent parts are predominantly made of recyclable material so as to be environmentally friendly.

Abstract: The invention provides a staircase arrangement for use within a swimming pool. The staircase arrangement comprises a staircase and at least one suction device. The staircase includes a set of stairs, a bottom-facing surface and a wall-facing surface. Each of the at least one suction devices comprises an attachment portion for attachment to at least one of the bottom-facing surface and the wall-facing surface of the staircase and a suction portion suitable for establishing a suction connection with an interior surface of the swimming pool so as to secure the staircase to the interior surface of the swimming pool.

Abstract: A staircase system (2) includes a rail element (40) and multiple stair elements (42). Baluster elements (44) are coupled to the rail element (40) and to the stair elements (42). A center support system (46) is coupled to and supports the rail element (40) and the stair elements (42). The center support system (46) has a stowed state and a deployed state.