Abstract: The present invention relates to a floor gland for covering an access hole provided in a raised floor structure to allow cabling to pass through the floor structure. A problem with this arrangement is that cooling air passing underneath the raised floor structure can escape through the access hole. A floor gland is provided to fit into the access hole, the floor gland having sealing means that are secured to a sealing member mounted across the open area of the floor gland at a distance from the edges of the access hole such that the sealing means extend out from the sealing member towards the edges, thereby effectively sealing the access hole to prevent the passage of cooling air.

Abstract: A cable conduit system for a building frame structure having a bottom plate associated with each floor and a top plate associated with each ceiling. The system comprises a conduit stud and first and second header plates. The conduit stud has at least one cavity extending longitudinally from a first end to a second end. The first header plate is adapted to be fixedly mounted to an upper surface of the frame structure bottom plate and the second plate is adapted to be fixedly mounted to a lower surface of the frame structure top plate, respectively. The first end portion of the conduit stud is locked to the first header plate and the second end portion of the conduit stud is locked to the second header plate.

Abstract: Exterior raceway system includes one or more elongated base members and associated cover members for concealing and protecting one or more cables against the weather when mounted on an exterior wall structure of a building. The cover members are removably attachable to the base members to facilitate mounting of the base members to the exterior wall structure and the attachment of one or more cables to the base member prior to attaching the cover members to the respective base members.

Abstract: A multipurpose beam for side-by-side panel false ceiling constructions includes a bearing profile with a pair of side was joined together by a substantially horizontal wall and having a bottom opening, at least one functional element with an anchoring portion designed to be received in the compartment, coupling means for connecting together the profile and the anchoring portion, and support means associated with the profile for supporting at least one panel of a false ceiling construction. The anchoring portion of the functional element is designed to hold the functional element integrated in the profile and entirely contained in the compartment. The support means extend from the side walls to hold the panels substantially flush with the longitudinal edges of the opening. A false ceiling structure and a modular system for customized design of a false ceiling that includes the beam are also provided.

Abstract: A cable management system for managing electrical cables in a raised floor grid system is provided. The cable management system includes a cable enclosure including side walls and a base together defining an enclosure cavity. Each of the side walls defines a cable opening and a plurality of bracket openings in communication with the enclosure cavity. The cable management system also includes a sealing assembly installed in each of the cable openings, and a plurality of equipment brackets mountable to the sidewalls via the bracket openings, which are configured to enable mounting of the equipment brackets in vertical and angled orientations. The cable management system further includes a plurality of support brackets connectable to support structure of the raised floor grid system for supporting the cable enclosure on the support structure. The cable enclosure can be installed in the raised floor grid system by removing only a single floor tile.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services unit for medical care facilities. A frame supports a cabinet with a cover panel providing electrical and/or gas outlets. Built-in electrical and gas conduits are included. A junction box and ends of the gas conduits near the top of the frame are accessible after wallboard is applied. Thus, wallboard can be installed before or after wiring is completed and gas connections are made. The self-aligning cover panel is “floatingly” supported on the frame so that a bead of sealant can be applied around the edge before the cover panel is “snugged up” to the wall and secured. The trim flanges on the cover panel include vertical equipment mounting tracks. Manufacturing is simplified by making the height of the frame adjustable; the same frame elements can be used to assemble units for different ceiling heights, decreasing the number of required parts in inventory and expediting assembly.

Abstract: An adjustable housing assembly for mounting to a wall is disclosed. The assembly generally includes a back plate having a flange that defines an axis extending perpendicularly from the back plate and a front plate disposed in parallel relationship to the back plate. A connector connects the plates in the parallel relationship at various distances longitudinally along the axis. The connector includes co-acting male and female components extending circumferentially about the axis and at least one of the male and female components is spaced longitudinally along the axis for connecting the plates at any one of the various distances in response to relative rotation between the male and female components about the axis. The connector may also include a mounting ring separate from the back plate and the front plate that couples the front plate to the back plate. The mounting ring allows for additional distances to be obtained between the front plate and the back plate.

Abstract: The AIA (American Institute of Architects) estimates that 48% of all greenhouse emissions emanate from buildings. By increasing a building's energy efficiency, we can reduce the demand for non-renewable (carbon burning) “grid-based” electrical power. Additionally, there is a need to produce buildings for both residential and commercial use that have a low impact on natural resources and on the environment. It is good stewardship to produce a product that uses sustainable materials, does not pollute the environment, reduces energy demand, and is available and affordable to the mass population. The present invention relates to energy efficient buildings, built in a factory environment using sustainable materials and energy efficient technologies, from the ground up. These buildings could be rated by the LEED rating system, or similar rating system, and could carry a LEED Silver rating or better.

Abstract: A system for constructing wood framed homes reduces the materials and labor costs for home construction while improving the thermal efficiency of the home. Conventional home design, layout and appearance are maintained.

Abstract: A electrical outlet box assembly includes a first housing and a second housing. Each of the first and second housings has a size to receive an electrical outlet. The first and second housings each include a rear wall and a perimeter wall that is attached to and extends forward of the perimeter wall. The perimeter walls of the first and second housings each have a front edge defining an opening for receiving an electrical outlet. The perimeter walls of the first and second housings are attached together and the openings of the first and second housings face in opposite directions with respect to each other.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel sustainable building, the outer enclosures, roofs and foundations of which form an envelope that is formed, with the exception of doors, windows and chimneys, by a central core (5) with a high heat storage capacity, by an inner liner or membrane (4) with a high thermal conductivity and which is in close contact with the central core, and by an outer thermally insulated and mechanically resistant surface (6).

Abstract: A geosolar temperature control building construction system wherein a concrete wall defines a temperature delivery system, comprising the concrete wall having insulation on at least an outer surface, the concrete wall structure positioned at a first elevation in the earth, the first elevation being below a frost line for a region where the building construction is located, a passive thermal transfer system comprising an inwardly facing surface of the concrete wall having insulation removed at the first elevation to expose the concrete wall to thermal conditions at the first elevation and thermally couple the building to the earth, the concrete wall defining an exterior wall of the building construction generally near a floor slab, the floor slab positioned at a second elevation of the concrete wall above the first elevation, an active thermal transfer system comprising a closed loop piping system having a plurality of a horizontally extending pipes disposed beneath the floor slab, the plurality of horizontall

Abstract: A modular furniture component such as an electrified relatively thin panel has electrical wiring in a raceway near a downwardly depending adjustable leveler leg and a pluggable multiconductor cable for connecting the raceway electrical wiring with another modular furniture component. The components may each comprise a relatively thin upstanding generally rectangular modular office wall panel having an electrical wiring containing raceway near a bottom edge. Adjacent panels have the raceways generally horizontally aligned with one another. In one form, apparatus and method is disclosed for routing the power and data cables/conductors out of the bottom of the panels next to threaded leveler legs and back up into the adjacent panel. The cable is located closely adjacent a thinnest portion of the adjustable leveler leg and has a portion thereof displaced vertically below each raceway.

Abstract: A wall surfacing system for providing a secondary ceiling or wall covering structure adjacent a primary structure. The system provides a plurality of elongated structural support rails, each of these support rails have a coupling web with a bearing surface for attachment to the primary structure, a coupling mechanism, and a stringer portion integrally formed with and connecting the coupling web to the coupling mechanism. A plurality of generally planar surface panels are provided. Each panel has an integral interlocking member configured to mate with the coupling mechanism on the support rail. The elongated support rails are secured to primary structures, thereby extending the surface panels to form an aesthetically pleasing covered surface.

Abstract: This invention is a novel saddle that comes in two embodiments, a vertical saddle and a horizontal saddle. Each saddle is configured to hold a power harness (or assembly of wires) and a signal harness, also an assembly of clustered wires. The saddle eliminates or greatly reduces the occurrence of electrical cross talk between these two harnesses by electrically insulating them from each other while securing each in place by a spring holder. These saddles greatly reduce electrical interference while significantly reducing installation time of the assembly. While this invention is described as used in a xerographic system, the saddle can be used in any system containing large bundles of electrical wires or cables.

Abstract: An underlayment system is provided that includes a plurality of bosses that emanate form a common base member. The bosses and bases preferably include an opening therethrough that will allow for subsequent layers of adhesive to interact and bond to each other. The bosses are also spaced in such a way to help secure a wire snugly therebetween.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a building panel which has structural integrity. A plurality of stud members with opposed side surfaces and opposed end surfaces extend from a first face of the panel toward a second face. The plurality of stud members are spaced from each other and extend in a direction which is essentially parallel to each other. A rigid foam fills the volume of the panel which is not filled by the plurality of stud members. The rigid foam is bonded to at least one side surface of each of the plurality of stud members. The bonding of the rigid foam to the plurality of stud members results in a stable and strong panel which is capable of accommodating large shear loads.

Abstract: A building includes a data center to house computing equipment including computers and servers. The data center stores data. The building also includes a multipurpose center that houses office spaces, conference rooms and meeting rooms. The data center and multipurpose center differ in function but share resources. The data center is expandable using a configuration of a control room, an electrical room and a mechanical room. Additional data center floors adjoin existing structures to increase available space in a linear manner.

Abstract: A leadthrough (10) for passing conduits through a constructional component includes a tube (11), a base member (16) arranged at the first axial end (12) of the tube (11) and having a receiving space (18) for isolating means (19) and defining an opening (17), and first (14) and second (15) annular, diaphragm-shaped sealing elements provided, respectively, at the first (12) and second axial ends of the tube (11).

Abstract: Apparatus for recovering thermal energy escaping through a wall structure. The apparatus comprising a wall structure (2) provided with a thermal energy recovery layer, the thermal energy recovery layer having an arrangement of one or more air breathable sections provided adjacent one or more non-air breathable sections. Rising or falling air (3) at an outer surface of the wall structure (2) passes over the one or more non-air breathable sections to collect escaping hot or cold thermal energy before passing through the one or more breathable sections to thereby be recovered. Further provided is an air collection means (4) for collecting warmed air rising up or cold air flowing down an external wall of said building. The air collection means comprising a tapering converging guide member extending outwardly from the building's wall (2) for collecting and directing rising or falling air into the building.

Abstract: A modular floor including a pair of main beams, at least one cross beam and a floor panel. The pair of main beams each has an attachment structure. The attachment structure includes a first support section, a second support section and a channel that extends between the first and second support sections. The first and second support sections have a convex upper surface. The at least one cross beam engages the main beams to retain the main beams in a stationary position with respect to each other. The floor panel has ends that each have a recess that is shaped complementary to the upper surfaces of the first and second sections.

Abstract: A deformable slat system for a building construction has one or more deformable slats (1). At least one of the aforementioned slats (1) has two slat parts (Ia, Ib) which are joined together in such a way that they are hingeable about a hinge line (2). This slat (1) is bendable and/or twistable in each first position where the slat parts (Ia, Ib) are hinged at a straight angle or a zero angle with respect to one another and is rigidified in each second position where the slat parts (Ia, Ib) are hinged at an angle differing from the straight angle or zero angle with respect to one another. The slat system includes means (13a, 13b, 19a, 19b, 14, 15, 16) for bringing the aforementioned slat (1) selectively into a first or a second position, and for bringing a slat (1), which has been brought into a first position, into a bent and/or twisted position. Furthermore, a slat (1) is provided for a slat system of this type, and also a building construction is provided with a slat system of this type.

Abstract: A construction insert configured for use within an elevator hoistway is provided. The construction insert includes a channel having a front face and a back face opposing the front face. The channel is configured to define an internal passage within the channel. A plurality of brackets is attached to the back face of the channel, each of the brackets configured for attachment to a structure within the elevator hoistway. Each of the brackets is planar in shape.

Abstract: Systems and methods providing a modular building having pre-fabricated panel wall components are easily assembled to form a predetermined structure including energy efficient corner modular components that provide for seamless, energy-efficient corners with structural strength.

Abstract: A block for use in a building panel includes a plurality of layer components. Each of the layer components is separately formed from the others. Each of the layer components provides a load-bearing support function, an environmental protection function, and/or a utility function. The constructive material used to form each of the layer components and a configuration of each of the layer components are selected so as to allow the building panel to meet at least one predetermined criteria when the block is disposed in the building panel and coupled to other blocks.

Abstract: A floor pod (100) for indoor use, including a vertically movable bollard adapted to present utilities and provide security function, presented in a watertight housing (110) is disclosed.

Abstract: Devices are provided for protecting pipe ends at a construction site on which concrete will be poured from being moved out of position or damaged during construction or from injuring workers. The devices have an upper frame and an enclosure adapted to fit together to form a rigid, generally rectangular-shaped body having a recess into which the pipe ends to be protected extend when the body is positioned in place. The body, dimensionally configured to fit between frame studs that will installed later in construction, has fastening tabs for securement to a base on which concrete will be poured. After the concrete has set, the body—partially embedded in the concrete—provides tradesmen access to the pipe ends within via an open top. Methods are also disclosed for protecting exposed pipe ends utilizing the inventive devices.

Abstract: An architectural structure comprises a core column structure (1), a plurality of recessed platform structures (2) vertically spaced apart from each other and supported by the column structure, and landfill filled in the recessed platform structures form plots. A water reticulation system moves through all the plots from a central water supply system. Dwellings (4) are built on the plots.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an in-floor radiant heating system having a tube that is received into low profile panels. Channels are formed in the top of the panels. The channels can have a neck shaped top section and a circular shaped bottom section. The bottom section has a diameter that is larger than the width of the top section. The diameter of the tubing is smaller than the diameter of the bottom section to ensure a snug fit. Flares can be located between the ends of the channels and the sides of the panel to allow the tube to bend and fit between adjacent panels that are offset up to a determined amount. A transition piece can be used to interface between a room with the in-floor system and one without. An installer can see the top of the tubing during the installation process.

Abstract: Improvements in elevated floor supports, said support (1) comprising, in its first embodiment option (1a), by an inverted ‘U’ section (2), upper and longitudinally fitted with a bar (3), which delimits two horizontal support surfaces (4) for the plates (P) of the false floor, and where there are provided means for fixing (5) the support (1) directly into the sub floor, being that in the vertical walls (6) of the support (1) there are provided openings (7) which delimit ‘channels’ for the passage of piping, cables and wiring (F) of any kind; in a second embodiment option (1b), said support (1) is comprised of a section (8) in an inverted ‘T’, fitted below with means (9) of support, sustentation and anchorage, as well as fitted with extension sets (10) for increasing and adjusting of its height.

Abstract: A building process that offers better qualities in terms of value, structural integrity, and comfort and energy conservation for industrial, commercial and residential building industries. The present invention starts with a single component which is the vertical composite insulated supporting steel members, then the plates, the beams, the composite insulated wall system, the floor joist system, the temperature regulated roof system and the multiple insulation patterns to create the active thermal force air cavities and inactive cavities. The entire concept of utilizing the invention is that the design of all of the components and parts, the objectives are focused on to facilitate the prefabrication process and conserve energy.

Abstract: A vent for an exterior brick wall. The vent includes a first enclosure which is installed in the brick wall in place of an entire brick. The enclosure defines a flow path from ambient conditions to the air in between the brick wall and an interior wall. The vent includes a shield for protecting the flow path of the enclosure from being obstructed by falling debris. Some embodiments includes a vertical section of vents which is also protected from falling debris such as trash mortar.

Abstract: A rigid utility portal that can replace a removed or omitted section of the framing members of a wall construction that also includes stud, and that will permit the passage therethrough of electrical utilities, plumbing utilities, and/or HVAC without the necessity of drilling holes in the conventional wooden top framing plates which can destroy the integral between framing members and studs, and may include one or two skirt portions and one or strength of the wall. The utility portal may include a center portion for spanning the spacing two tab portions extending downwardly from the center portion.

Abstract: A floor structure includes a plurality of structural metal components that each have: a plate-shaped supporting portion that is laid either perpendicular or oblique to an installation surface; a plate-shaped top flange that extends from a top end portion of the supporting portion in parallel with the installation surface; a plate-shaped bottom flange that extends from a bottom end portion of the supporting portion in parallel with the installation surface and in the opposite direction from the top flange, wherein the structural metal components are laid on a flat surface in parallel with each other such that the top flange of one of the mutually adjacent structural metal components covers the bottom flange of the other of the mutually adjacent structural metal material.

Abstract: A satellite ready building comprises a plurality of studs and satellite wires positioned adjacent to the studs having a first termination and a second termination. A connector is coupled to the second termination of the wires. The first termination is coupled through the roof or the siding of the building. Drywall is installed in the house after the wires are installed. The first termination may be installed in a radome positioned on the roof of the building.

Abstract: A leveling assembly for an interior wall system is disclosed. The wall system is composed of a number of wall panels configured for installation in a building having a ceiling and a floor. The assembly includes at least one elongate floor channel secured to the floor and a floor rail longitudinally disposed within the floor channel. The floor rail supports one or more of the wall panels. A number of levelers are positioned along the floor channel. The levelers permit the floor rail to be vertically spaced apart from the floor channel. The levelers are adjustable to level the floor rail in relation to the floor.

Abstract: A vandal resistant pull box to secure terminating utility cables and cable connections below ground surface. As a retrofit apparatus, brackets engage the bottom edges of the pull box container and a top cover securely engages the brackets. As a complete assembly, the container is included with the brackets and the cover. Any type of locking device may be employed to secure the cover to at least one of the brackets.

Abstract: Methods and systems for plugging a hole are described. A plug may comprise a substantially tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end interconnected by a side wall, the side wall having an inward facing surface and an outward facing surface, at least the outward facing surface being substantially conformable, an adhesive disposed on the outward facing surface, a fire-resistant ring disposed substantially at one of the ends of the tubular member, and a thread disposed along the inward facing surface, the thread adapted to receive a cover.

Abstract: A modular accessory system is supportable on a vertical surface such as a wall, an office divider, or the like and includes a framework that support panels and/or functional modules to provide a desired appearance and/or functions for use in an area. The panels and modules are repositionable, and some may be oriented in two or more different orientations on the framework. Engaging members are provided at spaced intervals along each panel and module, with additional engaging members provided at spaced intervals along the framework. The engaging members along the framework releasably engage the engaging members on the panels and modules to support them on the framework. In addition, brackets may be coupled to the framework in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, such as alongside any panel or module, to support accessories thereon. Electrical wiring may be routed through the framework to supply certain panels, modules, or accessories.

Abstract: A centralized common area data center for a tenant suite in large scale commercial office properties built in situ having a dedicated space, at least one computer module in the space and a self-sustaining cooling system to maintain a cooling temperature for the computer module consistent 24/7/365. This provides significant value in services and cost savings to both landlord and tenant. Each tenant can access greater levels of technology, security and energy efficiency.

Abstract: A lightweight cementitious composition containing from 22 to 90 volume percent of a cement composition and from 10 to 78 volume percent of particles having an average particle diameter of from 0.2 mm to 8 mm, a bulk density of from 0.03 g/cc to 0.64 g/cc, an aspect ratio of from 1 to 3, where after the lightweight cementitious composition is set it has a compressive strength of at least 1700 psi as tested according to ASTM C39. The cementitious composition can be used to make concrete masonry units, construction panels, road beds and other articles and can be included as a layer on wall panels and floor panels and can be used in insulated concrete forms. Aspects of the lightweight cementitious composition can be used to make lightweight structural units.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services unit for medical care facilities. A frame supports a cabinet with a cover panel providing electrical and/or gas outlets. Built-in electrical and gas conduits are included. A junction box and ends of the gas conduits near the top of the frame are accessible after wallboard is applied. Thus, wallboard can be installed before or after wiring is completed and gas connections are made. The self-aligning cover panel is “floatingly” supported on the frame so that a bead of sealant can be applied around the edge before the cover panel is “snugged up” to the wall and secured. The trim flanges on the cover panel include vertical equipment mounting tracks. Manufacturing is simplified by making the height of the frame adjustable; the same frame elements can be used to assemble units for different ceiling heights, decreasing the number of required parts in inventory and expediting assembly.

Abstract: CO2-sequestering formed building materials are provided. The building materials of the invention include a composition comprising a carbonate/bicarbonate component. Additional aspects of the invention include methods of making and using the CO2-sequestering formed building material.

Abstract: An under-floor cable support system comprising a first plurality of free-standing cable stands positioned on a sub-floor and movable independent of the floor-supporting pedestals. Each cable stand comprises a cross bar on a pair of spaced apart legs for supporting a cable tray at an elevation above the sub-floor and below the floor. Holding mechanisms are provided on the cable stands for holding a second plurality of cable stands stacked on top of the first plurality of cable stands. The second plurality of cable stands may be stands with two legs or cantilever cable stands with one leg. In other aspects, the legs of the cable stands are movable to adjust the spacing between the legs and to collapse the legs for compactness.

Abstract: In a structure of interconnection fitting of division protectors fittingly interconnected to form a harness protector, the division protectors have interconnection fitting portions at their end portions. Retaining projections are formed at one of the interconnection fitting portions which are to be fittingly interconnected, and elastic retaining arms are formed at the other interconnection fitting portion. The elastic retaining arm is so formed as to produce an urging force outwardly in a widthwise direction which is generally perpendicular to a fitting/disconnecting direction and also to a longitudinal direction. Elastic deformation limitation walls for limiting elastic deformation of the elastic retaining arm are formed near respectively to the retaining projection and the elastic retaining arm so as to abut against each other upon movement in a predetermined amount in the widthwise direction.

Abstract: An assembly for a pipe finishing work includes a support bracket supported on side walls, facing each other, of a pair of drywalls separated from each other and having a guide rail formed long in a direction crossing the pair of drywalls, a panel member penetrated by a pipe arranged between the pair of drywalls and having a finishing member coupled thereto to close a gap between the pair of drywalls in a state in which the penetrating pipe is exposed outside, and a guide rib installed at the guide rail to be capable of sliding with the panel member along the guide rail to position align the panel member with respect to the pipe.

Abstract: A quick-connect system for connecting two or more sections of wireway in generally longitudinal alignment along an X-axis. The system involves the a series of screws in the bottom and side walls of a generally U-shaped connector receivable in corresponding slots in the bottom and side walls of the two wireway sections. In one embodiment, the bottom wall slots are closed-ended slots and the side wall slots are open-end slots extending in from respective end edges of the wireway sections. The side walls slots are configured such that they have longitudinal centerlines having X-axis and Y-axis components.

Abstract: A modular building architecture is presented. The building structure includes a square or round-shaped modular unit and a loft positioned as an upper story to the modular unit. The modular unit comprises a roof that includes rain water collection gutters and channels or downspouts leading the collected rain water to rain barrels. The collected rain water is then pumped for use in the modular unit. The modular unit also comprises a bathroom and a kitchen that include smaller sized appliances and fixtures. The modular units create a modular system that allows for varying sized structures for various facilities. For example, multiple modular units can be connected together to construct an extended building structure or a medical or service facility. The additional modules would not include a kitchen, bathroom or upper story loft, but would provide additional living and/or sleeping quarters.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for a modular shelter that is suited for use as a safety chamber in an underground working environment. The shelter includes at least two wall units connected along a substantially sealed seam, a base unit that extends substantially throughout a floor plan of the shelter, and a roll cage that surrounds an outer extent of the shelter above the floor plan. The shelter may be configured to maintain a pressurized state in a closed condition. Each of the at least two wall units may share a substantially common shape and substantially common dimension, and may form a part of a wall, ceiling, and floor of the shelter. The shelter can also include various atmospheric control, circulation, and purge systems, and exterior and soft seal doors to assist in maintaining a livable atmosphere in the safety chamber.

Abstract: An element (2) is presented, in particular a plate-like element, for the thermal insulation of a building, which element is provided for attachment to an exterior wall (1) of a building on the outside. The element (2) thereby has ducts (3), which can be used as ventilation ducts. The ducts (3) are surrounded by the element (3) on all sides apart from in edge areas. The element (2) is characterized in that the ducts (3) extend in individual areas of the element (2) to an edge of the element (2) such that when the element (2) is attached to the exterior wall (1) at desired locations connections (4) of the ducts to the exterior wall (1) are formed, through which air can flow into the building or can be guided out of the building.