With Vertical Support (e.g., Stud) Between Facers Patents (Class 52/481.1)
  • Patent number: 7866108
    Abstract: A fire retardant head-of-wall assembly configured to seal a linear head-of-wall construction joint or gap when exposed to a heat source such as a building fire is disclosed. The inventive fire retardant head-of-wall assembly comprises a header track having an elongated intumescent strip affixed lengthwise on at least one of the outer sidewall surfaces of the header track and above a centrally located and outwardly protruding lengthwise corrugated groove. The intumescent strip comprises expandable graphite and a fire retardant (C2-C8 alkyl diamine phosphate). When exposed to a heat source such as a building fire, the intumescent strip expands so to fill the head-of-wall construction joint or gap, thereby retarding or preventing the spread of smoke and fire. The inventive fire retardant head-of-wall assembly has been certified as complaint with respect to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.'s standards set forth in its Tests for Fire Resistance of Building Joint Systems—UL 2079.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: James A. Klein
  • Patent number: 7861470
    Abstract: A J-runner, used in the construction of shaft walls in buildings is provided with a lifting element or ledge or both to permit simple centering of studs or shaft walls or both. By providing a lifting member in a lower J-runner, the studs or shaft walls or both can rest upon the lifting member to assist in vertically centering the studs or shaft walls or both when the shaft is fully constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: United States Gypsum Company
    Inventors: James Joseph Lehane, Francis Harold Laux, Clifford Black
  • Patent number: 7849647
    Abstract: A shear wall construction and method for assembling the same is disclosed. A plywood sheet includes close laterally-spaced pairs of vertical studs or posts proximate each lateral end. A channel-defining member is fitted and fixed between the spaced studs. A tie member extends from the channel-defining member into a concrete foundation or other underlying building element. A track is also provided for sheathing a lower edge of the shear wall. Protrusions from the metal track aid in anchoring the shear wall to the concrete foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Donald Lucey, Ronald F Nelson
  • Patent number: 7841644
    Abstract: A vehicle has a roof with a top and a floor with a connecting peripheral wall. The roof has a rearward section with small openings and a forward section with one large opening. A deck has an upper and a lower surface. The deck is located above the rearward section of the roof. Support members are vertically oriented and extend through the small openings in the roof. Each support member has a top and a bottom with each bottom coupled to the floor. Each top is coupled to the deck. The support members have a length to hold the entire deck a fixed distance above the top of the roof. The cross sectional area of each support member is a percentage of the cross sectional area of each small opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy L. Ciarfello
  • Patent number: 7823351
    Abstract: A stackable insulated unit for wall construction for forming a self-supporting wall structure consists of two side wooden planks spaced apart and secured to one another with an intermediate insulating layer bonded thereto, and a plurality of stud longitudinal sections transversely extending through the insulating layer and being secured thereby. The insulating layer ensures structural integrity of the stackable unit. The stud sections are preferably spaced from at least one of the side planks. The invention also includes the method of fabrication of stackable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Thermo Structure Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvain Tiberi, Michel Mathon
  • Publication number: 20100269442
    Abstract: A system for constructing a structure, such as a wall, by assembling a plurality of interlocking panels together, is provided. Each of the panels includes a core made of an insulating material, preferably, an expanded polystyrene (EPS). Importantly, the panels include stiffeners (studs) on the outer surfaces; each spaced, preferably, about 24 inches on center (OC), to form a rigid exoskeleton. Preferably, the studs are made of galvanized steel. Unlike in conventional wood framing, the studs do not extend from the exterior surface to the interior surface. Instead, the studs are each structured as C-shaped supports wherein each stud is inserted into a grove pair cut into the core. Accordingly, conduction across the studs from the exterior to the interior, and vice versa, does not occur because the studs do not extend through the panels. Preferably, each of the panels has a top track and a bottom track, these tracks made from steel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey Black
  • Publication number: 20100269439
    Abstract: An insulated wall panel, comprises a polystyrene foam block having first and second parallel surfaces, top and bottom parallel ends and two parallel side ends, wherein the block is configured to include slots to receive a plurality of studs spaced apart and in parallel relation to one another within the block between the first and second surfaces and the two side ends so that side surfaces of the studs are not exposed. The panel may also include a first track member that is secured to a slab or building foundation and to a bottom end of the studs, and a second track member that is mounted to a top end of the studs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Adrian Thomas Morrisette
  • Patent number: 7814718
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is directed to a fire retardant head-of-wall assembly configured to seal a linear head-of-wall construction joint or gap when exposed to a heat source such as a building fire. The inventive fire retardant head-of-wall assembly comprises a header track having an elongated intumescent strip affixed lengthwise on at least one of the outer sidewall surfaces of the header track. When exposed to a heat source such as a building fire, the intumescent strip is able to expand so as to at least partially fill the head-of-wall construction joint or gap; and in so doing, retard or prevent the spread of smoke and fire. The inventive fire retardant head-of-wall assembly has been certified as complaint with respect to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.'s standards set forth in its Tests for Fire Resistance of Building Joint Systems—UL 2079.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: James A. Klein
  • Patent number: 7810290
    Abstract: A compression post for a shear wall includes a plate mounted to the bottom of an end post of a shear wall. The plate is sized to conform to the lower end of each end post. An extended portion (e.g., a cylinder) is positioned perpendicularly to the plate. The extended portion has a cross section sized to fit through a hole in a mudsill of the shear wall and has a length selected to conform with a thickness of the mudsill. When the shear wall is mounted on a structural support (e.g., a footing or foundation), forces applied to the end post pass through the plate and the extended portion to the structural support. The extended portion may be secured to the plate (e.g., by spot welding, press fitting, bolting, or threaded engagement) or the two portions may be independent. The two portions may also be a cast unitary body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Specialty Hardware L.P.
    Inventors: A. Carleton Elliott, Allan J. Swartz, Gregory Kulpa
  • Patent number: 7797908
    Abstract: A metal framing member for use in a wide variety of applications including interior and exterior walls, structural insulated panels (SIPs), as well as floors, ceilings and roofs of residential and commercial buildings, to name but a few. The metal framing member generally includes first and second metal components, where each of the metal components is a separate piece and includes an elongated support with a series of fingers extending therefrom. The two metal components are attached together near tips of the fingers so that an alternating sequence of fingers and spaces is formed in an intermediate area between the two supports. This sequence can result in weight, material and cost savings, reduced thermal and acoustic conductivity across the metal framing member, and trade-ready holes for passing through items such as wires, pipes, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Shiloh Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James F. Keys
  • Patent number: 7797901
    Abstract: A demountable wall system includes similarly configured channel segments having a hat-shaped center, a pair of center flanges, and L-shaped outer ends with fastener portions formed therein. A rigid stud having an I-shaped plan configuration is formed from a pair of the channel segments interconnected in a back-to-back relationship, wherein adjacent end flanges form outer stud faces against which wall panels are supported, and adjacent fastener portions form connector channels in which the wall panels are detachably retained. A header/footer track is formed from a channel segment connected with a flat base strip, and is attached to the opposite ends of the stud by stud extenders to define a frame on which the wall panels are supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignees: Quality Edge, Inc., Wellness Inc.
    Inventor: Shannon D. Near
  • Patent number: 7794825
    Abstract: Prefabricated, lightweight, modular, concrete structures, such as columns and a variety of end caps, have a strong, chip resistant surface exhibiting ornamental designs that include projections and impressions. The high strength of the surface layer is due to reinforcement of the concrete with alkali resistant short length (0.125-0.25 inch) glass fibers that allow replication of fine surface details in the column surface. The surface layer is supported by a second glass fiber reinforced concrete layer that incorporates long length (0.5-1.5 inch) alkali resistant glass fibers. In combination, the first and second layers are about 0.25 to 0.5 inches thick, and the lightweight column is readily handled by forklift trucks or economically transported on flat bed trucks without surface chipping or breakage. The modular concrete structures include concrete columns, end caps and arches, as well as other geometrically decorative assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey M Kudrick
  • Patent number: 7790302
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: NOVA Chemicals Inc.
    Inventors: Tricia Ladely (Guevara), Michael T. Williams, David A. Cowan, John K. Madish, Kolapo Adewale, Roger Moore, Mary Margaret Moore, legal representative, Jay Bowman
  • Patent number: 7775006
    Abstract: The present invention describes a fire stop system for wall board construction. The patent addresses the problem of a gap between the head of a wall and a metal fluted deck. Described here-in is a fire resistance assembly made of multiple components of: a fire stop panel and a mounting channel. The fire stop panel or wall has a wallboard geometry manufactured to match the contour shape of a metal fluted deck in a “cookie cutter” fashion. This provides the advantages of saving time and material of wallboard construction, with a product that is novel, simple, and easy to manufacture and implement. The mounting channel of the fire stop system provides for an effective way to provide compliance of the stresses from the roofing/ceiling deck's stresses, easy assembly of the fire stop system, while allowing for a meeting of the fire safety rating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Konstantinos Giannos
  • Patent number: 7770348
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing steel studs to make a wall includes a first and second track each having a center portion, an inner lip extending from the center portion and an outer lip extending from the center portion. A first flange goes on each side of the inner lip of the first track. A second flange goes on each side of the inner lip of the second track. A U-shaped stud is provided having at least a portion of an inner lip of the stud being disposed between the first tab and the inner lip of the first track and at least a portion of the inner lip of the stud being disposed between the second tab and the inner lip of the second track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel W. Tollenaar
  • Publication number: 20100186326
    Abstract: A system and method to attach and retain panel tiles and a top cap to a support frame of a modular wall panel system. The top cap attached to the support frame includes an elongated body having a one or more attachment clips removably attached to the elongated body at desired locations along the length of the elongated body. The attachment clips and elongated body are formed separately and assembled prior to attachment to the modular panel. The elongated body includes a pair of receiving cavities that receive spring arms formed on each of the attachment clips. The attachment clips are rotated into position such that the spring arms engage the elongated body and hold the attachment clips in position. Each panel includes a stiffener bracket having engagement tabs. The engagement tabs are received within notches formed in the vertical posts to secure the tiles to the support frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: KRUEGER INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Cummings, David D. Liegeois, Steven C. Gevaert
  • Patent number: 7753220
    Abstract: A rack truss for use in forming shelf-type storage racks which may be assembled at the site using bolts and/or which includes reinforcement at the lower level of the rack truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Konstant Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony N. Konstant
  • Patent number: 7748546
    Abstract: A rack truss for use in forming shelf-type storage racks which may be assembled at the site using bolts and/or which includes reinforcement at the lower level of the rack truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Konstant Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony N. Konstant
  • Patent number: 7739852
    Abstract: A bracketing system is provided having two brackets joined by a flexible adhesive material that allows bridging or backing members of variable lengths and widths to be mounted between vertical studs to enhance stability of the wall construction. A wall construction assembly according to an embodiment of the invention comprises two vertical studs and a bridge backing member mounted there between by a bracketing system, which includes a left bracket and a right bracket connected by a flexible adhesive material. Because the bridge backing member can be adjustably sized to be secured on the brackets, it can be sized to fit between studs regardless of any variation in the spacing of the studs. This obviates the need to prefabricate bridge backing members to fit between variably spaced studs. The bridge backing member can be mounted flush with the stud to eliminate unevenness in the wall structure. Bridge or backing members of various widths and lengths can be mounted to the bracketing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Brady Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Todd A. Brady
  • Publication number: 20100126097
    Abstract: A metal stud including first and second metal panels defining first and second flat surfaces with longitudinal edges each turned inwardly away from the flat surfaces. The first and second panels are positioned in parallel spaced apart relationship with the first flat surface and the second flat surface being outwardly directed relative to each other. An angular metal coupling element includes a continuous length of metal material periodically bent in opposite directions. The coupling element is positioned between the first and second panels and bent to periodically and alternately contact the first and second panels at contact points. The coupling element is fixed to the first and second panels at the contact points by spot welding or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: John Powers, III
  • Patent number: 7703247
    Abstract: Corner studs (10, 10?) have webs that are folded into two parts (16, 18) separated by an angle of between about 150° and 270°. These studs are used at corners formed where two framing walls meet. The first wall has upper and lower channel members with continuous flanges. The second wall has upper and lower channel members with squared ends that abut continuous flanges of upper and lower channels of the first framing wall. Studs (10, 10?) are provided which webs that include flange-receiving slots (12, 28) that extend from the ends of the studs (10, 10?) longitudinally inwardly along a bend line (14) between the two web parts (16, 18). The flanges (36, 52) are received within these slots (12, 28) so that a first portion of the studs (10, 10?) can be installed into the channel space of the first channel member and the remaining portion of the studs (10, 10?) can be installed into the channel space of the channel members of the second wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventors: Matt F. Surowiecki, Tadeusz (Ted) Wrobel
  • Publication number: 20100088984
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: NOVA Chemicals Inc.
    Inventors: Tricia Guevara, Michael T. Williams, David A. Cowan, John K. Madish, Kolapo Adewale, Roger Moore, Jay Bowman
  • Patent number: 7694483
    Abstract: A modular structure assembled with different prefabricated and measured interlocking component elements made from a light-weight synthetic material. The component elements, including vertical stud members, horizontal support members, wall truss support members, rafter members, slip connector members, corner connector members, and a center truss support member, are assembled in an interlocking manner with optional secondary fastening components for further securing of the elements together upon assembly where local building codes require such secondary fastening. The component elements are resistant to weather, rot and insect destruction and the assembly of the modular structure does not require tools or labor required in the assembly of structures using conventional building materials or lumber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher David Tucker
  • Publication number: 20100083601
    Abstract: A closure wall assembly comprises a pair of horizontal framing members spaced from each other and at least a pair of vertical framing members also spaced from each other and extending between the horizontal framing members. The framing members comprise a web and a plurality of elongate flanges spaced from each other and extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the web and at least one of the faces of the web to define a plurality of elongate channels in substantially side by side relationship to each other. The respective channels have widths which differ from each other so as to be able to selectively receive the edges of substantially rigid sheets of closure material of differing widths. Female elongate receptacles are located adjacent the edges of the web and the receptacles have an elongate opening spaced from the edges of the web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Anthony E. Glazik, Gary B. Glazik
  • Patent number: 7690167
    Abstract: Novel structural support framing assemblies and component thereof are described herein for use in residential, commercial, and industrial building construction. Preferred embodiments of the inventive framing assembly include the employment of a variety of structural studs and stud mounts, the studs preferably fabricated of a composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: James P. Antonic
  • Publication number: 20100071293
    Abstract: In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for a protective device for use with a metal stud. This invention protects in-wall piping, conduit and wiring from inadvertent puncturing by drywall screws during the installation of wall boarding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Vincent F. Cannistraro, Thomas J. Kosik, David Duncanson, Otto D. DeRuntz
  • Patent number: 7681365
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is directed to a fire retardant head-of-wall assembly configured to seal a linear head-of-wall construction joint or gap when exposed to a heat source such as a building fire. The inventive fire retardant head-of-wall assembly comprises a header track having an elongated intumescent strip affixed lengthwise on at least one of the outer sidewall surfaces of the header track. When exposed to a heat source such as a building fire, the intumescent strip is able to expand so as to at least partially fill the head-of-wall construction joint or gap; and in so doing, retard or prevent the spread of smoke and fire. The inventive fire retardant head-of-wall assembly has been certified as complaint with respect to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.'s standards set forth in its Tests for Fire Resistance of Building Joint Systems—UL 2079.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: James Alan Klein
  • Patent number: 7669372
    Abstract: An improved structural insulated panel and panel joint includes a panel having a core with cementitious facings where the core edge is grooved and along the panel side edges rebated to accommodate a connecting column. A connecting column is “H”-shaped, formed from two “C”-shaped channels sealed together along other webs with legs directed outwardly and for use between two of the panels. Multiple wall structures and details are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: T. Clear Corporation
    Inventor: Lisa Clear Schaffer
  • Publication number: 20100011692
    Abstract: A shear wall construction and method for assembling the same is disclosed. A plywood sheet includes close laterally-spaced pairs of vertical studs or posts proximate each lateral end. A channel-defining member is fitted and fixed between the spaced studs. A tie member extends from the channel-defining member into a concrete foundation or other underlying building element. A track is also provided for sheathing a lower edge of the shear wall. Protrusions from the metal track aid in anchoring the shear wall to the concrete foundation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: ROBERT DONALD LUCEY, Ronald F. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7617648
    Abstract: A thermal framing component for use in wall framing. The thermal framing component includes an elongated web with tabs in alternating positions and with at least some bent at right angles to the web. The bent tabs form slots on both sides of the web into which rigid insulation is reciprocally received. The tabs also provide mounting surfaces for exterior sheathing or finish materials. The component may be used in metal framing, wood framing, or a combination thereof. The component may improve thermal performance of a wall by limiting the heat transfer through the wall, for example, by avoiding direct paths for conduction of heat through the wall. Methods of making and installing the component and assemblies are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Nucon Steel Corporation
    Inventor: Donald R. Moody
  • Patent number: 7607269
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an inside corner framing element for supporting wallboard at the intersection of two adjoining walls made from sheet metal framing members. The inside corner framing element may be characterized as either: (1) an elongated sheet metal strip bent lengthwise two times to define a truncated W-shaped cross-sectional profile with at least one linear receiving slot positioned at an end of the elongated sheet metal strip; or (2) an elongated sheet metal strip bent lengthwise three times to define a W-shaped cross-sectional profile with at least one linear receiving slot positioned at an end of the elongated sheet metal strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: James Alan Klein
  • Patent number: 7600356
    Abstract: The building material, in one embodiment, has a jointing system that is uniquely configured to cover the frame of a structure. This building material, in one embodiment, is a building board with a conforming flange that is embossed onto the board and adapted to engage or mate with an end of an adjacent board. In another embodiment, the building material is an engineered panel joint comprised of a building board and a flexible or hinged article attached to the back surface of the building board. The article is preferably attached to the building board by an adhesive and extends beyond the edge and away from the building board for receiving a fastener to fix the building board to the structure. The fastener is preferably a nail. Components of the building material are preferably attached to the frame of the structure through the use of a single row of nails while maintaining or enhancing the shear strength performance of the building board system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: James Hardie International Finance B.V.
    Inventors: Michael Putti Benjamin, Andrew John Black, December Rose Cowen, Tony Michael Craig, Jr., Avril Mary Egan, Weiling Peng
  • Publication number: 20090217613
    Abstract: A wall element manufactured from a thermal insulation material, comprising an outside board, an inside board and at least two intermediate pillars arranged between the outside board and the inside board, wherein the wall element is arranged to be filled with a grouting compound, and where a portion of an intermediate pillar protrudes from at least one of the outside board and the inside board, the protruding portion of the intermediate pillar being a complementary fit between the outside board and inside board of an adjacent wall element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Leif Berland
  • Patent number: 7571578
    Abstract: A thermal wall system for slowing heat transfer through walls. The system includes horizontal top and bottom tracks, horizontal top and bottom plates, and vertical studs mounted to and extending between the top and bottom plates. The top tracks and plates have flanges that extend downward. The bottom tracks and plates have flanges that extend upward. The width of the plates fits within the width of the tracks. Top and bottom tracks and plates are respectively nested along their webs and one flange to form a longitudinal opening between their respective opposing flanges. Rigid insulation may be disposed in the longitudinal opening. Thermal framing components may also be provided, extending between the top and bottom plates, to support vertical edges of insulation sheets. Thermal end caps may be used to treat the terminal edges of insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Nucon Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Moody, Courtney J. Hanson
  • Patent number: 7559178
    Abstract: A shear wall construction and method for assembling the same is disclosed. A plywood sheet includes close laterally-spaced pairs of vertical studs or posts proximate each lateral end. A channel-defining member is fitted and fixed between the spaced studs. A tie member extends from the channel-defining member into a concrete foundation or other underlying building element. A track is also provided for sheathing a lower edge of the shear wall. Protrusions from the metal track aid in anchoring the shear wall to the concrete foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Donald Lucey, Ronald F Nelson
  • Publication number: 20090165416
    Abstract: A metal thermal stud/plate has a center web with geometrically-shaped apertures spaced longitudinally along its centerline. The apertures define alternatingly-positioned narrow necks of material therebetween near ends of the center web. The narrow necks minimize thermal conductivity between the spaced flanges, but adjacent ones of the narrow necks are longitudinally misaligned due to their alternating positions to thus prevent forming a weak longitudinally-extending fold line in the stud/plate, thus maintaining its strength. In one form, the narrow necks are at most about 0.100 inches wide without substantially degrading the strength of the studs/plates, or can be a ratio of neck width to center web of as low as 0.09:4 down to 0.03:4. A building wall frame includes a plurality of the metal studs/plates and foam insulated panels with edges engaging the center webs of adjacent studs/plates to thus stabilize the metal studs/plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: William H. Porter
  • Patent number: 7546718
    Abstract: An extensible beam (1) comprising: a first, elongate element (10), a second element (50) adapted to move relative to the first elongate element in order to vary the amount of overlap between the first and second elements and thereby vary the length of the beam. Wherein the first element includes first (18) and second (20) support portions and the second element includes first (52) and second (54) spaced apart strut members for engagement with the first and second support portions respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Salvatore Vasta
  • Publication number: 20090126304
    Abstract: Prior art rolled T-beams used in horizontal grids in suspended ceilings, serve as vertical studs in a grid that supports wallboard in a liner for a structural wall. A horizontal strut extends along, and is connected to, the studs, to unite the studs and the strut to form the vertical grid. The grid is braced from the structural wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Brett W. Sareyka, William J. Platt
  • Patent number: 7533508
    Abstract: A connector or clip is provided for connecting a metal stud or other member to a support structure. The connector or clip includes a connecting plate for connecting to the stud or other member. A base plate extends from the connecting plate and is adapted to mount to the support structure. A juncture or fold line is defined between the connecting plate and the base plate. One or more ribs are formed in the base plate and extend generally perpendicular to the juncture. In one embodiment, an upturned edge is formed along one side of the base plate opposite the juncture. Further, a reinforcing member is adapted to be secured to the base plate such that both the base plate and reinforcing member can be secured to an adjacent support surface or structure via a connecting fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael L. Torres
  • Patent number: 7520100
    Abstract: A wall structure is provided and includes a series of spaced apart studs with each stud having a web and a pair of flanges. A series of support backings are connected between the spaced apart studs. Each support backing includes an elongated main section and a first tab formed on one end of the main section and extending at an angle with respect to the main section. A corner is formed between the main section and the first tab and one or more openings are formed in the corner. One or more tabs project from the other end of the main section. To secure the support backings within the wall structure, fasteners are utilized to secure the first tab of the support backings to the webs of the studs. Furthermore, the second tabs of the respective support backings project through the openings formed in the corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: John Herrman, Edward diGirolamo
  • Patent number: 7513082
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for reducing the transmission of acoustical energy between a first and second wall surface of a wall comprising a first and a second beam for supporting a sound panel. Each of the first and second beams comprises first and second flanges interconnected by an inner connector with a fold defined in the inner connector for reducing the transmission of acoustical energy between the first and second flange. The fold cooperates with one of the flanges for defining a pocket for receiving an edge of a sound panel. The first and second flange support the first and second wall surface of the wall with the sound panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: Lahnie Johnson
  • Patent number: 7509776
    Abstract: A modular storage shed system is provided, including an upper frame assembly having a plurality of vertically oriented posts, each post defining an elongated slot extending axially along at least a portion of a length thereof, a plurality of external wall panels each defining a pair of side edges, each wall panel including a lip extending orthogonally from at least a portion of each side edge thereof and defining at least one aperture formed therein. There is provided a plurality of panel locks having a lock member. The lock member may snap-fit engage the apertures in the lips of the wall panels when the lips of adjacent wall panels are positioned within the slot of a common vertical post and when the lock member of the panel lock is pressed between the adjacent wall panels into the slot of the vertical post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Arrow Group Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ron Reisman
  • Publication number: 20090049781
    Abstract: The present application is directed toward fire-rated wall construction components and wall systems for use in building construction. Embodiments can include tracks for holding studs which incorporate various geometries capable of receiving fire-retardant material, flat straps for use between tracks and fluted wall components, fire sponges for use in fluted wall components, and tracks with protruding grooves or other structures which prevent unwanted air movement between a wallboard component and the track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: California Expanded Metal Products Company
    Inventors: Don A. Pilz, Raymond E. Poliquin, Fernando Hernandez Sesma
  • Publication number: 20090025327
    Abstract: A furring strip system with built-in alignment and airspace between interior and exterior walls for ventilation and rainscreen protection. A wall grid system speeds installation. The furring strip system has application to installation of drywall panels, deck applications, and floor applications. The system allows release of moisture from wood and wood plastic composite (WPC) decking via a space between boards. The invention further has application to roof installations with cross bars as well as different types of roofing, and ceiling applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Gregory P. Albracht
  • Patent number: 7478505
    Abstract: A metal stud arrangement has a top track with a support rail fixed to the track-web and extending between track flanges into the trough of the track. The support rail has an enlarged hanger portion with a maximum width. A metal stud of the arrangement has an opening near the top end of the stud web for receiving the support rail, the opening having an entry passage with a width that is smaller than the maximum width of the hanger portion and the passage being adapted to receive the support rail. The opening includes an enlarged portion that is larger than the maximum width so that with the hanger portion in the enlarged portion of the opening, the stud hangs from the top track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Inventor: Raymond C. Frobosilo
  • Patent number: 7451573
    Abstract: A slotted M-track or building wall support structure generally characterized by a metal M-shaped channel beam member is disclosed. The M-shaped channel beam member is defined by a pair of elongated confronting sidewalls integrally connected to an open end of an elongated and generally V-shaped stud receiving track. The V-shaped stud receiving track is positioned between the pair of confronting sidewalls and a pair of elongated and spaced apart coplanar legs. The legs are perpendicularly connected to the sidewalls and to the open end of the generally V-shaped stud receiving track. The V-shaped stud receiving track includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced slots, with each slot sized and configured to receive a stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventors: Leszek Orszulak, Jaroslaw Sydry
  • Publication number: 20080209832
    Abstract: A demountable wall system includes similarly configured channel segments having a hat-shaped center, a pair of center flanges, and L-shaped outer ends with fastener portions formed therein. A rigid stud having an I-shaped plan configuration is formed from a pair of the channel segments interconnected in a back-to-back relationship, wherein adjacent end flanges form outer stud faces against which wall panels are supported, and adjacent fastener portions form connector channels in which the wall panels are detachably retained. A header/footer track is formed from a channel segment connected with a flat base strip, and is attached to the opposite ends of the stud by stud extenders to define a frame on which the wall panels are supported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Shannon D. Near
  • Patent number: 7418805
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of constructing a modular framing system where orthogonal frames are arranged adjacent to one another with their corresponding edges positioned next to one another. Each frame is formed from two horizontal and two vertical frame elements. A plurality of locks is inter-disposed between the adjacent vertical frame elements, each with a frame slot. At least two locks are double-locking type, one inter-disposed between the top sections of the vertical frame elements and the other between the bottom sections of the vertical frame elements. A plurality of locks is single-locking type, which is equi-distantly installed along the length of one vertical frame element in between the two double locks. The double locks lock both adjacent vertical frame elements. One side of the single locks lock only one vertical frame element and the other side inserts into the frame slot of the adjacent vertical frame element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Quantum Linkage SDN BHD
    Inventor: Chee Peng Tan
  • Patent number: 7409800
    Abstract: A structural thermal framing and panel system for assembling finished or unfinished walls with multiple combinations for poured and nonpoured walls. The system includes a permanent structural framing stud which can be adjusted to different wall thickness, a plurality of permanent forms, wherein the pluralities of permanent forms are interchangeable with various other permanent panel forms with or without defined spaces for receiving filler. The framing stud substantially conforms to a portion of the pluralities of panel forms and resists bending in the panel forms. The framing stud is the main structural element in the wall. A structural framing system in combination with insulated panel forms with various defined spaces for receiving filler, and wherein panels may not be prefinished to form a rigid substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: JenTec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul W. Budge
  • Patent number: 7406806
    Abstract: Blast resistant prefabricated wall panels contain at least one panel consisting of two structural boards having a thermoset resin-impregnated fiber reinforcing layer therebetween and extending from sides of the panel, the extension wrapped at least partially around metal sole and top plates of a metal sole plate, top plate, and stud construction. The panels are capable of resisting explosive blasts without forming secondary projectiles, and are preferably attached to a building structure by energy absorbing deformable brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventors: Gerald Hallissy, William G. Higbie, Edward R. Fyfe