With Vertical Support (e.g., Stud) Between Facers Patents (Class 52/481.1)
  • Patent number: 7404273
    Abstract: An improved wall and partition construction method that features use of no exterior panel attachment means, and which provides a finished wall with a substantially seemless outer surface. The improved wall is comprised of ceiling and floor rails attached along a top and bottom wall line, and a plurality of vertical studs, slidably disposed between the floor and ceiling rails. Vertical slidable studs each have a hat-shaped cross section and include a plurality of openings that provide a pathway for cables and wiring along the interior of a finished wall. Wall panels such as compressed straw panels are attached to the vertical studs in a slightly offset alternating manner such that each strawboard panel can be rigidly connected to a stud by a plurality of lag screws with each penetrating the strawboard panel from the inside so that the finished wall has no exterior penetrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventors: John Parker Burg, Mark Doyle
  • Publication number: 20080168733
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing steel studs to make a wall includes a first track having a first center portion, a first inner lip extending from the first center portion and a first outer lip extending from the first center portion, the first center portion being disposed substantially horizontally along a first plane. A second track has a second center portion, a second inner lip extending from the second center portion towards the first inner lip and a second outer lip extending from the second center portion towards the first outer lip, the second center portion being disposed substantially horizontally along a second plane, the second plane being substantially parallel to the first plane. A first flange is operatively removably attached to the first inner lip, the first flange having first end and a second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel W. Tollenaar
  • Patent number: 7373762
    Abstract: A multi-functional building assembly includes a plurality of elongated studs, each of the studs including a recessed notch defined in axially extending fashion along first and second opposite extending surfaces. A plurality of elongated and planar shaped panels include extending edges which match in configuration that of each of the notches and in order that a selected panel is secured to a selected stud. A plurality of the studs and panels are engaged in end-to-end extending fashion to construct at least one of a wall and a corner detail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Richard L. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 7331148
    Abstract: A concrete form comprises cross members, plywood, and metal studs. The studs include a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls, the walls arranged to form a generally rectangular cross-section. A pair of inner walls extends between and perpendicular to the pair of side walls. A pair of flanges extends from the side walls. The flanges are aligned with each other and positioned between the front wall and the pair of inner walls. A portion of each stud is adapted for complementary engagement with the cross members. The cross members are attached to at least one of the inner walls and the flanges of the cut portion of the studs, and the plywood is mounted to the rear wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Brentmuir Developments (1993) Ltd.
    Inventor: Nick Di Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 7331149
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing backing in walls which include a first, second and third upright U-shaped stud. A first backing member has a first end, a second end, a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. The first backing member is disposed between the first and second studs. A second backing member has a first end, a second end, a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. The second backing member is disposed between said second and third studs. A hinge is operatively attached to the first side of the first and second backing members for permitting the second backing member to pivot with respect the first backing member between a first position wherein the first side of each of the first and second backing members are substantially in the same plane and a second position whereby the first and second backing members are not in the same plane. This permits the first backing member to be placed between a first and second adjacent vertical stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel W. Tollenaar
  • Patent number: 7308778
    Abstract: A metallic stud for use in the framing of structures, the stud definable in terms of an x, y, z coordinate system, in which the z-axis corresponds to the gravity vector. The metallic stud includes a z-axis elongate generally rectangular integral xz plane web having a width (thickness) in a yz plane. The stud also includes a series of xz plane tabs each having a parallelogram-like geometry and an outer major base. The series of xz plane tabs project within at least one of a positive or negative x-axis direction, in which the tabs interdigitate with void spaces along at least one z-axis edge of the web. The metallic stud also includes a z-axis elongate apex element, within xz plane web, projecting in a y-axis plane and integrally dependent from the web of the stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventor: Lakdas Nanayakkara
  • Patent number: 7282252
    Abstract: The facing of a faced building insulation assembly includes a central field portion with a selected water vapor permeance rating that is bonded to an insulation layer to provide the faced building insulation assembly with a selected water vapor permeance rating. The facing may have lateral tabs and may be separable longitudinally along separable locations in the insulation layer of the assembly. The field portion of the facing may include a fungi growth inhibiting agent, a pesticide, a coating to stiffen the facing and/or decrease the flame spread and smoke formation characteristics of the facing, and/or a heat activated bonding agent that bonds the facing to the insulation layer of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Johns Manville
    Inventors: Ralph Michael Fay, Blake Boyd Bogrett
  • Publication number: 20070175149
    Abstract: A steel stud member for use in supporting structures and having reduced thickness as compared with conventional studs, and having a web having side edges, flanges on the side edges, formed at angles to the web, the web and the flanges enclosing inside surfaces, and having outside surfaces for mounting structure, and plurality of narrow indented longitudinal ribs formed in the flanges, and in the web, indented inwardly from the outside to the inside of the flanges, providing greater load bearing capacity for a given gauge of steel. Also disclosed is a method of making such a steel member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Inventor: Ernest R. Bodnar
  • Patent number: 7225593
    Abstract: The present invention provides a post-framing system for building construction. The post-framing system includes support posts and wall sections that can be prefabricated and transported to the job site for assembly. The support posts are at least 3-ply, having an upper ply member, a lower ply member, and at least one middle ply member attached to and interposed between the upper and lower ply members. Pre-framed low and high wall sections are attached to the support post to form the building frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Weston Wilhour
  • Patent number: 7196024
    Abstract: A protective drainage wrap comprises a first portion, a second portion and a solid sheet portion. The first portion comprises cross-woven or cross-laminate material in the machine direction and in the transverse direction. The material in the machine direction comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof and has a first thickness. The material in the transverse direction comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof and has a second thickness. The second thickness is at least about 2 times greater than the first thickness so as to assist in providing drainage for moisture build-up. The second portion is a coating comprising a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof. The first and second portions are located adjacent to each other. The solid sheet portion comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof. The solid sheet portion is attached to at least one of the first portion and the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Pactiv Corporation
    Inventor: John W. Lubker, II
  • Patent number: 7181887
    Abstract: Lumber having stud locator markings spaced along lengths thereof. The marked lumber assists in layout and assembly of a frame wall comprising bottom plate, top plate, and a plurality of studs extending between the bottom and top plates at one or more of a limited number of regularly-spaced pre-determined stud spacings along the plates. Respective pieces of the lumber are useful in the bottom and/or top plates. Stud locator markings define positions for placement, on the respective plate, of stud ends to be mounted against the respective bottom or top plate. Stud locator markings indicate where front and back surfaces of the studs intersect the respective plate. The stud markings are spaced along the bottom and top plates at one or more of the pre-determined stud spacings. Each stud marking comprises marking material affixed directly to the respective piece of lumber. Preferred spacings for stud markings are about 8 inches, optionally 16 or 24 inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Fred Christian Baij
  • Patent number: 7178304
    Abstract: A framing system for adjustably connecting building components comprising an outer stud, an interior support member, and a connecting clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Todd A. Brady
  • Patent number: 7171789
    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: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Zone Four, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Donald Lucey, Ronald F. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7159365
    Abstract: In a system for making walls, at least two pairs of connector plates are provided, each including receptacle for receiving an end of a structural member. At least one spacer plate is located between and rotatably coupled to successively positioned connector plates. To form a wall, a pair of connector plates is coupled via the retaining means, one to each of a pair of generally opposing ends defined by structural members. The connector plates are rotatably movable relative to the spacer plates thereby allowing the structural members to be oriented relative to one another so as to form a surface having desired contours.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Jerome A. Cohen
  • Patent number: 7150132
    Abstract: A hold-down system used to secure a building structure to the foundation, thereby enabling the building to better withstand forces like high winds and earthquakes because these forces may then be distributed to the foundation. The hold-down system is characterized as being continuous and having stackable, individual take-up units. A continuous hold-down system allows the system to compensate for shrinkage or crushing of the building's frame throughout each level of the building because the anchor of the system is always in communication with the foundation of the building. The individual take-up units are stackable allowing each level of the system to compensate for shrinkage or crushing on that level as well as adjacent levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: Alfred D. Commins
  • Patent number: 7127856
    Abstract: A stud panel and method of making a stud panel where interior sheathing may be a temporary piece of transparent plastic or a permanent panel of sheet rock so as to retain insulation in place and minimize scarfing. The stud panel may include studs having through holes extending in a length direction of the stud panel such that insulation in adjacent inner regions separated by such studs interlock with each other and contribute to a structural integrity of the stud panel. The stud panel may include a space between inner studs and one of the exterior and interior sheathing so as to provide a thermal and sound break between the exterior and inner sheathing so as to minimize heat, air and sound transfer between the exterior and interior sheathing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventors: Hans T. Hagen, Jr., Robert H. Leslie, Robert A. Demers
  • Patent number: 7127862
    Abstract: A novel system for constructing smooth-faced metal framing and novel connectors therefore. The system and connectors of the present invention utilize known metal framing or wall studs that demonstrate a U-channel configuration having a base, sidewalls and marginal lips that extend inward from the sidewalls. A variety structurally related connectors, comprising at least a connector body, base flange, and two lip receiving grooves, are described. These connectors are capable of interconnecting metal framing performing all framing functions including, without limitation, floor and ceiling joists, top and bottom plates, roof rafters, roof rims, window sills, trusses, headers and wall studs. The connectors lock into place within the stud and are secured from the inside using fasteners applied into the non-surface aspects of the stud. The stud connectors demonstrate three dimensional rigidity and a box-like fit within the metal framing studs to form joints that are strong, durable and precise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Eluterio Saldana
  • Patent number: 7127857
    Abstract: A floor support assembly including first and second subfloors is disclosed. The first subfloor is supported over a substrate by a plurality of pads. Each pad is housed in a corresponding recess formed in the first subfloor. Each recess includes a ridge that is in contact only with its respective pad when the floor is in a lightly loaded position. In a more aggressively athletically loaded state, the pad contacts the ridge and a portion of the top of the recess. In a non-athletic fully loaded state, the first subfloor plate near the load rests on the substrate. The second subfloor is located above the first subfloor and is supported by the first subfloor. A method of installing the same is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Connor Sports Flooring Corporation
    Inventor: Erlin A. Randjelovic
  • Patent number: 7100342
    Abstract: A modular building panel comprising a rectangular frame 11 having one face covered in a water resistant board 16 with the other face also covered in a board material 17, the frame having top and bottom rails 12, 13 joined together by wood composite ā€œIā€ beams 14. Two of said I beams 14A & 14B also form the sides of the frame with their recessed sides 28 facing outwardly thereof. The recessed sides 28 of the outer I beams 14A 14B in use accommodate jointing posts for linking adjacent panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: Wynn Peter Holloway
  • Patent number: 7073302
    Abstract: An improved wall and partition construction method that is more time and cost efficient to construct than conventional methods, and that includes no exterior attachment means, thus providing a finished wall with a substantially seemless first and second surface. The improved wall is constructed by attaching rigid panels to a series of channel members each having a hat-shaped cross section generally placed in vertical orientation, along the centerline of a wall. Each channel member includes a plurality of openings that provide an interior pathway for routing utility and communication cables, and/or for containing supplemental insulation. Compressed straw panels are attached to the channel members in a slightly offset alternating manner such that each panel can be rigidly connected to a channel member by a plurality of lag screws with each penetrating the panel from the inside such that the finished wall has no exterior penetrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Strawmen L.P.
    Inventor: John Parker Burg
  • Patent number: 7051488
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is remarkable in its simplicity and promises wide commercial application as the labor costs for construction become increasingly prohibitive. The extraordinary absence of nails, screws, bolts, welds or any other fastening device allows these barriers to compete with many conventional barrier systems, such as those employed for fencing, vehicular trailer beds, removable stages, and scale models or toys of all fabrications mentioned plus many more. In this age time is money and the erection speed this barrier system offers may well revolutionize conventional ā€œpost and beamā€ framing. The invention is specifically aimed at eccentric beam loading where barriers must be economically fabricated to withstand hurricane force winds, earthquake reactions, or liquid concrete pressure in a sub-rigid manner. The Fast-Form System will offer insurers building products that will protect their interests for any and all applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas P. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7051484
    Abstract: The instant invention relates to a metallic stud frame construction panel definable in terms of an x, y, z coordinate system. Each stud of the panel includes a z-axis elongate substantially rectangular integral steel web within a yz plane and further includes (i) a first series of xz plane tabs projecting from a first z-axis edge of the web in an x-axis direction, the tabs interdigitating with void spaces, and (ii) a second series of xz plane tabs projecting from an opposite z-axis edge of the web in a like x-axis direction, each tab of the second series staggered relative to the first series of tabs. The panel structure also includes first and second xy plane concrete slabs cast about the first and second series of tabs. The slabs are integrally molded about their y- and z-axis peripheries, after a volume of the panel existing between the series of tabs has been filled with an acoustic and/or thermal insulator. The concrete slabs are reinforced thru the use of re-bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Lakdas Nanayakkara
  • Patent number: 7007432
    Abstract: A hold-down for securing first and second support members in a portion of a building to an anchoring device extending from another portion of the building. The hold-down may include a first flange having securement apertures therethrough configured to receive fasteners adapted to secure the first flange to the first support member. A second flange may have securement apertures configured to receive fasteners adapted to secure the second flange to the second support member. A base may connect the first and second flanges and have an aperture sized and positioned to receive the anchoring device therethrough. The first and second flanges may be configured to be loaded substantially exclusively in tension by the anchoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Alfred D. Commins
  • Patent number: 6976345
    Abstract: The invention includes a method for constructing buildings using non-wood construction products and buildings constructed from such non-wood construction products. The invention further includes a method and apparatus for manufacturing high-performance fiber-reinforced cellular concrete (HPFRCC) products and the use of such products as replacements for conventional wood lumber construction products. The products of the invention have the necessary strength, durability, nailability, and sawability for direct substitution for dimensional wood lumber in wood-frame construction applications. The invention also includes externally reinforced retaining wall systems that include stackable blocks formed of fiber-reinforced cellular concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Firouzeh Keshmiri
  • Patent number: 6968661
    Abstract: A connection system for securing a wall panel shell to a frame member. The frame member includes a groove and the shell includes a mounting member received within the groove. The shell includes a skin member secured to one or more structural members. Each mounting member is carried by a structural member, and is part of a connector that is separate from and engaged with the structural member. The connector includes a base having spaced apart engagement areas, which are received within spaced apart recesses in the structural member. The structural member defines a flat surface which facilitates application of pressure to bond the structural member and the skin member together using an adhesive. Thereafter, the connector is engaged with the structural member via a snap-on engagement arrangement, to enable the wall panel shell to be mounted to the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew J. Kopish, Bradley J. Bruggink
  • Patent number: 6951087
    Abstract: The mounting system comprises a grid of vertically upright C-profiles which are pushed with their lower and upper ends into horizontally extending U-profiles. Bracket clips are fitted to outer sides of the mutually opposite legs of the C-profiles. The bracket clips on the profiles are in engagement with rails. Panels are fastened to these rails. An insulating material can be accommodated in the gap enclosed by the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Trespa International B.V.
    Inventor: Kees Hans Weurman
  • Patent number: 6938387
    Abstract: A length adjustable composite stud combining the advantages associated with metal studs with the advantages associated with conventional wood studs. The composite stud also allows for customized adjustments of its length using a set of simple and ergonomic steps. The composite stud includes a generally elongated frame member defining a generally open base channel. The composite stud also includes a core component configured and sized for allowing insertion thereof in the base channel. A transversal movement limiting component prevents relative movement between the core component and the frame member in a direction other then that of the frame longitudinal axis. A longitudinal movement limiting structure releasably retains the core component within the base channel in a core first position wherein a core longitudinal end is generally in register with a frame longitudinal end. The longitudinal movement limiting structure selectively allows longitudinal movement of the core component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Ghislain Belanger
  • Patent number: 6920734
    Abstract: A metal stud wall and method of assembling the same are characterized by a stud bridging/spacing member generally having at least three longitudinally spaced apart notches for receiving and engaging therein a web of a metal stud. The notches extend at an incline to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member. In the assembly of a metal stud wall having a row of metal studs each having at least two flanges interconnected by a web, the stud bridging/spacing member is inserted through aligned openings in the webs of three or more studs and the webs are engaged in the notches to position and hold the metal studs at a prescribed spacing. Successive bridging/spacing members may be inserted through further studs and overlapped with the preceding bridging/spacing member, and engaging a common stud, to position and hold the studs at the prescribed spacing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Elderson
  • Patent number: 6907699
    Abstract: A fastener for securing a 0.625 inch (? inch) thick gypsum wallboard panel to a wooden building frame. The fastener includes a body having a predetermined axial length. The body includes a cupped head at one axial end of the body, having a diameter that is at least in excess of 0.297 inches ({fraction (19/64)} inches), a threaded portion at an opposite axial end of the body and an unthreaded shank portion extending between the cupped head and the threaded portion, wherein the shank portion has an axial length that is at least in excess of one-third of the axial length of the fastener body, and a shank portion diameter that is at least in excess of 0.098 inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Ben L. Schmid
  • Patent number: 6901713
    Abstract: A multipurpose composite wallboard panel is disclosed as having an aluminum sheet (14) attached by means of an adhesive (16) to a wallboard panel (12), such as a gypsum wallboard panel. Such a composite panel can readily be handled and quickly attached to the framework of buildings for the purpose of bracing, finishing, fireproofing, and thermally insulating wall structures in a single wall sheathing procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Erich Jason Axsom
  • Patent number: 6886301
    Abstract: A novel building construction is described for exterior building walls. The construction comprises an interior frame formed of a plurality of laterally spaced studs or beams, a layer of rigid insulation adjacent to the exterior side of this steel frame, exterior building cladding adjacent the exterior side of the rigid insulation and a plurality of low conductivity connectors, e.g. insulating plastic connectors or thin metal strips having an insulating plastic foam coating, extending through the layer of rigid insulation and connecting together the exterior cladding and the interior steel studs or beams. Vertical channels are formed adjacent both the inside and outside faces of the insulation layer to remove moisture. This provides the required structural strength with a minimum of thermal conductivity from the warm side to the cold side of the building envelope, while providing exterior drain channels and interior moisture removing channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Herbert K. Schilger
  • Patent number: 6880304
    Abstract: A novel structural thermal framing and panel system for assembling finished or unfinished walls with multiple combinations for poured and nonpoured walls comprising of 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, and wherein 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: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: JenTec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul W. Budge
  • Patent number: 6880299
    Abstract: A construction material includes a panel having opposed side walls and upper and lower walls extending longitudinally between the side walls. The panel includes front and rear surfaces. A first sheet of paper is adhered to a front surface of the panel. A first set of indicia arranged in linear relation are imprinted upon the sheet, respective lines being spaced a first predetermined distance apart. A second set of indicia arranged in linear relation are imprinted on the sheet and spaced a second predetermined distance apart. The first and second predetermined distances are different and correspond to different wall support constructions. The first and second sets of indicia also include different shape and color indicia. The side, upper, and lower walls are sloped from the front surface toward the rear surface to form respective butt joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas E. Martin
  • Patent number: 6871470
    Abstract: A metal stud and clip assembly is designed for use in a non-load-bearing wall to allow a horizontal ceiling to vertically float thereon. This is accomplished by an elongated receiving channel on the stud spaced inwardly from its edges. A clip member has an elongated stabilizing bar slidably inserted into the channel, and the stabilizing bar itself then is secured to a horizontal ceiling or a track system mounted to the ceiling. Thus, relative movement of the ceiling with respect to the wall allows the stabilizing bar to move up and down in the receiving channel on the stud member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Donie Stover
  • Patent number: 6869901
    Abstract: A protective drainage wrap comprises a first portion, a second portion and a solid sheet portion. The first portion comprises cross-woven or cross-laminate material in the machine direction and in the transverse direction. The material in the machine direction comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof and has a first thickness The material in the transverse direction comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof and has a second thickness. The second thickness is at least about 2 times greater than the first thickness so as to assist in providing drainage for moisture build-up The second portion is a coating comprising a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof The first and second portions are located adjacent to each other The solid sheet portion comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof The solid sheet portion is attached to at least one of the first portion and the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Pactiv Corporation
    Inventor: John W. Lubker, II
  • Patent number: 6854230
    Abstract: A composite wall panel having continuous upper and lower hollow horizontal chases and spaced hollow vertical chases formed throughout the panel to permit passage of electrical wiring and the like. The chases have protective barriers to protect the wiring from penetration and damage due to mechanical fasteners used to manufacture the panel and to construct load bearing walls using a plurality of manufactured panels. Further, the panel has a continuous header to provide structural rigidity and to permit rapid manufacturing of the panel without the need to frame openings, such as doors and windows, at the time of manufacture. Openings are cut in the panels and finished after the walls are constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Charles Starke
  • Patent number: 6854237
    Abstract: A plurality of studs (14) are spaced apart relative to each other. Upper end portions (32) of the studs fit into an upper channel space (22) and lower end portions (34) fit into a lower channel space (30). The lower channel space (30) is defined in part by a pair of spaced apart sidewalls (24, 26). Screw fasteners (52) extend through the sidewalls (24, 26) and connect them to the lower end portion (34) of the stud (14). The studs (14) have upper ends that are spaced from a web (20) forming the upper boundary of the upper channel space (22). Vertical elongated slots (48, 50) are provided in the sidewalls (38, 40) of the studs (14). Screw fasteners extend through the sidewalls (16, 18) of the upper channel member (10) and then extend into and through the slots (48, 50). The heads of the screw fasteners (52) bear against the sidewalls (16, 18) when the screw fasteners (52) are tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Steeler Inc.
    Inventor: Matt F. Surowiecki
  • Patent number: 6843035
    Abstract: A deflection wall. Channel-shaped studs are physically attached to a channel-shaped sole plate, but floatingly attached to a channel-shaped top plate. The webs, of the sole and top plates have tabs stamped therefrom which are spaced longitudinally therealong at predetermined intervals so as to provide for desired spacing of the studs. A tab of the sole plate is physically attached to either the web or a flange of the stud and a tab of the top plate abuts against, but is not physically attached to, one side of the web of the stud so as to allow the stud to axially float. To prevent lateral floating of the stud, either an angle plate sandwiches the web of the stud between the tab of the top plate and itself, the flanges of the stud are cut and wrapped around, so as to abuttingly engage against, the tab of the top plate, or the tab of the top plate is split heightwise into a pair of tabs that straddlingly engage the web of the stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: William J. Glynn
  • Publication number: 20040261343
    Abstract: A riser formed from a plurality of curved cylindrical segments with vertical side edges having mating vertically tapered projections and slots brought into interlocking engagement to pull confronting surfaces together as the tapered elements become increasingly mechanically engaged. The segments are assembled by a sliding engagement of the protruding mating element of one segment into the vertically tapered slot of an adjacent segment. When sufficient segments are joined together horizontally to complete a ring except for a last adjacent pair of vertical side edges, the ring is warped to align the protruding mating element of the last adjacent pair of vertical side edges with an opposite end of the adjacent tapered slot. Thus aligned, the final protruding mating element and tapered slot are then slipped together while un-warping the joined segments forming the remainder of the ring until the top and bottom edges of all the segments are aligned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Gary L. Koteskey
  • Patent number: 6826882
    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: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Zone Four, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Donald Lucey, Ronald F. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6792733
    Abstract: A deflection clip comprising a planar base plate comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface, and a guide depending from the base plate. The guide comprises a first arm extending along a longitudinal axis substantially transverse to the base plate from a proximal end adjacent the second surface. The guide further comprises a second arm extending away from the base plate oriented in the same direction as the first arm defining a channel between the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Flex-Ability Concepts, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Frank Wheeler, Dick Ninness
  • Publication number: 20040177581
    Abstract: A composite wall panel having continuous upper and lower hollow horizontal chases and spaced hollow vertical chases formed throughout the panel to permit passage of electrical wiring and the like. The chases have protective barriers to protect the wiring from penetration and damage due to mechanical fasteners used to manufacture the panel and to construct load bearing walls using a plurality of manufactured panels. Further, the panel has a continuous header to provide structural rigidity and to permit rapid manufacturing of the panel without the need to frame openings, such as doors and windows, at the time of manufacture. Openings are cut in the panels and finished after the walls are constructed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Starke
  • Publication number: 20040172912
    Abstract: A retainer and methods for retaining a spacer bar within an opening in a web of a metal stud. In one embodiment, the retainer includes a cover plate that has a plurality of resilient snap members for retaining engagement with the web of the metal stud when the cover plate is pressed into the web opening. The cover plate may have a notch that is configured to nestingly receive a portion of the spacer bar therein. Other embodiments may include retainer tabs for retaining and/or applying a biasing force to the spacer bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventor: James Wilson Brunt
  • Publication number: 20040168387
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a waterproof building wall is disclosed, including providing a mold that fits around a window or other structure held in the wall, applying stucco or other moldable material that hardens to form an exterior coating for the wall and a recess from the mold, and sealing the recess with an elastic and waterproof sealant that is attached to both the structure and the side of the recess. The resulting wall may have a sealed recess between the stucco coating and the structure that extends less than about one centimeter from the structure, and the seal can expand and contract in conformance with expansion and contraction of a distance between the edge and the side surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: David Nelson
  • Publication number: 20040159063
    Abstract: There are several advantages to installing roof insulation in industrial and commercial buildings from above, rather than from below after the roof is sealed. A reinforced facing sheet is used that can be rolled out between the purlins that support the steel roofing. This reinforced facing material is located at the bottom of an insulation system and is used to support the insulation from below. The reinforced facing sheet must be anchored to reduce pillowing of the insulation and provide a neat appearance to the insulation job. The anchoring system for the reinforced facing material is made up of a metal angle that is firmly affixed to the top of a rafter between purlins. The reinforced facing material is, thus, sandwiched between the angle and the rafter top, and securely anchored, there. A channel-shaped lower support member, usually vinyl, is located beneath the reinforced facing material and the angle is pressed, from above, into the open part of the channel shape as it is situated on top if the rafter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. Fligg
  • Publication number: 20040148889
    Abstract: Fabricate an insulated building structure by applying a compressible polymeric insulating (CPI) foam over sheathing material such that a portion of the CPI becomes compressed between a window frame and/or door frame or jamb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventors: Douglas V. Bibee, Timothy C. Lacey, Bruce A. Malone
  • Publication number: 20040134150
    Abstract: A fire rated glass flooring system comprising a first layer of glass which is a structural glass and a second layer of glass which is a fire rated glass, together with a structural frame supporting the flooring system, wherein the two layers of glass are positioned one above the other and are separated by at least one load transferring means. The flooring system is more aesthetic than conventional frames as the usr of a load transferring means allows the first and second layers of glass to be brought closer together and hence the structural frame supporting the system is less visible through the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Scott Rae
  • Patent number: 6761006
    Abstract: A protective drainage wrap comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion comprises cross-woven or cross-laminate material in the machine direction and in the transverse direction. The material in the machine direction comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof and has a first thickness. The material in the transverse direction comprises a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof and has a second thickness. The second thickness is at least about 2 times greater than the first thickness so as to assist in providing drainage for moisture build-up. The second portion is a coating comprising a polyolefin, polyester, nylon or combinations thereof. The first and second portions are located adjacent to each other. According to one embodiment, the material in the transverse direction is yarn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Pactiv Corporation
    Inventor: John W. Lubker, II
  • Patent number: 6751913
    Abstract: A wall structure includes at least two studs that are designed to support panels front and back, and end caps or raceway channel defining members on the leading and trailing edges of the panel wall structure. Each of the studs includes sets of oppositely arranged flanges that in turn cooperate with marginal edges of both the panels and the raceway defining members. Cross bracing is provided to allow wiring either within the enclosed space between the panels, or more preferably in the wireways defined in the raceway members so that the power and data communication conductors can be isolated from one another. The feature of the panel structure is that the panels themselves can support light fixtures or other lightweight electrical devices, and heavier electrical devices or units can be accommodated from the cross bracing or from shelves secured to the cross bracing and to the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: John R. Marrotte, Richard R. Picard, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6748705
    Abstract: A slotted M-shaped support track structure and method in which a M-shaped support track having a planar web and U-shaped flange members and a plurality of slotted openings spaced lengthwise is mounted on the underside of a beam or other overhead building support structure. The plurality of elongated slotted openings are spaced lengthwise and defined by the planar web and adjacent inner legs of the rectangular flange members, and receive perpendicularly related vertical stud members, and thereby allow relative vertical movement between the M-support track and the vertical studs, while holding the studs in place horizontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventors: Leszek Orszulak, Jaroslaw Sydry