Tie Along And Within Edge Or Face Groove; E.g., Spline Patents (Class 52/586.1)
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Publication number: 20040003562Abstract: A soundproof flooring system for overlying a sub floor includes a resilient soundproof membrane laying down on the sub floor. Elongated supports disposed generally parallel and spaced relationship relative to each other lay down on the membrane in alternate fashion with elongated spacers. Each support includes an elongated channel with a core slip encased therein. The plywood slip has a rib with an outer surface protruding out from the channel to support and secure the finish floor thereto. Each spacer slightly protrudes out upwardly from the rib outer surfaces of the plywood slips to support the finish floor thereon. The wood planks of the finish floor are transversely secured to the plywood slips using a bonding agent with staples or cleats.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2002Publication date: January 8, 2004Inventor: Ehsanul Haque
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Patent number: 6668514Abstract: An apparatus for connecting adjacent panels includes a first panel and a second panel. Each panel has a connectable edge adapted for connection to a connectable edge of an adjacent panel. At least one first panel interface is disposed on the first panel and at least one second panel interface is disposed on the second panel. Each panel interface is positioned on a surface of the respective panel near the respective connectable edge. First and second interlocking elements are disposed on the respective connectable edges of the panels. The apparatus also includes at least one connector with a base and first and second engaging parts projecting from the base. To connect the panels, the interlocking elements of the connectable edges are interlocked with one another. The connector is mounted to the first and second panels such that the base traverses the connectable edges.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Rubbermaid IncorporatedInventor: Erik L. Skov
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Patent number: 6651366Abstract: A system and components are provided for assembling at least two boards into a composite. A pair of bridging members may each be secured to an associated board and have a central surface portion spaced apart from the surface of the associated board. An elongate bar is provided having a length, width and thickness effective to permit the bar to be inserted between the central surface portion and board surface of two adjacent bridging members so that the bar tends to hold the two boards in a predetermined alignment.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: John Duncan
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Patent number: 6637167Abstract: Disclosed is a method of construction of a wall from first, second and end modules each forming part of the wall. The method includes assembly of two modules being first, end or first and end modules having portions forming part of the wall by aligning these modules in a desired alignment and connecting them together with connection means to form a supporting structure for second modules. The connection means has a tie portion generally extending in the direction of the alignment. The tie portion has a portion corresponding with connection portions of a second module and cooperation of the corresponding tie portion, extending between guides formed as part of the tie portion, with the connection portions connects the second module to the supporting structure. In such manner, a portion of a wall may be constructed. Use of mortar of scaffolding and concrete pouring techniques may thus be avoided in construction of a structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Strongwall International, Ltd.Inventor: George Khalil Hanna
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Patent number: 6617009Abstract: A thermoplastic laminate plank is described wherein the thermoplastic laminate plank comprises a core, a print layer, and optionally an overlay. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has a top surface and bottom surface wherein a print layer is affixed to, the top surface of the core and an overlay layer is affixed to the top surface of the print layer. Optionally, an underlay layer can be located and affixed between the bottom surface of the print layer and the top surface of the core. In addition, a method of making the thermoplastic laminate plank is further described which involves extruding at least one thermoplastic material into the shape of the core and affixing a laminate on the core, wherein the laminate comprises an overlay affixed to the top surface of the print layer and optionally an underlay layer affixed to the bottom surface of the print layer.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
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Publication number: 20030154675Abstract: A modular system includes a first panel having a first channel and a second panel having a second channel. A first coupler is mounted in the first channel, and a second coupler is mounted in the second channel. Each coupler includes a middle portion extending from the base and having an edge rounded at least locally to a thickened end of the edge. The middle portion has a length extending beyond the first channel in which the coupler is mounted and into the second channel when the first panel is abutted with the second panel. The couplers are mounted in opposing fashion to cause interference among the thickened ends when the panels are abutted.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Mathew G. LaBruzza
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Publication number: 20030154683Abstract: A method of making a reinforced structure of the type including a body of solidified matrix material, for example a cement based material, and reinforcing elements embedded therein, said method comprising shaping and solidifying matrix material so as to form a plurality of matrix body members (10) which when arranged adjacent to each other form a matrix body with a plurality of elongated cavities (11/12) therein, at least one of the matrix body members having matrix reinforcement components incorporated therein, at least one of the elongated cavities being formed on an interface between matrix body members when arranged adjacent to each other and/or at least two of the elongated cavities being formed transversely to each other and each intersects an interface between matrix body members arranged adjacent to each other, arranging the matrix body members adjacent to each other with reinforcing elements (13, 14, 15) within the said cavities, and interconnecting the matrix body members and the reinforcing elementType: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Hans Henrik Bache
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Publication number: 20030154672Abstract: A wall assembly includes at least two panel elements which are configured for contiguous placement adjacent to one another. Each of the panel elements defines a hollow internal passageway. The panels are configured to permit a contiguous placement whereby the respective passageways of the panels are brought into registration with one another. A connection element is positioned within one of the passageways. The connection element is accessible through a slot defined within the sidewall of the panel wherein the connection element resides. The connection element is slidable whereby it may be displaced partially into the second panel element. The connection element is thereafter actuatable whereby its lateral dimension is increased to form a pressure fit union with the interior sidewalls of the two passageways. In its spatially expanded configuration, the connection element provides a means of interconnecting the two panel elements together.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventors: Peter J. Spransy, Ronald H. Bushman, Donald A. Kugath
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Publication number: 20030150186Abstract: A wall assembly includes at least two panel elements which are configured for contiguous placement adjacent to one another. Each of the panel elements defines a hollow internal passageway. The panels are configured to permit a contiguous placement whereby the respective passageways of the panels are brought into registration with one another. A connection element is positioned within one of the passageways. The connection element is accessible through a slot defined within the sidewall of the panel wherein the connection element resides. The connection element is slidable whereby it may be displaced partially into the second panel element. The connection element is thereafter actuatable whereby its lateral dimension is decreased to form a pressure fit union with the interior sidewalls of the two passageways. In its spatially decreased configuration, the connection element provides a means of interconnecting the two panel elements together.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2002Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Peter J. Spransy
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Patent number: 6594959Abstract: The present invention relates to a masonry lawn edging block assembly for a multi-grade landscape setting where the ground level of the lawn is lower than the adjacent areas. The assembly includes a plurality of like-shaped straight blocks, outside cornering blocks and like-shaped inside cornering blocks that create a border between the lawn and the adjacent area. The present invention has an L-shaped cross section that includes a vertically extending wall portion and a horizontally extending base portion. Dowels are used to connect adjacent blocks. A series of like-shaped blocks are connected in an end-to-end, end-to-side and end-to-rear arrangements to form the border. The base of each block includes a platform, and these platforms form a continuous deck upon which a conventional lawnmower can travel to cut the grass along the edging block assembly in an even manner and to the same desired height as the rest of the lawn.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Bend Industries, Inc.Inventor: Robert L. Whitson
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Patent number: 6591568Abstract: Flooring material comprising sheet-shaped floor elements (1) with a mainly square or rectangular shape. The floor elements (1) are provided with edges (2), a lower side (5) and an upper decorative layer (3). The floor elements (1) are intended to be joined by means of joining members (10). The floor elements (1) are provided with male joining members (10I) on a first edge (2I) while a second edge (2II) of the floor elements (1) are provided with a female joining member (10II). The male joining member (10I) is provided with a tongue (11) and a lower side (5) groove (12) while the female joining member (10II) is provided with a groove (13) and a cheek (14), the cheek (14) being provided with a lip (15). The floor elements (1) are provided with a male vertical assembly joining member (10III) on a third edge (2III) while a fourth, opposite, edge (2IV) is provided with female vertical assembly joining member (2IV).Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2000Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Pergo (Europe) ABInventor: Jörgen Pålsson
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Patent number: 6588166Abstract: A building panel, such as a flooring panel or wall panel and a method of assembling the same into a floor, wall cladding, etc. The panel is provided with a locking means in the form of groove (6) and tongue (7) forming a tongue/groove joint for assembling of the panels. In a preferred embodiment, the groove (6) and the tongue (7) are made of water resistant material and formed with a snap-together joint.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2001Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Pergo (Europe) ABInventors: Goran Martensson, Magnus Kulik
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Publication number: 20030121222Abstract: A frame apparatus for a storm window, screen window, or like application which securely engages the existing window frame or other structure in which it is disposed without alteration of that frame or structure, and removed without damage. A minimum of tools and techniques are necessary to install or remove the frame, which will be amenable to use in frames or structures in a wide variety of sizes and shapes.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventor: Richard A. Janney
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Publication number: 20030121226Abstract: There is provided a flooring system for hardwood floors comprised of a plurality of elongated slats wherein the slats are held in position by a plurality of connectors, each connector having a base secured to a substrate, a vertical portion extending upwardly from the base, and a generally horizontal portion extending into a groove formed in a side wall of the elongated slat. The system permits the slats to be installed with a minimum of labor and also permits removal of the slats and their later re-use.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2002Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventor: Manuel Bolduc
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Patent number: 6586077Abstract: A sheet of glass having impressed therein a grid pattern which simulates a stacked series of glass blocks joined by mortar at their joints, in which the grid pattern is confined to certain tolerances so that the sheet is temperable and at the same time creates the desired glass block appearance.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2000Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.Inventor: James T. Pettis
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Patent number: 6553724Abstract: A panel is provided, which is a building block, for a trade show booth. Each panel includes a support structure having rails secured to the edges. Each rail has magnetic fastening strips and metal guidance blades disposed in the lengthwise extending slots, which engage with similar structures in other panels or other rails. Separate rails have mutually engageable lobes and lobe-engaging openings to allow a plurality of panels to be placed in any trade show booth configuration.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Robert A. Bigler
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Publication number: 20030074853Abstract: A modular prefabricated deck system which includes a plurality of rectangular flooring modules. Each module may include a plurality of laminations, such as a decorative upper element, and a lower support element for supporting the module upon the underlying joist structure of the deck. Additionally, each module may include interlocking structure for engaging adjacent modules upon installation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2001Publication date: April 24, 2003Inventor: John Potter
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Patent number: 6544624Abstract: A modular fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite deck module having one or more hexagonal components and one or more double trapezoidal components. A hexagonal component is a hexagonal cell with all sides being of equal length and forming a hexagonal space. A double trapezoidal component has a top side, a bottom side, a first trapezoid having a first top and a first bottom, and a second trapezoid having a second top and a second bottom. The first and second trapezoidal components are of equal dimensions and configured such that the first trapezoid is inverted resulting in the first top of the first trapezoid is adjacent to the second top of the second trapezoid, thereby creating a center seam and an extensive bonding surface. The double trapezoidal and hexagonal components are made of multiple layers of multi-axial fiber reinforcement and a resin matrix, the layers being continuous throughout the entire shape of the components.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: West Virginia University Research Corp.Inventors: Roberto A. Lopez-Anido, GangaRao V. S. Hota, Ever J. Barbero
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Publication number: 20030046895Abstract: A method for forming the edge profile of a decorative laminate panel, wherein the decorative laminate panel includes a decorative surfacing layer, a backing layer and a substrate positioned between the decorative surfacing layer and the backing layer. The method is achieved by creating a recess defined by the decorative surfacing layer and the backing layer, forming an edge member shaped and dimensioned for placement within the recess, the edge member including an interlocking profile, and positioning the edge member within the recess with the interlocking profile exposed for selective attachment to adjacent laminate panels. The invention further relates to a laminate panel manufactured by the method described above. In addition, the invention relates to a connecting system for coupling adjacent panels. The connecting system employs a track locking strip in securely coupling the panels in accordance with the present invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2002Publication date: March 13, 2003Inventors: Curt Richard Haffner, Jerry Lee Malina, Thomas J. Nelson
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Patent number: 6527335Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling trailer plates, wherein each plate has a stepped section. At least two trailer plate receiving areas are located on an outward-facing surface of a substantially rectilinear strip. An inward-facing surface of the trailer plate stepped section is coupled to the receiving area on the substantially rectilinear strip.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2000Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Hyundai Precision America, Inc.Inventor: Howard J. Yurgevich
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Publication number: 20030037504Abstract: The invention relates to a panel element for forming a floor covering, consisting of several identical interconnectable panel elements and having the following features: two first sides of each panel element, called the “longitudinal sides”, these sides having a groove and a tongue; the tongue of a panel element which is positioned at an angle with an installation level of a first, identical panel element can be introduced into the groove of the first panel element; the tongue interacts with the groove of the adjacent, identical panel element in such a way that two interconnected panel elements are protected against separating forces which are exerted along both of the axes extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal side of the panel elements; two second sides of the panel element, called the end sides, are provided with fixing means and a groove and tongue, these forming an end-side connection between two adjacent panel elements; the end-side grooves and tongue can be interconnected by means oType: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2002Publication date: February 27, 2003Applicant: hulsta-Werke Huls GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Richard Schwitte, Ansgar Mensing
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Patent number: 6513297Abstract: The sidewalls of a truck/trailer box are constructed from a plurality of panels (10, 12, 14) which are welded together where their vertical edges meet (82, 88, 90). The panels (10, 12, 14) are each extrusions and each includes thin side skins (24, 26 and 48, 50 and 56, 58) and thin webs (28, 52, 60). The top panel (10) may be formed to include an integral top rail (34). The bottom panel (14) may be formed to include one or two side rails (18, 18′ and 120). The regions that need to be welded are made thick enough to be welded. Other regions are too thin to be welded. The overall construction is lightweight and quite strong and facilitates construction of the truck/trailer box.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Inventor: Michael Kloepfer
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Patent number: 6505452Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening system for panels whose edges are provided complementary holding profiles which match one another in such a manner that further panels can be fastened to the free edges of a previously placed panel. The holding profiles of at least the long edges are configured as complementary positive-fit profiles, one of the profiles having a projection with a convex bottom edge, and the other profile having a recess with a concave bottom edge, such that the profiles may be interconnected by a pivoting motion. Such complementary design of the profiles enables the positive-fit profiles of the long edges of two panels to form a common joint which, when the panels are laid, enables bidirectional pivoting of the panels with respect to one another about a pivot axis that is parallel to the joined long edges of the panels.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Akzenta Paneele + Profile GmbHInventors: Hans-Jurgen Hannig, Ralf Eisermann
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Patent number: 6490836Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels (1) which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides (2-3, 26-27), are provided with coupling parts (4-5, 28-29), cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue (9-31) and a groove (10-32), wherein the coupling parts (4-5, 28-29) are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements (6) which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges (2-3, 26-27) and parallel to the underside (7) of the coupled floor panels (1).Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1999Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Unilin Beheer B.V. Besloten VennootschapInventors: Stefan Simon Gustaaf Moriau, Mark Gaston Maurits Cappelle, Bernard Paul Joseph Thiers
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Patent number: 6484467Abstract: Decking boards 2 are secured to timber joists 1. The opposing side faces of the boards are provided with longitudinally-extending recesses 7 which include slots 8 into which T-shaped spacers 11 are inserted at intervals to ensure uniform spacing between the boards. During laying the exposed front edge of each board is fastened by nails 10 inserted through the inclined face 9, the rear edge of the boards being held by the spacers 11.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Inventor: Brian Richard Crout
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Publication number: 20020170259Abstract: New and improved interlocking sidewalk block system. The system incorporates a plurality of rectangular sidewalk blocks each having parallel top and bottom surfaces, parallel left length and right length side surfaces and parallel first end width and second end width surfaces. The first end width and second end width surfaces having a continuous channel running along the full width, said continuous channels being formed with lips at the first end width and second end width surfaces that create an internal height that is greater than the height at the surfaces. The system includes a plurality of couplers that are sized and shaped to have a cross section that fits simultaneously within two continuous channels when two sidewalk blocks are placed with a first end width surface of one block abutting the second end width surface of the second block and sliding a coupler into the continuous channels.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2001Publication date: November 21, 2002Inventor: Stephen M. Ferris
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Patent number: 6474029Abstract: A roadway or fence comprises a series of panels linked together by means of flexible joints. A series of the panels is prevented from separating into discrete panels by means of a compression rod. Lengths of the panels thus connected are secured to further such lengths using a coupling device.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1999Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: L. H. Woodhouse & Co. Ltd.Inventors: Peter Cook, Gordon Partridge, Anthony Richard Marsh
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Patent number: 6453632Abstract: A wooden floor board includes a board body and a connector. The board body has two lengthwise ditches formed in the bottom surface. In a preferred form, each lengthwise ditch has a cone-shaped section formed in the innermost section. The elongate connector has two lengthwise upright insert members at two opposite lengthwise sides to engage one of the two lengthwise ditches of two neighborin board bodies. The connector is laid under two neighboring board bodies en assembling the wooden floor boards into a complete floor of a room. Any board body of the complete floor may easily be pried up with a tool like a screwdriver if it is broken and has to be replaced with a new one.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Chin-Chih Huang
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Publication number: 20020121064Abstract: A plank having a wood core with a groove formed in each of its sides and a protective cladding formed on its top surface. The wood core is formed by bonding a plurality of wood strips or chips together. The cladding is provided by a sheet of a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, polycarbonate, and composites thereof that is bonded to the top surface, or by two or another number of sheets of a material selected from the group consisting of polyester, phenol, epoxy, and composites thereof, that are sprayed or rolled onto the top surface. T-shaped connector clips can be provided with the arms receivable in the grooves of the plank for securing adjacent planks together.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: September 5, 2002Inventor: Ronald D. Erwin
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Publication number: 20020112432Abstract: An improved and strengthened wide board composed of multiple edge joined narrow boards for use in commercial and residential construction is disclosed. These wide boards are typically used for purposes such as shelving, stair treads, or other purposes where they may be appropriate. The improved wide board is made by drilling or boring holes from edge to edge through the width of each narrow board, with the exception of the leading narrow board in each wide edge joined board, in a manner that accommodates screws or fasteners, which act to securely clamp or pull the boards together. These holes are step-drilled in a manner that allows the head of the screw or fastener to be recessed below the edge of the narrow board, in order to attain a smooth or flush surface between boards. The hole then steps down to a smaller diameter to accommodate the shank of the screw. A screw may then be inserted in a manner that its shank end exits the hole and “bites” into the edge of the next adjacent board.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventor: Fenner N. Spivey
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Publication number: 20020108323Abstract: A panel for a portable floor system comprising a rectangular core defining an upper surface and a lower surface extending parallel to the upper surface and lateral side surfaces extending from edges of the upper surface to edges of the lower surface. Frame members are connected to the lateral side surfaces and define outwardly projecting channels. The frame members have opposed spaced parallel horizontal walls defining an upper wall and a lower wall, and further have a transverse connecting end wall for connection to the lateral side surfaces. A laminated graphic layer is integrally joined to the upper surface of the rectangular core and extends over the upper walls of the frame members to conceal the frame members. The channels of the frame members have flanges for releasably securing connecting members for joining a panel to other panels in side-by-side aligned relationship.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2001Publication date: August 15, 2002Inventor: Moritz F. Gruber
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Publication number: 20020108336Abstract: A modular wall segment for constructing a wall includes two external layers of selected size and shape bonded to the opposite faces of a plurality of contiguously placed cellularized cement blocks. The segments may be formed with end faces defining slots of various configurations for receiving various types of fastening elements to enable a plurality of such segments to be secured together in a modularized fashion.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2002Publication date: August 15, 2002Inventors: Eliyahu Maimon, Oren Dror
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Patent number: 6427408Abstract: A wall system including a plurality of rectangular rigid prefinished panels mounted on a wall support structure with main runners and cross runners. The main runners serve to lock the panels onto the support structure and with the cross runners serve to prevent the panels from warping due to adverse moisture conditions. The main runners are configured to space the panels from the wall support structure to encourage uniform humidity conditions at the front and rear of the panels. Clips that secure the panels to the main runners are fixed adjacent the top and bottom panel edges at different setoffs to obtain an advantageous nesting of panels for reduced packaging volume.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Assignee: Commercial and Architectural Products, Inc.Inventor: Kevin Krieger
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Patent number: 6421970Abstract: A building panel, such as a flooring panel or wall panel and a method of assembling the same into a floor, wall cladding, etc. The panel is provided with a locking means in the form of groove (6) and tongue (7) forming a tongue/groove joint for assembling of the panels. In a preferred embodiment, the groove (6) and the tongue (7) are made of water resistant material and formed with a snap-together joint.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2000Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: Perstorp Flooring ABInventors: Goran Martensson, Magnus Kulik
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Patent number: 6418683Abstract: A building panel, such as a flooring panel or wall panel and a method of assembling the same into a floor, wall cladding, etc. The panel is provided with a locking means in the form of groove (6) and tongue (7) forming a tongue/groove joint for assembling of the panels. In a preferred embodiment, the groove (6) and the tongue (7) are made of water resistant material and formed with a snap-together joint.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2000Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: Perstorp Flooring ABInventors: Goran Martensson, Magnus Kulik
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Patent number: 6412245Abstract: A building member is formed from a pair of spaced apart boards connected between the opposed faces by narrow connecting members which extend the length thereof. The edges of the connecting members are preferably retained within channels in the opposed faces of the wooden boards. The boards and the connecting members enclose an insulation space which may be filled with an insulation material. A selection of advantageous connection profiles is disclosed for the connection between the edge of the connecting member and the channel of a board. One of the boards may instead comprise an extruded siding, for example of aluminium or plastic, with a leg extending perpendicularly from the siding forming the connecting member. The building member may be constructed in a simple process and reduces wastage of material which often occurs in forming laminated solid timber building products while offering enhanced insulative properties.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1998Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Assignee: La Grouw Holdings LimitedInventors: Gerald Thomas Lane, Kerry Ronald Treloar, Cornelis La Grouw, Johannes La Grouw, Sr.
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Patent number: 6408594Abstract: A structural insulated panel for building construction includes a planar, rigid insulating core such as of lightweight plastic foam having opposed surfaces to which are bonded respective plastic impregnated paper (PIP) sheets. Disposed symmetrically either on the inner surfaces of the PIP sheets, and thus within the panel's insulating foam core, or on the outer surfaces of the PIP sheets are spaced reinforcing strips. The reinforcing strips may be flat or formed, such as in the shape of a channel, may be of metal, gypsum composites, or wood, and are provided with an adhesive coating for bonding to the insulating foam core and a PIP sheet. The spaced metal strips increase the panel's bending strength and serve as an attachment base for internal and external finished faces, while the PIP sheets provide the panel with high tensile strength. The adhesive coating on the metal reinforcing strips further increases panel strength.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1999Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Inventor: William H. Porter
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Publication number: 20020069600Abstract: A composite panel includes a first skin including composite material, a second skin including drywall material, and a foam core therebetween. A plastic connector extends along side edges of the skins for connecting the panel to another composite panel including a mating connector. The connector includes a slot extending parallel to the side edges for receiving a pin therein, whereby the panel may be connected to another composite panel having a similar connector and slot. An I-beam is bonded between the skins in the cavity that includes a chase for receiving wiring or other utilities therein. A “U” shaped channel is also bonded between the upper edges of the first and second skins, thereby defining a recess between the upper edges for receiving a top plate to secure a roof structure to the panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2001Publication date: June 13, 2002Applicant: American Structural Composites, Inc.Inventor: David C. Bryant
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Patent number: 6393782Abstract: A stackable wall panel system including at least one upper and lower wall panel and a first and second post. The second post is disposed on the first post. One or more upper wall panels are connected to a pair of lower wall panels having a rail with a pair of draw blocks and a draw rod.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2000Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Philip Longstreet Berridge, Scott Walter Compton, Bruce Robert Gezon, Anthony David Lufkin, Shane Michael Ramsdell
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Patent number: 6389742Abstract: A retaining-wall system has a plurality of substantially identical wall elements each having an elongated and downwardly open body with opposite ends each formed with a connection having an upwardly directed connection formation and at least one splice element having a body engageable between the wall elements above the connections and having a pair of downwardly directed connection formations complementarily interfittable with the upwardly directed connection formations of the wall elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1999Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Inventor: Heinrich Wüster
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Patent number: 6389773Abstract: A stackable panel system having a versatile corner supporting arrangement for addition onto existing wall systems for a modular office system. The corners of the stackable panel include a sliding engagement scheme, wherein a mast assembly is secured to a top portion of the wall system by a mast base and slidably engages a central open area of a corner support on the stackable panel by means of a vertically oriented mast upright. Additional panels can be added to the stackable panels by means of intermediate connectors. On the upper portion of the top panel, a corner trim piece covers over the central open area of the top corners. A top connector helps to rigidly secure adjacent stackable panels, either with a T-shaped, L-shaped or X-shaped connection. A perimeter framing system utilizing the corner support arrangement for the stackable panels is also provided. Each of the frame members includes a semi-circular section and a flat section.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Knoll, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Reuter, Wallace C. Bullwinkle, Ronald A. Snyder
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Patent number: 6385936Abstract: A floor tile, in particular a laminate panel, parquet element or such like, with an edge profile on at least two opposite edges in the form of a modified groove and tongue joint, is designed in such a way that there is a tongue 20, 30 and a groove 22, 26 on each of the said two edges. The edge profiles are contrived so that the adjacent tiles can be locked in place in relation to each other in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Tongue 20 on the first tile 10 and groove 22 in the second tile 12 rise upwards from the bottom of the tiles at an angle. Accordingly, the bottom wall of groove 26 in the first tile and the bottom outer surface of tongue 30 on the second tile 12 are also inclined at an angle, while the top surfaces of the groove and tongue are oriented horizontally or parallel to the plane of the tile.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2000Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Assignee: HW-Industries GmbH & Co., KGInventor: Bernd Schneider
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Patent number: 6363677Abstract: A surface covering system is described which involves a series of interconnected tiles having a spline system located between the tiles to simulate the appearance of grout. Each tile has on its sides, at least one tongue section and at least two groove sections wherein the tongue section of one tile interconnects with the groove section of a second tile and further forms a gap at least at the upper surface between the two tiles. A first spline, having two tongue sections for interconnecting with the groove section(s) of at least one tile, is inserted between a series of tiles. A second spline capable of fitting into the gap formed between two or more tiles, which are interconnected at a tongue of a first tile and a groove of a second tile is further used. Methods of installing the surface covering system of the invention are further described.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.Inventors: Hao A. Chen, John M. Whispell
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Patent number: 6363672Abstract: A log construction, such as a log home or log cabin. The construction includes a plurality of horizontal logs extending between vertical log posts. A cap log can extending across a length of at least three vertical log posts. The load of the structure, particularly the roof, is supported by the vertical log posts. The ends of the horizontal logs abut and are preferably secured to the vertical posts. In one embodiment, old or dead logs, rather than green logs, are used in the construction.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Daniel A. Baker
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Patent number: 6354053Abstract: The joint includes at least two profile elements having such a shape as to enable mutual engagement thereof as a male part and at least a female part, each being integral with one of the edges of two adjacent slabs. One edge of the slab is provided with a substantially L-shaped female profile, whose vertical stem extends all along the edge up to the sharp edge of the upper surface of the slab, and whose base stem extends towards the inner part of the slab and is downwardly folded to form a further stem, extending parallel to the base stem and forming a small space therebetween, for possible engagement of a part of the male profile.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1999Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: Eurosteel S.A.Inventor: Pierre Raymond Kerrels
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Publication number: 20020020131Abstract: A method for constructing a reinforced concrete vessel at a construct site by assembling prefabricated panel type reinforced concrete members and fastening or connecting the members with an assembling and fixing means at a construction site in a short time and the reinforced concrete vessel obtained therefrom.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2001Publication date: February 21, 2002Inventors: Akihiko Hongyo, Masaki Naito, Kazuhiro Inoue
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Patent number: 6314704Abstract: A structural building panel including a composite truss member having transverse truss elements defining an undulated shape, and first and second composite skins, formed by a pultrusion process. A composite connector extends along a side edge of the panel, the connector including a tongue and a groove adjacent one another defining an inside face having an elongate aperture therein that extends parallel to the side edge. The connector may slidably engage with a similar connector on an adjacent panel, the tongues and groove interlocking such that the apertures together define a channel through which a rod-like locking member may be received. Composite connection systems are provided for connecting composite wall panels to a foundation and to connect composite roof panels to the wall panels. The connection systems include interlocking connectors having apertures for receiving locking members.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2000Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Assignee: American Structural Composites, Inc.Inventor: David Bryant
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Publication number: 20010032430Abstract: An elongate strutural member comprising a structural outer shell and at least one arcuate or diagonal reinforcing member within, for use in structural, semi-structural or cladding applications to carry floor loading, walkway loading, wheeled loading, pressure loading in buildings, bridges and other loading carrying applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2001Publication date: October 25, 2001Inventors: Vahigh Peshkam, Polycarp Samuel Fashole-Luke, Michael Brettargh Leeming, Henrik Thorning, Eric Syndergaard Knudsen
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Publication number: 20010029713Abstract: A wall panel including a rectangular frame, a pair of wall members and a thin decorative sheet covering the wall members. The frame includes two spaced apart, generally parallel vertical frame members and spaced apart, generally parallel horizontal lower and upper frame members. The horizontal frame members are connected to the vertical frame members at opposite ends thereof to form the rectangular frame. In one embodiment, each of the frame members includes a core member and a pair of sidewall members attached to opposite sides of the core member. The wall members are attached to the sidewalls on opposing sides of the frame members. In another embodiment, inner wall members are attached to the opposing sides of the frame members, and outer wall members are thereafter attached to the inner wall member. A decorative sheet covers the outer surface of each outer wall member. The wall panels are connected to each other with a connector member.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2001Publication date: October 18, 2001Applicant: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Beck, Paul G. Dame, Ernesto C. De Leon, Paul M. Emaus, Timothy A. Hoogland, David B. Martin, Duane G. McLung, Thomas J. Newhouse, Richard C. Weise
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Publication number: 20010029712Abstract: A wall panel including a rectangular frame, a pair of wall members and a thin decorative sheet covering the wall members. The frame includes two spaced apart, generally parallel vertical frame members and spaced apart, generally parallel horizontal lower and upper frame members. The horizontal frame members are connected to the vertical frame members at opposite ends thereof to form the rectangular frame. In one embodiment, each of the frame members includes a core member and a pair of sidewall members attached to opposite sides of the core member. The wall members are attached to the sidewalls on opposing sides of the frame members. In another embodiment, inner wall members are attached to the opposing sides of the frame members, and outer wall members are thereafter attached to the inner wall member. A decorative sheet covers the outer surface of each outer wall member. The wall panels are connected to each other with a connector member.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2001Publication date: October 18, 2001Applicant: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Paul M. Emaus, David B. Martin, Richard C. Weise