Diagonal And Horizontal Bracing Extend From Juncture Of Sections Patents (Class 52/638)
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Patent number: 6739429Abstract: A corner scaffold structure is comprised of three vertical legs. These three legs are connected to one another at their upper distal ends by three horizontal legs which generally form a right isosceles triangle. Similarly, there are three horizontal legs connected to and joining the vertical legs near the lower distal ends thereof. Because of the three-dimensional geometry of the corner scaffold structure, multiple hop irons can be secured to each side of the structure to provide additional support to scaffold planks, increasing their stability.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventor: Gregory Peals
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Patent number: 6722286Abstract: In a railway car, extruded frame members of an aluminum base alloy containing Si of 0.4-0.9 wt % and Mg of 0.4-1.2 wt % are welded according to a friction stir welding method. In a structure, an aluminum base alloy plate containing Si of 0.4-0.9 wt % and Mg of 0.4-1.2 wt % is prepared, to one face of the aluminum base alloy plate a rib is formed, and the aluminum base alloy plate is an extruded frame member. Accordingly, a railway car having a low welding distortion and a structure having a low welding distortion can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2002Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hisanori Okamura, Isao Funyuu, Akihiro Satou, Kinya Aota, Masakuni Ezumi, Yasuo Ishimaru
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Publication number: 20030177718Abstract: A lightweight construction, especially a greenhouse structure, comprises a plurality of pillars (12) arranged at the periphery of an area of said lightweight construction, said pillars (12) extending obliquely and outwardly so that an upper end (22) of said pillars (12) lies substantially in a vertical plane passing through a respective area border. According to the invention at least one of said pillars (12) comprises a supporting element (14), said supporting element being mounted onto said pillar (12) so as to define a predetermined inclination angle of said pillar (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2003Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Thomas Kunzel
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Publication number: 20030070387Abstract: A composite structural article, of preferably metal and thermoplastic material is described. The composite structural article comprises: (a) at least one reinforcing element (2) having sized openings (20); and (b) at least three profiled sections (1, 3, 4). A portion of each profiled section (1, 3, 4) is connected interlockingly with a portion of the reinforcing element (2). At least two of the profiled sections (1, 3, 4) have terminal portions each having a projecting region (5) that engages interlockingly with the sized openings (20) of the reinforcing element (2), such that a portion of the reinforcing element (2) surrounds at least partially the projecting regions (5). The profiled sections (1, 3, 4) are further joined to the reinforcing element (2) by means of thermoplastic material (10, 11, 12, 13) injected in the region of each interlocking connection with the reinforcing element (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2002Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventors: Martin Klocke, Boris Koch
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Patent number: 6543198Abstract: A space frame (10) has upper chord lower grids (12, 14) of intersecting chords (16, 18). The chords (16, 18) are interconnected by bracing modules (30), the bracing modules (30) being spaced apart from one another in each grid direction. The bracing modules (30) are formed from four bracing members (32), the bracing members (32) being arranged in mutually inclined pairs, the bracing members (32) of each pair extending between upper and lower chords (16, 18) extending in the same grid direction. Each pair of bracing members (32) crosses the other pair of bracing members (32), the point of crossing (34) coinciding or being positioned between each member of the other pair of bracing members (32) and either the upper or lower chord (16, 18) associated with the other pair of bracing members (32).Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Inventor: Leszek Aleksander Kubik
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Patent number: 6516583Abstract: This invention is a structural joint having a diagonal brace, beam and column fixedly attached with respect to each other by parallel gusset plates disposed in face-to-face relationship on opposite sides of the brace, beam and column and extending from the column along the sides of the beam and the brace. The other end of the diagonal brace may be attached to another structural joint of beam and column, or to another beam only, or to another column only, by fixedly attaching with respect each other, as the case may be, the parallel gusset plates disposed in face-to-face relationship on opposite sides of the brace, beam and column.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1999Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventor: David L. Houghton
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Patent number: 6513566Abstract: A balcony and a shield including first and second shielding sections. The sections define corresponding first and second shielding screens. The shield includes a mounting rod defining a rod attachment section and a rod spacing section. The rod attachment section is sized so as to extend from the footrail to the handrail of the balcony banister. The rod spacing section extends from the rod attachment section and is adapted to extend upwardly away from the handrail. A securement component secures the rod attachment section to both the handrail and the footrail. A linking component securely links the first shielding section to the rod spacing section above the second shielding section.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2001Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: Inventions N.L. Inc.Inventor: Normand Larin
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Publication number: 20030014928Abstract: A componentized, three dimensional, self-aligning, self-engineering building system for homes and similar constructions involving a plurality of individual, separately installable components of predetermined height selectively arranged, positioned and secured to each other in side-by-side relationship along the perimeter of and also secured on a previously prepared flat supporting surface for a home; and modeling blocks representing the components.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2001Publication date: January 23, 2003Inventor: Thomas E. Kerney
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Publication number: 20020194808Abstract: The present invention relates to a lightweight reinforced beam which utilizes a tendon system to provide tension on a rigid panel structural frame made from wood, wood composite, plastic or other material. An alternative embodiment uses a tendon system to provide tension on a precast form made from a castable material such as concrete by post tensioning a shielded tendon. This tendon, made from steel, carbon fiber or similar materials, will resist a load imposed on the reinforced beam and will support a large load relative to the weight of the tendon.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2001Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventor: Frank W. Ratliff
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Patent number: 6481697Abstract: A modular railing system supports a plurality of rails in vertically-spaced configuration. The railing system includes a plurality of baluster units arranged between rail sets to support the rails. The baluster units include a plurality of rail supports grouped into double barrel support pairs or single barrel support pairs. The baluster units may include a short section of kick rail, and longer sections of kick rail may extend between adjacent baluster units. Also, additional rails may be joined to the modular railing system using baluster extensions or extender bars. A stair rail adjuster may be used, particularly when railing staircases, to permit adjustment of the relative vertical height of one end of a rail. To attach rails and balusters to stair treads, a finished-stair-tread adapter may be used.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Inventor: Alexander Brown
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Patent number: 6460297Abstract: A building frame resistant to earthquakes, gale-force wind loads, fire, insects and rot includes a peripheral frame wall constructed of rectangular steel tubing. Side wall frame modules bolted together along adjacent edges, and end wall modules bolted together along adjacent edges and to the ends of the connected side wall modules form the peripheral frame wall. Diagonal bracing is built into selected side and end wall modules as required for the desired degree of wind resistance. Trusses made of various size tube such as 2×3 inch rectangular steel tubing for supporting a roof, including a hip roof, on the peripheral wall, are assembled and welded in a welding shop and the prefabricated trusses and wall modules are trucked to the building site. Multiple stories may be erected and fastened together by anchor brackets arranged bottom-to-bottom above and below the second and higher floors. The building frame is secured to a foundation by attaching the anchor brackets to anchor bolts set in the foundation.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Inter-Steel Structures, Inc.Inventors: Delton J. Bonds, Eric P. Bramwell
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Patent number: 6413610Abstract: A hollow frame member is constituted by joining with a truss shape by ribs 13, 13A, 13B (23, 23A, 23B) between two face plates 11, 12 (21, 22). An end portion of one of the hollow frame member 10 is connected according to the rib 13A for constituting the truss. A face plate 21 of another hollow frame member 20 is joined at a vicinity of an apex of the truss of the hollow frame member 10. A face plate of the hollow frame member 10 is joined at a vicinity of an apex of the truss of the another hollow frame member 20. A load during a friction stir joining is received according to the ribs 13A, 13B (13A, 23B). Since the truss structure is formed totally, the light weight structure and the high rigidity performance can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2000Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hideyuki Nakamura, Takeshi Kawasaki, Toshiaki Makino, Toshiaki Sagawa
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Patent number: 6358603Abstract: A shaped article, at least one domain of which has a three-dimensionally reinforced composite structure comprising of a matrix and a reinforcing system (2, 4, 5, 6), the reinforcing system comprising bodies such as bars, wires, cables, or plates embedded in the matrix and extending three-dimensionally in first (4, 5) second (2) and third (6) dimensions therein, the reinforcing system being tension interlocked in at least one dimension in that reinforcement components extending in the first and/or second dimension are tension interlocked to reinforcement components extending in the same dimension(s), but at a transverse distance therefrom, by transverse reinforcement components extending in a dimension transverse, to a plane or surface defined by the reinforcement in the first and/or second dimension. The matrix is preferably a dense cement-based matrix prepared from cement, microsilica, a concrete superplaticiser and water, or a metallic matrix.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1999Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Aalborg Portland A/SInventor: Hans Henrik Bache
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Publication number: 20020020133Abstract: A metal roof truss has a frame formed by metal frame members and a series of metal intermediate members secured at opposite ends to frame members by clinch locks. Each clinch lock is formed by forcing metal of one member through another member with consequent deformation of the other member to form a rivet-like projection.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2001Publication date: February 21, 2002Inventor: Edward E. Embury
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Patent number: 6345484Abstract: A brace for a multi-section manufactured home comprising left and right sections; each section having a beam having an upper end including a lateral flange supporting a floor structure, and a medial side; the floor structures meeting at a mating seam distal from each beam, generally comprises left and right brackets joined by a steel strap, a tensioning bolt for the strap, a vertical post, and a horizontal compression member. Left and right brackets include an outer hook for beam attachment by hooking over the lateral flange of left and right beams respectively. The strap is attached to a take-up bolt on one bracket for adjusting strap tension. The post is supported by the midsection of the strap and supports the left floor structure and the right floor structure across the mating seam.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1999Date of Patent: February 12, 2002Inventors: James Oliver, Evon L. Oliver
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Publication number: 20020005022Abstract: A sheet material attachment system including at least one longitudinal beam having a web, and at least one flange having first and second opposite sides, the web extending from the flange second side. A sheet material attachment element overlies the flange first side, the sheet material attachment element having a hardness which is less than the hardness of the flange. The sheet material attachment element is attached to the beam by a fastener, the fastener being substantially U-shaped and having a first leg which engages a side of the sheet material attachment element and a second leg which engages the flange second side. A piece of sheet material is anchored to the sheet material attachment element.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2001Publication date: January 17, 2002Inventor: LeRoy Matthews
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Publication number: 20020000074Abstract: A lattice girder supporting frame for tunnel lining includes upper and lower boom members arranged parallel to each other to form a triangle. Truss braces spatially connect the upper and lower boom members to each other, wherein each of the truss braces has straight brace parts angled relative to each other, and each of the straight brace parts is connected to each other at one end via a straight bridge piece. The truss braces are arranged in a symmetrical plane extending laterally from the upper boom member to an axis of the lower boom members. Cross ties extend at right angles relative to the lower boom members, for connecting the lower boom members to each other, wherein the truss braces abut the lower boom members without bending and are welded to the lower boom members.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2001Publication date: January 3, 2002Inventors: Rudolf Seiz, Rudi Podjadtke
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Patent number: 6296419Abstract: The device provides dismantlable assembly between the top of the upper element of the mast of a tower crane and the fixed pivot which serves to support and to orientate the rotating upper part of the crane comprising the jib. Fishplates are fixed at the four corners of the pivot, of square horizontal section, in the direction of the diagonal, the fishplates lying within the permissible size for transporting this pivot. Other fishplates are fixed to the four corners of the top of the mast element, on the inside of the uprights of this element. The fishplates have holes which come into alignment, and through which removable connecting pins are fitted.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Potain (Societe Anonyme)Inventors: Yves Millet, Michel Lissandre
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Publication number: 20010023566Abstract: End portions of face plates 111 and 112 of a frame member 110 are connected by a rib 116A. To protrusion chips 117b1 and 117b2 end portions of face plates 101 and 102 of another frame member 100 are overlapped. The corners between the rib 116A and the rear faces of the face plates 111 and 112 are in the form of a convex circular arc 131 which protrudes into a hollow portion 119 of the frame member 110. Both end portions of the circular arc 131b1 are connected to the rib 116A and the face plates 111 and 112 by two smooth recessed circular arcs 132b1 and 133b1. Accordingly, since a flow-out of metal does not occur from this portion, the cross-section can be small and a light weight structure can be obtained. A structural body formed of hollow frame members which are joined by friction stir welding provides a light weight structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2001Publication date: September 27, 2001Inventors: Masakuni Ezumi, Akihiro satou, Kazusige Fukuyori, Takeshi Kawasaki
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Publication number: 20010023567Abstract: End portions of face plates 111 and 112 of a frame member 110 are connected by a rib 116A. To protrusion chips 117b1 and 117b2 end portions of face plates 101 and 102 of another frame member 100 are overlapped. The corners between the rib 116A and the rear faces of the face plates 111 and 112 are in the form of a convex circular arc 131 which protrudes into a hollow portion 119 of the frame member 110. Both end portions of the circular arc 131b1 are connected to the rib 116A and the face plates 111 and 112 by two smooth recessed circular arcs 132b1 and 133b1. Accordingly, since a flow-out of metal does not occur from this portion, the cross-section can be small and a light weight structure can be obtained. A structural body formed of hollow frame members which are joined by friction stir welding provides a light weight structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2001Publication date: September 27, 2001Inventors: Masakuni Ezumi, Akihiro Satou, Kazusige Fukoyori, Takeshi Kawasaki
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Publication number: 20010005966Abstract: The present invention provides a transformable linked structure, a deployable diagonal structure, a plane stowage-type deployable truss and a line stowage-type deployable truss with high rigidity and reliability constituted by the above-described transformable linked structure and the above-described deployable diagonal structure, and also provides a plane/line stowage truss structure extremely approximated to a spherical surface using the two types of deployable trusses. The present invention discloses a module linked structure for linking deployable trusses securely and a holding/releasing mechanism for realizing reliable holding and release. Further, the present invention provides a modular deployable antenna with high precision even if it is large-sized which is realized by spreading mesh on the plane/line stowage truss structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2001Publication date: July 5, 2001Inventors: Akira Meguro, Jin Mitsugi, Kazuhide Ando
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Patent number: 6205736Abstract: A space frame including at least two elongate structural frame elements arranged side by side and being interconnected by a plurality of elongate struts spaced along the length of the elements, each structural frame element comprising an elongate hollow body having one or more strut connection nodes located along its length at predetermined positions, each connection node being in the form of a socket extending internally of the element, the socket comprising a socket wall depending from one side wall of the hollow body, the socket wall defining a socket recess and being formed by hydro-forming from said one side wall of the hollow body, each opposite end of each strut being in the form of a plug received within the socket defined by a co-operating respective connection node. The hydro-forming process may include the use of any type of pressurised hydraulic fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Inventors: Ing Peter Amborn, Simon Jonathan Giles Griffiths
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Patent number: 6082068Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a lightweight truss that can be used in temporary, demountable form for structures used in various constructions such as exhibitions, displays, and concerts and is formed of precut lengths of chords (tubes) and V-shaped members that can be detachably connected to each other to form an inverted V-shaped truss that can be stacked when stored and that can be disassembled into its component elements for shipping.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Assignee: Tomcat Global CorporationInventor: Mark E. Fisher
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Patent number: 6079178Abstract: A U-shaped stackable truss for use in temporary, demountable construction for exhibition, display, and concert staging.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: Tomcat Global CorporationInventor: Mark E. Fisher
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Patent number: 6026626Abstract: An elongate truss 10 comprises a framework 14 of spars 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26. The truss 10 is open on one aspect and has the transverse cross section of a regular trapezium. This enables identical trusses to be stacked up for storage or transporting an internested manner one on top of the other. In addition, lights 62 may be mounted inside the truss 10 and drapes 72 are hung from one side of the truss 10. A removable cross brace 42 may be provided for connection at the open aspect of the truss between lower longitudinal spars 18 to prevent splaying of the truss when under load. The brace 42 may be stored by attachment to intermediate cross chords 22. A stack 10' of trusses may be stored on a trolley 28 and easily manhandled. A substantial number of the trusses, when stacked, may be stored in a set volume.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1997Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Inventor: Mark Eliott Fisher
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Patent number: 5962150Abstract: Disclosed is a structural material having a lattice configuration. In one embodiment of the invention, the structural material is manufactured by weaving a continuous wire filament on a loom assembly. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the structural material is formed using substrate sheets that are machined or molded into a desired configuration. The structural material of the invention can be used alone or layered to form a multi-laminate material.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Jonathan Aerospace Materials CorporationInventor: Jonathan Priluck
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Patent number: 5927036Abstract: A floor joist system for building construction comprising interconnected steel girders and joists. The girders may be castellated I beams having a plurality of large openings and regularly spaced vertical slots through its web, which extend between opposite side walls of a building or its foundation, supported thereby. Joists may be I beams of shorter height than the girders which have tongues formed from their webs which extend from their ends. The tongues of two joists are fitted into a single vertical girder slot from opposite sides of the girder, their tongues overlapping therein. The opposite ends of the joists are similarly fitted into an adjacent girder or rest upon a side wall of the building or its foundation. The girder slot is positioned and the side walls are adapted such that the uppermost surfaces of the joists and the girder(s) are coplanar.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: Perf-X-Dek, L.L.C.Inventors: LeRoy Matthews, Paul R. Vrechek
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Patent number: 5832688Abstract: A lightweight, prestressed tower includes 1) a base load transfer assembly to be mounted on a support base fixture assembly which is mounted on a base support pad; 2) a primary truss assembly consisting of a plurality of truss bays interconnected by diagonal and vertical tension members between horizontal frame assemblies; 3) a central compression tube assembly operable to be extended centrally of the truss bays from bottom to top having tubular sections connectable to each other to provide a central compression load assembly; and 4) an upper load transfer assembly connected to an upper end of the central compression tube assembly and by horizontal and diagonal tension members of the primary truss assembly. The primary truss assembly with the diagonal and vertical tension members and frame compression tubes is operable to have predetermined tension forces applied thereto through extension of the central compression tube assembly to create desirable load support characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Inventors: Merrill E. Crissey, Glenn C. Crissey
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Patent number: 5679467Abstract: Disclosed is a structural material having a lattice configuration. In one embodiment of the invention, the structural material is manufactured by weaving a continuous wire filament on a loom assembly. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the structural material is formed using substrate sheets that are machined or molded into a desired configuration. The structural material of the invention can be used alone or layered to form a multi-laminate material.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1996Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Inventor: Jonathan Priluck
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Patent number: 5660003Abstract: A structural frame is composed of a series of struts which are arranged in a particular fashion that steers the stress applied to the frame so as to minimize development of tension and maximize the resolution of the stress in terms of compression. The frame is composed of a plurality of unicubes which are twelve equal length struts arranged to form the edges of a cube and eight additional equal length struts extending out from each corner of the cube. Each of the eight outwardly extending struts forming an equal angle with each of the three cube edge struts to which it is connected. The outboard ends of these outwardly extending struts are connected together so that sets of four such outboard strut ends are connected to form a network of these unicubes, which network constitutes the structural frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Inventor: Charles R. Owens
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Patent number: 5546722Abstract: A roof structure is formed with first and second Y-shaped modular construction members. The first construction member is comprised of first, second and third branches of substantially equal length. The second construction member is comprised of fourth, fifth and sixth branches of substantially equal length. The first and fourth branches are coupled together along a common axis to define an apex or ridge of the roof structure. The second, third, fifth and sixth branches are coupled between the apex and respective first, second, third and fourth corners of a rectangular base frame. At least one gable is positioned intermediate the first and second construction members. In one embodiment, an intermediate section of the roof structure is lengthwise adjustable to adjust the length of the roof structure along the aforementioned common axis. The roof structure of the present invention is adapted to accommodate a foldable or inflatable roof cover.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1992Date of Patent: August 20, 1996Inventor: Yen T. Huang
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Patent number: 5527590Abstract: Disclosed is a structural material having a wire lattice configuration. The structural material can manufactured by first weaving a continuous wire filament on a loom assembly. Once woven into arrays of parallel wires, the filament is fixed in position and cut into segments. The segments are then placed in a rig. The rig positions the segments at relative angles so as to form a matrix or mesh. In the final step of the manufacturing process, the wires are welded together using, for example, a forge press. Alternatively, the material can be formed by first holding wire segments in a pair of rigs and then sequentially welding the wire segments together. The structural material of the invention can be used alone or layered to form a multilaminate material.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1994Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Inventor: Jonathan Priluck
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Patent number: 5491939Abstract: A prefabricated staircase unit includes four steel columns, at least four steel cross bars and a staircase set. The steel columns are disposed vertically to form a rectangular space. Each steel column has attaching devices at both ends for attaching a steel column of a second staircase unit. Each steel cross bar is disposed horizontally for connecting different steel columns. The staircase is disposed within the space defined by the four steel columns and the steel cross bars. Each staircase consists of a base landing, an intermediate landing and a series of steps.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1994Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Inventor: Jyh L. Wang
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Patent number: 5437135Abstract: A diagonal strut for a system for the construction of arrangements used for mounting workpieces on machine tool tables in a defined and reproducible position. The system includes a base plate and receiving members connected to each other by the diagonal strut. The base plate and the receiving members have connecting bores whose axes are arranged spaced from each other at unit spacings. The diagonal strut has transverse connecting bores whose axes are spaced apart at a distance which corresponds to five times the unit spacing or a multiple thereof. Two end faces are arranged at each end of the diagonal strut. The end faces extend at a right angle relative to each other and one of the end faces includes an angle of 36.87.degree. with a centerline extending through the axes of the transverse connecting bores and the other end face includes an angle of 53.13.degree. with the centerline.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1993Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: Horst Witte Entwicklungs und Vertriebs-KGInventor: Horst Witte
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Patent number: 5406767Abstract: A longitudinally divisible crane boom segment includes a plurality of sections that are easily transportable. The sections each include at least one chord member, and a plurality of partial lacing elements. Each partial lacing element has a first end permanently attached to the at least one chord member and a second end connectable to one or more corresponding ends of plurality of partial lacing elements attached to a chord member of another section. Preferably the partial lacing elements are connected by dovetail connectors.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1992Date of Patent: April 18, 1995Assignee: The Manitowoc Company, Inc.Inventors: David J. Pech, Robert J. Walker, Michael J. Wanek
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Patent number: 5327700Abstract: A collapsible modular display tower assembly has a three-dimensional, collapsible display panel structure having two opposing pairs of pivotally-connective links with upper and lower ends arranged to form four side faces when erect. A plurality of upper and lower hub assemblies are pivotally connecting the adjacent ends of the links of adjacent side faces. Four vertically-oriented expansible support and attachment braces are provided with each brace being connected to one pair of the vertically-aligned upper and lower hub assemblies. The braces permit the attachment of graphic representations and display accessories to the tower assembly. Releasable hub-connecting means in the form of male and female connectors are provided on the upper and lower hub assemblies for releasably interlocking a multiplicity of display panel structures into a vertical display tower.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1991Date of Patent: July 12, 1994Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.Inventors: Gary R. Sorenson, Philip C. Gerberding
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Patent number: 5317855Abstract: Supporting element for building constructions, comprising an outer tube (3) made of sheet steel, in which an inner tube (1) can be telescoped, the outer tube having ridges (13) intentionally provided by way of deformation and constituting a guide for the inner tube (1). As a result, lateral damages such as dents caused during construction operations may be absorbed by the wider portions of the outer tube (3) without impeding the telescopic capability of the inner tube (1). For coupling this element, a ring (23) is welded to the outer tube (3) which ring has a widened portion (31) at the location of each ridge (13), so that between the tube and the ring a cavity (33) is created which may accommodate the hooked end (35) of a coupling element (37). This end can be locked in that cavity by means of a lever (39) clamped with its end portion (54) against the bottom of the ring (23) by way of a displacing mechanism (41).Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1992Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Inventor: Petrus J. L. De Leeuw
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Patent number: 5301486Abstract: A cross-brace for a pair of joists has inclined brace members extending in vertical X-shaped array and a horizontal member rigidly connecting outer ends of two of the brace members and forming a horizontal strut between the outer ends. The cross-brace has flat lateral extremities, with flat vertical laterally outermost surfaces, for surface-to-surface abutment with opposed sides of the joists, the flat lateral extremities allowing the cross-brace to be entirely accommodated between the opposed sides of the joists.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1991Date of Patent: April 12, 1994Assignee: Western Interlok Systems, Ltd.Inventor: John W. R. Taylor
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Patent number: 5263296Abstract: The invention relates to a scaffolding assembly for use in structural shoring. The assembly includes an elongate post which has a receiving mechanism for a bracing member. The receiving mechanism runs longitudinally of the post and presents an abutment surface facing outwardly from the post. The receiving mechanism further has a pair of longitudinal edges, each of which extends from the abutment surface so as to form a respective gap between the post and the longitudinal edges of the receiving mechanism. The bracing member is for connection between two adjacent posts of the scaffolding assembly, the member having a terminal end for flush contact with the abutment surface on the post. The bracing member further provides a gripping mechanism adjacent the same terminal end. The gripping mechanism engages the longitudinal edges of the receiving mechanism to thereby secure the bracing member to the post.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1991Date of Patent: November 23, 1993Assignee: Speral Aluminium Inc.Inventor: Vittorio Spera
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Patent number: 5240089Abstract: The invention relates to a scaffolding assembly for use in structural shoring. The assembly includes an elongate post which has a receiving mechanism for a bracing member. The receiving mechanism runs longitudinally of the post and presents an abutment surface facing outwardly from the post. The receiving mechanism further has a pair of longitudinal edges, each of which extends from the abutment surface so as to form a respective gap between the post and the longitudinal edges of the receiving mechanism. The bracing member is for connection between two adjacent posts of the scaffolding assembly, the member having a terminal end for flush contact with the abutment surface on the post. The bracing member further provides a gripping mechanism adjacent the same terminal end. The gripping mechanism engages the longitudinal edges of the receiving mechanism to thereby secure the bracing member to the post.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1992Date of Patent: August 31, 1993Assignee: Speral Aluminum Inc.Inventor: Vittorio Spera
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Patent number: 5230197Abstract: An adjustable space frame has upper and lower grids formed of longitudinal and lateral chords connected to vertical posts at nodal connection points.Tension braces interconnect the chords in the respective grids. By selective adjustment of the tension in the tension braces, the degree of rigidity in the space frame can be varied and the space frame may be selectively curved or cambered in either the longitudinal and/or lateral directions. When rigid braces are used in the lateral direction, the curvature will be in the longitudinal direction.The posts may be inclined to provide lateral restrain for the space frame and the grids may be relatively offset.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1991Date of Patent: July 27, 1993Inventor: Garry R. Hart
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Patent number: 5217314Abstract: The connector is of the type attached to one end of a first element and having a throat designed to allow engagement around a matching retaining collar mounted on a second element which is to be attached to the first element. The cross-section of the connector has an M-shaped profile having two central bars separated from side bars by empty spaces. The central bars delimit between them the throat and the side bars allow the connector to be attached to the elongated first element to which it is fitted. The present connection is particularly suited for erecting scaffolding.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1992Date of Patent: June 8, 1993Inventor: Claude Perruelle
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Patent number: 5148642Abstract: In antiseismic steel structural works of the frame type or of the truss type, which are constituted by columns and by girders fastened to the columns, the girders of different shapes show, at least in the vicinity of one of their extremities, a dissipative zone constituted by a reduction of the actual cross section. The reduction of the actual cross section consists either in differently shaped indentations in the edges of the flanges of the girder or in round or polygonal holes which are regularly distributed over the flanges and have a small diameter.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1989Date of Patent: September 22, 1992Assignee: Arbed S.A.Inventors: Andre Plumier, Raymond Baus, Rene Pepin, Jean-Baptiste Schleich
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Patent number: 5090166Abstract: An improved rectilinear building structure using diagonal tension members to resist racking to improve the tolerance of transitory transverse loads such as those that are produced by seismic occurrences. The improvement comprises placing a resilient pad in compression between at least one end of a tension member and a structural member whereby the resilient pad is compressed when the tension member is under tension so that the resilient pad deforms under the transitory transverse load thereby increasing the ductility of the structure before fracture of the tension member occurs.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1990Date of Patent: February 25, 1992Assignee: Butler Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Donald L. Johnson, Roger A. LaBoube, Suresh C. Satsangi
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Patent number: 5029421Abstract: A structural element (10) which can be used to modify the loading characteristics of a gantry module (18). The element (10) is securable between legs (22) so that for a standardized roof assembly (19) the gantry module (24) constructed using the structural element can span a greater distance with comparable loading characteristics with modules (18) which have a greater number of supporting legs. The structural element (10) has particular application is modifying a standard gantry module (18) into a vehicle access module (24) without compromising loading characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1989Date of Patent: July 9, 1991Assignee: Speedy Gantry Hire Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Deniel M. Nielsen
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Patent number: 5008967Abstract: A triangular truss walkout cantilever for displaying railroad warning signals above the individual lanes of a road or highway at a railroad grade crossing is disclosed. The cantilever includes a cantilever arm attached to a vertical roadside mast. The cantilever arm has three parallel truss members that form a triangular cross section. These members are reinforced by a system of struts and braces. A catwalk allows a worker access to the warning signals for maintenance and no braces interfere with such access.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1989Date of Patent: April 23, 1991Assignee: Modern Industries, Inc.Inventors: Richard C. Barrios, Philip A. Hayes
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Patent number: 4967875Abstract: A modular scaffolding system includes a plurality of interchangeable structural members, each having a circular cross section. Each member also has a plurality of holes drilled in its outer surface. The holes are located in a pattern that allows flexibility in connecting other structures to the circular member. A number of members are attached together to form a frame, and a scaffold is attached to the frame by appropriate means. The components of the modular scaffolding system may be formed into a variety of configurations, including roof-based and ground-based rolling scaffolds and a trolley-suspended scaffold which moves on a monorail. A moment-arm connecting joint and a pivoting composite connection are provided for connecting the components of the scaffolding system together so that scaffold exhibits a high degree of rigidity, while also providing adjustable angles between predetermined structural members.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1986Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Assignee: Garox CorporationInventor: Gregory L. Beeche
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Patent number: 4967878Abstract: A brace to reinforce the horizontal bearers of scaffolds is provided having a trough shaped rest mounted on a top edge of a planar bracket. The brace is held in place by support tubes extending upward from the scaffold posts. Clamps pivotally connected to each side of the bracket engage the ends of the support tubes.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1989Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Assignee: Scaffold Services, Inc.Inventor: Jerry S. Adams
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Patent number: 4958702Abstract: A span member for supporting scaffolding platforms in scaffolding using support posts that have perforated disks for mounting connecting heads. The span member includes a light-metal U-shaped beam with supporting edge webs on vertical legs thereof. The connecting head, shaped in many areas in a space saving manner and with a disk slot, includes welding flaps which abut inner surfaces of the vertical legs and are fastened thereto with a welded seam at the top.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1989Date of Patent: September 25, 1990Inventor: Ruth Langer
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Patent number: 4881620Abstract: A trestlework structure provided with four main, legs forming an obelisk-shaped structure, wherein said main legs are positioned parallel to each another in correspondence of two mutually opposite faces of the obelisk and are reinforced at their base by jutting-out trestlework appendices lying on the planes of said faces.Furthermore, variants are provided by the invention, according to which said legs are not positioned parallel to each other in correspondence of the top end of the structure, and said mutually-opposite faces of the obelisk are contained in two or more adjacent inclined planes.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1988Date of Patent: November 21, 1989Assignee: Tecnomare S.p.A.Inventors: Alberto Agostoni, Alfredo D'Agostino, Enrico Craighero, Renzo Marazza