Structurally Related Trusses Patents (Class 52/643)
  • Patent number: 11781317
    Abstract: An outdoor building includes a plurality of vertical posts and a roof structure. The roof structure includes a substructure, a pair of side panels, and a pair of end panels. The substructure is coupled with the vertical posts via post brackets. The pair of side panels and the pair of end panels are coupled with the substructure. A method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Leisure Time Products, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart L. Meether, Daniel R. Whyman, Timothy A. Goodwin, Craig M. Banke, David E. Monohon, Patrick R. Hardy
  • Patent number: 11591796
    Abstract: A truss includes a plurality of truss members, each truss member formed from a unitary folded blank of sheet metal to create a main panel, and proximal and distal flanges and a horizontal panel each extending perpendicularly from the main panel, the proximal flange of a first truss member is connected to the distal flange of a second truss member to form a truss. In one embodiment employing trusses formed of folded sheet metal, a plurality of interconnected truss modules, each truss module including a plurality of truss members, forms a plurality of oppositely extending horizontal flanges that collectively present the top and bottom surfaces of a cantilevered canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: Bok Modern LLC
    Inventors: Russell Naylor, Hearee S. Chu
  • Patent number: 11519179
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for attaching an assembled wall module to a building structure, according to which a framing section, including a plurality of structural members and a first coupler connected to a first structural member of the plurality of structural members, is connected to the building structure. After connecting the framing section to the building structure, relative movement is permitted, via the first coupler, between the framing section and the building structure in a first direction. Before connecting the framing section to the building structure, a plurality of sheeting sections may be connected to the framing section. The framing section may further include a second coupler; in such instances, after connecting the framing section to the building structure, relative movement is permitted, via the second coupler, between the framing section and the building structure in a second direction, which second direction is the same as the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: RBD HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventors: Robert Hale, David Reed
  • Patent number: 11332919
    Abstract: A clearspan structure including component systems, and methods of forming a clearspan structure including component systems, for mitigating hazards to personnel or equipment from explosions, fires, toxic material release, and other hazards in hazardous locations. The exemplary clearspan structure is also capable of withstanding environmental conditions such as snow loads and wind. The exemplary clearspan structure is, for example, a tent or fabric structure which includes a plurality of frame members forming a support system for the clearspan structure, and fabric roof portions and walls for enclosing the clearspan structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: MAHAFFEY FABRIC STRUCTURES, LLC
    Inventors: George A. Smith, William C. Sublette
  • Patent number: 10988921
    Abstract: A method including placing on a surface a first beam having a first end with a first clevis component opposing a second clevis component. A second beam, including a second end having a third clevis component opposing a fourth clevis component, is placed adjacent the first end on the surface. The first clevis component is connected to the third clevis component. A lifter is connected to the first end and the second end, which are lifted simultaneously from the surface while rotating the first beam and the second beam about the connector until the second clevis component engages the fourth clevis component. Connection between the second clevis component and the fourth clevis component then may be completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: Overflow, Ltd.
    Inventor: Matthew Garry
  • Patent number: 10947727
    Abstract: A prefabricated pole barn including a truss assembly, a foundation assembly and a roof assembly is disclosed. The truss assembly includes specially made trusses made with galvanized square tubing or red iron tubing. The tubing helps to provide the trusses with added strength and stability. The design of the trusses along with a quickset foundation of the foundation assembly, particularly treated floor support poles of the foundation assembly, and a roof of the roof assembly help to provide with a quickly and easily assembled pole barn. The pole barn is further stronger, more stable and loadbearing in comparison to traditional pole barns using standard bar joist trusses made of wood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Inventor: Ronald Rushing
  • Patent number: 10914060
    Abstract: A clearspan structure including component systems, and methods of forming a clearspan structure including component systems, for mitigating hazards to personnel or equipment from explosions, fires, toxic material release, and other hazards in hazardous locations. The exemplary clearspan structure is also capable of withstanding environmental conditions such as snow loads and wind. The exemplary clearspan structure is, for example, a tent or fabric structure which includes a plurality of frame members forming a support system for the clearspan structure, and fabric roof portions and walls for enclosing the clearspan structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: MAHAFFEY FABRIC STRUCTURES, LLC
    Inventors: George A. Smith, William C. Sublette
  • Patent number: 10422153
    Abstract: A mechanism for connecting two beams comprises a left beam and a right beam. The left beam is formed by an upper cross bar, a lower cross bar, and a vertical plate, the vertical plate has a width greater than a width of the upper cross bar and a width of the lower cross bar, the vertical plate has two edges protruding laterally away from the upper cross bar and the lower cross bar; the right beam has a vertical socket for receiving the vertical plate, the vertical socket is connected to the upper cross bar and to the lower cross bar, the vertical socket has two opposing curled lateral edges protruding laterally away from the upper cross bar and the lower cross bar, the two protruding edges of the vertical plate are inserted between the two opposite curled edges of the vertical socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Inventor: Xinjian Xu
  • Patent number: 9109376
    Abstract: A system for forming a structure around a shipping container includes a plurality of uprights positioned on the ground at a distance from the side of the shipping container and a plurality of trusses. Each truss has top and bottom members extending between proximate and distal ends. The proximate end of each of the top and bottom members has a bore therethrough engageable by a pin connection supported by the shipping container. The distal ends of the top and bottom members are engageable with and supported by one of the uprights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Inventor: Gary Robert Prodaniuk
  • Patent number: 9016024
    Abstract: A multipurpose connector that minimally occludes the opening in a conventional steel wall stud when used to connect a conventional bridging member to the wall stud, conserving the opening's function as a pass-through for pipes, conduits and wiring. It has a tapering extension on one flange that maximizes its interface with a bridging member, and a matching central portion on the other flange that minimizes material waste when the connectors are cut from a roll of sheet metal on a progressive die machine. It has a pair of tapering tabs that maximize the functional interface with a wall stud and maximize the functional size of the opening in the wall stud. It has a plurality of fastener openings designed to permit a variety of secure connections to be made with the same fastener and a plurality of fasteners. It is one of a plurality of multipurpose connectors of different widths that can all be made on the same progressive die production line with minimal setup changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company
    Inventor: Larry Randall Daudet
  • Publication number: 20150075107
    Abstract: A bracing panel for constructing a truss frame having spaced trusses includes first and second engagement members having outer faces extending parallel to each other. A plurality of spacing members are attached to the first and second engagement members. The plurality of spacing members are configured and dimensioned to maintain the outer faces of the first and second engagement members parallel and spaced by a distance equal to a predetermined truss spacing. A bracing member extends between the first and second engagement members and laterally with respect to the spacing members for providing lateral support to the spacing members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: Columbia Insurance Company
    Inventors: David C. Wert, Gary Gannon, Philip O'Regan, Levi Sorrill, John Galinski
  • Patent number: 8966856
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for reinforcing adjacent parallel spaced apart wooden structural members wherein each of the structural members has opposed first and second edges. The apparatus comprises a rigid member being sized to extend between the first edge of a first structural member and the second edge of an adjacent second structural member. The apparatus further comprising first and second sockets connected to first and second ends of the rigid member each sized to receive and edge of one of the structural members therein. The method comprises engaging the first socket around the first edge of the first structural member and locating a second structural member with the second edge of the second structural member within a second socket. The method may also comprise rotating the rigid member between the first and second structural members until the first and second sockets are engaged around diagonally opposed edges the structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Int'l Structure Lock Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony T. Groenesteyn
  • Publication number: 20140373481
    Abstract: Roof truss system comprising tie rods, struts, knee rafters, and innovative connection joints to cover buildings, especially suitable for being implemented by plastic materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Monica Serafini, Fabrizio Martigli, Maddalena Martigli
  • Publication number: 20140305066
    Abstract: A corrugated metal plate comprises a plate configured to define a series of crests and troughs, where the plate has longitudinal edges extending parallel to longitudinal axes of the crests and the troughs and transverse edges extending orthogonally to the longitudinal axes of the crests and the troughs. The corrugated metal plate further comprises at least one of: at least one longitudinal flange extending from each longitudinal edge, and at least one transverse flange extending from each transverse edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: ATLANTIC INDUSTRIES LIMITED
    Inventor: Michael W. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8840074
    Abstract: An improved load bearing structure comprises a center pole is mechanically coupled to an outer helical rod by a plurality of cross helical support rods. The outer helical rod is mechanically coupled to an inner bracing triangle. The center pole, an inner helical rod and the outer helical rod are mechanically coupled to outer end bracing cross support rods and. The outer end bracing cross support rods are mechanically coupled to outer end bracing triangles. These triangles can have vertices bifurcated with lines to which the inner helical rod and the outer helical rod are attached in order to give the improved load bearing structure a shape of a helix based on Koch Snowflake with golden mean scaling such that the improved load bearing structure is substantially stronger than structures made of material of similar type and quantity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Bunch
  • Patent number: 8800238
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable modular roof truss system. In one embodiment, a portable modular roof truss system comprises at least one roof truss device comprising a roof apex collar, a crossbar, two arms, and two connecting members. The collar comprises two separate members coupled together by at least one bolt to form an opening capable of receiving a roof pole. In another embodiment, a portable modular roof truss system comprises two roof apex collars. In yet another embodiment, a roof truss device comprises a collar, a crossbar, two arms, and two connecting members. The collar comprises two separate members coupled together by a hinge to form an opening capable of receiving a roof pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Global Truss America, LLC
    Inventor: Charles J. Davies
  • Patent number: 8756895
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a plurality of parallel spaced apart trusses comprises a center socket and first and second end sockets. The center socket is sized to receive a top edge of a first truss therein whereas the first and second end sockets are each sized to receive a bottom edge of adjacent second and third truss therein. The apparatus further comprises a first brace extending between the first end socket and the center socket and a second brace extending between the second end socket and the center socket. The base panel of the first and second end sockets define a first plane substantially parallel to the bottom edges of the plurality of trusses and the base panel of the center socket defines a second plane substantially parallel to the top edge of the plurality of trusses and second plane is angularly oriented relative to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Int'l Truss Lock Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Abtar Shar Sidhu, Daniel Van Vliet
  • Publication number: 20140144097
    Abstract: A tapered truss is provided. In one embodiment, the truss has a pair of base members configured to be attached to a top surface of a vertical support member. The truss may further have an upper pair of truss members and a lower pair of truss members. Each upper truss member each forms an acute angle with a respective base member and each lower truss member forms an obtuse angle from the respective base member such that the lower truss member is not parallel to the upper truss member. The truss may additionally include a ceiling joist member connected to each of the lower truss members. In one embodiment, the ceiling joist member is substantially parallel to the pair of base members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventors: Wayne Green, Walter Green, Clarence Green, David Derwacter, Chester Prinkey, Darren Skeese, Daniel West
  • Patent number: 8713888
    Abstract: A roof panel structure having a purlin comprising a truss, the truss having a substantially horizontally disposed top surface. A nailer board is attached to the top surface, and a first subpurlin is attached to the nailer board and is extends at least partly along the top surface such that the first subpurlin is arranged to be supported by the top surface. The nailer board is arranged vertically on the top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph K. Glenn
  • Patent number: 8671642
    Abstract: A tapered truss is provided. In one embodiment, the truss has a pair of base members configured to be attached to a top surface of a vertical support member. The truss may further have an upper pair of truss members and a lower pair of truss members. Each upper truss member each forms an acute angle with a respective base member and each lower truss member forms an obtuse angle from the respective base member such that the lower truss member is not parallel to the upper truss member. The truss may additionally include a ceiling joist member connected to each of the lower truss members. In one embodiment, the ceiling joist member is substantially parallel to the pair of base members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventors: Wayne Green, Walter Green, Clarence Green, David Derwacter, Chester Prinkey, Darren Skeese, Daniel West
  • Patent number: 8627633
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable modular roof truss system for creating a symmetric roof. In one embodiment, the portable modular roof truss system comprises a collar, a crossbar, two arms, two connecting members, and a locking mechanism. The arms are elongated hollow cylinders coupled to opposing sides of the hollow cylindrical collar at a predetermined slope. The crossbar is also an elongated cylinder residing parallel to the ground and is coupled to both arms. Each hollow cylindrical connecting member is coupled to the end of an arm, respectively. Finally, the locking mechanism is coupled to the bottom portion of the collar and prevents a roof pole residing therein from moving back and forth. Each connecting member further comprises two apertures residing on opposite sides of the member used to couple the truss system to a variety of truss components (e.g., spacers, clamps, hinges, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Global Truss America, LLC
    Inventor: Charles J. Davies
  • Patent number: 8474758
    Abstract: An aircraft component assembly system for the assembly of an interior component, a pipe or an electric line in an aircraft includes at least one arc-shaped frame element, a connection element that extends between a first and a second end of the frame element, and a fastening apparatus for fastening the interior component, the pipe or the electric line to the frame element or the connection element. The system also includes a first guide device that is provided on the frame element or the connection element and is devised to interact with a second guide device, which is complementary to the first guide device and provided on an aircraft structure, in such a way that the aircraft component assembly system is connectable to the aircraft structure in a manner displaceable relative to the aircraft structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Koefinger, Joachim Metzger, Michael Auburger
  • Publication number: 20130118110
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable modular roof truss system. In one embodiment, a portable modular roof truss system comprises at least one roof truss device comprising a roof apex collar, a crossbar, two arms, and two connecting members. The collar comprises two separate members coupled together by at least one bolt to form an opening capable of receiving a roof pole. In another embodiment, a portable modular roof truss system comprises two roof apex collars. In yet another embodiment, a roof truss device comprises a collar, a crossbar, two arms, and two connecting members. The collar comprises two separate members coupled together by a hinge to form an opening capable of receiving a roof pole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: GLOBAL TRUSS AMERICA ,LLC.
    Inventor: Charles J. Davies
  • Patent number: 8434232
    Abstract: A method for constructing a truss includes selecting three or more chord elements (two or more upper chord elements and one or more lower chord elements) and one or more web elements. The selecting of the components includes estimating a first change in length for each of the two or more upper chord elements and estimating a second change in length of each of the one or more lower chord elements, the first change in length and the second change in length in response to changes in conditions to which the truss is exposed. The one or more web elements are selected from the plurality of wood members to compensate for the deformation caused by the first change in length and the second change in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser NR Company
    Inventors: John E. Jones, III, Benjamin C. Donner
  • Patent number: 8393126
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing twisting of at least one purlin. A roof construction has purlins extending between support beams to provide extra stability for the roof. To prevent purlins from twisting, a torsional brace is provided. A beam of the torsional brace extends between two of the purlins. A static clip is connected to a purlin, and a pin is used to secure one end of the beam to the clip. The other end of the beam can be similarly clipped to another purlin, or alternatively, the other beam can be bolted to the purlin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Building Concepts, Ltd.
    Inventor: Dennis P. Watson
  • Patent number: 8381457
    Abstract: A domed steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: S2 Holdings Pty Limited
    Inventor: Murray Ellen
  • Patent number: 8381456
    Abstract: A domed non-steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three non-steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three non-steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: S2 Holdings Pty Limited
    Inventor: Murray Ellen
  • Patent number: 8302360
    Abstract: A roof truss is provided comprising a bottom chord, a first top chord, and a second top chord forming a triangle with an apex at a distance A above the bottom chord. At least a web member is disposed between the top chords and the bottom chord such that, in a first state of operation, the at least a web member is capable of transmitting at least one of a tension force and a compression force between the top chords and the bottom chord. The roof truss further comprises at least an expandable interface for expandable interfacing at least one of the at least a web member with one of the chords for enabling, in a second state of operation, expansion of the distance A to an extent that uplift of the bottom chord is substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: Enzo Legnini, Santo Mazzeo, Juergen Fuchs
  • Patent number: 8122669
    Abstract: A roof truss is provided comprising a bottom chord, a first top chord, and a second top chord forming a triangle with an apex at a distance A above the bottom chord. At least a web member is disposed between the top chords and the bottom chord such that, in a first state of operation, the at least a web member is capable of transmitting at least one of a tension force and a compression force between the top chords and the bottom chord. The roof truss further comprises at least an expandable interface for expandable interfacing at least one of the at least a web member with one of the chords for enabling, in a second state of operation, expansion of the distance A to an extent that uplift of the bottom chord is substantially reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventors: Enzo Legnini, Santo Mazzeo, Juergen Fuchs
  • Patent number: 8091291
    Abstract: There is provided a structure which can reduce the lifting workload and the building workload at a high place. A structure 1 of the invention includes a rectangular frame 11 arranged horizontally, a rectangular main beam 12 arranged vertically on the frame 11, and a principal rafter 13 supporting the main beam 12 and can be built on the ground. The structure 1 is used as a greenhouse roof frame. The lifting workload and the building workload for building a greenhouse roof frame, a framework of the entire greenhouse and a greenhouse, can be greatly reduced as compared with those of the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Takehisa Ode
  • Patent number: 8082700
    Abstract: A building structure with a tubular frame structure in a hut shape may be provided with cladding in the form of curved panels to provide a temporary or emergency shelter. These panels may consist of two spaced-apart plastic sheets fused together by parallel ribs serving as webs to provide parallel channels therein, e.g., Coroplastâ„¢-like sheeting. Such sheeting is preferably stiffening with one or more battens that are inserted through the hollow channels of the panel allowing them to be used as semi-rigid cladding over the entire building structure. The outer tubular members of the frame are all curved to improve rigidity. The frame includes channels for seating the panels as well as contribute to the structural integrity of the shelter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Housall Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Miles Kennedy, Mark Edey, Reinier Halbertsma, Aldo Balatti
  • Patent number: 7921610
    Abstract: An A-frame assembly for constructing a building comprises only five major components that are formed from square, galvanized steel hollow tubing. These components include corner braces, side braces, a top brace, beams, and straight tubing. The straight tubing interconnects the other components to form a triangular frame assembly. The corner braces are secured with concrete footings or a complete foundation. A number of the frame assemblies are arrayed to form the basis of a structure. The frame assemblies are spaced apart from each other, joined with additional square tubing, and include an attic space and service spaces between the corner braces. A roofing structure is secured to the joined frame assemblies to complete the structural phase of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Garry Boatwright
  • Patent number: 7913472
    Abstract: An improved connector formed with a seat member that is stiffened by first and second reinforcing flanges that extend around first and second corners at either end of a third edge of the seat member, the first and second reinforcing flanges being connected to the third edge and to first and second edges that intersect with the third edge, the fist and second edges also having side members connected to the seat member. When used as a hanger, the connector includes a seat member, first and second backwall members which are connected to the supporting girder and first and second side members connected to the supported trusses. A flange member integrally connected to the seat provides further connection when a jack truss is supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Steve Troth, Jin-Jie Lin, Jacinta Pister
  • Publication number: 20100269421
    Abstract: A domed steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Murray Ellen
  • Publication number: 20100251631
    Abstract: A domed non-steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three non-steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three non-steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each, of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Murray Ellen
  • Patent number: 7805910
    Abstract: A device 60 for fixing together first and second side-by-side beams of a kind having first and second spaced apart flanges connected by a web. The device 60 comprises a member 62 having first and second opposing ends 64, 66 and is configured to extend from a first flange to a second flange of the beams. The device further comprises at least one portion 68, 70 extending laterally of each of said first and second opposing ends with the at least one portion at the first opposing end being configured to be fixed to an outer surface of the first flange of the first beam and the at least one portion at the second opposing end being configured to be fixed to an outer surface of the second flange of the second beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventors: Luke Richard John Whale, Douglas Wilson Cullen
  • Patent number: 7797905
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a roofing assembly. The roofing assembly can include trusses, purlins, and purlin collars. Purlins can be attached to the trusses, and purlin collars can be attached to the trusses, to the purlins, or both. The purlins and purlin collars can be attached using chemical and/or mechanical fasteners. In one embodiment, the purlins and purlin collars are attached to the trusses with nails. Another embodiment of the disclosure includes an integrated starter-terminator that includes a hat section, a fascia, and a soffit return. The starter-terminator can be attached to the purlins, the purlin collars, or both, and can be attached to the roofing system using any desired attachment mechanisms, including nails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: David L. Smalley
  • Publication number: 20100180531
    Abstract: A truss chord includes a facing surface with ridges, sides with ridges, and an attachment surface on the side to attach to frame members. The truss chord transfers the weight to the frame member, and the truss chord helps prevent lateral movement relative to the frame member. The truss chord is made of extruded aluminum, and includes a flared section at the interface between the facing surface and the side that forms an arc, and a portion at the end of the side in the shape of an arc. A truss chord system includes top and bottom truss chords connected by square tubing frame members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Vernon Eugene Arivett, David Wayne Arivett
  • Patent number: 7669379
    Abstract: A metal truss system comprising a pair of chord members of generally U-shaped cross-sectional configuration is joined together by a web formed of a single continuous piece having a wave shape. The apexes of the web are adapted to be received in each chord. The legs of the chords have inwardly recessed portions to form a narrowed throat portion, which provides a stop against which the apex of the web abuts. The resulting positioning of the web apex presents a maximum surface area for welding the web to the chord member. This enables an optimum amount of welding, while minimizing the weakening of the metal being welded. The configuration of the chords and web permits rapid fabrication of the truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Gerald Bruce Schierding
  • Publication number: 20100031586
    Abstract: A roof joist for a roof section of a modular building having an interior ceiling with a length, having an upper chord, central chord, and lower chord. The lower chord comprises: (i) a top chord segment joined to, and parallel with, the central chord; (ii) a pair of sidewall chord segments that oppose one another and extend parallel to the top chord segment; and (iii) a pair of outer flanges that extend outwardly from the sidewall chord segments to support the interior ceiling. A pair of inner flanges can also extend inwardly from the sidewall chord segments to support fixtures in the interior of the building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: Project FROG, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Miller
  • Patent number: 7637275
    Abstract: This invention relates to a telescopic post for a folding structure, which can be used to move the structure from a raised deployed position to a folded position, and vice versa. The inventive post includes a lower element which can slide inside an upper element which is solidly connected to the structure. The lower part of the lower element rests on the ground to form a base. The upper element is solidly connected to a movement device, such as caster. The caster projects downward from the base in the folded position, but is withdrawn in the deployed position owing to the vertical movement of the upper element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: VITABRI, Societe Anonyme
    Inventors: Alain Stehly, Philippe De Conto
  • Publication number: 20090293408
    Abstract: A roof truss is provided comprising a bottom chord, a first top chord, and a second top chord forming a triangle with an apex at a distance A above the bottom chord. At least a web member is disposed between the top chords and the bottom chord such that, in a first state of operation, the at least a web member is capable of transmitting at least one of a tension force and a compression force between the top chords and the bottom chord. The roof truss further comprises at least an expandable interface for expandable interfacing at least one of the at least a web member with one of the chords for enabling, in a second state of operation, expansion of the distance A to an extent that uplift of the bottom chord is substantially reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Enzo Legnini, Santo Mazzeo, Juergen Fuchs
  • Patent number: 7581358
    Abstract: A roof construction has a primary ridge member with a king post depending from the ridge member. A pair of secondary ridge members are secured in sockets in the king post at different heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Wrightman
  • Publication number: 20090163134
    Abstract: An integrated tile ridge vent system which more efficiently vents hot air along a ridge of a tile roof includes a structural sheet material formed to provide two opposing sides having feet and vents alternating along the length of the two sides. The feet provide a contact area for fastening to a roof structure, while the vents provide an opening between each of the feet to vent hot air from a tile roof ridge. A screen may be provided to screen the vents, preventing intrusion of pests and debris through the vents. Installed along a roof ridge having a gap formed by decking or sheathing materials, the vents of vent system provide elongated slots under the tiles for releasing hot air from an attic, crawl space or living area, which rises due to thermo convection of the hot air, cooling a structure and reducing humidity by releasing warm, moist air from the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: Seraphim Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Carl Peck
  • Publication number: 20090158686
    Abstract: There is provided a truss element in which space truss diagonal members can be easily integrally formed by being drawn in a predetermined direction. This truss element is formed in a corrugated shape with mountain portions 1a and valley portions 2 in left and right directions alternately and cut portions 4a, each which is perpendicular to a ridge line 3 of the mountain portion 1 and leaves a bottom of the valley portion uncut, and cut portions 4b, each which is perpendicular to a bottom line 5 of the valley and leaves a peak of the mountain portion uncut, are formed alternately with spaces in a front and back directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Yoshinari Oki, Shigeru Kinoshita, Hiroyuki Hashizumi, Yukio Kitahashi
  • Patent number: 7503148
    Abstract: An improved connector and connection formed with a seat member that is stiffened by first and second reinforcing flanges and first, second and third back wall members. When used as a hanger, the connector includes a seat member, first, second and third backwall members which are connected to a supporting girder and first and second side members are connected to the seat member. First, second, third and fourth flange arms integrally connected to the third back wall member are connected to up to four supported wood trusses or supported wood framing members which rest on the seat member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Jin-Jie Lin
  • Publication number: 20080204352
    Abstract: A movable support armature for a curved reflector of electromagnetic radiation is defined substantially as a double layer grid space frame. The armature has plural parallel major chord framing members each having an elongate axis and disposed in a frame major surface. The major chord members include a pair of bottom major chord members essentially in a bottom one of the frame major surfaces. Upper major chord members include a central chord member which is located between two outer upper chord members. The outer chord members lie in respective ones of two planes which also include the central upper chord member; the planes intersect at the central chord member at an included angle which is concave away from the frame bottom plane. Node connector structures are disposed at spaced locations along each major chord member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Glenn A. Reynolds, Dean R. Hackbarth, Gary N. Curtis
  • Patent number: 7398620
    Abstract: A universal system (100) for support and positioning of building structural support members (20, 30) includes at least one longitudinally extended base plate (110) and at least one fixing member (120, 122). The base plate (110) has a plurality of slotted openings (116) formed therethrough. The fixing member (120, 122) has a pair of longitudinally spaced upstanding support members (1202, 1222) defining a structural member receiving space (118) therebetween. At least one of the upstanding support members (1202) is formed with a pair angularly extending flanges (132) that are elastically angularly displaceable to pass through a respective slotted opening (116) having corresponding portions (1164) at a different angle (C), and then return to their original angle (D) to prevent reversibly passing back through the slot (116).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Terry V. Jones
  • Patent number: 7325362
    Abstract: A truss system and method for use in constructing a building structure comprising a first and second truss member connected to one another a distal end thereof thereby forming a peak joint. A cross bar is connected to each of the first and second truss members at an under side of the peak joint and a sleeve is connected to each of the first truss member and the second truss member at an end opposite the peak joint. Upon securing the cross bar to the first and second truss members, a truss unit is formed wherein a support member is received by the sleeves of each one of the truss units, and upon securing the support members to one another, the truss units form a frame of the building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: David Rowland
  • Patent number: 7310914
    Abstract: A truss bracket for connecting a roof to a shipping container includes an initially flat rectangular sheet of material in which is formed a longitudinally extending fold line that divides the sheet of material into a first part and a second part that are disposed at a predetermined angle relative to one another when a fold is formed in the fold line. The first part is adapted to be secured to a vertical wall of a shipping container and the second part is adapted to be engaged to a roof. A plurality of flanges are stamped from the second part and are folded out at a ninety degree angle relative to the plane of the second part to enable connection of the second part to the roof. A house is made by joining plural shipping containers together and securing a roof to the shipping container by using the truss bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: Marshall Moore