Components Adjustably Or Collapsibly Connected Patents (Class 52/645)
  • Patent number: 11933045
    Abstract: A ceiling system comprising a ceiling tile comprising a backer panel and a plurality of ceiling components assembled to the backer panel. The plurality of ceiling components include tabs that pass through openings in the backer panel and protrude from a top surface of the backer panel and that are configured to be used to mount the ceiling tile to a ceiling hanger system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: Turf Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Dustin Headley, Jason Gillette
  • Patent number: 11926420
    Abstract: An aircraft cabin partition system may include at least a first partition with a partition cut-out and a first flange with a first flange cut-out. The aircraft cabin partition system may include a first coupling assembly configured to be inserted within the first flange cut-out, configured to be inserted within an opening of a seat rail within a floor of an aircraft cabin, and configured to couple the at least the first partition to the seat rail when engaged. The aircraft cabin partition system may include at least a second partition with a second flange with a second flange cut-out. The aircraft cabin partition system may include a second coupling assembly configured to be inserted within the partition cut-out, configured to be inserted within the second flange cut-out, and configured to couple the at least the second partition to the at least the first partition when engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Trevor Skelly, Michael Krenz
  • Patent number: 11920344
    Abstract: A fire-rated component for a fire-rated joint, such as a head-of-wall assembly, includes a fire-rated assembly include a fire-rated angle and a gasket profile. The fire-rated angle can be coupled with the gasket profile to form a single unit within the head-of-wall assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: CEMCO, LLC
    Inventor: Donald Anthony Pilz
  • Patent number: 11913275
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to a gate having a frame that can fold and collapse into a compact profile for purposes of storage and travel. In an embodiment, a gate consistent with the present disclosure includes a plurality of frame members coupled together via hinged couplers. The hinged couplers provide an in-use configuration whereby the frame members occupy substantially the same plane and form a picture-frame/rectangular shape. Preferably, a foldable material such as mesh at least partially surrounds each frame member and extends between the frame members to form a sidewall. The hinged couplers include at least a first hinged coupler configured to allow for out-of-plane rotation about a first axis to fold the frame members relative to each other in a clamshell fashion, and at least a second hinged coupler to allow for in-plane rotation about a second axis to collapse the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: BABY DELIGHT, INC.
    Inventors: Steve Torosian, Mark Adamowicz, Jason Macari
  • Patent number: 11863120
    Abstract: A solar array may include a first rigid composite solar panel including solar cells secured to a first substrate. The solar array may further include a second rigid composite solar panel including solar cells secured to a second substrate. The solar array may also include solar panel modules including solar cells secured to a flexible sheet of material. The solar panel modules may be coupled between the first composite solar panel and the second composite solar panel. The solar array may be configured to be retained in a stowed arrangement with the solar panel modules between the first rigid composite solar panel and the second rigid composite solar panel. The solar array further configured to be extended with an extendable arm until each of the first rigid composite solar panel, the second rigid composite solar panel and the solar panel modules are arranged in a substantially straight line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael I. Eskenazi, Michael Edward McEachen, Christopher Peterson
  • Patent number: 11834827
    Abstract: An acoustic drop ceiling product, a dynamic acoustic drop ceiling system and related methods that include multiple differently shaped drop ceiling products that can be quickly and easily installed into a backer panel and ten onto construction drop ceiling hangers, to provide an aesthetically pleasing image, such as an undulating image, along with a reduction in unwanted noise or room acoustics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: AWI Licensing LLC
    Inventors: Dustin Headley, Jason Gillette
  • Patent number: 11802402
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is the fabrication and implementation of prefabricated volumetric construction modules that include transitioning members that adjust between vertical support columns and structural trusses via lateral joints. Modification of vertical support columns to trusses enables open space configurations in volumetric construction. Each volumetric module includes a habitation zone and a truss zone. Folding or transitioning a vertical support column at the lateral joint positions a lower region of the support column from the habitation zone into the truss zone. The vertical support columns are transitioned in a specified order where within a given row of vertical support columns. Beginning from a first interior column on an edge-positioned transforming volumetric module, workers fold half of the vertical support columns of the given row into the truss arrangement in a first direction toward the edge-positioned transforming volumetric module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Inventors: Jason Langer, Christian Moore
  • Patent number: 11702852
    Abstract: An adjustable beam may include an elongate member extending between a first end and a second end, a first connector pivotably coupled to the first end, and a second connector pivotably coupled to the second end. The first and second connectors each are configured to be releasably coupled to neighboring supporting beams and other adjustable beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Titan Formwork Systems, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Bacon, Cody M. J. Ives, Michael Q. Hendricks
  • Patent number: 11702886
    Abstract: A safety gate for preventing pets and small children from passing through an opening, the safety gate comprising: a frame for selective disposition in the opening, the frame defining a passageway; and a cross-member for adjustable mounting to the frame so as to prevent a pet or small child from passing through the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Inventor: Kyle R. Losik
  • Patent number: 11674307
    Abstract: A modular partition system includes a non-metallic polymer frame assembly. Horizontal members of frame sub-assemblies of the frame assembly are slidably engaged such that a width of a rectangular opening of the frame assembly can be adjusted by sliding the first frame sub-assembly and the second frame sub-assembly together or apart. Front surfaces of the frame sub-assemblies include notches on their front surfaces. The system also includes a non-metallic rectangular polymer panels with non-metallic pegs. If the width of the rectangular opening is adjusted to a specified width, the notches and the pegs align and the pegs can insert into the notches, thereby attaching the panel to the frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Waseem Khatri, Mazin Menkabo, Oscar Salazar
  • Patent number: 11668134
    Abstract: The present double door gate apparatus has a first lowermost frame member with a first inner end and a second lowermost frame member with a second inner end. The first and second inner ends are spaced apart and engaged by a first connector that engages exterior portions of the inner ends and a second connector that engages interior portions of the inner ends. First and second gates have inner ends that confront each other more closely than the inner ends of the lowermost frame members confront each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Inventors: Mark A. Flannery, Luke J. Duininck, Gary T. Schultze
  • Patent number: 11643810
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to insulated building structures. In one aspect of the disclosure, an insulated building structure includes a longitudinally-extending cavity bound by a first lateral surface, a second lateral surface, a back surface and a front surface, the cavity having a cross-sectional area in a plane normal to a longitudinal axis of the cavity; one or more shelves extending into the cavity, each having an occluded area in the plane that is less than the cross-sectional area of the cavity; and loose-fill insulation disposed in the cavity, loose-fill insulation being positioned above and below each of the shelves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: CertainTeed LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan Wilson, Michael J. Lembo
  • Patent number: 11585103
    Abstract: A ceiling formwork system having a formwork panel which may be placed on at least one vertical support via a mounting head. The mounting head has an anchoring cross-member which in the mounted state on the vertical support is oriented transverse thereto, the length of the anchoring cross-member corresponding to at least one side length of the ceiling formwork panel to be supported, whereby the anchoring cross-member is respectively affixable at its ends to lateral edges of the ceiling formwork panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: PERI SE
    Inventors: Thomas Raudies, Wilfried Haeberle, Stefanie Dietrich, Gisbert Eppelt
  • Patent number: 11519188
    Abstract: A holder for holding an object on a formwork panel, in particular for holding a railing component on a ceiling formwork panel, wherein the holder is configured for being affixed to the formwork panel, and the formwork panel has two longitudinal edge supports and two transverse edge supports, wherein the holder has a first arm that is configured for engaging with a longitudinal edge support of the formwork panel and a second arm that extends transverse to the first arm, forms an angle space together with the first arm, and is configured for engaging with a transverse edge support, wherein the first arm has a first projection for being introduced into an opening of the longitudinal edge support on its side facing the angle space, and the second arm has a second projection for being introduced into an opening of the transverse edge support on its side facing the angle space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: PERI SE
    Inventors: Wilfried Haeberle, Thomas Raudies
  • Patent number: 11499306
    Abstract: The present invention provides an anchor assembly for attaching a first structure to a second structure. The anchor assembly has a body having a first face and a second face. The first face is transverse to the second face and has an elongate slot. The second face has a through hole. The body is fabricated from a material that fails at a temperature in excess of 1,000° F. A fastening member is positioned in the elongate slot for connecting the first face to the first structure and for sliding engagement with the elongate slot in response to relative movement of the first structure and the second structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: Thermacrete LLC
    Inventors: Frank Schwab, David A. Markle
  • Patent number: 11447951
    Abstract: Ceiling tiles for drop ceilings are disclosed. The ceiling tiles have a main portion that is comprised of a sheet of material, such as tile material, and a baffle portion. The main portion has an enclosed slot, and the baffle portion inserts into the slot such that with the ceiling tile in an installed orientation, the baffle portion extends downwardly from the main portion. The baffle portion has a flange on one end that is larger than the slot in at least one of width or length, such that the flange retains the baffle portion in the slot. Drop ceilings that use these ceiling tiles are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: FACT Design, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Monier
  • Patent number: 11396444
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a foldable truss boom section, a truss boom and a crane. The foldable truss boom section includes: two chords that do not intersect with each other; at least two slideways fixedly disposed on each of the two chords, wherein each of the at least two slideways has at least two slideway fixing points; and at least two long web members connecting the two chords, wherein each of the at least two long web members has at least one sliding end which is slidable along the slideway and connected to the slideway at one of the at least two slideway fixing points, so that a cross-section state of the truss boom section is changeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: XUZHOU CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dandan Cui, Li Sun, Qinwei Yu, Yong Yang, Fahao Zhu
  • Patent number: 11247787
    Abstract: The embodied invention is a storage frame that supports an aircraft engine with flexible engine mounting and is easily assembled by bolts. It includes feet to anchor the frame to the ground. It has adjustable height legs and is attachable to a variety of engine mount positions. It includes a central lifting tube with lifting connections that allow the frame to be lifted by an overhead crane or forklift. The adjustable legs provide convenience in transferring the engine onto a shipping support stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: NextGen Aero Support, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Henderson
  • Patent number: 11230849
    Abstract: A lightweight, multi-function scaffold includes an adjustable height platform that slidably mounts between two ladder frames and a plurality of outriggers to increase stability. The outriggers attach to the ladder frames of the scaffold and extend beyond an end of the scaffold in the longitudinal direction to increase the maximum base width. Increasing the maximum base width increases stability in the longitudinal dimension and reduces the risk of tipping the scaffold end over end when a user climbs the ladder frame to access the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Inventor: Grady F. Smith
  • Patent number: 11097450
    Abstract: A core system for the production of a fiber composite component includes at least two core elements which are coupled to one another and are displaceable relative to one another. At least one core element has a surface which is oblique to a displacement direction. A method for producing the fiber composite component uses the core system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Christoph Eisch, Florian Spirkl
  • Patent number: 11008764
    Abstract: A foldable quad-chord truss which can be connected end-to-end with like trusses. The chords of each pair of chords are rigidly attached, and connector members intermediate the ends are each swivelly attached to each of the chords of each chord pair to effect the folding into a compact shape for transport and storage. The connector members are adapted for attachment to beams or connector members thereof which beams may extend between a parallel pair of the trusses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Paul Kristen, Inc.
    Inventors: Lambros Apostolopoulos, Davy E. Passucci, Brian Bortz
  • Patent number: 10968644
    Abstract: A kit for erecting a platform. The kit comprises a plurality of quad-chord trusses. Each truss is attachable to others of the truss by eyelets on the ends of the chords. When the chords are spaced horizontally, the eyelet apertures are vertical for receiving pins, which allows a single pin to be inserted in eyelet apertures on one side of the truss so that one truss is swingable horizontally into position for rigid attachment end-to-end by inserting another pin in eyelet apertures on the other side of the truss. Each truss comprises a plurality of connector members for attachment to the trusses along their lengths. The kit further comprises a plurality of cross beams having connector members at their ends to mate with and attach to the truss connector members, and a plurality of tie-up mechanisms attachable to the trusses and to which a supporting line from an overhead structure is attachable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Paul Kristen, Inc.
    Inventors: Lambros Apostolopoulos, Paul Apostolopoulos, Davy E. Passucci, Brian Bortz
  • Patent number: 10689866
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention surround a reusable construction guardrail or stanchion. In certain embodiments, the reusable construction guardrail has features that aid in easier and faster assembly and disassembly. In certain embodiments of the invention, the construction guardrail is transportable, having telescoping features and folding features to allow greater ease in packing and transporting. Certain embodiments of the invention include a reusable construction guardrail having a uniform construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Beziup Stanchion, LLC
    Inventors: Juan Ramon Enoch Baca, Karen Sue Major Baca, Dan Pieper
  • Patent number: 10570630
    Abstract: A suspended scaffolding connector includes a central spine comprising an anchor connector at a top end thereof, a bottom lug at a bottom end thereof, and a top lug situated between the anchor connector and bottom lug. The connector further includes at least one top truss connector attached to the top lug and at least one bottom truss connector attached to the bottom lug, where the top and bottom truss connectors are configured and spaced for structural connection to top and bottom connectors of a scaffolding truss. The connector also includes top and bottom truss ledger connectors attached to the spine and situated between the top and bottom lugs and adapted for connection to a scaffolding ledger, and the anchor connector is adapted for connection to a suspension anchor and to support the scaffolding truss through the top and bottom truss connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Inventor: Nicholas Mark Shaw
  • Patent number: 10380894
    Abstract: Provided is an information notification device (10) utilizing presence information which includes a processing unit (11) to generate, according to trigger information, at least one presence information (MESSAGE 10, MESSAGE 20, MESSAGE 30) between a first moving body (a four-wheeled vehicle (200)), and a second moving body (a two-wheeled vehicle (300) or a riding electric cart (300)), and a transmitting unit (16) which transmits the presence information to both of the four-wheeled vehicle (200) and the two-wheeled vehicle or the electric cart (300). The presence information is, for example, first presence information (MESSAGE 20) and second presence information (MESSAGE 30). The second presence information (MESSAGE 30) can cause a second processing unit (31) of the electric cart (300) to identify another presence information (34-5) representing the presence of the four-wheeled vehicle (200) around the electric cart (300) based on the second presence information (MESSAGE 30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Sawato, Atsuki Kakinuma, Takeo Tokunaga
  • Patent number: 9909314
    Abstract: The elongated double-fold foldable structural truss has a quadrilateral framework extending along a longitudinal direction. It includes four chord beam units disposed parallel to one another. Each chord beam unit includes two spaced-apart and juxtaposed beams running parallel to one another. The beams define between them a first open channel that is opened on one of the inner sides of the chord beam unit. The structural truss further includes four web units having brace members. The brace members of at least two of the web units are telescopic. The telescopic brace members are all in their extended position when the structural truss is in its unfolded position and being all in their retracted position when the structural truss is in its folded position. The foldable structural truss is very compact in its folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: LES ENCEINTES ACOUSTIQUES UNISSON INC.
    Inventors: Pierre Jobin, Jean-Francois Ducharme, Johnny Bouchard
  • Patent number: 9755414
    Abstract: An overhead electrical grounding mesh and mechanical grid structure for a data center includes a plurality of orthogonally arranged grid beams. Each of the grid beams is a rigid and electrically conductive grid beam to provide an overhead structure configured to be positioned over electronic equipment in the data center. The grid structure is configured to provide support for electronic equipment connected to the grid structure and to provide support for mechanical equipment in the data center that is connected to the grid structure. The grid structure is further adapted to be electrically coupled to the electronic equipment to provide an electrically conductive ground mesh for the electronic equipment in the data center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: LEVITON MANUFACTURING CO.
    Inventors: Bryan Sparrowhawk, Jeffrey P. Seefried
  • Patent number: 9228390
    Abstract: There is provided a safety door having a rotary body hinged to a door frame and a slider overlapping with an end of the rotary body. The safety door includes a fastening portion provided on at least one surface of an overlapping region of the rotary body and the slider, thus preventing separation and deformation of the overlapping region and guiding a movement of the slider, and a stopper preventing the slider from being removed from the rotary body and fixing or restricting a position of the slider. The rotary body and the slider decrease a width of a door by an overlapping movement of a female guide groove and a male protrusion. The safety door further includes a resilient pad provided between the protrusion and the guide groove and supporting an impact generated by a reduction in the width of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventors: Ye Myung Lee, Min Jung Suh
  • Patent number: 8991131
    Abstract: A construction system for use in building a frame for a curved structure includes a plurality of elements fastened together to construct the frame. The construction system includes a plurality of flexible strips affixed to one another to form the frame of the curved structure, each flexible strip having a plurality of apertures and connection nodes disposed throughout a longitudinal axis of the strip. A user orients each flexible strip to a desired curvature and engages one of the connection nodes of the flexible strip with an aperture of one of the plurality of flexible strips. The flexible strips may be plastic to enable the user to create the frame of a curved structure as a stand alone unique work of art or a paper mache support. The flexible strips may be steel to enable the user to create the frame of a curved structure of a full-sized building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Baojing Lu
  • Publication number: 20150075108
    Abstract: An extendable and retractable column which is formed from at least three linked sections or chains. The linked sections include a plurality of individual segments linked end to end. As the linked segments are extended, each of the individual segments of the linked chains engage individual segments of adjacent linked sections to form a column. As the linked sections are retracted, each of the individual segments of the linked sections disengage from the individual segment of the adjacent linked sections and the individual linked sections may be rolled up into a multi-sided form for compact storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: David George Kensinger, Steven George Kensinger, Eric T. Ohme, Dale A. Ohme
  • Patent number: 8978337
    Abstract: The present invention includes a baluster assembly system comprising: (a) a first baluster portion comprising a first tubular section and having a first attachment adapted to be attached to a surface, and a first engagement end; (b) a second baluster portion comprising a second tubular section and having a second attachment adapted to be attached to a surface, and a second engagement end; the first tubular section adapted to slidingly engage the second tubular section, and (c) a locking fixture adapted to fix the position of the first baluster portion with respect to the second baluster portion after the first tubular section and the second tubular section have been engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Carolina Stair Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew S. Edwards
  • Patent number: 8915041
    Abstract: A truss hinge that allows hinging between truss parts, and also allows configuration into a different size, and spreads the angle of the truss open ends. One embodiment uses a first plate, having a connection part to a first truss, where the connection part is adapted for connection to a first truss. A second plate is movable relative to the first plate. The second plate also has a second connection part adapted for connection to a second truss. An angle setting part forms a connection between the first plate and the second plate, that holds the first plate relative to the second plate at any of a number of different relative locations between the first plate and the second plate. The plates include angle markings to set the connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Production Resource Group LLC
    Inventor: James Kempf
  • Patent number: 8844214
    Abstract: A support system for a solar panel includes a triangular truss with connection points for mounting a photovoltaic module, and a cradle structure that supports the triangular truss and is connected to at least two side supports of the triangular truss. The cradle structure may be driven for rotation about an axis for tracking the sun and several cradle structures can be linked together for tracking movement using a buried linkage system. The truss may also be foldable for ease of transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: John Hartelius
  • Patent number: 8844238
    Abstract: A support member for supporting a reinforcement material in a composite structure comprises a base member and first and second vertical leg members on opposing sides of the base member. The first and second vertical leg members have a first height relative to the base member. The first and second vertical leg members each have an opening configured to receive at least one strand of the at least one layer of reinforcement material. Third and fourth vertical leg members are on opposing sides of the base member and have a second height relative to the base member different from the first height of the first and second vertical leg members. The third and fourth vertical leg members each have an opening configured to receive at least one strand of the at least one layer of reinforcement material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Concrete Countertop Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin Joseph Baldoni, Dario Joseph Baldoni
  • Patent number: 8813455
    Abstract: A deployable truss with modified primary orthogonal joints. The construction of these joints causes the center-hinged primary chords on opposite sides of a truss bay to fold inward in a plane orthogonal to the folding planes of the side diagonals while the two secondary chords fold in planes orthogonal to the plane of the in-folding primary chords. This provides for stiffness and stability during deploy and retract. The unique joint configuration permits the truss to deploy one bay at a time in a stable manner while having lateral bending stiffness, and the truss thus can extend and retract in a sequential manner. It can deploy integral flat panels nested between the secondary folding chords, or use cross bracing in lieu of panels. The truss can be triangular, square or rectangular in cross-section. A powered support frame may be used in conjunction with the truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Donald V. Merrifield
  • Patent number: 8789335
    Abstract: A portable structure including a plurality of beams having a first engagement feature and a plurality of junction devices having a second engagement feature. The first engagement features and corresponding second engagement features are rigidly engageable, the rigidly engaged engagement features defining a multi-point connection therebetween. The engagement features are manually actuatable and self-contained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Tait Towers Manufacturing, LLC.
    Inventors: Adam Davis, Tyler Kicera
  • Publication number: 20140182232
    Abstract: A lattice support structure or tower comprising one or more open matrix composite strut members connecting a series of interlocking connectors to create a ridged support platform for telecommunications, surveillance, renewable energy, lighting and energy transmission applications. Embodiments of the invention are telescoping for ease of transport and erection. The erection and deployment can be achieved through means of automatic deployment or manual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventor: Drew Ryan Holt
  • Publication number: 20140165495
    Abstract: A foldable carport comprising a header having a hinge socket fastened to an inhabitable structure and, a connection beam, a tilt beam, and a roof deck spanning between the two beams, all of which comprise a roof assembly. The connection beam includes a hinge member that is received into the header socket thereby operably connecting the roof assembly to the header. The operable connection allows the roof assembly to be positioned in an erected position or a folded position. When erected, the tilt beam is supported by a plurality of posts that may bear on a concrete slab, footing, or the ground. The foldable carport may also include a carrier plate coupled to the mobile residence configured to fasten the roof assembly to the mobile residence when the carport is in the folded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: White Aluminum Products, LLC
    Inventor: William Malcolm Dorman
  • Patent number: 8677716
    Abstract: A framing member incorporates a series of web slots along a portion of the member that are expanded through the process of manufacture. The expansion of the web slots creates voids and metal web elements in the webbed portion of the member, which can be a stud. The voids created during the expansion process can become the voids for running wiring, plumbing and heating ducts. The web elements can be designed to minimize thermal transmission from the exterior to the interior of a wall including the member, as well as provide adequate structure properties required from the structural member. The expanded slots allow the part to enlarge without increasing the amount of raw material and therefore substantially reducing the cost to manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20140026514
    Abstract: A portable structure including a plurality of beams having a first engagement feature and a plurality of junction devices having a second engagement feature. The first engagement features and corresponding second engagement features are rigidly engageable, the rigidly engaged engagement features defining a multi-point connection therebetween. The engagement features are manually actuatable and self-contained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: TAIT TOWERS, INC.
    Inventors: Adam DAVIS, Tyler KICERA
  • Patent number: 8621815
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having lattice bars in connection with one another, wherein the lattice support structure has lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure as well as lattice bars directly or indirectly connecting them, wherein the connecting lattice bars are connected to the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction such that the spacing of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure can be reduced on the folding in of the lattice support structure and can be enlarged on the unfolding of the lattice support structure, characterized in that one, several or all of the connecting lattice bars are not displaceably arranged on the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction, but are rather pivotably arranged at the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction or are pivotably arranged at further connecting lattice bars which are in turn pivotably arranged a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Prodelta Investments B.V.
    Inventors: Kamal Daas, Doron Livnat
  • Patent number: 8616328
    Abstract: A tensegrity apparatus having multiple tensegrity units for the transmission of solitary waves with adjustable profiles into a material or structure, and the detection of such waves from a material or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Chiara Daraio, Fernando Fraternali
  • Patent number: 8613177
    Abstract: A self-mounting modular structure comprises profiled peripheral columns (1, T) which exhibit upper overlapped and spaced fulcrums (2, 2?), wherein the rear portions of two series of crosspieces (3, 3?) engage, the front ends whereof connect to upper (4) and lower (41) fulcrums of the central support rack (5) of a control unit (6) the stem whereof (7) connects, through a coaxial joint (8) and movable radial levers (9), to the front extensions (3?) of the lower crosspieces (31). In feedback, the stem (7) rises and pushes the columns (1, T) outwards, which move on standard or roller tracked wheels (11), causing the lifting in the middle and “at the ceiling” of the crosspieces (3, 3?), located within the same columns. Peripheral section bars (19), also comprised in closure in the peripheral columns (1, T), delimit the structure with roll-up sheets (21), along with an upper cover (22) engaged, in the middle, with said rack (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: Tiziano Pili
  • Patent number: 8613176
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a support structure system having a first support structure and having a second support structure, wherein the second support structure is at least partly received in the first support structure in at least one position of the support structure system; in that both support structures are able to be displaced or telescoped relative to one another; and in that the first and/or the second support structure is/are formed by a lattice support structure which can be inwardly folded and outwardly folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignees: Prodelta Investments b.v.
    Inventors: Kamal Daas, Doron Livnat
  • Patent number: 8596015
    Abstract: An anti-theft device is provided comprising a frame comprising at least three interconnected sides. A plurality of interconnected frame members define the at least three interconnected sides of the device. A longitudinal extent or a vertical extent of one of the interconnected frame members is slidably movable within a bore of a longitudinal extent or a vertical extent of another of the interconnected frame members to a desired position, thereby allowing the device to be adjusted in one of a horizontal or vertical direction. The plurality of interconnected frame members define at least a rectangular-shaped region on each of the at least three interconnected sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Stephen A. Coon
  • Patent number: 8484925
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having longitudinally extending supports which are connected to one another by obliquely extending struts and are also connected to one another in the state of the lattice support structure ready for operation by transversely extending struts provided with a joint, with the struts being pivotably connected to two respective preferably adjacent supports, with at least one connection strut being provided which connects two supports to one another which are not adjacent to one another and which are preferably disposed opposite one another, and with the at least one connection strut and/or at least one component of the lattice support structure connected thereto having fastening means or being connected or connectable thereto, with the fastening means being made such that they prevent a folding together of the lattice support structure in at least one position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignees: Kamal Daas, ProData Investments b.v.
    Inventors: Kamal Daas, Doron Livnat
  • Patent number: 8464493
    Abstract: A configuration, all components of which are man portable in some embodiments, for holding panels to protect assets against external force and impacts from airborne projectiles. An open box-like stackable frame module holds panels along a side of the frame. Multiple frames are connected to construct a protective barrier, such as a wall. Frames include provisions for connection in a vertical configuration so as to allow stacking of the frames to increase the height of the barrier. A method of installing is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Nicholas Boone, Bartley P. Durst, Toney K. Cummins, Pamela G. Kinnebrew, William F. Heard, Thomas R. Slawson, Michael J. Roth, Ryan Stinson, Reed Mosher, Jerry C. Edwards, Andrew B. Edwards, Jason D. Edwards, Shane H. Sanford, Robert A. Pilgrim
  • Publication number: 20130133273
    Abstract: Foldable building units are provided based on structural frame and connection assembly designs that enable greater construction efficiency and flexibility. The structural frame and connection assembly designs allow for easier connection of frame elements in the prefabrication process of the foldable building units and for easier connection of frame elements at the building site, for example, of foldably connected frame elements after unfolding. They also allow for more finish in the pre-fabrication process, and/or less and faster work at the building site, for example, by enabling conventional structural lumber grids that can be continuous through the edges and corners of the building envelope for conventional exterior finishing, while providing a tight building envelope with reduced heat transfer, particularly, through the edges of the foldable building unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Dennis Michaud, Elizabeth Rothwell, Everett Morton, Steven Eason, Paul Kassabian
  • Patent number: 8430092
    Abstract: A boiler for a solar receiver includes a panel support structure. A boiler stay is operatively connected to the panel support structure. A panel stay is slideably engaged to the boiler stay. A boiler panel is operatively connected to the panel stay with the panel stay being affixed to a plurality of tubes of the panel. The boiler stay and panel support assemblies are configured and adapted to slide with respect to one another to accommodate thermal expansion of the boiler panel. In certain embodiments, a pin connects the boiler stay and the panel stay, wherein the pin is removable for installation and removal of the panel from the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Babcock Power Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Plotkin, Russell Ricci, Ivo Slezak
  • Patent number: 8407950
    Abstract: A support system for a solar panel includes a triangular truss with connection points for mounting a photovoltaic module, and a cradle structure that supports the triangular truss and is connected to at least two side supports of the triangular truss. The cradle structure may be driven for rotation about an axis for tracking the sun and several cradle structures can be linked together for tracking movement using a buried linkage system. The truss may also be foldable for ease of transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: John Hartelius