Abstract: A space frame is provided having a first set of nodes located along a first surface and a second set of nodes located along a second surface, and a unitary cell. The second surface non-intersecting the first surface. The unitary cell comprises at least four continuous web elements and extending in three dimensions. The unitary cell spans at least two nodes of the first set of nodes and at least two nodes of the second set of nodes.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for providing pre-assembled modular structural louvered systems that include structural supports and louvers, and may also include dampers, actuators and wiring in pre-assembled modules that may be transported to a building site, tilted up into place, and installed. Embodiments of the present invention also provide methods and apparatus for providing pre-assembled modular structural louvered systems which include integrated vertical and horizontal structural supports, allowing for the elimination of some vertical and horizontal wall structures in a building by relying on the structural support provided in the modular louvered systems, thereby making more space available in the building for louvers and airflow.

Abstract: A stereolithography method of manufacture of a polymer structure having a spatially gradient dielectric constant, including: providing a volume of a liquid, radiation-curable composition; irradiating a portion of the liquid, radiation-curable composition with activating radiation in a pattern to form a layer of the polymer structure; contacting the layer with the liquid, radiation-curable composition; irradiating the liquid, radiation-curable composition with activating radiation in a pattern to form a second layer on the first layer; and repeating the contacting and irradiating to form the polymer structure, wherein the polymer structure comprises a plurality of unit cells wherein each unit cell is integrally connected with an adjacent unit cell, each unit cell is defined by a plurality of trusses formed by the irradiation, wherein the trusses are integrally connected with each other at their respective ends, and the trusses of each unit cell are dimensioned to provide the spatially gradient dielectric const

Abstract: A large-angle sloping roof steel structure connected to a main body structure, including: an intermediate platform, inclined main supporting steel columns circumferentially connected at four corners of the intermediate platform, constructing steel columns and wind-proof surrounding beam connected between top ends of the inclined main supporting steel columns, where roof purlin are connected between the adjacent inclined main supporting steel columns at intervals. The invention provides a top-down inverted construction method for a large-angle sloping roof with a steel structure as the main structural form. By using the method, the operation safety of an inclined main stressed vertical member during the installation process can be ensured, and the investment of supporting measures is reduced by preferentially installing the intermediate platform, thus effectively ensuring the installation progress, quality and safety of the sloping roof steel structure.

Abstract: Provided is an asymmetric three-dimensional lattice structure in which physical properties of a strut of a symmetric three-dimensional lattice structure is asymmetrically changed so as to adjust a band gap and a frequency range of a wave propagated in a particular direction in the three-dimensional lattice structure. An embodiment of the present disclosure also provides a lattice structure having six struts, four nodes, a first coating layer, and a second coating layer. The basic structure of the six struts is formed of polymer and the strut's basic structure has a same length L and radius r. Some struts may have a different thickness ratio between the first coating layer and the second coating layer, or may be coated with different materials to thereby have different properties.

Abstract: What is presented is a unit cell that has a cellular geometry that comprises cell walls and cell edges arranged into a combination of a cubic cell geometry and a tetrahedral cell geometry and assembled structures that comprise a plurality of unit cells. The voids of the unit cell created by the combination of geometries comprise regular tetrahedrons, irregular tetrahedrons, and octahedrons. In some embodiments, the thickness of selected cell walls can vary and in some embodiments have zero thickness. In some embodiments selected cell walls and selected cell edges have a varied thickness. In other embodiments selected cell walls are non-planar. In some embodiments selected cell walls may have one or more holes. Selected cell edges of some embodiments of unit cell may have varying cross-sectional geometry that vary along a length of the cell edge. Some embodiments of the unit cell may comprise fillets to blunt stress concentrations.

Abstract: The invention concerns a recoverable gabion for use in protecting military or civilian installations from weapons assault or from elemental forces, such as flood waters, lava flows, avalanches, soil instability, slope erosion and the like. The gabion comprises opposed side walls comprising a plurality of side wall elements connected together at spaced intervals by a plurality of partition walls such that spaces between neighboring pairs of partition walls define, together with the side walls, individual compartments of the gabion, adjacent side and partition walls being connected to one another by pivotal connections enabling the gabion to be folded between fully flattened and deployed configurations, wherein at least one of the pivotal connections is a releasable connection which when released allows a side wall element to open with respect to the gabion to allow access from the side of the gabion to any contents of the gabion compartments.

Abstract: Direct connection between a tube and a flat element by means of a connector preferably formed by stamping on the tube itself, which enables joining the latter to the flat element, without auxiliary elements, by nest-like insertion of same into the flat element and subsequent attachment by means of screws, rivets, bolts, pins or other elements.

Abstract: A support system for a trough-shaped solar collector assembly includes a support arm comprising first and second curved rails and an interconnecting web structure. The web structure is secured along first and second opposite edges thereof to first and second web engaging structures, which are provided along facing surfaces of the first and second rails, respectively. Prior to fixedly securing the web structure to the web engaging structure of the first and second curved rails, the location and/or the orientation of the web structure are adjustable for supporting interconnection of the first and second curved rails with different rates of convergence between the first and second curved rails. The support arm further includes a plurality of mirror-attachment brackets coupled to the first rail for attaching the trough-shaped solar collector assembly to the support arm and structure attachment brackets for mounting the support arm to a structure.

Abstract: The present invention is an enclosed and transportable skid mounted utility apparatus. The apparatus includes an enclosure disposed on a transportable skid. The enclosure has a floor, end and side walls and a roof. The enclosure also includes one or more generator assemblies. The one or more generator assemblies provide power to one or more breaker boxes located in the enclosure. The one or more breaker boxes transfer the power to one or more transformers located on a wall of the enclosure. The one or more transformers transform and transfer the power to an electrical distribution panel in the enclosure. A water tank is also disposed in the enclosure. A water manifold is coupled to the water tank, and the water manifold includes a pump that uses power generated from the one or more generator assemblies.

Abstract: A double axis frame strut has a strut frame and a tongue that extends from a distal end of the strut frame. The tongue can be rigidly coupled to an axle that is rotatably coupled to the strut frame and extends from a distal end of the strut frame. The tongue can rotate relative to the strut frame and the tongue can include a hole which can be coupled to other double axis frame struts or other structure. The hole in the tongue can define a first axis of rotation and the axle can define a second axis of rotation. The axis of the hole in the tongue can be perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the tongue relative to the strut frame.

Abstract: A tower having a lattice structure for improved structural reliability and load bearing.

Abstract: A support structure of the type used as a truss for entertainment productions is disclosed. The support structure includes a plurality of frame segments arranged to form a truss and an implement bracket attached to the truss, the implement bracket connecting an implement to the truss. The implement bracket deploys from a stowed position within a space defined by the truss through a window of the truss formed by truss frame segments to a working position outside the space defined by the truss.

Abstract: A solar trough frame for holding solar mirrors includes a plurality of chords. The frame includes a plurality of extruded profiles, including chords, chord sleeves, struts, strut end pieces and mirror support pieces, each chord sleeve having at least one chord sleeve fin, each chord sleeve positioned about one of the chords. The frame includes a plurality of struts, at least one of the struts having a strut end piece having at least one strut fin that connects with a chord sleeve fin to connect the plurality of chords. The frame includes a platform supported by the chords and struts on which the solar mirrors are disposed. A chord sleeve for connecting a chord of a solar frame which supports solar mirrors to a strut end piece extending from a strut of the solar frame. A strut end piece for connecting the strut of a solar frame which supports solar mirrors to a chord sleeve of the solar frame. A method for linking a strut of a solar frame which supports solar mirrors to a chord of the solar frame.

Abstract: A node for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a support frame such as a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A method for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A system for supporting solar reflectors includes a first support frame upon which the solar reflectors are disposed. A method for forming a support frame for solar reflectors. A system for constructing a support frame from parts, including chords, for solar reflectors. A method for constructing a support frame for solar reflectors. A support frame for solar reflectors.

Abstract: Preforms for open structured (lattice) composite tubular members manufactured from large (i.e. high filament count) prepreg yarns on a conventional maypole braiding machine, and subsequently cured to produce fiber reinforced composites of high strength and light weight.

Abstract: A tensegrity structure with one or more tensegrity units formed by a membrane in combination with three or more elongate compression members obliquely disposed in a spiral relationship in compression within the membrane. The ends of the compression members within each tensegrity unit and in adjacent tensegrity units are spaced from one another, and the compression members of adjacent tensegrity units overlap along a longitudinal dimension. The membrane forms anticlastic curves and has variable double curvature between ends of compression members. Multiple tensegrity units can form a column, which can be tapered, curved, or otherwise constructed.

Abstract: A web structure including a generally octahedron-shaped frame having a first set of a plurality of points oriented in a first plane, and a second set of a plurality of points oriented in a second plane generally parallel to the first plane. The first and second sets of points are connected to each other by hyperbolic or curved segments.

Abstract: A structural apparatus for carrying loads and transferring forces to ground, the apparatus having a plurality of nodes, each having a spherical core, the core having a spherical surface. Each one of the nodes having a plurality of housing frames secured in fixed selected positions in contact with the surface. Each one of the nodes having a plurality of housing hubs secured by the housing frames in contact with the surface and free to circularly rotate about a radius of the core, and each one of the nodes has a plurality of fasteners, each of the fastener having a head and a shaft extending from the head, the head constrained between the surface and a housing hub positioning the shaft in a radial attitude relative to the core. A plurality of struts interconnect the nodes and the struts are joined with the shafts at their opposing ends.

Abstract: A modular food storage apparatus for storing dry goods and/or perishable goods. The food storage apparatus may be fixed or mobile. The apparatus includes a scalable frame. A plurality of scalable side panels are securely affixed to the frame. A plurality of scalable roofing panels are securely affixed to the frame and to the side panels. The food storage apparatus may be stationary and affixed to a concrete foundation. The apparatus may be modified with monitoring devices and venting devices for storage of dry goods. The apparatus may be modified for storage of perishable goods using refrigeration or a controlled atmosphere environment.

Abstract: A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller. A support system for mirrors of a solar trough system.

Abstract: A framing structure (10) includes elements that are integrally connected by a poured bonding core (18). The elements include a hollow-interior column (12) having an opening (22) in a wall (20) that allows access to the interior and a beam (14) having a cavity (28) that is configured to receive a pourable bonding material (18). The beam (14) is positioned with respect to the column (12) such that the cavity (28) is aligned with the opening (22). Flooring sections (16) are supported by the beams (14).

Abstract: Boat cabin construction, which can be built in significantly short time, is low cost and suitable for decorative modifications.

Abstract: A method for creating a tapered spiral welded conical structure where the overall shape of the cone is first graphically slit axially and unwrapped, and then a series of construction arcs and lines are created to form the edge lines of a strip that can then be wrapped (rolled) to form a tapered conical structure. The edges of the spirally wound strip can be welded together, and a very large conical structure can thus be achieved. Various construction options are presented from a constant width strip to strip made from straight segments. Equations are given for the formation of the strips to enable those skilled in the art of spiral welded tubing to practice the invention.

Abstract: The KE architectural element is a component of a building or space. Designed by a licensed architect, interior designer, and general contractor, the KE architectural element will revolutionize the creative design approach to space planning of interiors. Used as a template tool, the KE architectural element will influence the arrangement of spaces. The KE architectural element will result in the efficient, effective, and sustainable solution of any project. The KE architectural element is formed out of standard metal framing parts and can fit any actual condition. Easy to assemble, the KE architectural element will be the central hub for all utility infrastructures, which is housed in compartments and distributed within zoned layers according to specified locations. The KE architectural element will adapt to a number of standard configurations of plumbing fixture, appliance, and cabinetry layouts.

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.

Abstract: An intercoupled piping assembly comprising first and second elongated pipes, and a coupler for orthogonally coupling them together. A preferred embodiment provides for the intercoupling piping assembly to be used in connection with tubular building structures having a plurality of elongated pipes coupled together to form a coverable structure and a fabric to cover the structure.

Abstract: A node for a solar frame including an elongate portion having a channel extending through it in which a structural element is disposed or a solid elongate portion on to which a structural element is disposed. The node comprises a fin extending radially outward from the elongate portion where at least 5% of the volume of the fin is replaced by at least a single void extending essentially in parallel with the channel or the extrusion direction of the solid elongate portion. An apparatus for transmitting torque in a solar frame having structural elements and a support. A system for solar mirrors. A node for a solar frame. A method for connecting a structural element with a strut having a strut end piece of a solar mirror support frame. A method for producing a node for solar mirror frame.

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.

Abstract: A bamboo frame member mounting structure includes multiple bamboo frame members that are respectively bonded to one another at a predetermined angle with an adhesive, one or a plurality of pin holes obliquely extending through each bamboo frame member, and one or a number of pins peripherally coated with a layer of an adhesive and respectively fitted into the pin hole or pin holes on each of two bonded bamboo frame members to enhance the connection of each two bonded bamboo frame members.

Abstract: A stage comprising a support structure, a stage platform supported by the support structure and a fenced enclosure provided above the stage platform. The support structure includes an upstanding central support column; upstanding outer support columns provided around the central support column substantially equidistant from the central support column with adjacent pairs of the support columns all substantially equidistant; main beam members each extending between the central support column and a respective one of the outer support columns; and transversal beam members each extending between a respective pair of adjacent ones of the outer support columns. The main beam members are fixedly anchored to the central and outer support columns and the transversal beam members are coupled to support channels of the outer support columns while remaining slidable relative thereto.

Abstract: A panel and panel systems are described herein and can include a rigid panel that includes a plurality of apertures and an undulating pattern. The panel acts to block sunlight and may otherwise protect the area behind the panel. In an example, the panel is fixed in a spaced apart relation to a building. The panel or panels block a portion of the direct sunlight to assist in the environmental control of the building. The panel can be strong enough to further protect the building from weather damage or other damage.

Abstract: A reinforcement element for absorbing forces in concrete elements that are supported by support elements includes a longitudinally stable, flexible longitudinal element. This element is placed in recesses in the concrete element which are disposed in such a way that in the region of the support element the reinforcement element runs in the area of the concrete element remote from the support element. The end regions of the reinforcement element each run at an acute angle toward the surface of the concrete element turned toward the support element, and exit from the concrete element. Both end regions of the longitudinally stable, flexible longitudinal element are diverted around the respective exit edge of the recesses, are led into a tensioning device, are held therein, and can be tensioned with respect to one another. The reinforcement element thereby forms a closed loop; the arising forces can be absorbed in an optimal way.

Abstract: A load-bearing three-dimensional structure including a skeletal structure formed by a sheet of material having a plurality of bend lines, each bend line including a plurality of folding displacements, wherein the sheet of material is bent along the bend lines into a box-section; and a reinforcing member configured for substantially surrounding a portion of the skeletal structure when bent into a box-section to reinforce the structural integrity of the skeletal structure. A method of manufacturing the three-dimensional structure is also disclosed.

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.

Abstract: Support structure for solar collector for use in cylindrical parabolic collectors to support a cylindrical parabolic reflector and an absorbing tube The structure includes a main bearing structure on which a plurality of support arms for the parabolic mirrors are supported The main bearing structure is formed by two rectangular lattice grids, a top one and another bottom one, in a parallel and overlaying arrangement, linked together by four laterally-disposed mini-lattices, in twos at each end, and by a plurality of external lateral ties bars and internal diagonal tie bars.

Abstract: A space truss system for use in foundations, floors, walls, and roofs is provided. The space truss system comprises structural rods with each structural rod having a first portion having a first end and a second end, a middle portion having a first end and a second end, and a second end portion having a first end and a second end. The second end of the first portion is joined to the first end of the middle portion at a first predetermined angle and the second end of the middle portion is joined to the second end of the second portion at a second predetermined angle. The first portions of a portion of the structural rods are grouped together forming a first pyramid structure with the first ends of the middle portions forming an apex and the second ends of the middle portions forming a base.

Abstract: Loq·kit is a mass-produced system of interchangeable building components for assembling single or multi-family houses. The building components are of three varieties: structural frame, in-fill, or snap-cladding components. Except for bolted structural frame connections, all connections between parts are snap-lock, and may be released. With snap-lock interfaces and a modular dimensional relationship between components, they can be reconfigured in near endless variety. The components all share a common dimensionality that is derived from a regulating grid. The grid utilizes an alternating sequence of two modules—a module A, and a smaller module B. The A,B,A,B rhythm of gridlines is used to regulate component connection locations in three dimensions. The alternating-sequence grid works by establishing a standard connection width, module B, for making connections between components. Each possible connection width is spaced from another by a common module A.

Abstract: An interlocking support structure has an array of rectangular cells arranged in at least one layer, each cell having four sides, opposite ends, and eight corners, and sharing common sides and corners with any adjacent cells. The cells are formed by sets of spaced, parallel elongate members extending in x, y and z directions, with the x, y and z members interlocked with one another at the corners of the cells to form interlocking corner joints. Each structural member is hollow at least in the vicinity of each corner joint with which it intersects, and communicates with the other structural members at the respective corner joints. A plug of hardened, initially flowable material fills the hollow interior of the interlocking structural members at least at the corner joints and adheres to the internal surfaces of the members at the corner joints to secure the members together at each corner in the rectangular array.

Abstract: A screen panel for use in a vibrating screen device. The screen panel has a plurality of in-flow slots and cross-flow slots arranged in a regular pattern to provide enhanced open area for a given slot size.

Abstract: A device supporting a first and a second element of a piece of space equipment. The device includes at least two deployable flexible arms each having a first end and a second end, the ends are secured respectively to the first and second elements and each designed to adopt at least one initial position folded in curves and an unfolded final position, in which positions they hold the first element away from the second element by first and second chosen distances respectively, the second distance being greater than the first.

Abstract: A family of beam cross-connections, including column/beam and beam/beam connections, between beams and columns in a building frame. Each connection within a cross-connection features (a) a pair of parallel-spaced, upright, planar plate components operatively associated with either a side of a column or a side of a beam, (b) an elongate, generally horizontal cross-connection beam including a generally upright, planar central web with an end which, with respect to a pair of such plate components, extends into the space that exists between those components, and (c) a structural relationship involving the plate components in a pair which accommodates (1) vertical-motion placement of a web end between the components, with (2) the automatic establishment thereby of correct relative, spatial, three-dimensional relationships and dispositions of the specific, associated column and/or beam elements so connected.

Abstract: A metal truss comprises elongated top chord members connected to each other at their ends. A first elongated bottom chord member is connected at its ends to the top chord members adjacent the free ends of the top chord members. A second elongated bottom chord member is connected at its ends to the top chord members, or directly to the first bottom chord member via spacers, such that the second bottom chord member is spaced below the first bottom chord member. At least one web member is positioned between and interconnecting at least one top chord member and the first bottom chord member. One end of the web member is connected to the at least one top chord member and the other end of the web member is connected to the first bottom chord member.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a three-dimensional cellular light structure formed of continuous wire groups. In the cellular light structure, six orientational-wire groups are intercrossed each other at 60 degrees or 120 degrees of angles in a three-dimensional space to thereby construct the structure similar to the ideal Octet or Kagome truss and having a good mechanical property such as strength, rigidity or the like. A method of mass-producing the structure in a cost-effective manner is also disclosed. The three-dimensional cellular light structure has a similar form to the ideal Octet or Kagome truss. When required, the intersection points of the wires are bonded by means of welding, brazing, soldering, or a liquid- or spray-form adhesive to provide a structural material having a light weight and a good mechanical strength and rigidity. It can be made into a fiber-reinforced type composite material by filling part of or entire internal empty space of the structure.

Abstract: A foldable truss having a pair of side frames hinged together by a foldable arm allowing the truss to be collapsed to a smaller width while maintaining the truss length as a constant.

Abstract: A construction set for allowing a user to construct a variety of different structures comprising a plurality of Type A beams, a plurality of Type B beams, a plurality of base columns, a plurality of intermediate columns, a plurality of base plates attached to the base columns, and a plurality of deck pieces for laying atop the beams to create a floor.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a box-shaped structure of inter-related structural components. The structural components are combined to create a single three dimensional component the shape of a rectangular prism. The structure is formed by creating a pair of exterior walls from horizontal members and a series of laterally spaced vertical members that are coupled to the horizontal members by truss plates. The structure also includes a series of laterally spaced rectangular ribs that are coupled to the exterior walls by additional truss plates. The ribs and the walls are further coupled by use of wood sheeting along the top of the structure to form the resultant assembly. The entire assembly is connected together with a series of bolt and steel angle connectors, allowing the entire module to act monolithically.

Abstract: Construction elements and methods of using and making them in a structurally strong manner are disclosed. The construction element and the method of making it may be in the form of an elongated beam, a post or other. The element may include a generally tubular open frame formed of a series of conjoined octahedral sections constructed and arranged in a side by side manner joined together by conjoined pairs of tetrahedral sections disposed intermediate the octahedral sections. Each pair of octahedral sections may be constructed and arranged such that they are conjoined together by a common member, also common with the intermediate tetrahedral sections. The method may include forming an upright structure, using at least one large construction element having a plurality of octahedral and tetrahedral sections, and positioning at least one small construction element within an opening within the sections of the large construction element and affixing thereto.

Abstract: Triangular elements for forming geodesic structures each have three elongated leg members arranged end-to-end to form three apexes. At least one of the apexes is formed with a curved-shaped indentation which extends along an outer surface and perpendicular to the opposing side surfaces. The legs of each triangular element also include one or more outer grooves extending longitudinally along the outer surface. Each outer groove is sized to receive a seal member. An inwardly raised shoulder extends longitudinally along the inner surface. An inner groove is formed along a side edge of the raised shoulder and each inner groove is sized to receive a seal member. Panels are positioned over the opposing sides to form double-walled triangular element. Channels extend through the outer surface and raised shoulder of the inner surface. The triangular elements are arranged to form a geodesic structure and fasteners extend through the channels to secure adjacent triangular elements.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a reinforcement of foundation which comprises at least two base steel plates arranged to be upright with respect to the ground and shaped as a plate with a cutaway formed at a top portion thereof, a reinforced steel plate coupled to upper portions of both ends of the base steel plates, fastening steel rods placed to extend in a longitudinal direction of the base steel plate and coupled to the reinforced steel plate, and a connection steel rod bored sequentially through the base steel plates and coupled to the base steel plates. According to the present invention, huge concentrated load exerted on a foundation can be uniformly distributed, and thus, load transmitted from a pillar or column installed on the foundation can be stably supported. Further, the thickness of foundation can also be reduced as compared with the prior art, and thus, the excavation can be made shallow. Accordingly, the period and expense of construction can be reduced.