Portal Frame Or Closure Frame Patents (Class 52/656.2)
  • Publication number: 20100018151
    Abstract: A portal frame is disclosed for use around portals in, for example, a light-framed construction. The portal frame includes a pair of vertically-oriented shearwalls, and a header extending between and connected to the shearwalls. The portal frame may be used around a variety of portals formed in a construction, including for example doors, garage doors and windows. By forming a portal frame using a pair of shearwalls connected to a header, the portal frame in embodiments of the present invention is able to effectively reduce the loads exerted on a foundation by the shearwalls in comparison to a shearwall acting alone (i.e., one that is not part of a portal frame).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: SIMPSON STRONG TIE, CO., INC.
    Inventor: Badri K. J. Hiriyur
  • Publication number: 20090313941
    Abstract: A composite profile for a window, door or façade element includes first and second outer profile parts and at least one insulating strip connecting the first and second outer profile parts with an intermediate space defined between them for thermal separation. At least one outer profile part connecting element is disposed in the intermediate space so that it is normally not in contact with the first and second outer profile parts. An actuating element is disposed so that, upon being activated by heat, it moves the outer profile part connecting element into engagement with the first and second outer profile parts, so that the outer profile part connecting element connects the first and second outer profile parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: Technoform Caprano und Brunnhofer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Thorsten Siodla
  • Publication number: 20090293409
    Abstract: The present invention regards an innovative sectional element for door and window frames for the residential and industrial building sector, which is substantially made up of two structural elements rigidly fixed to one another: a first structural element preferably made of aluminium and having a preferably open cross section, and a second structural element made of laminated plastic having preferably also a decorative function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Carmine Capece
  • Patent number: 7621086
    Abstract: An assembly of glass blocks is held in a structural frame and comprises a plurality of glass blocks each having two rectangular display faces and four edge faces; a rectangular structural perimeter frame having four sides; and a plurality of primary muntins, each primary muntin connected to the rectangular structural perimeter frame and comprising an elongate web with stand-offs lying within parallel planes and extending outward from the web and at least one elongate hollow boss integral with the web positioned within the planes, the primary muntins extending entirely across the structural perimeter frame, wherein the primary muntins define an array within the structural perimeter frame with openings for receiving the plurality of glass blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Extech/Exterior Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William P. Voegele, Jr., Alan D. Lohr, Raymond A. McNally
  • Publication number: 20090211190
    Abstract: A frame assembly for sheet material. A plurality of inner frame sections have at least one recess for receiving the sheet material. The inner frame sections can be fitted around at least part of the periphery of the sheet material. A first outer frame for receiving the sheet material with the inner frame sections fitted thereon is provided, together with a second outer frame to be applied to the sheet material with the inner frame sections fitted thereon. A mechanism to connect the first and second external frames together is provided, with the inner frame sections therebetween. The first and second outer frames together define a space whose shape corresponds to that of the outer cross-sectional shape of the inner frame sections. Thus, the first and second outer frames capture the sheet material with the inner frame sections fitted thereon. A mechanism to hold the inner frame section in place is included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Ian HONEY
  • Publication number: 20090205287
    Abstract: The invention relates to a prefabricated construction component for wooden architectures comprising at least one panel-shaped portion (23) and at least one panel support component (212) attached to the panel, and made of a single piece of high density wood by means of a moulding or extrusion type production process, enabling a quick assembly particularly by means of a plurality of support components forming ribs constituting side strips (212) each connected to a lower crossbeam (213) and an upper crossbeam (221), the prefabricated component (2) constituting a wall being closed at least partially by the panel (23), the prefabricated component resting on its lower crossbeam, the upper crossbeam, supported by side strips, being at a height corresponding to a floor-to-ceiling height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Luc Sauteraud
  • Patent number: 7571574
    Abstract: Disclosed is an insertion assembly for door and window frames which comprises a side frame and a transverse frame which is perpendicular to the side frame. An L-shape fixed member is provided at the outside of a connection portion of the side frame and the transverse frame, a side fastening bolt is provided to pass through a through hole at an upright portion of the fixed member and a through hole at the side frame to connect a side fastening panel, and a transverse fastening bolt is provided passing through a through hole at a transverse portion of the fixed member and a through hole at the transverse frame to connect a transverse panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Jinzhang Yu
  • Publication number: 20090178361
    Abstract: Thermoplastic materials are now extruded with the final, desired cross sectional profiles and often have protective surfaces of a polyvinylchloride shell co-extruded on one or more than one of their outer surfaces. These profiles typically have hollow axial channels or cores running the length of the extrusion which applicant has found can be used to increase the rigidity of such profiles by inserting reinforcing members into such axial channels and fixedly securing the reinforcing member to the profile by mechanical fastening means and thereafter using such profiles to construct rectangular frames for windows, doors, casement and the like. The technique allows such reinforced profiles to be employed in frames where the mechanical loadings on such frames would otherwise prevent the use of such extruded profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Kuei Yung Chen
  • Publication number: 20090145073
    Abstract: The present invention provides an architectural structure having a main frame of honeycomb configuration that is erected vertically and expands in a plane, a structural unit therefore, and a method for constructing the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventors: Ichiro Takeshima, Tsutomu Kamoshita
  • Publication number: 20090094929
    Abstract: Disclosed are frame members and mullions for a window frame that comprise a reinforcing member that is surrounded by an outer plastic layer. The outer plastic layer is held securely to the reinforcing member as a result of a waist banding effect that comprises an inward force created by the outer plastic layer as it cools and contracts around the reinforcing member. In addition, lobes are formed in the reinforcing member that assist in holding the outer plastic layer to the reinforcing member. Window inserts can be removed and replaced using adapters and removable brackets. Frame members and mullions can be built sufficiently strong to provide structural support. The frame can also be used to hold photovoltaic cells and protective coverings for photovoltaic cells. Structural members are also disclosed that have reinforcing members with apertures, debossing, scarification and/or indentations that secure the thermoplastic layer to the reinforcing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Barry L. Carlson, Jason Underhill
  • Publication number: 20090031665
    Abstract: This invention relates to pvc window and door profiles with an inherent metal reinforcement which provides for convenient assembly in the process of producing the final products with an inherent reinforcement plate, a convenient production and a saving of 70% in the use of screws with drill ends during production of the products, and eliminate the human error risks, wherein the metal reinforcement plate is made of aluminium and is fixed to two pvs semi-profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Bekir Esen
  • Patent number: 7448174
    Abstract: A window assembly including a permanent frame portion, a removable frame portion, and a glazing panel sandwiched between. The frame portions are easily installed and include integral releasable connectors accessible using a thin tool inserted into a groove between the two frame portions. The removable frame portion can be removed from the permanent frame portion using a thin tool. With the removable frame portion removed, the insulated glass panel may be easily replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventors: Andrew R. Krochmal, Benjamin P. Hummel
  • Publication number: 20080196349
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the design, development and implementation of a building system using connected structural panels to form walls, floor slabs, stairs and other minor elements in buildings; characterised in that it is made up of a frame defined by peripheral trusses, wherein each truss consists of a metal structure based on two parallel rods tangentially joined to a zigzag rod by the corresponding peaks and troughs thereof; a plurality of vertical trusses thus formed are distributed equidistantly or not at a predetermined distance, acting as structural elements, and a plurality of horizontal and/or diagonal transversal rods are fastened to both the front and back sides distributed equidistantly or not at a predetermined distance as reinforcement elements to stiffen the panel, the assembly defining a hollow three-dimensional box; a tightened metal framework is joined to both the front and back sides as a means of support for the mortar that is applied to the front and back sides as a covering to
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: Harley Resources, Inc.
    Inventor: Francisco Vera Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20080178552
    Abstract: An uninsulated section comprising a first section element and a second section element is described; the first section element comprises a first cavity for housing a portion of a first heat-insulating body and a second cavity for housing a portion of a second heat-insulating body; the second section element comprises a third cavity for housing another portion of the first heat-insulating body and a fourth cavity for housing another portion of the second heat-insulating body. The uninsulated section also comprises a partition connecting the first section element and the second section element. Advantageously, the partition may be situated between the first and the second cavity and between the third and the fourth cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: NORSK HYDRO ASA
    Inventor: Maurizio Dampierre
  • Patent number: 7380384
    Abstract: A layout for shop window construction includes a dormant frame and an opening frame of a closed tubular section defining an internal volume, the opening or dormant frames appearing in the form of an assembly of the profiles defining the closed tubular section, the profiles being joined edge against edge by their ends e1 e2. Each profile includes at least an opening element and a closing element and a fixation device for between the profiles, each opening element including at least a web and two wings defining at least two edges known as longitudinal, extending from one end to another of the profiles and connected wholly in part to the web and/or to said the wings. The fixation device includes an internal welding completing the volume, connecting the profiles at the level of their junction, the welding being envisaged before closing of volume by the closing element. The invention also relates to a window frame, glazed door and/or similar, composed of such a frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Jean Bourly
  • Patent number: 7251920
    Abstract: A lateral force resisting system includes a rigid structural panel and holdowns. A foundation bolt placement template may be used to locate and support the foundation bolts during fabrication of the foundation and to further secure the frame foundation interface. The rigid structural panel may be a vertical truss or a rigid structural frame with a wooden panel covering one side and interconnecting the members of the rigid structural frame. The wooden panel may be made up of multiple panes to tailor the response of the panel to the lateral force load. The holdowns secure the rigid structural panel to the foundation bolts and may be either a folded strap and pin embodiment or self-tightening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventors: Timothy L. Timmerman, Sr., Timothy L. Timmerman, II
  • Patent number: 7131244
    Abstract: A door system for providing a door that is easily constructed and has interchangeable panel members. The door system includes a frame assembly comprising a pair of frame portions. Each of the frame portions defines a window aperture of the frame assembly. The frame assembly is designed for being hingably coupled to a door frame of a house whereby the frame assembly is selectively pivoted adjacent a door of the house when the frame assembly is in a closed position. Each of a plurality of panel members is selectively coupled to the frame assembly whereby the panel members are selectively positioned in the window aperture of each of the frame portions. Each of the panel members is designed for controlling environmental communication between an interior of the house and an exterior of the house when the door of the house adjacent the frame assembly is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Dennis Bradwell
  • Patent number: 7104016
    Abstract: A doorframe includes a header having a header jamb and a pair of header casings. The header has first and second ends. The doorframe further includes a pair of legs, each having a leg jamb and a pair of leg casings. Each leg jamb has means for connection with the respective end of the header, at least two recessed hinge placements on a first side of the leg jamb and at least two recessed hinge placements on a second side of the first leg jamb. Each of the recessed hinge placements are suitable for receiving a first side of a hinge. A pair of precut striker plate placements and striker holes are provided on one of the leg jambs for receiving a striker of a door when the doorframe is assembled and a door is attached to the recessed hinge placements on the other leg jamb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Ian Kerr
  • Patent number: 7036283
    Abstract: A molding cap for use with a first molding having a first cross-sectional area and a second molding having a second cross-sectional area, is a three-dimensional structure with a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface. The side surface has a first hollow area and a second hollow area corresponding to the second cross-sectional area of molding. A first molding and a second molding are partially covered by the three-dimensional structure as the three-dimensional structure straddles the first molding and straddles the second molding, such that said three-dimensional structure conceals an end of the first molding and an end of the second molding and any joint between the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Paul Halas
  • Patent number: 7013606
    Abstract: A roof pipe chase housing system for allowing pipes to pass through a roof without leaking. The roof pipe chase housing system includes a roof curb, a housing structure attached to the roof curb, and a tower structure attached to the housing structure. The housing structure has a side panel for allowing one or more access openings to be positioned within that receive a pipe in a sealed manner. The housing structure preferably includes an extended lip that prevents water from entering between the housing structure and the roof curb. The tower structure is capable of supporting one or more electrical disconnect switches and other devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventors: Peter C. Sigrist, Robert L. Studer
  • Patent number: 7000362
    Abstract: A screening device is provided with multiple channel upper and lower panel retaining members that allow multiple panel members to be slid in front of or behind each other. Channel end caps and close spacing of the upper and lower panel retaining members prevent removal of the panels from the screening device. A support structure uses angled castings and extrusion members for rapid custom screen device assembly that avoids long welding assembly times as well as subsequent weld failure due to screen device vibration. A corner panel, decorative trim, a top panel retaining member alignment tang, and a fastener concealing end cap are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: James E. Cullinan
  • Patent number: 6955017
    Abstract: A fire barrier transition (10,110,210,310) comprises a first section (130,230,330) to mate with a first fire barrier (14) in a first expansion joint (16), a second section (132,232,332) to mate with a second fire barrier (18) in a second expansion joint (20), and a center section (134,234,334) therebetween to seal a gap (12) between the barriers (14,18). The first section (130,230,330) and the second section (132,232,332) each present either a convex or a concave cross-section with two sidewalls (136,236,336) and a bight section (138,238,338) therebetween. Thus, the transition (10,110,210,310) preferably presents a specific shape with the first section (130,230,330) and the second section (132,232,332) each presenting channels aligned at an angle between the joints (16,20). The barriers (14,18) can slide between the sidewalls (136,236,336) and engage the bight sections (138,238,338), thereby mating with and sealing to the first section (130,230,330) and the second section (132,232,332).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Balco, Inc.
    Inventor: Johnnie D. Hilburn
  • Patent number: 6920726
    Abstract: A hollow plastic section, includes a frame section defining a longitudinal axis and having an interior subdivided in several inner chambers by a plurality of partition walls extending in a direction of the longitudinal axis, Received in the interior is a plurality of stiffening elements arranged separate from one another, without interconnection, for realizing a reinforcement of the frame section. The stiffening elements may be made of metal or may be configured as bands or strips of fiber-reinforced plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Schüco International KG
    Inventors: Hans-Walter Bielefeld, Matthias Senneca, Ralf Kämper
  • Patent number: 6904727
    Abstract: Installation of a basement window system by assembling the window system between a pair of novel window forms releasably secured thereto. This assembly is maintained during the erection of the foundation wall into which the window system is incorporated and the erection of above grade wall after which the window forms are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Royal Group Technologies Limited
    Inventor: Ronal Fredrick Edger
  • Patent number: 6851244
    Abstract: A closure assembly is provided that includes first and second intersecting members such as a rail and stile. The rail and stile are engaged with one another forming a butt joint, preferably a corner. Male and female keys are respectively secured to the rail and stile with the keys forming a dovetail interlocking relationship with complimentary tapered surfaces. A fastener is received by the keys to expand the tapered surfaces forcing the rail and stile to be drawn into further engagement with one another at the butt joint. The interlocking tapered surfaces produce a stronger joint and eliminate any gap that might result at the joint as the threaded fastener is installed. The door is assembled by securing the male key to the rail. The stile is aligned with the rail and the second key is inserted into a pocket in the stile. The male and female keys are interlocked and a fastening element is installed into the keys to expand the keys and draw the rail and stile into further engagement with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventor: Kevin Vilhauer
  • Patent number: 6829864
    Abstract: A hinged protective cover for protecting a door threshold during construction or modification of a building or its contents. The cover is attached to a horizontal surface such as a building floor and covers the door threshold to prevent damage from foot traffic, contaminants and grit materials which may become lodged in the threshold. The hinge allows positioning of the protective cover to permit door closure while remaining attached to the floor. This leaves the cover in place for repositioning to the protecting position when the door is reopened and serves as an affirmative reminder to accomplish same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventors: John Robert Mitchell, David Joseph Thum
  • Patent number: 6826881
    Abstract: A decorative door molding includes an elongated panel having a contoured top surface. The contoured top surface has at least a first and second raised portion extending along the top surface. The first and second raised portions have a first and a second predetermined height and form a recessed portion. A raised decorative portion is formed on at least a portion of the recessed portion and has a height that is less than the smaller of the first and second predetermined heights. A decorative door is also provided that includes a generally rectangular frame and an interior panel connected to the frame. The frame includes at least one panel having the contoured surface. The contoured surface has first and second raised portions having first and second predetermined heights. The first and second raised portions form a recessed portion. A raised decorative portion is formed on at least a portion of the recessed portion and has a height that is less than the smaller of the first and second predetermined heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: The Stanley Works
    Inventor: Jean T. McGregor
  • Publication number: 20040211131
    Abstract: A window frame system with transparent, tinted, or translucent window frames is provided. The window frame itself is transparent, tinted, or translucent, instead of merely the enclosed glass window. Because the frame of the window is light permeable, additional light may pass through the window frame yielding an increase in the overall brightness of the window. Additionally, the structural and environmental integrity of the window is preserved because the window frame remains solid. A transparent screen may also replace a conventional screen to further increase light transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Frank J. Tortorella
  • Patent number: 6807783
    Abstract: A window frame molding system with removeable and interchangeable moldings of the present invention provide an organizational system which can be used to install, change, and remove window frame moldings while not damaging the window frame itself. For a rectangular installation, the entire structure can consist of four straight pieces of metal, plastic, synthetics, or wood, as mounting members, with the ends either flat or cut angularly at 45°, as the base of the structure. Further, four decorative moldings and four junction pieces of metal, plastic, synthetics, or wood, interfit with the mounting member in a configuration with the moldings being slide locked into place and the junction pieces securing the decorative moldings in place. Because of the variety of materials which can be used to make the window frame moldings, they are both inexpensive and easy to manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Han-Sen Lee
  • Publication number: 20040163354
    Abstract: Frame structure made of steel for wide opening sliding closure with vertical opening, of the type of door with covering panel/sheet out of alignment with respect to closing and movement means, in which, at least the lower tubular profile, internally, forms an area containing the carriages, positioned toward the side of the exterior closure, with an opposite and adjacent area that has the sideways extension of the profile with a projecting surface with respect to said sliding means, said surface being provided along the upper side with a glass buffer edge and with a base in correspondence with which the spline is applied; and furthermore in which the said lower profile cooperates with an analogous upper guide profile that holds the relative and opposite edge of the glass, an upper profile equipped with hinges, on the opposite side of application of the pane, a sliding block, acts against a vertical wall of said upper profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicant: PALLADIO TRADING Srl
    Inventor: Giuseppe Esposito
  • Publication number: 20040144057
    Abstract: A framing system for buildings that includes a plurality of studs and track mounted together to form a unique framing system. Each stud defines a longitudinally extending body, opposing foldable end flaps, and opposing flanges that extend outwardly from the body. Each of the opposing flanges also includes a second flange that extends outwardly from the opposing flanges at approximately an angle of ninety degrees. Mounted to the plurality of studs is the plurality of track. Each of the plurality of track defines a longitudinally extending track body and opposing track flanges extending outwardly from the track body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Applicant: Allied Tube & Conduit Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Alan Meek, David Donald Plueard
  • Patent number: 6698156
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for constructing hollow metal frames having a grout filled interior is disclosed. An apparatus includes a substantially planar body having an upper and lower surface. The upper surface includes at least one grip. The lower surface includes a gasket and a number of protrusions. The protrusions are placed into holes on the hollow metal frame into which additional components such as hinges are to be added. Grout is added to the frame and allowed to harden. Once the grout is hardened, the grout guard is removed and air spaces are retained. Screws and other components are typically filled into the air spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Habersham Metal Products Company
    Inventors: Wayne Quarrels, James Byrnes
  • Publication number: 20040020157
    Abstract: A free-standing window screen fabrication system for releasably mounting a screen fabric or other pliable sheet material on a free-standing screen frame in such a manner as to self-tighten the fabric or material during installation. A screen is disposed and held securely in place between a screen frame extrusion member and a trim mold. The screen frame extrusion defines a mounting surface disposed below and parallel to an exterior face. The screen frame extrusion further defines an interior channel for receiving one end of a connector, a plurality of screen frame extrusions being secured in an end-to-end fashion to define a free-standing screen frame. A mounting rib extends along the mounting surface and terminates below the exterior face in the preferred embodiment. A bead is defined at the terminal edge of the mounting rib to serve as a locking mechanism. The trim mold defines a channel opening on the bottom surface thereof to closely receive the mounting rib of the screen frame extrusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Applicant: Home Improvement System, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Ray Bass
  • Patent number: 6647677
    Abstract: A window assembly that includes an outer end inner frame assemblies. The outer frame assembly has two horizontal frame members and two vertical frame members. The inner frame assembly includes two horizontal inner members that are slidably mounted to the horizontal frame members. The inner frame assembly also includes two vertical inner members that are mountable on the vertical frame members with fastener members. The outer frame assembly and the vertical and horizontal inner members sandwich or entrap a garage panel with an aperture and a transparent panel to define a window. The outer frame assembly includes a longitudinally and peripherally extending rib member with longitudinal cut-outs. The horizontal inner frame members include longitudinal slots that receive the rib member. Fasteners are used to mount the two vertical inner members to the two vertical frame members keeping the garage panel and the transparent panel sandwiched in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Allen Berger, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6643988
    Abstract: A frame assembly for creating a flush corner appearance is disclosed. The frame assembly includes first and a second members. The first member has a plurality of sides that extend between a first and second end such that one side defines an opening extending thereinto from the first end. The opening defines a pair of lateral flanges for engaging the second member. The second member includes a plurality of sides that extend between a first and second end. The second member also includes a first connector extending from a first side and a second connector extending from a second side. A first tab extends from the first connector and is moveable between a straight position and a bent position such that the first tab guides the first member into engagement with the second member when the first tab is in the bent position. A second tab extends from the second connector and is flush with the first end of the first member when the members are connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: AMSCO Engineered Products
    Inventors: Laurence P. Armstrong, Steve K. Laumann
  • Patent number: 6568137
    Abstract: The rigid, generally planar, rectangular first sheet, at least one rigid sheet spacer mounted along, so as to protrude from, a first long edge of the first sheet, and a generally “U”-shaped first channel formed along a second long edge of the first sheet, where the second long edge is opposite the first long edge. The first channel opens towards the sheet spacer so as to define a cavity therebetween and along the length of the first sheet. The first channel is sized so as to fit over, as an end cap on, an exposed long edge of a door frame member such as a door jamb or a center frame member of for example a double width door when so fitted, a distal side wall of the first channel, distal from the first sheet, is mated to a first side of the exposed long edge of the door frame member. The first channel includes a channel spacer protruding into the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Alexander Ballantyne
  • Publication number: 20030056452
    Abstract: The present invention provides one or more viewports formed at predetermined locations that allow inspections of an inside member of a closed wall system. The viewports can be disposed at predetermined locations that do not significantly impair the structural characteristics of the outward layers or inside members. In at least one embodiment, the viewports are formed in one or more outward layers during fabrication of a closed wall system. Generally, the closed wall system can be mass-produced in a manufacturing facility, although the closed wall system may be assembled at the job site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: The Dow Chemical company
    Inventors: William J. Plsek, Ellen M. Harris
  • Publication number: 20030056450
    Abstract: A window or door casing includes two side sections, a header or top section and bottom section. The bottom section also has caps attached at either end. The trim casing is mountable on a window or door frame and is securely fastened to the side of the house ensuring a tight fit and finished appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Donald J. Bealko
  • Publication number: 20030041536
    Abstract: A window frame system with transparent, tinted, or translucent window frames is provided. The window frame itself is transparent, tinted, or translucent, instead of merely the enclosed glass window. Because the frame of the window is light permeable, additional light may pass through the window frame yielding an increase in the overall brightness of the window. Additionally, the structural and environmental integrity of the window is preserved because the window frame remains solid. A transparent screen may also replace a conventional screen to further increase light transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Frank J. Tortorella
  • Patent number: 6526708
    Abstract: A removable and reusable door frame guard for installation over and providing temporary protection to door trim attached to a door jamb. The guard includes a relatively rigid elongate upright member of shock absorbing material with an L-shaped cross section for covering adjacent bottom, front and inside portions of a vertical door jamb to be protected, and an expandable clamp means is secured to an upper end of the upright member and dimensioned in position for expanding and thereby engaging a bottom surface of a horizontal door header to hold the upright member in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventors: Briane L. Hartley, Edwin R. Malacki
  • Patent number: 6494001
    Abstract: Procedure for the installation of a landing door, in which a threshold module is mounted on the lower edge of a door opening of the elevator shaft, whereupon side posts are mounted at the edges of the opening and a lintel connecting the side posts as well as an overhead supporter for the suspension of the door panels are mounted in the upper part of the opening. The equally long side posts are mounted on top of the threshold module while the side posts are connected to each other by the lintel mounted on top of them. The overhead supporter is lifted up onto the lintel and fixed to the wall by its ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Kone Corporation
    Inventors: Ari Ketonen, Jori Hägg, Harri Anttila
  • Publication number: 20020139071
    Abstract: A climate seal frame member assembly for constructing a frame around an ingress/egress door to a structure. The assembly includes an elongate, two-part member where one part is extruded from a foamed PVC material and the other part is milled from an elongate piece of lumber. The PVC member is exposed to the outdoor environment when installed, and the milled wood part, isolated from the outdoor weather by a weather-strip, provides a wooden surface for receiving paint or stain. The cross sectional shape of the PVC part is extruded to incorporate a door stop and a tongue for engaging with a matching grove milled into the wooden part. The system is formed by extruding the PVC member, milling the lumber, applying an adhesive where the PVC member joins the wooden member, joining the parts along the edges having adhesive, and nailing the two members together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis Banford
  • Patent number: 6449917
    Abstract: A suspended acoustical ceiling access panel system includes a door frame for supporting a standard ceiling tile and hanger assemblies in the form of pivot brackets that are pivotally attached at each of opposite sides of the door frame near one end of the frame. The pivot brackets are formed to be easily slid over standard ceiling grid members and releasably clamped to the grid members while pivotally supporting the door frame. The door frame is also provided with latch members at an end of the frame opposite from the end pivotally attached to the pivot brackets and ceiling grid members. The latch members can be manually positioned to engage a ceiling grid member when the access panel system is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Sullivan Research & Development LLC
    Inventor: Thomas J. Sullivan, III
  • Publication number: 20020108327
    Abstract: A removable lineal and finishing system for framing doors or windows. The removable lineal includes a cover portion and a channel portion. The channel portion includes a latch portion for detachably mounting the lineal to a J-channel. The latch portion of the lineal is inserted between a hook portion of the J-channel and a siding material. A gap in the J-channel receives and secures siding materials. The J-channel is mounted to a wall of a building and abuts a frame for a door or window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Applicant: Certain Teed Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Shaw
  • Patent number: 6385927
    Abstract: A surround molding assembly for a doorway or window of a structure such as a residential home or a commercial building. In one embodiment, a decorative molding strip includes a base strip and a decorative strip interconnected by a living hinge. The decorative strip may be pivoted about the living hinge to a closed position over the base strip to hide internally located fasteners. In an embodiment, an extension cap is interconnected between a corner member and a decorative molding strip without external fasteners. In another preferred embodiment, a door surround molding assembly is provided which includes a pair of vertical molding members releasably secured via independent hanger strips along vertical sides of a doorway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Tapco International
    Inventors: Charles E. Schiedegger, J. Richard Logan, Richard J. MacLeod, Aundrea Nurenberg, Michael C. Clark, Clyde G. Allen, Dean Dennis
  • Publication number: 20020035813
    Abstract: A frame structure and process for its manufacture wherein supporting cross sections (1a) with at least one angle joint (11-19) and with reinforcing elements (4a, 5a) arranged at a right angle to the angle joint. The reinforcing elements are structural plates or corrugated sheets in which the structures or corrugations run in the longitudinal direction of the angle joint and wherein the corrugated sheets have a lattice work like or lamellar like cross sectional form in the transverse direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: March 28, 2002
    Inventor: Georg Triebel
  • Patent number: 6343448
    Abstract: The auxiliary frame has a plurality of frame bars made of plastic or metallic material. Each of the frame bars has a hollow inside and has a crossed reinforcing rib installed therein. One side of each of the frame bars forms an embowed reinforcing girder to achieve better reinforcing effect. A through hole and a snap groove are disposed at each side of the reinforcing girder. Two of the frame bars are disposed at opposite sides, while another frame bar is disposed at the top ends of the two frame bars. A fixing element is installed between the bottom ends of the two frame bars at two sides. The two ends of the frame bar at top end are screwed with the two frame bars via a plurality of screws vertically penetrating the through holes at the top ends of the two frame bars. The bottom ends of the two frame bars are screwed with the two ends of the fixing element via a plurality of screws vertically penetrating the through holes at the bottom ends of the two frame bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: Chun-Chen Lin
  • Publication number: 20020011038
    Abstract: Installation of a basement window system by assembling the window system between a pair of novel window forms releasably secured thereto. This assembly is maintained during the erection of the foundation wall into which the window system is incorporated and the erection of above grade wall after which the window forms are removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Applicant: Royal Group Technologies Limited.
    Inventor: Ronal Fredrick Edger
  • Publication number: 20010045074
    Abstract: Disclosed is a framework for a balloon decoration capable of forming a balloon ornament at a predetermined shape by inserting a plurality of balloons into a space created between connecting rods of the framework. More particularly, this framework for the balloon decoration is mainly used for enhancing an effectiveness of advertisement at a ceremony to open a business or at a party held in celebration of an event. This framework can be fabricated such as a sectional toy and can be expressed as a variety of shapes adapted to further enhance the effectiveness of advertisement. According to the present invention, the framework for a balloon decoration includes a plurality of connecting balls (20) having a plurality of connecting holes (21) formed on a radial outer surface of the balls (20), and a connecting member (10) having a pair of connecting ends (13) and a connecting rod (11) extending between the connecting ends (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Se Gon Kim
  • Publication number: 20010034986
    Abstract: A unitary window insert and method of insertion into a wall structure for forming a finished surround for a window unit. The unitary insert comprises a frame portion sized and shaped to accept a window unit, from which planer finishing wall portions extend to a casing flange which surrounds the interior edge of the insert. Preferably the finishing walls are flared inward creating a pyramidal frustum having an opening larger at the interior surface of the wall than at the exterior surface. The insert extends through the wall structure from an exterior surface and to an interior surface. In the case of poured concrete walls, the insert is provided with a spacer or panel to support the frame portion during construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventors: Godfrey Thomas, Henry Dekort, Russell Thomas