Abstract: An impact resistant door including a frame (24) presenting an inner wall (36) and defining a pane slot (58) and a flap slot (60) and a groove (62) along each side of the pane slot (58). The door includes a pane of laminated glass (46) having an inside sheet of glass (48) and an outside sheet of glass (50) sandwiched together and having oppositely facing outside surfaces (56) to define a pane width (Wt) therebetween. An interlayer (52) is adhesively sandwiched between the sheets of glass and presents an edge flap (54) extending along the periphery of the pane of laminated glass (46). The pane width (Wt) is disposed in the pane slot (58) and the edge flap (54) is disposed in the flap slot (60) of the frame (24). A plurality of inserts (64) engage the outside surfaces (56) of the glass, and each insert (64) includes a projection (68) extending into the groove (62) of the frame (24) along the adjacent outside surface (56) of glass.

Abstract: A deflection clip for erection of partitions in office space and commercial use is disclosed. A deflection clip in accordance with the present invention has a flat base with a left and right clasp that are substantially parallel to the base. The right and left clasps are used to secure the deflection clip to a leg of an open channel track attached to the floor and ceiling. The left and right clasp each have a left and right stud extension tab extending substantially perpendicular from an inside edge of the left and right clasps. The left and right stud extension tabs are used to secure a stud in relation to the open channel track, allowing the ceiling and floor to deflect relative to each other without transferring load to the stud.

Abstract: A wind and rain preventing device for aluminum doors and windows includes a window structure composed of an inner window, an outer window, a lower frame, two side frames and an upper frame. The wind and rain preventing device consists of plural covering-and-clogging casings, plural water-preventing elongate members, an inner draining space, a lower wind-and-rain-stopping blocks, plural draining valves, an upper wind-and-rain-stopping blocks, and plural collision-preventing and airtight elongate members. The wind and rain preventing device for aluminum doors and windows has excellent effects of prevention of wind and rain and resistance to wind pressure as well as functions of stopping rain water from flowing backward and draining out rain water smoothly.

Abstract: A steel-framed building 1 using section steels for a column 10 and a beam 20, wherein section steels having the same cross sections are used for the column 10 and the beam 20. The steel-framed building 1 has a beam-side joint A for joining an end of the column 10 to the beam 20, and a column-side joint B for joining an end of the beam 20 to the column 10. The same members are used as both a reinforcing member 30 provided in the cross section of the beam 20 constituting the beam-side joint A and a reinforcing member 30 provided in the cross section of the column 10 constituting the column-side joint B.

Abstract: An integrally assembled changeable framework connector used for a spatial structure includes a framework, a predetermined quantity of protruded connecting bases and a specific quantity of positioning element. The framework is a predetermined shaped axial rod, which acts as a main body of the whole connector. The protruded connecting base has a specific quantity of protruding bodies extended in different positions and directions and disposed on a predetermined shaped base body and along the peripheral surface of the framework, and fixed onto the framework by a positioning element to form a connector used for connecting various different spatial structures in any direction and position. An axial pipe and a lateral connecting element are used for connecting the connectors to form the spatial structure. The shapes of the framework, the protruded connecting base and the positioning element can be changed to fit the shape and the connection of the spatial structure.

Abstract: A unitary fitting for mating with and coupling a plurality of T-slot structures. The fitting comprises at least two sections to mate with the T-slot structures, with each of the sections having a first end, a second end, an outer surface circumferentially surrounding said T-slot structure, and an inner surface being capable of mating with one of said T-slot structures. the inner surfaces has at least one rail that extends inwardly into a recess of the T-slot structures. The fitting is formed of one piece construction.

Abstract: A connector for joining frame members of a window assembly is provided. Each frame member has a channel to receive the connector. The connector comprises a pair of spaced longitudinal members and a pair of transverse members attached to the longitudinal members to form a frame. The frame has a front wall and a rear wall. The connector has at least one flexible finger extending from one of the longitudinal members towards the other longitudinal member, wherein a clearance exists between a free end of the finger and the other longitudinal member.

Abstract: A juncture system for structural insulated panels includes magnesium oxide moldings and/or components made of cementitious materials that are shaped to join structural insulated panels (SIPs) with inorganic faces. The various components employ “standard” shapes to make for a minimum of parts and made of materials for adequate strength. For example, connecting shapes are made of magnesium oxide reinforced with the fiberglass. Thickness of the shapes approximate the same thickness as the outside face used on the magnesium oxide SIP, thus simplifying construction.

Abstract: A portable platform-support provides an external platform corner for supporting a platform surface structure. The external platform corner employs a rigid corner-support apparatus that is connectable to other components. The rigid corner-support apparatus includes a non-integrating outer-facing portion with opposing outer edges and an inner portion. A channel member has an elongated shape and an upper surface adapted to provide support to the platform surface structure, and a reinforcement member is securely coupled to and extending from the inner portion with the reinforcement member being adapted to securely support the channel member.

Abstract: A ceiling system which includes a plurality of grid elements which form a grid framework and a plurality of downwardly accessible ceiling panels. The ceiling panels include a substrate and at least two mounting members. Each mounting member cooperates with the substrate to provide strength and rigidity characteristics to the substrate and to form a grid receiving cavity. Each mounting member further cooperates with a grid element to accurately position the panel relative to the grid framework. When installed, the system provides no visual indications on how the ceiling panel can be removed.

Abstract: A muntin bar joiner clip having a relatively flat, thin body and first and second muntin bar engagement legs extending from the body. These legs extend along a longitudinal axis of said joiner clip. The body has opposite sides defining substantially parallel major surfaces having substantially parallel opposite edges extending substantially parallel to the axis. A region of weakness such as a line of weakness allows the body to be separated into two portions between the first and second legs. One or more muntin bar abutments project from said body in a direction transverse to the axis and each abutment includes a muntin bar abutment face oriented in a direction transverse to said axis.

Abstract: A unitary molded corner piece, shaped as a right angle V, has a grooved base with slide openings on adjacent sides of the base for receiving and joining together a pair of orthogonally oriented J channel pieces in an assembly. Right angles of the unitary corner piece are spaced apart and defined by spaced vertical walls shaped as an inner and outer angle. Such angles are joined together at the top of the vertical walls by a closed loop. Two orthogonal oriented J channels slide into the corner base while a J channel vertical wall and a J channel top piece slide within the space defined between the vertical walls of the right angle V of the corner piece. A loose free end of the J channel fits within the adjoining loop of the corner piece. Reinforcing ribs in a J channel receiving pocket both frictionally hold a J channel inserted into said corner piece and guide water as a trough.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention provide an integrated window assembly that includes a mullion, a window frame to be secured relative to the mullion, a reinforcement member positioned within the mullion, sashes on each side of the mullion, and an integrally formed connector positioned between the reinforcement member within the mullion, the window frame, and the sashes. In various embodiments, the integrally formed connector and the reinforcement member provide improved wind resistance for the window assembly, according to various embodiments of the invention. For example, in a particular embodiment, the window assembly can withstand about 75 lbs. per square foot of pressure with no permanent deflection in excess of about 0.4%.

Abstract: A modular frame connection is formed by abutting a front camming surface of a front camming end of a front fastening plate against a rear camming surface of a rear camming end of a rear fastening plate while a front pierced end of the front fastening plate and rear pierced end of the rear fastening plate are separated, inserting the front and rear camming ends between a front and rear flanges of a post or beam, rotating the front pierced end toward the rear pierced end until a front finger surface of the front camming end is disposed insertably between a front lip of the front flange and a web of the post or beam and abutably to the front flange and a front abutment surface substantially orthogonal to the front fastening plate is disposed abutably to the web, rotating the rear pierced end toward the front pierced end until a rear finger surface of the rear camming end is disposed insertably between a rear lip of the rear flange and the web of the post or beam and abutably to the rear flange and a rear abutmen

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a concrete floor and a composite floor system constructed therewith comprises form panels supported between a plurality of joists, the joists including a shear connector at least partially embedded in the concrete slab of the floor system. Each of the joists may be formed of a double channel structural member, including a top chord to which the shear connector is secured, a bottom chord and a reinforced web.

Abstract: A connector apparatus for joining a plurality of structural members, comprising a brace having a web extending lengthwise along at least a portion of a connector axis, the web having laterally opposite first and second web side edges and opposed web front and web back faces extending between the first and second web side edges, a first arm extending forwardly from the first web side edge relative to the front face of the web, the first arm presenting a first arm face, and a second arm extending forwardly from the second web side edge relative to the front face of the web, the second arm presenting a second arm face, wherein the first and second arm faces are inclined outwardly from each other at a first angle. The web may include at least one web aperture therein configured for receiving a fastening device for fastening the brace to at least one of the structural members.

Abstract: A unitary framing tie is provided for use in securing framing members in wood framed construction. The tie comprises a generally U-shaped base having: a pair of longitudinally spaced apart coplanar plates; a pair of substantially parallel, opposed flanges depending downwardly from the plates; and a pair of substantially parallel, opposed sidewalls extending upwardly from the plates. In operation, the tie provides an apparatus capable of securing two framing ties together bilaterally, which may be installed before or after the framing members are affixed together.

Abstract: The invention relates to a corner connector for glass pane spacers comprising a first and a second connecting element, on each of which a spacer can be mounted, and a corner element, which joins the two connecting elements at an angle, wherein the corner element has two lateral surfaces facing the glass panes, two end surfaces facing the respective spacer and an outer surface. The corner connector is characterized in that a metal foil is applied to the outer surface and at least partially to the lateral surfaces and the end surfaces, and butyl is provided in the area of the end surfaces, which creates a seal between the metal foil and the inserted spacer.

Abstract: A framing system for mounting flexible sheets of material, such as screening in an opening in a wall or porch includes U-shaped channels, or lineals, having at least one external built-in groove for receiving a spline strip for holding an edge of the sheet in place in the groove. Four lineals define a rectangular opening over which the sheet is stretched and then secured in place by jamming its edges into the external spline grooves of the surrounding four lineals with the spline strips to hold the sheet in place. Universal fasteners hold the lineals to the porch walls. The universal fasteners also have alignment grooves on their upper surface, lower surface or both of these surfaces that are useful for receiving an alignment string or wire to align a series of the fasteners across a surface so that they are in line to receive and accurately align a single lineal or multiple lineals arranged end to end.

Abstract: The angular joint of the invention comprises a slide base portion (1) and a sheet metal mobile portion (2) superimposed thereupon, the sheet metal portion (2) including upwardly extending legs (2e) with indenting edges (2g), a bolt (3) being employed in the tightening process of the joint, wherein after the joint has been inserted into the hollow profile members being brought together for connection, the bolt (3) acts so as to exert an upwardly raising force onto the sheet metal mobile portion (2), whilst maintaining base portion (1) at a fixed position, and subsequently leading the sharp indenting edges (2g) of the sheet metal portion (1) to producing an indentation effect into the walls of the corresponding chambers (13a, 13b) of the hollow profiles being angularly connected with the joint, as the joint is being tightened, thereby resulting in a robust, self aligned connection of the hollow profile members.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a reinforcing member for a building and a construction, which reinforces a structural member in a building and a construction, and reinforced structure using the reinforcing member. The reinforcing member comprises an attaching metal member to a structural member, an energy absorber, and a surface metal member. The energy absorber is held between the attaching metal member and the surface metal member, and integrated with those metal members. Further, the present invention relates to a reinforced structure having a vibration-proofing performance and an earthquake resistance, which comprise the reinforcing member bridged and installed on a joint portion between a post structural member and an another structural member connected to the post structural member.

Abstract: The present invention includes a set of reinforcement and support devices for existing or new roof, ceiling and/or floor systems together with numerous variations that may be installed into existing buildings or new buildings to help prevent separation of wood or metal roof, ceiling and/or floor systems from the concrete, masonry or other types of walls supporting these systems in commercial, industrial and/or residential buildings. One embodiment includes a set of three brackets that are installed in a triangularly shaped arrangement along a side of a primary support beam and to the wall underneath a ledger, thus anchoring the support beam to the wall of the structure and stabilizing the roof, ceiling or floor it supports. Another embodiment includes a single integrated unit that attaches to the wall underneath the ledger and to an adjacent support board, thus anchoring the support board (and the system it supports) to the wall of the structure.

Abstract: A ventilation device comprises a body (11) having first and second ports (14, 15) and a ventilation passage (13) that extends through the body between the ports to allow airflow through the body. The ventilation device also comprises a noise attenuation device (21) arranged to attenuate noise transmission through the passage in at least one direction from the first to the second port. The noise attenuation device comprises at least one array (22, 23) of noise attenuation tubes disposed in the ventilation body. In one form, the noise attenuation device (21) include two arrays of attenuator tubes disposed on respective opposite sides of the passage (13). The tubes each have a mouth (27) that opens to the passage and a central axis that extends from the mouth in the direction of elongation of that tube.

Abstract: Connectors for modular framing systems having T-shaped slots are disclosed. The connectors connect framing members to each other or connect floor panels to framing members. Architectural structures and modular framing systems containing the connectors are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for installation of molding is disclosed. With the apparatus and method, corner pieces are held in alignment during installation. This allows a person to hold both corner pieces in place with one hand while using the other hand to secure the molding to the wall or ceiling, thereby facilitating an accurate alignment. Moreover, use of an aligning member allows the installer to “fine-tune” the alignment of the corner pieces to fit unique contours of a desired wall corner. Before securing the molding to the wall, the corner pieces may be moved laterally or vertically along the aligning member to help find a perfect alignment. Several embodiments of the aligning member are disclosed, including members with varying angles for different corner segments, flexible members, and members with varying cross-sections.

Abstract: A stud attachment clip for attaching a metal stud to a metal track includes a mounting portion configured for mounting on the metal track and an attaching portion connected to the mounting portion and configured to hold the stud in place.

Abstract: An affordable, sustainable building, comprising substantially entirely mass-produced, prefabricated constituent parts manufactured off-site, the prefabricated constituent parts comprising a foundation, a frame module comprising a plurality of frames, wherein the frame module is secured to the foundation, a reversible connector to connect the plurality of frames to form the frame module, a wall panel configured to be mounted onto the frame module, a floor panel configured to be mounted onto the frame module, and a ceiling panel configured to be mounted on to the frame module. Each constituent part forms part of a library of parts from which the constituent parts are selected. The constituent parts are preferably made in standardized sizes to facilitate efficient mass production. The constituent parts are predominantly made of recyclable material so as to be environmentally friendly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing objects, volumes, furniture modules and furniture as well as articles produced by said method that are composed of individual elements such as walls, panels, beams, legs, etc.

Abstract: Techniques are described for constructing geodesic dome structures. For example, a method includes connecting a set of panels to form a geodesic dome. The panels have surface contours that conform to a surface contour of a geodesic dome having a dimension larger than a dimension of the geodesic dome formed by the panels. Another method includes attaching flanges to a set of permanent structure members that form a permanent geodesic dome structure. The method further includes fastening a set of panels to the flanges. The panels enclose the geodesic dome structure to form the geodesic dome. The techniques described may allow the construction of a geodesic dome structure of precisely controlled dimensions with relatively small numbers of people and little strenuous labor.

Abstract: A frame (20) for supporting an article includes a first frame section (36) and a first flange (62) extending to a first end (56). The frame (20) also includes a second frame section (38) and a second flange (64) extending to a second end (60). A notch (68) is formed in the first flange (62) and defines a flange finger (70) between the notch (68) and the first end (56). A retention opening (32) is formed in the second end (60) of the second frame section (38). A retention corner (94) for the frame (20) is formed between the first frame section (36) and the second frame section (38) by inserting the flange finger (70) of the first frame section (36) into the retention opening (32) of the second frame section (38).

Abstract: The furring strip fastening bracket comprises a stamped metal plate having a hole in the center for a screw or other fastener. The plate describes a truncated disc having two side flanges which are bent at 90° angles to embrace the furring strip. The bracket is mortised into the furring strip. The invention is a device for fastening a furring strip to a structural frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to a module for building platforms, stages, or flooring, which is particularly suitable for use outside. The module comprises a ladder-type frame, supporting devices, connecting means and, preferably, covering elements.

Abstract: The present invention provides a furniture assembly that includes rods and connection members, and that can be fully assembled without using tools or additional hardware. In one embodiment, the rods include a threaded end and an unthreaded end, and the connection members include an interior member and an exterior member, where the interior member and exterior member may be separate or of unitary construction. The exterior member includes unthreaded apertures for receiving the rods and the interior member includes an unthreaded aperture and a threaded aperture, also for receiving the rods. The rods and connection members are interconnected and gradually tightened to provide a stable furniture frame. Multi-level framing and methods of assembly are also provided. In an alternate embodiment, a connector assembly is provided for securing a plurality of rods within a connector using a leg threaded into the connector obliquely to a plane occupied by the rods.

Abstract: A hollow chamber profile system for precision superstructures for gauges, measuring and control devices, and all types of devices, having first bore holes (9) which are arranged in a defined modular dimension, and second bore holes (11) which are arranged, in the same modular dimension, on a plane which is rotated by 90 degrees in relation to the plane of the first bore holes (9), are used to receive connecting and/or fixing elements with threaded parts (15) comprising screw threads (16), the diameter of said threaded parts corresponding to the bore holes (9), and in which screws (17) are received. The system has a rectangular or quadratic cross-section, with outer walls (3) comprising vertical bore holes (9) which are perpendicular to each other. The hollow chambers (2) are formed by inner walls (4), by inner walls (4) and outer walls (3), or by outer walls (3), and the connecting and fixing elements comprise guiding elements (13) and adapters (18, 18?).

Abstract: A frame assembly for at least partially enclosing a raised floor structure includes a bottom frame member positioned adjacent an associated raised floor structure. A pair of spaced apart side frame members are connected to and extend upwardly from the bottom frame member. A top frame member is spaced from the bottom frame member and connected to the pair of side frame members. At least one picket extends between and is connected to the top and bottom frame members. The at least one picket is oriented approximately parallel to the side frame members. A screen is selectively mounted to at least one of the top and bottom frame members and the side frame members. The screen is located adjacent the at least one picket.

Abstract: A frame member miter guide or brace has first and second legs configured for insertion and engagement with adjoining frame members at a mitered joint, the miter guide having a stop with stop edges which accurately position intersecting walls of the frame members for precise alignment of the mitered joint. Stop edges of the stop correspond with the correct positions of the frame members, so that the members are held in place for final attachment and installation. Positive engagement of edges of the frame member walls with the stop edges insures highly accurate orientation of the mitered joint. A fracture line for welded installation of the frame members, and a leg profile which minimizes damage in handling and installation is also described.

Abstract: Composite structures obtained by joining two or more structures of the type which presents pairs of joined tubular elements, whose extremity is hinged in universal joints and in which the universal joints are substantially parallelepiped in form and present four seats of hinging corresponding to the sides faces, in which the universal joints present grooves along the sides of the face, in which are scheduled the seats to hinge the extended elements, in proximity of the edges and parallel to the same edges, that cooperate with C-sectioned fixing elements to hold united two matched universal joints belonging to two structures from join.

Abstract: An angle accessory for skirting ducts includes two flaps mounted to pivot about a pivot axis via assembly structure including two male engagement elements on the first flap and two female engagement elements on the second flap. In the vicinity of the male engagement elements, the first flap has at least one flange projecting from one of its end edges and forming an obstacle that co-operates with at least one lip of the first flap to define at least one passageway giving access to at least one male engagement element, the passageway having a small height constraining the flaps to be assembled together by bringing the second flap towards the first flap while tilting the second flap relative to the first flap's pivot axis, and then by straightening up the second flap along the pivot axis so as to engage successively the female engagement elements over the male engagement elements.

Abstract: At a beams-to-column connection of two beams to a column, in which the joint connection comprises both a gravity load-carrying capability and a moment-resisting capability between each beam and column, there is added a beam-to-beam connection across the column, using two gusset plates, facing each other on opposite sides of the joint connection. The gusset plates which are not welded directly to the column in a moment-resisting connection, connect the two beams in a tension, shear and moment-resisting connection with respect to each other. Such beam-to-beam connection by the gusset plates provides the capability of withstanding severe torsional and lateral inelastic deformation due to direct blast pressure. When subjected to violent conditions and upon loss of column support or the loss of integrity of the beams-to-column joint connection, the two beams and gusset plates provide independent beam-to-beam structural continuity, causing the two beams to act as one long beam.

Abstract: This invention is related to the construction industry. More specifically, it is related to a metal profile for the construction of support frames for doors and windows and providing a finished look to such doors and windows with an elegant touch. The advantages of this invention are that it allows for the work of preparing, leveling and installing support frames for doors and windows without affecting the finished look of the planes that include the fenestration, eliminating possible damages to the finish of the planes that include the fenestration. In case of maintenance or repair work, it is easily disassembled in a partial manner and reassembled in the same way, as well as to easily attach to it certain accessories that will make it versatile for its use on the fenestrations of doors, windows, and mid-height division walls.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composite profile and to a method for the producing a composite profile. The profile is configured as an assembly with at least one metal profile and at least one insulating profile, wherein a tolerance-compensating gap is located between a metal profile and an insulating profile.

Abstract: Applicant's invention comprises a corner piece which is firmly attached to a wall at a juncture of horizontal and vertical retainer strips and covers the juncture between the horizontal and vertical retainer strips, providing a barrier to direct water and/or moisture from invading behind such horizontal and vertical retainer strips. The invention comprises a generally L-shaped base plate and integrally formed first and second flange means extending outward and parallel thereto to provide a continuous L-shaped barrier that forms a channel which cooperates with and contains the ends of the vertical and horizontal retainer strips adjacent the corner of the opening, and flaps which cover seams formed between such retainer strips and the corner piece in the channels.

Abstract: A novel system for constructing smooth-faced metal framing and novel connectors therefore. The system and connectors of the present invention utilize known metal framing or wall studs that demonstrate a U-channel configuration having a base, sidewalls and marginal lips that extend inward from the sidewalls. A variety structurally related connectors, comprising at least a connector body, base flange, and two lip receiving grooves, are described. These connectors are capable of interconnecting metal framing performing all framing functions including, without limitation, floor and ceiling joists, top and bottom plates, roof rafters, roof rims, window sills, trusses, headers and wall studs. The connectors lock into place within the stud and are secured from the inside using fasteners applied into the non-surface aspects of the stud. The stud connectors demonstrate three dimensional rigidity and a box-like fit within the metal framing studs to form joints that are strong, durable and precise.

Abstract: A connector for holding an internal muntin assembly away from a perimeter spacer of an insulating glass assembly until the assembler is ready to affix the muntin bar to the perimeter bar using an attachment device. The connector includes a positioning tab for holding the muntin bar away from the perimeter spacer to allow positioning of the muntin bar assembly until the positioning tab is moved relative to a baseplate so that the attachment device, such as thick double stick tape, is pressed to the perimeter spacer.

Abstract: A window frame assembly for installation within a garage door having front and rear exposed surfaces and one or more window openings. The assembly includes front and rear window frame members of injection molded plastic which are installed within the door opening on the front and rear exposed surfaces. The window frame members have engagement elements located about their peripheries which snap together in mating fashion to mount the frame members within the window opening. The engagement elements are also disenageable with a hand tool to separate the frame members and remove the members from the window opening.

Abstract: An interface for connecting supporting members of an audience seating system including an end plate secured to the first end of a horizontal member. The end plate includes a downwardly extending tongue and outwardly extending tabs and a hook member extending outwardly and downwardly. The upper end of the vertical member has a recess dimensioned to receive the hook member and a hanger bracket defining a space for receiving the tongue and openings for receiving the tabs. The horizontal member may be engaged to the vertical member by lowering the hook member into the recess, the tongue into the space and the tabs into the openings to create a substantially rigid engagement secured by gravity.

Abstract: A terminal for use with a muntin bar or cross includes a muntin bar and a terminal plug. The muntin bar has an end and an outer surface. The end of the muntin bar includes a hollow space and an inner wall. The terminal plug is adapted to be inserted into the end of the muntin and includes a flange, a plug body and a longitudinal slot. When installed in the muntin, the flange engages the outer surface of the muntin. The plug body is designed to provide a press fit with the inner wall of the muntin by having at least part of the plug body being pressed against the inner wall of the muntin.

Abstract: A connector for interconnecting two building members together. The connector, in one embodiment, includes first and second plates secured together. Each plate includes one or more elongated slots wherein the elongated slots of one plate are oriented at an angle of approximately 90° with respect to the slots formed in the other plate. Fasteners extend through the slots in the plates and connect the plates of the connector to two building members such as a horizontal building member and a vertical building member. Once connected, one of the building members is free to move with respect to the other building member while the connector is connected to the two building members. In another embodiment, the connector is slidable within a track. In this embodiment, a portion of the connector extends from the track and connects to one of the building members while the track connects to the other one of the building members.

Abstract: The present invention provides a furniture assembly that includes rods and connection members, and that can be fully assembled without using tools or additional hardware. In one embodiment, the rods include a threaded end and an unthreaded end, and the connection members include an interior member and an exterior member, where the interior member and exterior member may be separate or of unitary construction. The exterior member includes unthreaded apertures for receiving the rods and the interior member includes an unthreaded aperture and a threaded aperture, also for receiving the rods. The rods and connection members are interconnected and gradually tightened to provide a stable furniture frame. Multi-level framing and methods of assembly are also provided. In an alternate embodiment, a connector assembly is provided for securing a plurality of rods within a connector using a leg threaded into the connector obliquely to a plane occupied by the rods.

Abstract: The present invention provides for improvement of ductility and strength performance of connections in structural steel buildings made typically with rolled structural shapes, specifically in bolted and/or welded beam-to-column connections with welded flanges, by greatly reducing the very significant uneven stress distribution found in the conventionally designed connection at the column/beam weld, through use of slots in column and/or beam webs with or without continuity plates in the area of the column between the column flanges, as well as, optionally, extended shear plate connections with additional columns of bolts for the purpose of reducing the stress concentration factor in the center of the flange welds. Moreover, the slots in beam web adjacent to the beam flanges allow the beam web and flange to buckle independently thereby eliminating the degrading of the beam strength caused by lateral-torsional bucking.