Joint, Connector Patents (Class 52/656.9)
  • 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: 7021020
    Abstract: Column-beam building frame structure, wherein columns and beams are interconnected to distribute and share all lateral loads through collars that encircle columns at the nodal points of attachments between columns and beams. Each collar includes inner and outer components which seat, and gravity-lock together, during frame construction, and which also to offer a certain amount of immediate moment resistance to lateral loads. Tension bolt and nut assemblies lock the inner and outer collar components together, and with these assemblies in place, the collars (which circumsurround the beams) function to deliver beam moment loads as plural-position, angularly distributed compression loads to different side regions of columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: SMRSF Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Simmons, Walid M. Hicham Naja
  • Patent number: 7014384
    Abstract: The connection system is for connecting structural elements of pieces of furniture, which structural elements include a plurality of support posts and a plurality of bars which are fastened to corresponding posts in accordance with predetermined geometrical configurations, to build a support structure for the above mentioned pieces of furniture. The connection system includes, for each post, a tube fastened to an end of the post, a plurality of connection annular elements for each connection between the bars and the posts, each one of the annular elements delimiting a hollow space provided for the coaxial coupling with a corresponding tube; and fasteners for fastening each bar to at least one connection annular element. The fasteners, in particular, include a side protrusion, for instance shaped like a dovetail, and a couple of mobile fastening clamps situated at the ends of the bar and designed for clamping the side protrusion for making a stable connection between the bar and the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Metal Work S.r.l.
    Inventor: Bruno Nicoletti
  • Patent number: 7004667
    Abstract: A connection (10) of two streamlined-section struts (12, 14) running orthogonally to one another with an essentially rectangular base cross section (18) uses a connector (16). The lateral surface (18a) of one (14) of the streamlined-section struts has a mounting groove (18b), as well as an edge flange (18c), which projects substantially orthogonally from an edge of this lateral surface (18a) at a predetermined distance (b). The connector (16) can be attached to the lateral surface (18a) of the one streamlined-section strut having the mounting groove (18b) and to the front side of the other streamlined-section strut (12). The contour of the connector (16)is accommodated substantially completely within the base cross section (18) of the other streamlined-section strut (12). In addition, the depth of the connector (16) is essentially the same as the predetermined distance (b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Bosch Rexroth AG
    Inventors: Peter Ludwig, Uwe Kaiser, Jens Henneberg
  • Patent number: 6996946
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Sergio Cazzolaro
  • Patent number: 6993880
    Abstract: The present invention provides for an improved method of fabricating trusses. The improved trusses are made from elongated, tubular members forming the chords and/or webs. A metal connector plate is used to connect the chords and webs to form the truss. Further, modifications of the connector plates are used to facilitate the connection of trusses into truss assemblies. Additionally, other modifications of the connector plates are used to facilitate the connection of the trusses to the supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Keymark Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Brad S. Cameron, John Drozdek, Mark Wasinger, William D. Knudson
  • Patent number: 6969211
    Abstract: A multi-tubular connector apparatus comprising a connector body having a shoulder portion substantially matching the outer profile of a tubular member and an open fastener shaft through the body. Connecting slots within the shoulder portion have open ends within the top of the shoulder and apertures through the side of the shoulder. Deflectable legs are radially spaced about the open fastener shaft. A wedge member having an open fastener shaft coacts with the inner face of the deflectable legs. A connector cap having a fastener aperture covers the connecting slots. An elongated fastener fits through the connector cap, open fastener shaft of the connector body, open fastener shaft of the wedge member to provide means for tensioning the wedge member against the deflectable leg, outwardly deflecting the deflectable leg against inner walls of a tubular member frictionally connecting the apparatus to the tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Lee E. Altman
  • Patent number: 6941718
    Abstract: A wall structure adapted to be fabricated in sections or modules and comprises an upper member, a lower member, a plurality of studs interconnected between the upper and lower members with respective studs including openings therein, and at least one diagonal brace member extending through the openings within the studs and interconnected between opposed corners of the wall structure. Because the internal brace extends generally centrally through the plane of the wall, the wall structure is designed to carry loads concentrically from the point of applied loads to a foundation or other termination point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael L. Torres, Robert W. Herrmann, Aaron M. Herrmann, Thomas C. Boyd
  • Patent number: 6938388
    Abstract: A straight connection piece or connector (1) is used to form a spacer frame or spacer for insulated glass panes. The cross-section of the straight connection pieces (1) fits into the inner hollow section of the hollow profile (2) and the shape and contour of the connection piece corresponds to the hollow profile, at least in parts, in order to partially support and reinforce the hollow profile (2) from the inside in the area of the point of insertion. A recess (4) is provided on the back of the connection piece (1) that faces towards the outer transverse crosspiece (3) of the hollow profile (2) in the in-use position, in its central area. The recess extends over both sides of the point of insertion in the hollow profiles (2). The ends of the outer transverse crosspiece (3) of the hollow profile (2) that face each other can be deformed into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Bayer Isolierglas- und Maschinentechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Franz Bayer
  • Patent number: 6935078
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses an anchor fastener for mating parts to a channel 30 for, e.g., the attachment of muntin in a window 14 design. The end clip 15 of the preferred embodiment is comprised of molded polymeric material having means for aligning the clip with a channel and means for locking the clip to the channel. The clip is comprised of a base 16 having an upwardly extending post 18 that forms means for mounting other parts to the fastener. The post 18 can be of any shape, size or length depending on the part to be mated onto the post. Three spaced apart rails 24, 26 are formed under the base 16 to transversely engage the channel 30 with the center rail 24 also having a transverse slot 36 for matingly locking with the channel. The channel 30 has spaced apart notches 32 with tabs 34 positioned therebetween on opposing sides of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Friedrich K Benkel
  • Patent number: 6922967
    Abstract: A building roof tie for attaching roof trusses and rafters to wood top plates in building structures, said roof tie having a sheet metal body with risers and a bridge for overlapping a rafter and flaps for wrapping on the sides of the top plate. The flaps may be configured to penetrate into the top plate for additional stability. Turnbuckles attached to the bridge provide additional hold-down strength against increased uplift forces. Such turnbuckles may include a hinge and pin assembly that can adjust up and down, forward and backwards. The roof ties are pitched to conform to a variety of framing applications. A plurality of apertures is formed in the roof tie to provide openings for fasteners for connecting the tie to the wood top plate and rafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Anthony D. Collie
  • Patent number: 6922966
    Abstract: A connecting element for insertion into the ends of at least two hollow sections of different cross-section, in particular in the case of a middle node for an instrument panel transverse beam in automobile manufacture is such that a push-fit body is shape-formed—by way of extrusion of a light weight alloy, plastic or other extrudable material—on a frame with side walls extending in the direction of insertion, the push-fit body is of smaller cross-section than the frame and contains lengths of the frame walls. That frame preferably surrounds the push-fit body which in turn forms a corner of the frame. In addition, the frame may exhibit an integral frame bracket outside one frame side wall whereby the frame bracket walls are aligned with parallel frame walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Alcan Technology & Management Ltd.
    Inventors: Jörg Hein, Martin Feuerstein, Olaf Gallasch, Klaus Traub
  • Patent number: 6922955
    Abstract: A dock pit for a dock leveler mechanism comprises a pre-cast concrete body including integrally formed side, rear panel and front panels, all forming a continuous perimeter open therethrough to receive the load leveler mechanism. Each side panel has a top edge and the rear panel has a rear edge offset below the of the side panel top edges, whereby a concrete slab poured around the body will abut the rear panel edge with the surface of the concrete slab substantially flush with the top edge of each side panel. The side panels define a recess along their length that is situated between the top edge of the side panel and the rear edge of the rear panel, whereby the concrete slab poured around the pre-cast body will integrate within the recesses on each said side panel. The dock slab can be poured using the pre-cast pit as a form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Mark Sanders
  • Patent number: 6886300
    Abstract: A panel (10) for protecting a portion of a structure such as a window (11) includes a frame member (13) made up of four channel members (16-19) interconnected by corner members (20). One end of each channel member (16-19) includes an opening to receive an edge of a sheet (33) of flexible material. The sheet (33) is provided with a thickened area (34) near each edge thereof. A fabric locking and stretching member (15) closes the opening in each channel member (16-19) and engages the thickened area (34) of the fabric sheet (33) to stretch the sheet (33) within the frame member (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.
    Inventors: Mark Steven Hudoba, Harry Edward Asbury
  • Patent number: 6883277
    Abstract: A floor-to-ceiling wall panel system, in which each panel includes a universal frame adjustably attached to a floor track member which rests on a floor surface, the frame additionally including a jack post assembly for releasable connection to a ceiling track fastened to a ceiling. The panel system includes a number of multi-functional components, thereby reducing the number of components in the panel system and facilitating easier installation of the panel system as well its easier modification of the panel system once installed. For example, a single track member may serve as both the floor track and the ceiling track. Also, a single type of spring clip may be used to attach several components to the frame, such as opaque panel skins and window panels, is well as to attach trim pieces to the floor and ceiling tracks, which mask the adjustable connections of the panel frame thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Wiechecki, Michael F. Cifelli
  • Patent number: 6881005
    Abstract: A frame connection structure for use in connecting tubular or open channel elements one to another includes two or more inserts configured for respective insertion within the elements to be interconnected. Each of the inserts defines one or more channels therein, each channel being configured to be aligned with a respective aperture defined within the tubular/open channel element in which it is to be retained. A connection member is positioned within each aperture and its aligned respective insert channel. A portion of the tubular/open channel member proximate the aperture is displaced into the channel of the insert member whereby the that portion of the tubular/open channel member is disposed intermediate the sidewall of the channel and the connection member. The two inserts are configured to be connectable one to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Saul Siney Sosa
  • Patent number: 6862859
    Abstract: A plug-in connector for hollow sections (24), especially for spacer frames or bar sections of insulating glass panes. The plug-in connector has a middle wall (5) and two side walls (6) joining same with a plurality of lateral retaining elements (12, 13, 14) arranged one after the other in the direction of plugging-in (9) of the hollow sections. At least some of the retaining elements (12, 13, 14) are arranged at the side walls (6) offset transversely to the direction of plugging-in (9) with a said mutual distance (16, 17). The retaining elements may be arranged at various levels to engage at various points on the hollow section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Max Kronenberg
  • Patent number: 6857247
    Abstract: A construction element has at least one coupling device and the coupling device has at least two prongs. Each prong is comprised of two radially extending mating surfaces which frictionally engage the radially extending surfaces of a mating coupling device. The construction device may have a straight shaft or an angled shaft to accommodate the needs of the user and, furthermore, the prongs of a coupling device may be inserted within mateable apertures in the shaft of another construction element. Using a plurality of such construction elements, a lattice frame may be constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: William E. Adams
  • Patent number: 6854238
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular frameworking system having various apparatuses and methods of attaching same. A framework built according to the present invention includes a plurality of hubs or nodes, each hub including a plurality of pairs of opposing flat faces. Each face can connect to at least one connector. The present invention includes primary “T” shaped connectors that attach directly to the hubs and secondary “L” shaped connectors that attach to the primary connectors and thus the hub. An adapter is provided and connects at one end to a leg of the connector and at the other end to a structural member, e.g., a straight or curved tube, angle or channel. The adapter and structural member are readily removable from the hub and the connector. The connector can be curved and alternatively includes a hinge so that the connector can rotate. The connectors can attach to each face of the hub and can be rotated in multiple directions on any given face of the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Alfred Boots
  • 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: 6848230
    Abstract: A connection arrangement for securing first and second members together includes a connector member that engages both the first and second members, and a fastener which interacts with the connector member to simultaneously fix the position of the first member relative to the connector member and to provide frictional engagement of the second member with the connector member. The connector member includes a head portion received within a recess in the first member, and a slidable engagement arrangement for providing slidable engagement of the connector member with the second member. The connector member includes a channel within which an expandable engagement wall of the second member is received. The expandable engagement wall defines a passage, and the fastener extends through aligned openings in the first member and the head portion of the connector member, into the passage defined by the expandable engagement wall of the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6837016
    Abstract: Column-beam building frame structure, wherein columns and beams are interconnected to distribute and share all lateral loads through collars that encircle columns at the nodal points of attachments between columns and beams. Each collar includes inner and outer components which seat, and gravity-lock together, during frame construction, and which also to offer a certain amount of immediate moment resistance to lateral loads. Tension bolt and nut assemblies lock the inner and outer collar components together, and with these assemblies in place, the collars (which circumsurround the beams) function to deliver beam moment loads as plural-position, angularly distributed compression loads to different side regions of columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventors: Robert J. Simmons, Walid M. Hicham Naja, Constantine J. Shuhaibar
  • Patent number: 6799594
    Abstract: An improved structure of a framework is disclosed. The structure includes a plurality of connectors having provided with holes, and notch seats are employed in the framework for connecting side rods, slanting rods, and supporting device to form into a stable and conveniently foldable framework. The end section of the side rod is mounted with a rotatable connector for interlinking of the side rods. This facilitates the extension of the framework vertically and/or horizontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: Yi-Ching Kuo
  • Publication number: 20040172906
    Abstract: A door structure utilizing a first skin having a surface. The first skin also includes an aperture through the same. A second skin is similarly constructed to the first skin such that the aperture of the second skin aligns at least partially with the aperture of the first skin. A panel is sandwiched between the first and second skin surfaces by first and second adhesive layers, respectively. The panel is positioned to at least partially occlude the apertures of the first and second skins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventor: Mark Ballantyne
  • Patent number: 6754992
    Abstract: A connector for providing a load supporting connection between a first “supporting” structural member and a second structural member supported thereby comprises a flange and an integral web formed with one or an array of two or more spaced slots. The flange may also be formed with an array of spaced slots. In a preferred embodiment, the slots of the flange have a lower portion dimensioned to receive a head of a stud which projects from a surface of the supporting member and a coextensive upper portion dimensioned to receive the shank of the stud. The slots of the web have an upper portion dimensioned to receive a head of a stud which projects from a surface of the supported member and a coextensive lower portion dimensioned to receive the shank of the stud. In a preferred embodiment, the width of each shank receiving slot portion is less than the width of the respective stud head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: The Steel Construction Institute
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Byfield, Bassam Adeeb Burgan
  • Patent number: 6754999
    Abstract: A structural system with a plurality of metal framed load bearing walls formed in one or more sections with a support post connected in line to the ends of each load bearing wall. A plurality of metal framed roof trusses in one or more sections parallel with and connected to the top of the load bearing walls. A metal framed roof formed in one or more sections and spanning adjacent roof trusses. Each wall, truss and roof section formed with metal tracks and C-shaped studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Delmer L. Urbanczyk
  • Publication number: 20040112000
    Abstract: A connection arrangement for securing first and second members together includes a connector member that engages both the first and second members, and a fastener which interacts with the connector member to simultaneously fix the position of the first member relative to the connector member and to provide frictional engagement of the second member with the connector member. The connector member includes a head portion received within a recess in the first member, and a slidable engagement arrangement for providing slidable engagement of the connector member with the second member. The connector member includes a channel within which an expandable engagement wall of the second member is received. The expandable engagement wall defines a passage, and the fastener extends through aligned openings in the first member and the head portion of the connector member, into the passage defined by the expandable engagement wall of the second member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6739101
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for assembling muntin bar lattices and spacer frames for use in insulating glass units are disclosed. One method of assembling a muntin bar lattice in accordance with the present invention comprises the steps of providing a muntin bar segment and a keeper dimensioned for piercing a wall of the muntin bar segment. A keeper in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises an elongate body including a tip portion that is dimensioned for piercing a wall of the muntin bar segment to create an opening therein. A spacer for the separation of panes in an insulating glass unit in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a tubular member comprising a wall defining a lumen and a mounting flange defining a plurality of mounting holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Cardinal IG Company
    Inventor: Paul Trpkovski
  • Patent number: 6735917
    Abstract: An interlocking joint structure has a first tubular frame member having a key-shaped slot to slidably accommodate a second elongated T-shaped frame member. An adhesive is used to bond the first and second frame members together. A plurality of tubular members and T-shaped members are used to form lattices and trusses in building construction. A band of semi-rigid, textured can be weaved through the slots in adjacent tubular frame members to cross brace the construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Dalles C. Notermann
  • Publication number: 20040088943
    Abstract: The invention relates to a plug connector (1) for hollow sections (24) of spacer frames for insulating glass panes. Said plug connector comprises a plurality of lateral retainer elements (12, 13, 14) on the side wall, said retainer elements being arranged one after the other in the plug-in direction (9) of the hollow sections (24). At least some of said retainer elements are offset at a mutual distance (16, 17) transversely in relation to the plug-in direction. The retainer elements (12, 13, 14) are thus preferably arranged at various levels (h12, h13, h14), thereby engaging at various points on the hollow section (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Max Kronenberg
  • Publication number: 20040088944
    Abstract: A column/beam interconnection employing angular connectors which wrap complementarily around an outside corner in a column. Each connector includes, on each of two, next-adjacent column faces, a cantilever-projecting deflectable tab which is nominally spaced from another, confronting tab that belongs to a next-adjacent connector. These confronting, spaced tabs freely receive between them the end of the central web in an I-beam, and when clamplingly secured to such a web, deflect under spring resistance to introduce useful compressive forces through the associated connectors into the associated column. The proposed connector arrangement allows, with respect to the placement of a beam for connection to and between a pair of next adjacent columns, for the vertical shifting of the beam into proper place for connection of its central web to and between pairs of spaced tabs, without any need for any lateral shifting of the columns to allow for insertion of the beam between the columns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Simmons
  • Publication number: 20040035082
    Abstract: A panel (10) for protecting a portion of a structure such as a window (11) includes a frame member (13) made up of four channel members (16-19) interconnected by corner members (20). One end of each channel member (16-19) includes an opening to receive an edge of a sheet (33) of flexible material. The sheet (33) is provided with a thickened area (34) near each edge thereof. A fabric locking and stretching member (15) closes the opening in each channel member (16-19) and engages the thickened area (34) of the fabric sheet (33) to stretch the sheet (33) within the frame member (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: WAYNE-DALTON CORP.
    Inventors: Mark Steven Hudoba, Harry Edward Asbury
  • Patent number: 6688068
    Abstract: A strut assembly includes a longitudinal member having a wall and at least a first substantially hollow end portion. A first threaded member is slidably mounted within the first end-portion and is capable of movement along a longitudinal axis of the threaded member between a retracted position and an extended position. The wall has at least a first access opening therein for providing access to the first threaded member. At least a first node is provided having at least one internally threaded radial bore therein which is configured to threadably engage the first threaded member in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Honeywell
    Inventor: David A. Osterberg
  • Patent number: 6682256
    Abstract: A fastening device includes two side boards attached to each other with an included angle therebetween and two securing members respectively and pivotally mounted to the side boards with a space formed between each securing member and the associated side board for accommodating a panel therebetween. A nut is rotatably fixed to the boards and linearly movable with respect to the boards whereby the nut is engageable with an edge protrusion of each securing member when subject to the linear movement. A bolt threadingly engages the nut. When the bolt is turned, the nut is linearly moved with respect to the side boards and forcibly drives the securing members to rotate with respect to the boards and thus securing the panels between the securing members and the side boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Chiou-Pin Hor
  • Patent number: 6679006
    Abstract: A refrigerator door has reinforcing corner brackets that structurally complete the corners of the door. The corner brackets are located at the door corners adjacent vertical and horizontal side walls of the outer door skin of the door. At least one reinforcing member such as a sheet or rectangular collar, for example, or preferably reinforcing cross brace members are connected to the corner brackets. To achieve this connection and restrict heat transfer through the door and or adjacent the inner liner or in-turned flange of the outer door skin, the corner brackets have connecting tab portions that extend into the cavity of the door away from one of the side walls of the door and spaced from the other side wall of the door. The connecting tab portion is also spaced from the outer skin sheet and the inner door liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Camco Inc.
    Inventors: Nedo Banicevic, Muc Dang
  • Patent number: 6672789
    Abstract: The invention herein of a spherical connector and supporting rod assembly is mainly designed as a structure of a multi-angular spheroid with multiple tangent planes of six cubical quadrilaterals and twelve beveled hexagons, and with mounting holes disposed respectively at the centers of the quadrilateral and the beveled hexagonal tangent planes to make each spherical connector having eighteen mounting holes with included angles pointing at different directions so as to increase the application of a single spherical connector and to make all the spherical connectors have the identical structure for exchangeable connection to not only fully comply with the needs of specific application, but also to be able to make various applications by using the supporting rods pointing at different mounting angles to directly fulfill the specific need of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Teng Chen
  • Publication number: 20030230043
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a scalable suspension system for domed shaped ceilings that includes a framework of suspension members interconnected to a central hub. The framework of suspension members are used to support a domed shaped ceiling fabricated from plaster or gypsum wallboard. The suspension members include primary spoke members, secondary spoke members, intercostal members and cross tees. The primary spoke members are attached to the central hub component. The intercostal members are spanned between the primary spoke members. The secondary spoke members are connected to the intercostal members, and extend between the primary spoke members. The primary and secondary spoke members are interconnected by the cross tees to create a unified structure. The hub includes radially indexed integral tabs that facilitate the attachment of the hanger wires and allows for the rigid attachment of the primary spoke members in a precise radial pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventors: Martin E. Likozar, James A. Fletterick, Alan C. Wendt, David B. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6652386
    Abstract: The invention relates to a substructure of a bowling lane, which comprises a framework composed of beams (1, 2, 3). The horizontally installed beams (1, 2) of the substructure have first and second fixing means (FE, SE) and beams (1, 2) are attached together by connecting the first and second fixing means (FE, SE) of the beams (1, 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: System-300 Group Oy
    Inventors: Mikko Sievänen, Joni Hietala
  • Publication number: 20030213186
    Abstract: Techniques are described for constructing geodesic dome structures. For example, a method includes connecting a set of temporary spacers to a set of connectors. The spacers arrange the connectors in space so that the connectors are referenced with respect to one another to form the geometries of a geodesic dome. The method may further include making the temporary geodesic dome structure permanent. 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: David S. Geiger
  • Patent number: 6622447
    Abstract: A modular structural system for building models and structures. The system comprises a plurality of connector hub members each having spherical symmetry, and a plurality of strut members having longitudinal symmetry, wherein, each of the connector hub members provides a strut joining feature adapted for receiving the strut members, and each of the strut members provides a hub joining feature adapted for engaging the strut joining feature of the connector hub members, such that the strut members are removably engagable with the connector hub members in alternative first and second positions placing the strut members in corresponding radial and tangential positions relative to the connector hub members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Steven Crawford Kessler
  • Patent number: 6622449
    Abstract: A door panel is disclosed that includes first and second doorskins each formed from two metal stile elements including a longitudinal flange and two rail elements including a pair of U-shaped projections defining narrow grooves, wherein the rail elements are connected to the stile elements by placing the stile element flanges into the rail element grooves and, piercing the U-shaped projections to form a permanent mechanical bond between the stile and rail elements. A method of forming such a door panel is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: MDF, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Smith, Eugene R. Vogler
  • Patent number: 6619003
    Abstract: A method of assembling a frame assembly for a partition system is disclosed. The frame assembly includes a partition panel, a fabric covering the panel, and a frame component. The frame component automatically and evenly tensions the fabric about the panel. The frame component provided according to this method includes a support element, a lockable element, and an integral hinge defined between the support and lockable elements. The support element defines a cavity for receiving and supporting the panel. The lockable element extends from and is moveable relative to the support element. The panel is inserted into the cavity, and the fabric is mounted to the lockable element. Next, the lockable element is moved about the integral hinge such that the fabric mounted to the lockable element is automatically and evenly tensioned about the panel. A backing strip may be mounted to the frame component to protect the fabric from the integral hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Quanex Corporation
    Inventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
  • Patent number: 6619007
    Abstract: A process for producing structures includes: cutting a transverse groove in a panel; introducing a plastic material into the groove; applying an imprint to the panel; cutting V-shaped grooves in the panel and folding the panel to form a structure. The plastic material is initially free-flowing and subsequently solidifying. The plastic material forms a hinge which may be flush with the panel or project beyond the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Wilhelm Riesmeier
  • Patent number: 6612087
    Abstract: The connector of the present invention comprises a planar sheet bent to form two perpendicular plates each of which is formed with one or more elongate slots. The slots on one plate are oriented so as to permit relative deflection of a building member in a vertical direction and the slots on the other plate are oriented so as to permit relative deflection of a building member in a horizontal direction. Each plate is mounted to a respective building member with fasteners passed through a slideable retainer, e.g., either a stepped washer or a guide to mount flush to the building member and slidingly retain the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Richard Mountcastle
  • Patent number: 6609349
    Abstract: The invention relates to window framing systems which use corner keys, and which seal against embossed surfaces, particularly for use in garage doors. The corner keys are insertable into hollow portions of extruded window frames and which preliminarily hold the window frame together prior to more permanent fastening within a garage door by a plurality of screws or even via a snap-fit arrangement. The angularity of at least two internal ribs of the corner key into which a fastener impinges thereupon, facilitates tightening engagement of each mitered window frame corner, leading to a superior appearance and preventing moisture from getting inside the window unit by the positioning of a sealing surface which seals on an edge of a door or panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Formtech Enterprises, Incorporated
    Inventor: John E. Davidsaver
  • Patent number: 6606832
    Abstract: Perimeter frame rails and door frames rails are described for a more thermally efficient and cost-effective display case such as for refrigerated display cases. The frames are preferably formed from cold rolled steel. A perimeter frame may include first, second and third walls defining an opening or a recess that can be closed by a contact plate. A door for a refrigerated display case may include a glass unit and a forward portion extending inwardly from a perimeter frame edge portion toward an edge of the forward glass pane and a first side portion extends rearwardly to a groove. An insulating member insulates the door rail from the cold area and includes a portion engaging the groove. A glass door is also provided for a refrigerated display case having a first glass panel, a second glass panel, and low emissivity coatings on the inside surfaces of the first and second glass panels. One or more intermediate glass panels can also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Anthony, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Richardson, Bennie Reed Downing
  • Patent number: 6606833
    Abstract: Perimeter frame rails and door frames rails are described for a more thermally efficient and cost-effective display case such as for refrigerated display cases. The frames are preferably formed from cold rolled steel. A perimeter frame may include first, second and third walls defining an opening or a recess that can be closed by a contact plate. A door for a refrigerated display case may include a glass unit and a forward portion extending inwardly from a perimeter frame edge portion toward an edge of the forward glass pane and a first side portion extends rearwardly to a groove. An insulating member insulates the door rail from the cold area and includes a portion engaging the groove. A glass door is also provided for a refrigerated display case having a first glass panel, a second glass panel, and low emissivity coatings on the inside surfaces of the first and second glass panels. One or more intermediate glass panels can also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Anthony, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Richardson, Timothy Carson, Raymundo Calderon, Jeffery Nicholson, John Nazarian, Charles E. Crown
  • Patent number: 6607020
    Abstract: A screening arrangement for installation in a curb for a skylight in a roof structure comprises four rails for mounting on an internal surface of the curb to form a frame in the curb. The rails comprise at least one supporting rail associated with a collapsible screen of which a first end is fixed in relation to said rail and a second end is free. Four corner brackets are provided for mounting at respective corners of the curb, each said bracket having an abutment surface for abutment on the top edge of the curb and a support member for supporting two of said rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventor: Jimmy Skjold Jensen
  • Publication number: 20030140584
    Abstract: A corner fastening device comprises a housing formed in once time and a W-type contacting surface formed by planes or cambered planes such that the present invention can be fastened to the different concave or convex fastening surfaces. Furthermore, the fastened device can be fastened on the housing of the present invention according to the receiving opening set on the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Eric Kao
  • Patent number: 6591573
    Abstract: This invention relates to columnar, “primary support” for a building or other heavy structure, in which a beam is connected to a column in a strong, moment-resisting connection comprised of two gusset plates welded to a flange or the face of the flange of the column and welded to the beam or attached to cover plates fixedly attached to the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: David L. Houghton