Integral Corner; E.g., Bent Shaft Patents (Class 52/658)
  • Patent number: 11280504
    Abstract: A clean room supporting multiple air filter elements within a frame having multiple tracks to support extensions on individual edges of the air filter elements. Within the multiple tracks are a tape of elastic ultralow density polytetrafluoroethylene polymer having a specific density of always less than 1.0, preferably less than 0.8 and most preferred as greater than 0.25 and less than 0.6 positioned along the length of the tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Inventors: James T. Crawford, III, Edward W. Waters, Jr., Christopher Jacobs
  • Patent number: 11134816
    Abstract: A dust collector includes a tank, a main body, a suction fan, a flexible pre-filter, and a main filter. The tank includes a suction opening. The main body is fixed to an upper portion of the tank. The suction fan is disposed at the main body. The suction fan is rotated by a motor. The flexible pre-filter is housed in the tank at a lower side of the main body. The pre-filter is positioned at an upstream side of external air suctioned from the suction opening. The main filter is positioned at a downstream side of the pre-filter. The main filter has a plate shape disposed laterally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayuki Tahara, Keisuke Yamada
  • Patent number: 10651783
    Abstract: A solar module having a solar module laminate and a rectangular solar module frame which supports the solar module laminate and is assembled by frame profiles which are respectively connected to each other by pairs to a corner connection, wherein at least one of the corner connections is formed by connection of a first frame profile of the frame profiles to an adjacent second frame profile of the frame profiles by a flap. Further, the invention relates to a solar module frame designed to support a solar module laminate and assembled by frame profiles which are respectively connected to each other by pairs to a corner connection, wherein at least one of the corner connections is formed by connection of a first frame profile of the frame profiles to an adjacent second frame profile of the frame profiles by means of a flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: HANWHA Q CELLS GMBH
    Inventors: Heiko Molitor, Henning Busse, Marc Dewenter, Thomas Ebenroth
  • Patent number: 10458147
    Abstract: A snap coupling system for pieces or metallic or non metallic coupling members, that require to be attached perpendicularly in a “T” fashion, in a cross “+” fashion or angularly, by which a tubular male coupling member having one or more retention tabs that are temporally flexed, enters in slots or receiving apertures of another piece or female coupling member, tubular or planar, where they engage, by which they can be readily attached two tubular members or one tubular member and one planar member, in a perpendicular way, in a cross fashion or angularly, without the necessity of using skilled labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventors: Jose Guadalupe Garza Montemayor, Jorge Eugenio Garza Montemayor
  • Patent number: 9359982
    Abstract: An air cleaner assembly and a filter element reduce wall noise by rigidly coupling the movement of opposing air cleaner housing sidewalls through the installed filter element. The sidewalls are rigidly coupled through the filter element with the sidewalls coupled to move together in unison such that wall deflection forces created by the pressure pulsations tend to cancel each resulting in improved dynamic stiffening of the air cleaner walls and reduced wall noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: MANN + HUMMEL GMBH
    Inventor: Dal Jin Oh
  • Patent number: 9352259
    Abstract: An air filter assembly is disclosed. The air filter assembly is comprised of a frame consisting of two sections configured for releasable holding of a recyclable filter material. The air filter assembly is further comprised of a fragrance contained in a container configured to passively release the fragrance during air flow. The air filter assembly is further comprised of at least one compartment for securely holding the fragrance container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Jing Lu
  • Patent number: 8572925
    Abstract: A frame assembly supports an article. The frame assembly comprises a frame member having a plurality of walls extending between a first end and a second end. The walls define an interior of the frame member. The frame assembly also comprises at least one foldable cornerlock. The foldable cornerlock has first and second body portions movable relative to each other. A method of manufacturing the frame assembly comprises the steps of forming at least one notch in the frame member spaced from the ends of the frame member, inserting the foldable cornerlock into the notch, and bending the frame member about the notch of the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Quanex Building Products Corporation
    Inventors: Jeff V. Sawyers, Ron J. Pich
  • Patent number: 8528293
    Abstract: A foldable cornerlock is used in a frame assembly. The frame assembly includes first and second ends. The walls of the frame member define an interior of the frame member and also define at least one notch. The frame member is bendable at the notch to form a corner of the frame member. The foldable cornerlock is disposed in the notch and extends into the interior of the frame member. The foldable cornerlock comprises first and second body portions each configured to mate with the interior of the frame member. The body portions are movable relative to each other for inserting the foldable cornerlock into the notch of the frame member. The foldable cornerlock also comprises a hinge portion coupling the body portions together. The hinge portion defines an axis extending in a longitudinal direction through the hinge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Quanex Building Products Corporation
    Inventors: Jeff V. Sawyers, Ron J. Pich
  • Patent number: 8505258
    Abstract: A load-bearing three-dimensional structure including a skeletal structure formed by a sheet of material having a plurality of bend lines, each bend line including a plurality of folding displacements, wherein the sheet of material is bent along the bend lines into a box-section; and a reinforcing member configured for substantially surrounding a portion of the skeletal structure when bent into a box-section to reinforce the structural integrity of the skeletal structure. A method of manufacturing the three-dimensional structure is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Industrial Origami, Inc.
    Inventor: Max W. Durney
  • Patent number: 8479459
    Abstract: A standalone or partially standalone solar photovoltaic structure and methods for assembling the structure are described. The solar photovoltaic structure can employ a hinged photovoltaic roof deck that can be folded for transportation. Described are hinges that can be removed after assembly and act as protective elements to facilitate transportation. Also described is an attachment arrangement for joining purlin or frame members to vertical support columns by locking the frame numbers into column capitals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Phat Energy Corporation
    Inventor: Nicholas Brady Tucker
  • Patent number: 8104238
    Abstract: A window spacer for integrated glass units is disclosed. The window spacer has an elongated housing with two distal ends. The housing is bent upon itself so that the distal ends are adjacent to each other. One end has an engaging slot, and the other end has an engaging member formed in it. When the engaging member is inserted into the engaging slot, a restraining portion of the engaging member prevents the engaging member from disengaging from the engaging slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Formtek Metal Forming, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Wilson
  • Patent number: 7614188
    Abstract: Products and processes for forming structural assemblies for building systems, such as window and door assemblies, are described. One such product includes an apparatus comprising a first end and a second end opposite the first end. A first leg and a second leg are disposed between the first and second ends. A first receiving groove is disposed in the first leg and forms a first pathway. A second receiving groove is disposed in the second leg and forms a second pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Jeld-Wen, inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Hetherington, Kevin A. Campbell
  • Patent number: 7418806
    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).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Quanex Corporation
    Inventors: Robert C. Martineau, Brian Jensen
  • Patent number: 6948289
    Abstract: The invention involves a manner of fabricating 3D construction forms by preparing first and second standard sized panels with a predetermined pattern of perforations and assembling same in spaced apart relationship by connecting the panels together with connectors designed to engage the perforations in the panels. The perforations of the panels are arranged in a specific pattern suitable for the assembly and use of the construction forms by means of an apparatus designed to form the perforations. The method also uses apparatus which assist in the orientation and alignment of the connectors to engage the panels. Modifications of the panels and connectors will allow the formation of 3D construction forms with corners of various configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Leonid Bravinski
  • Publication number: 20040093823
    Abstract: A corner block assembly comprises a corner block and a mortar joint. The corner block has at least two faces arranged in a predefined angular relationship and joined along adjacent edges thereof. Each face has a top flange extending rearwardly from a top edge and at an edge opposite from the joined edge an arm extending rearwardly therefrom. The mortar joint is affixed to the top flanges of the corner block and has at least two legs arranged in a like predefined angular relationship. Each leg has a rear attachment flange for abutting one of the intersecting walls and a front cap spaced from the attachment flange wherein a bottom edge of the front cap abuts at the top of the corner block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Charles E. Schiedegger, J. Richard Logan, Aundrea Nurenberg, Clyde G. Allen
  • Publication number: 20040055245
    Abstract: The present invention is a wall cap corner aid, in particular for use with stucco and/or plaster. The preferred embodiment of the invention is made from a metal lattice structure, preferably metal lath. The wall cap corner aid has a first leg joined to a concave center span at a metal edge corner. The corner is a discontinuity in the metal lattice structure made of smooth metal. A second leg is joined to the concave center span at a second smooth metal edge corner. Furthermore, the legs are preferably flexibly biased towards one another for mounting onto a base such as wall cap or a railing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Kent C. Fitch
  • Patent number: 6631600
    Abstract: A corner block assembly comprises a corner block and a mortar joint. The corner block has at least two faces arranged in a predefined angular relationship and joined along adjacent edges thereof. Each face has a top flange extending rearwardly from a top edge and at an edge opposite from the joined edge an arm extending rearwardly therefrom. The mortar joint is affixed to the top flanges of the corner block and has at least two legs arranged in a like predefined angular relationship. Each leg has a rear attachment flange for abutting one of the intersecting walls and a front cap spaced from the attachment flange wherein a bottom edge of the front cap abuts at the top of the corner block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Tapco International
    Inventors: Charles E. Schiedegger, J. Richard Logan, Aundrea Nurenberg, Clyde G. Allen
  • Publication number: 20030145553
    Abstract: A corner block assembly comprises a corner block and a mortar joint. The corner block has at least two faces arranged in a predefined angular relationship and joined along adjacent edges thereof. Each face has a top flange extending rearwardly from a top edge and at an edge opposite from the joined edge an arm extending rearwardly therefrom. The mortar joint is affixed to the top flanges of the corner block and has at least two legs arranged in a like predefined angular relationship. Each leg has a rear attachment flange for abutting one of the intersecting walls and a front cap spaced from the attachment flange wherein a bottom edge of the front cap abuts at the top of the corner block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Charles E. Schiedegger, J. Richard Logan, Aundrea Nurenberg, Clyde G. Allen
  • Patent number: 6481259
    Abstract: A method for precision bending of a sheet of material (31,41,61,91,231) along a bend line (35,45,62-66,96,235) and the resulting sheet are disclosed. A method includes a step of forming and longitudinally extending slits (33,43,68,92,233) through the sheet of material in axially spaced relation to define bending webs (37,47,71,72,106,237), forming stress reducing structures such as enlarged openings (39,49,69,73) or transversely extending slits (239) at each of adjacent ends of pairs of slits in order to reduce crack propagation across the bending webs. In another aspect, the elongated slits (43,68,92,233) are formed with pairs of longitudinally extending slit segments (51,52;74,76;98,99;127) proximate to and on opposite sides of and substantially parallel to the desired bend line. Longitudinally extending slit segments further are connected by at least one intermediate transversely extending slit segment (53,77,101,128). Sheets of slit material suitable for bending also are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Castle, Inc.
    Inventor: Max W. Durney
  • Publication number: 20020166305
    Abstract: A protective cylindrical sleeve for the metal corners of recreational vehicle slide-outs is disclosed, where the sleeve is inexpensive to manufacture and easy to attach and remove. The sleeve can be made out of a solid or composite material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Ron Weller
  • Patent number: 6434908
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of fabricating rigid section bars able to be articulated manually, comprising a first phase wherein, on a band of suitable material, a succession of areas of weakening transverse with respect to the longitudinal axis of said band is obtained by shearing, said areas including polygonal slots whose axis of symmetry is transverse with respect to said longitudinal axis, alternatively upset with respect thereto, and further including lighteners obtained on transverse straight lines passing through vertices, chamfered with relatively wide fillets, of said polygonal slots; and a second phase wherein said band is formed according to an open profile terminating, at its ends, with free edges. The invention further relates to the section bars obtained thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Massimo Ferrante
  • Patent number: 6405498
    Abstract: A cutout is made on the front wall of a substantially straight portion of spacer frame channel, having an apex at the axis of bend of the channel for making a corner of the frame, the edges of the cutout being angled so that they close down to a slot of at least 4 degrees opening when the channel bent on the axis to make the corner, sealant is applied on the front wall of the straight portion across the cutout before bending into a corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Harry M. Riegelman
  • Patent number: 6354052
    Abstract: A method of forming a composite profile including a hollow body with approximately parallel opposite walls and a covering sheet fixed against a first one of the walls includes heating a portion of the composite profile to form a temperature gradient. A hot forming projection is then pressed against a second one of the walls so as to bring the first wall into contact with the second wall at a formed region. At least one section of the profile is then pivoted about the formed region so as to produce a folding line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: SEVA
    Inventor: André Guinet
  • Publication number: 20010047592
    Abstract: An integral metal spacer for insulated glass units and method of fabricating the spacer. The spacer defines a substantially closed cross-section contour having a bottom surface, a pair of sidewalls, and a pair of generally abutting inner surfaces. A gap may be defined between the adjacent inner surfaces. The three interior corners are defined by fully mitered sidewalls. A pair of bridges are provided to integrally interconnect the inner surfaces of adjacent spacer segments. The method of fabricating includes taking a roll of flat metal stock and completely punching all corner and other structures therein while the stock is planar; severing the punched stock into individual spacer members; roll-forming the individual members into a finished linear spacer piece; applying desiccant during roll-forming; applying sealant; thereafter folding the elongate member into a square spacer thereby locking the desiccant therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Applicant: Met-Coil Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Ashok Shah, Richard Blum, Gary Dickinson
  • Patent number: 6321503
    Abstract: A foldable member in the shape of a tube with at least one predetermined hinge area along the length of the tube, and a plurality of opposing elongated slots in the tube at the hinge area thereof forming separated longitudinal strips of tube material between the slots which fold when subjected to localized buckling forces. A collapsible structure constructed of such foldable members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Foster Miller, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter A. Warren
  • Patent number: 6279292
    Abstract: An integral metal spacer for insulated glass units and method of fabricating the spacer. The spacer defines a substantially closed cross-section contour having a bottom surface, a pair of sidewalls, and a pair of generally abutting inner surfaces. A gap may be defined between the adjacent inner surfaces. The three interior corners are defined by fully mitered sidewalls. A pair of bridges are provided to integrally interconnect the inner surfaces of adjacent spacer segments. The method of fabricating includes taking a roll of flat metal stock and completely punching all corner and other structures therein while the stock is planar; severing the punched stock into individual spacer members; roll-forming the individual members into a finished linear spacer piece; applying desiccant during roll-forming; applying sealant; thereafter folding the elongate member into a square spacer thereby locking the desiccant therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Met-Coil Systems Corp.
    Inventors: Ashok Shah, Richard Blum, Gary Dickinson
  • Patent number: 6164036
    Abstract: The invention is a flexible corner piece for use in the construction of a spacer frame for insulated glass panels. The corner piece is provided with opposing end sections suitable for mating with spacer tubes. In addition, the flexible corner piece has a variably flexible center section having a smooth and contiguous outer face opposing a parallel serrated face, thereby allowing the corner piece to flex along a variable radius.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Atwood Mobile Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell D. Manser
  • Patent number: 6073412
    Abstract: The present invention relates to corner keys used in assembling structural components to form various structural shapes, such as a frame and sash section for a window, door panel, or other building or architectural construction. The structural members are formed by a process that includes continuously roll-forming a first sub-part and a second sub-part from pre-treated metal in flat coil-stock form. A thin layer of Extrudable Thermal plastic (ETP) is then selectively extruded to both the outside and inside surfaces of the sub-parts. Some of the ETP is extruded onto the roll-formed sub-parts in a functional shape, such as a "C" shaped pocket used to clip parts together. The sub-parts are joined together to form structural component material that can then be cut and fabricated to form individual structural components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Inventor: John T. Verch
  • Patent number: 6067759
    Abstract: Roof curb structures include side shells made by cutting a series of transversely aligned V-shaped notches and straight slots along top and bottom edges of a continuous length of sheet metal strip material at spaced apart intervals corresponding to the length of each side of the side shells to be formed therefrom. Then the strip material is cut to length corresponding to the length of one, two or four sides of the side shells and the top and bottom edges are roll formed in opposite directions to form oppositely extending top and bottom flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Loren Cook Company
    Inventor: Robert M. House
  • Patent number: 6055788
    Abstract: A profiled support member for use in a vehicle frame has a central web, flanked on at least one side by at least one angled-off flange, and is provided with at least one angled portion. The central web and the at least one profiled leg are produced separately and connected rigidly to one another. The central web is configured in the form of a plate and is bent to form at least one angled portion. The at least one profiled leg is configured as a single-piece blank which is continuous over the length of the profiled support and has a continuous flange web, which follows the at least one angled portion, and a plurality of connecting lugs which adjoin one another and are separated from one another in the region of bending edges of the central web. The connecting lugs are bent at right angles to the flange web and are connected rigidly to an associated longitudinal side of the central web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Gerd Martin, Michael Priwizter
  • Patent number: 6038825
    Abstract: An integral metal spacer for insulated glass units and method of fabricating the spacer. The spacer defines a substantially closed cross-section contour having a bottom surface, a pair of sidewalls, and a pair of generally abutting inner surfaces. A gap may be defined between the adjacent inner surfaces. The three interior corners are defined by fully mitered sidewalls. A pair of bridges are provided to integrally interconnect the inner surfaces of adjacent spacer segments. The method of fabricating includes taking a roll of flat metal stock and completely punching all corner and other structures therein while the stock is planar; severing the punched stock into individual spacer members; roll-forming the individual members into a finished linear spacer piece; applying desiccant, preferably a desiccant rope material during roll-forming; applying sealant; thereafter folding the elongate member into a square spacer thereby locking the desiccant therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: The Lockformer Company
    Inventors: Ashok Shah, Rick Blum, Gary Dickinson
  • Patent number: 6010016
    Abstract: A modular tray system comprising a tray portion releasably fastenable to support members for supporting the tray which communicate with attachment means for attaching, preferably releasably attaching, the support members to transport means for transporting the tray. The modular tray system of the present invention may be advantageously utilized in a commercial process for producing bakery products from dough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: HDN Development Corporation
    Inventor: Burton L. Siegal
  • Patent number: 5839252
    Abstract: A metal door has a unitary rectangular frame of generally uniform cross section providing stiles and rails, and a pair of substantially rectangular panels which are secured to the frame. The panels have opposed flanges overlying and engaged with the adjacent side margins of the stiles of the frame to secure the panels thereto. The door is fabricated by forming an elongate metal strip into a frame element of generally uniform cross section with channels between a generally planar central portion and inwardly offset marginal portions. A predetermined length of the strip is bent to form a substantially rectangular frame, the ends of which are fastened together. The panels have lips on their flanges and are assembled to the frame with the flanges inserted into the channels and the lips frictionally engaging the side walls thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: The Stanley Works
    Inventors: David M. Berghorn, Shaojun Gao
  • Patent number: 5678367
    Abstract: A fastening device is disclosed for fastening siding around an opening defined by a building. The device includes a first and a second J-channel element which co-operate together in an abutting connected angular relationship relative to each other adjacent to the opening. The first element has an exposed portion which defines a miter cut disposed adjacent to the second element. The second element has an exposed face, the arrangement being such that in the vicinity of the miter cut, the exposed portion overlies and conceals the exposed face when the elements are disposed in the aforementioned abutting relationship so that when the siding is installed, the exposed portion and the face of the elements appear to be mitered relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Inventor: Keith Kline
  • Patent number: 5675944
    Abstract: An insulating unit has a pair of glass sheets about an edge assembly to provide a compartment between the sheets. The edge assembly has a U-shaped spacer made of metal, metal coated plastic, gas and moisture impervious polymer, or gas and moisture impervious film coated polymer. The outer legs of the spacer and the glass provide a long diffusion path to limit the diffusion of argon gas out of the compartment. The edge assembly has materials selected and sized to provide edge assembly having an RES-value of at least 75.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: P.P.G. Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Patrick Kerr, Stephen C. Misera, William Randolph Siskos
  • Patent number: 5644883
    Abstract: A hollow shaft wall stud corner clip adjoins ends of horizontal studs at a shaft wall structure corner and is readily adaptable for supporting core boards in a fire rated ceiling or a fire rated duct and for holding core board in place at a top or a bottom of a horizontal stud hollow shaft wall. The clip has a central web for positioning against a stud or track flange and an angled flange with a core board-supporting extremity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: National Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Menchetti
  • Patent number: 5640828
    Abstract: An insulated window panel assembly for use in window and door assemblies having an improved insulating spacer between the window panes comprising the panel assembly. At least two panes of glass or other panel material are interconnected in parallel, spaced relationship by a spacer assembly. The spacer assembly is preferably a single length of tubing, generally rectangular in shape, having an outer wall of a first width interconnected to an inner wall of less width by generally concave sidewalls. The sidewalls also contain a bead of sealer material configured to seal with the adjacent window panes. A secondary seal is deposited on the outer wall and overlaps the sidewalls to also form a seal with the window panes. The spacer assembly is preferably one piece, bent to conform to the overall shape of the window panes wherein a first end of the spacer is connected to the opposite end. Folds may be made in the spacer along a crimp line formed in the inner wall to accommodate angular window pane configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: Weather Shield Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Myron D. Reeves, Edward Schield
  • Patent number: 5609007
    Abstract: An integrated system of components to completely reface a conventional suspended ceiling. The components are manufactured in discrete sizes and shapes to cover the grids and all grid intersections so that all installed components lie contiguously in the same plane to maintain the original appearance of the ceiling but with a fresh face. The components are designed to be snapped onto the grids using minimal upward force so as not to cause distortion or misalignment of the suspended grids. The installation can be accomplished expeditiously. The only cutting necessary is to adjust the components at the peripheral areas where the precut pieces will not fit the spaces remaining. Very little skill or special tools are required. Complementary panel cover sheets are provided to complete the refacing. The system can be constructed in a variety of colors and textures to blend with or enhance many different styles and modes of decoration. The components can be removed if another refacing is later desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Inventor: Vincent T. Eichner
  • Patent number: 5584156
    Abstract: A framing system (10) is disclosed including three-dimensional structural members (12, 14) formed from planar panels (16) having their edges removably secured together by provisions (48) including slide connectors (66, 174) which receive lugs (52) slideably received in and abutting with latches (56). The panels (16) include interconnect ports (22) having integral, concentric tubes (24). The exterior faces (18) of the structural members (12, 14) are abutted together, with the structural members (12, 14) being clamped by a clamp (28) having a central wall (30) abutting with the tubes (24) and first and second side walls (32, 34) abutting with the free faces (25) of the tubes (24). Relative rotation is prevented between the clamp (28) and the structural members (12, 14) by detents (44) formed in the clamp (28) which are received in notches (26) formed in the free face (25) of the tubes (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: Fredric Lange
  • Patent number: 5568712
    Abstract: A refrigerator door is formed of a unitary sheet of pre-painted metal. The door has a front wall with top, bottom and side walls projecting from its edges. The top and bottom walls have indented portions adjacent each of their ends. The ends of the side walls have inwardly projecting tabs which overlap the indented portions of the top and bottom walls. The tabs and indented portions are secured together by mechanical interlocks, such as toggle locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas E. Jenkins, Duane Jubenville
  • Patent number: 5501013
    Abstract: A substrate having a bead of a moisture and/or gas pervious adhesive having a desiccant therein is shaped to provide U-shaped spacer stock. The spacer stock is bent to provide a spacer frame having continuous corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Misera, Thomas P. Kerr, William R. Siskos
  • Patent number: 5482396
    Abstract: A molding connector is described for interconnecting molding ends together to form a frame. The molding connector comprises a male and a female connector formed respectively in a beveled molding end of two moldings to be interconnected. The male connector has a connecting rib formed in the molded end provided with a securing head having an angulated guide edge. The female connector has a rib engaging slot disposed in the beveled molding end with the slot having an enlarged securing cavity for receiving the securing head of the connecting rib in guiding engagement. The connecting rib is positionable into the slot with the head received in the securing cavity, and the angulated edge as well as the securing cavity permitting the beveled ends of the two moldings to be progressively aligned with one another, as the rib is pushed into the slot. The rib and cavity provide a clamping force to interconnect the beveled ends in facial abutting relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Guy Guillemet
  • Patent number: 5425212
    Abstract: A foldable floor track or ceiling track having 1/8-inch-wide slots in the flanges and a 1/8-inch-high rib in the web, between the slots, permitting the track to be cleanly folded in half at the factory, for convenient packaging and handling, and then unfolded and fastened to the floor and the ceiling at a job site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1995
    Assignee: National Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Menchetti
  • Patent number: 5351451
    Abstract: A substrate having a bead of a moisture and/or gas pervious adhesive having a desiccant therein is shaped to provide U-shaped spacer stock. The spacer stock is bent to provide a spacer frame having continuous corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Misera, William R. Siskos
  • Patent number: 5313761
    Abstract: Spacer frame assembly for an insulating glass unit comprising a plurality of spacer frame elements connected to form a generally planar polygonal frame. Each frame element defines an impervious outer peripheral wall and first and second lateral walls, integral with the outer wall, extending inwardly from opposite outer wall sides parallel to the frame plane. The outer wall and lateral walls extend substantially continuously about the frame polygon and are joined adjacent their ends by connecting structure. The connecting structure comprises a connecting tongue continuous with and projecting from an end of one frame element. The other frame element end has a tongue receiving structure and the element ends are telescopically joined. Muntin bars are secured to the frame elements by latching structures which assure quick muntin bar assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Glass Equipment Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Edmund A. Leopold
  • Patent number: 5255481
    Abstract: A substrate having a bead of a moisture and/or gas pervious adhesive having a desiccant therein is shaped to provide U-shaped spacer stock. The spacer stock is bent to provide a spacer frame having continuous corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Misera, Thomas P. Kerr, William R. Siskos
  • Patent number: 5152594
    Abstract: A base (10) and the method for fabricating the corners (32) of the base (10) of a piece of furniture (12) from tubing (18 ) by notching the tube (18). The notching removes a metal from the tube (18) along the first pair of extremities (40) converging to an apex (44), and along a second pair of transverse extremities (52). Additional material is removed from the space (32) by removing a plug from the tube (18) adjacent the apex (44) in the shape of a bowl having two parallel sides (56), a third side (58) perpendicular thereto and a point (44). The tube (18) is folded at each point (44) creating corners (32) and an enlarged relief space (46) therebetween to allow fluids used in the post-fabrication operations, i.e., washing and painting, to flow quickly therefrom thus increasing drying times. The gussets (52) are welded to the tube (18) to add strength to the base (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Assignee: Meridian Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard F. Ashley
  • Patent number: 5063709
    Abstract: The trellis support device consists of elongated arm members joined and secured permanently together by a horizontal cross member. The lower central point of the V-shaped arm members and the cross member each employ U-bolts to be fastened to existing wood or metal grape stakes of conventional design. Arm members and cross member have slots in the distal end of each member to receive tension wires of the trellis system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Inventor: Howard E. Whittaker
  • Patent number: 5010709
    Abstract: A soffit skeleton is constructed of a plurality of transverse frames mounted to a plurality of longitudinal spacer/cap tracks. Each frame is constructed of a metal channel having a U-shaped cross-section and bent into a plurality of end to end sections that are integrally connected at bend line joints. At some of these joints, the sections meeting thereat form interior angles and overlapping portions of each U-arm are secured together. The tracks are also U-shaped metal channels. Each of the latter is provided with equally spaced locating apertures in one arm thereof to receive an individual interior angle forming joint to thereby cap such joint and align said frames in a row in spaced parallel planes. The sections of each arm are separated by transverse notches. Prepunched fastener receiving apertures in the arms adjacent the notches are disposed so that when predetermined apertures are aligned there is a predetermined angle at the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Felix Paz
  • Patent number: 4937996
    Abstract: A metal frame arrangement (20, 21), for use as or in door frames, window frames (22), window casements (23) or the like, comprising a frame made of concave metal profile. The frame comprises two pairs of mutually opposite frame portions which are angled at right angles relative to the adjacent neighboring frame portion. The frame (20, 21) is made into a coherent piece in a longitudinal continuous and sectionally angled contour, by means of local cavities in the metal profile and longitudinal deformation of locally uncovered portions of the metal profile, the deformation by means of the material of the metal profile forming angle reinforcing and angle bracing means (32', 38) just by the apex of the angle between two neighboring frame portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Assignee: A/S Spilka Inco, Ltd.
    Inventor: Arne Karlsson