Interfitted Edge Slot Patents (Class 52/668)
  • Patent number: 11946250
    Abstract: A ceiling system is provided for use in a building space. The ceiling system has an open cell grid structure and is attached to a support structure of the building via hanging hardware. The open cell grid structure is constructed of a plurality of first panels attached to the hanging hardware, a plurality of second panels attached to the plurality of first panels, and a plurality of third panels attached to the plurality of second panels. The first, second, and third panels are attached via a plurality of slots which allow secure engagement and utilize gravity to retain them in the assembled condition. Beneficially, the plurality of second panels and the plurality of third panels are free of hanging hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: AWI Licensing LLC
    Inventor: Marie A. DePaul
  • Patent number: 11578486
    Abstract: A composite construction element or panel system for use in construction of multi-storey structures, either as a prefabricated panelized system or as a modular system. The composite construction element comprises two mass timber subpanels joined at a distance to form a hollow core, through which various building services (e.g. HVAC or electrical systems) and/or insulation may be integrated. When used as a modular system, after assembly, the two subpanels become one structural entity of increased structural capacity while providing a hollow core to provide/deliver desired building services.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Intelligent City Inc.
    Inventors: Oliver Lang, Cynthia Wilson, Clayton Blackman, Oliver David Krieg
  • Patent number: 11499312
    Abstract: A collapsible acoustic honeycomb ceiling installation can be made by cutting desired material into panels. Next, a manufacturer can cut one or more notches into the panels. The manufacturer can assemble the collapsible acoustic honeycomb ceiling installation by aligning the one or more notches on the panels and slideably connecting the panels. The resultant collapsible acoustic honeycomb ceiling installation can provide a versatile decorative feature to a space while maintaining or altering the acoustics of the space as desired. Further, because the ceiling installation is collapsible, a manufacturer or installer can easily transport, install, and remove the ceiling installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: 3FORM, LLC
    Inventors: Charles H. Moore, Matthew T. Sutton, Danielle P. Hadley, Guillaume Martin, Michael Damen
  • Patent number: 11215210
    Abstract: A retaining system for joints without utilising welds, screws or any other additional element or accessory, consisting in the making of a closing or locking mechanism, by means of a tab-slot configuration, using only the structure proper of the sections which are the object of the jointing, according to a first section (A) on which the cutting or machining that gives rise to the tabs and an embedment gap is made and a second section (B) that houses the slots and has to fit in the said embedment gap of section (A). Finally, the system is supplemented with the addition of tools that make it possible to release the system, thus making the joint demountable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Inventor: Christian Gonzalez Iriarte
  • Patent number: 10883924
    Abstract: There is set forth herein in one embodiment, a structure including a metallic grating having a grating pattern, the metallic grating including a critical dimension. The metallic grating can output a spectral profile when exposed to electromagnetic radiation, the spectral profile having a feature. The grating pattern can be configured so that a change of the critical dimension produces a shift in a value of the feature of the spectral profile. A method can include propagating input electromagnetic radiation onto a metallic grating having a two dimensional periodic grating pattern and measuring a critical dimension of the metallic grating using output electromagnetic radiation from the metallic grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: THE RESEARCH FOUNDATION OF STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
    Inventors: Sam O' Mullane, Alain C. Diebold, Brennan Peterson, Nicholas Keller
  • Patent number: 9506249
    Abstract: A supported architectural structure is presented. A plurality of primary supports configured to couple with one or more architectural structures. A plurality of flexible fins, where at least one of the plurality of flexible fins includes an inner edge and an outer edge, where the inner edge includes a plurality of attachment points. A plurality of secondary supports configured to couple with the plurality of primary supports, where at least one of the secondary supports includes a plurality of fin slots configured to couple with the plurality of attachment points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: ARKTURA, LLC
    Inventors: Chris Kabatsi, Robert Kilian
  • Patent number: 9163402
    Abstract: A suspended architectural structure includes a plurality of fin support members configured to couple with one or more architectural structures, e.g. ceiling structure. A plurality of flexible fins, with each flexible fin including a plurality of attachment points that is configured to be coupled to the plurality of fin support members. The plurality of fin support members includes a rib frame and a plurality of lateral rib members. The flexible fins are coupled to the ribs by the attachment points using removable pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: ARKTURA LLC
    Inventors: Chris Kabatsi, Robert Kilian
  • Patent number: 8857782
    Abstract: A formwork system comprising a supporting girder for the support girders that receives the support of floor slab formwork boards. The upper face of the supporting girder is provided with a plurality of successive housings for receiving the girders, arranged one after another forming a series of housings along the entire length of the upper face without interruption, such that the girders can be transversely arranged and, where appropriate, overlapped with one another for their extension, in any position along the supporting girder. The housings can have identical transverse dimensions, therefore the supporting girders can also be overlapped with one another to extend their length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Inveral, S.A.
    Inventor: Pedro Xammar Bove
  • Patent number: 8832917
    Abstract: A method for assembly of structural systems comprising structural members with slots, and interior panels. Specific structural members are sequentially interconnected in rigid alignment. A first structural member is positioned with two upward facing slots. Additional structural members are added by engaging downward facing slots of the additional structure members with upward facing slots of the prior structural member. The structural members further include inward reaching spacers which the interior panels are attached to leaving a space between the panels for insulation, wiring, and/or plumbing. The structural members may further include angled slots allowing non-rectangular structures to be constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph Elliott
  • Patent number: 8621739
    Abstract: A method for assembly of structural systems comprising structural members with slots. Specific structural members are sequentially interconnected in rigid alignment. A first structural member is positioned with two upward facing slots. A second structural member having a downward slot and an upward slot is engaged with the first structural member by engaging the downward slot with one of the upward slots of the first structural member providing a stable structure. A third structural member having a downward slot and an upward slot is engaged with the second structural member by engaging the downward slot with the upward slot of the second structural member providing a stable structure. A fourth structural member having two downward slots is engaged with the third structural member and the first structural member by engaging the downward slots with the upward slots providing a finished structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph Elliot
  • Patent number: 8458980
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of construction and in particular to a modular construction system used for building of construction modules. The construction system comprises plurality of flat elements (1) with identical thickness C and having slots (3) on at least one of its long sides (4), as the slots (3) are located at a distance from each other so that the flat elements (1) can intersect each other through their slots (3) in order to form a grid. The elements (1) of the system have slots (3) located at equal distances n or b from each other where the ratio n:b is within the range from 1:1 to 1:10. The building construction module is made as three-dimensional frame structure shaped like polyhedron including a floor (20), a ceiling (21) and at least two walls (22) grids connected together. The grids are made by intersecting through slots (3) flat elements (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Nikolay Vaskov Ivanov
  • Patent number: 8404329
    Abstract: Support structure for light-weight construction elements which is consisting of elongate strips (10; 110; 210) of a strong material, wherein each strip (10; 110) is provided with slits (14) starting out from one of its longitudinal edges (12), the width of which is slightly larger than the thickness of the material and, wherein alternatingly in the longitudinal direction of the strip (10; 110; 210) the slits (14) are diagonally extending forwardly and diagonally backwardly and, wherein the individual strips (10; 110; 210) by means of the slits (14) are inserted into each other in such a way that the longitudinal directions of the strips (10; 110; 210) inserted into each other each are perpendicularly positioned with respect to each other, as well as a method for producing such a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jens-Hagen Wüstefeld
  • Patent number: 8381486
    Abstract: Suspended ceiling grid runners include a flange extending laterally to both sides, the flange forming a three dimensional face including sides visible from below a plane of the grid, opposed cross runners intersecting through runners with their ends joined by mutually interlocking end connectors extending through a slot in the through runner, the cross runner ends including end edges configured to abut a respective side of the flange of the through runner, a connector when connected to an opposite connector causes the associated end edges to resiliently locally deflect the abutted flange side to substantially eliminate any gap therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: USG Interiors, LLC
    Inventors: James J. Lehane, Jr., Peder J. Gulbrandsen, Mark R. Paulsen, Abraham M. Underkofler
  • Patent number: 8341900
    Abstract: Structure (1) for mounting, on a building wall, at least one frame (50) consisting of a rectangular framework (51), comprising a carcass (2) made of at least two uprights (3) and at least two crossbars (4) assembled so as to form at least one rectangular underframe (15) adapted for receiving a frame (50), and means for fixing at least one frame on the carcass, each upright (3) having a central core (31) bordered by two side wings (32, 33) comprising recesses (38, 39) for receiving the crossbars (4). Each crossbar (4) has a central core (40) and side wings (41, 42) comprising recesses in line with the uprights (3) at the intersections between the crossbars (4) and the uprights (3) in such a way that the wings of the uprights (3) and the crossbars (4), extending on the inner periphery of the rectangular underframe (15), form a projecting border on which a frame (5) may be fitted. Wall provided with a structure of this type on which panel-holding frames are mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignees: Arcelormittal-Stainless and Nickel Alloys, Solarte
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Reyal, Yves Jautard
  • Patent number: 8205409
    Abstract: A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are typically seated on the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Bartley, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Patent number: 8122674
    Abstract: A grating system typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, longitudinal filler bars seated on the crossbars between the deep bars and axial joining bars which join the deep bars and filler bars to one another. The crossbars are inserted lengthwise through slots formed in the deep bars. The joining bars are inserted lengthwise into holes formed in the deep bars and filler bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the crossbars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are substantially flush with one another to form most of the upper surface of the grating system on which vehicular and pedestrian traffic typically travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Bartley, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Patent number: 8112962
    Abstract: A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are typically seated on the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Bartley, II, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Patent number: 8011157
    Abstract: A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are typically seated on the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Bartley, II, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Patent number: 7918067
    Abstract: A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are seated on the deep bars with the crossbars typically within upwardly opening notches formed in the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Bartley, II, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Patent number: 7832172
    Abstract: A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are seated on the deep bars with the crossbars typically within upwardly opening notches formed in the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Bartley, II, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Publication number: 20100281813
    Abstract: A grating system typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, longitudinal filler bars seated on the crossbars between the deep bars and axial joining bars which join the deep bars and filler bars to one another. The crossbars are inserted lengthwise through slots formed in the deep bars. The joining bars are inserted lengthwise into holes formed in the deep bars and filler bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the crossbars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: John C. Bartley, Kenneth P. Apperson
  • Patent number: 7779584
    Abstract: A curtain wall system having a framing of mullions and transoms. The mullions have a mullion body portion and a mullion nose portion and spaced notches in the mullion body portion. The penetrating transom have a transom body portion and a transom nose portion. The transom nose portion has extensions extending beyond opposed ends of the transom body portion received in the notches of the mullion body portions whereby the framing portion is formed for sealing receiving a panel to form an air barrier, with a gap being defined between the extensions of the transoms and the mullion nose portions. Pressure plates are connected to the mullions and transoms to form a sash with the framing portion so as to secure the panels within the sash. A seal member blocks each gap to form a pressurized cavity with the sash about the glass panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Muridal Inc.
    Inventor: Augusto Arias
  • Patent number: 7665270
    Abstract: A lattice structure includes a plurality of members and a plurality of connection rods. The plurality of members may be individually oriented to form the lattice structure. Each of the plurality of members may include at least one of (i) an end section having a sidewall and a platform that define an end gap, or (ii) a mid-section having two sidewalls and a platform that define a mid-gap. Each member of the lattice structure may be connected to at least one other member, so that the lattice structure includes a plurality of connections between individual members in the plurality of members. Furthermore, each of at least some of the plurality of connections is formed by one of (i) an end section of a first member of that connection overlapping an end section of a second member of that connection; or (ii) an end section of the first member of that connection overlapping with a mid-section of the second member of that connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: LatticeStix, Inc.
    Inventor: John Moffly
  • Patent number: 7596921
    Abstract: A stud spacer for use in a wall structure. The stud spacer includes a pair of opposed projections. The respective projections of the stud spacer interconnect with similar projections from adjacent stud spacers to form an interconnected series of stud spacers that extend through the studs that comprise the wall structure. When connected, each projection extends through an opening in an adjacent projection and a locking surface or locking tab associated with one projection seats in or against a stop or seat formed in the other projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael Torres, Thomas Trestain
  • Patent number: 7591611
    Abstract: A fluent material confinement system configured to receive a granular fluent material to form a temporary barrier structure is disclosed, wherein the fluent material confinement system includes a plurality strips, the plurality of strips including a plurality of lengthwise strips and a plurality of widthwise strips coupled with each other to define a plurality of open cells, wherein the plurality of lengthwise strips includes at least one wider lengthwise strip configured to extend into cells of a next-lowest fluent material confinement system when the fluent material confinement system is stacked on the next-lowest fluent material confinement system, and a stacking error indicator associated with the wider lengthwise strip, wherein the stacking error indicator is configured to be effective in low visibility conditions to indicate to a user a location of an error in stacking of the fluent material confinement system on the next-lowest fluent material confinement system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Geocell Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Alvin M. Arellanes, Barney Greinke, John Sikora, Aaron Arellanes
  • Patent number: 7549260
    Abstract: In an array of parallel cross bars, each cross bar has a crenellated edge with alternating recesses and projections. A first locking opening extends through the length of the each cross bar, at least partly within the projections. A number of bearing bars each include second locking openings spaced along the length of the bearing bar. The bearing bars are assembled with the cross bars with the bearing bars nested in the recesses in the cross bars. The first and second locking openings are in alignment. A locking member is received in the aligned locking openings to interlock the bearing bars and cross bars in a rigid, strong, durable and attractive grille structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: John D. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 7544010
    Abstract: A portable porous pavement system includes a plurality of porous pavement units and a plurality of clamping devices. Each porous pavement unit is connected to adjacent porous pavement units by at least one clamping device. Each clamping device includes a first and a second bracket. The second bracket is in intimate communication with a slot arrangement of the first bracket. The second bracket has a twisted arrangement to secure the second bracket and the first bracket together. Adjacent walls of adjacent porous pavement units are sandwiched between the first and second brackets to secure the adjacent porous pavement units together. A method for assembling a portable porous pavement system includes mounting a clamp over two adjacent walls of adjacent porous pavement units; mounting a locking bracket over the clamp; and twisting two arms together to secure the locking bracket and clamp around the adjacent porous pavement units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ricardo Schmalbach Restrepo, Mario Moreno Manzano, Daniel F. Senf, Gary M. Bach
  • Patent number: 7487610
    Abstract: A framing member for use in a bleed sign construction assembly, the construction assembly including a projecting mounting surface and at least one construction light fixture arrayed proximate to the projecting mounting surface which is encased within a light permeable covering material. A substantially elongate and joinable member includes a body with a selected width and height in cross section and a longitudinally extending channel which reveals an interior cavity of the body. A first flange extends longitudinally from along a first side of the body and secures to the mounting surface to arrange the body at a spaced distance therefrom. A second flange extends longitudinally from along a second and opposite side of the body terminates along a remote extending edge. A plurality of the framing members are connected in end to end fashion to form a closed perimeter and the covering material is anchored within the interconnected channels and drawn across the framing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Milliken Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Les Milliken, K. Blair Milliken, Steven LaFountain
  • Publication number: 20080155933
    Abstract: In an array of parallel cross bars, each cross bar has a crenellated edge with alternating recesses and projections. A first locking opening extends through the length of the each cross bar, at least partly within the projections. A number of bearing bars each include second locking openings spaced along the length of the bearing bar. The bearing bars are assembled with the cross bars with the bearing bars nested in the recesses in the cross bars. The first and second locking openings are in alignment. A locking member is received in the aligned locking openings to interlock the bearing bars and cross bars in a rigid, strong, durable and attractive grille structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: John D. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 7168219
    Abstract: A support structure such as, for example, a door jamb and a window jamb. In one embodiment, the jamb is formed from a first stud that has a web and two first flanges and a second stud with a second web and second flanges. The first stud has at least one first hole through the first web and the second stud has at least one second hole through the second web. The first and second studs are oriented such that at least one first hole is aligned with at least one second hole and a stud engager is inserted through the aligned holes to retain the studs in abutting contact to form the jamb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Elderson
  • Patent number: 7159369
    Abstract: A stud bridging/spacing member generally having at least three longitudinally spaced apart notches for receiving and engaging therein a web of a metal stud. At least one of the notches has opposing notch sides which are oriented such that when a portion of a web is received therein, one of the notch sides contacts the web at a first portion of the web and the other notch side contacts the web at a second portion of the web such that the first portion of the web and the second portion of the web are not located on a common longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Elderson
  • Patent number: 7152368
    Abstract: A trellis assembly including a first trellis section having a plurality of vertical rods connected to at least one horizontal rod and a second trellis section having a plurality of connected horizontal and vertical rods. The second trellis section includes a plurality of tubes connected to an outside of the vertical rods at upper ends thereof configured to accept lower ends of the vertical rods of the first trellis section to connect the first trellis section to the second trellis section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Dwight V. Swanson
  • Patent number: 6817806
    Abstract: A collapsible fluent material confinement system configured to receive a granular fluent material to form a temporary barrier structure. The fluent material confinement system includes a plurality of strips coupled to on another to form an array of collapsible cells, wherein the array of collapsible cell is configured to be movable between a collapsed configuration and an open configuration. The fluent material confinement system also includes a deployment indicator disposed on a selected strip, wherein the deployment indicator is configured to be effective in low visibility conditions to indicate user how to move the grid from the collapsed configuration to the open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Al M. Arellanes
  • Patent number: 6792724
    Abstract: A method of providing a glazed panel with Georgian-effect glazing bars (45). The method comprises providing a frame (37) for the panel and glazing material (30) to fit within the frame. A generally U-shaped clip (33), having two arms (35,36) which lie respectively against the side faces of the glazing material, is arranged to extend around the edge of the glazing material (30). A length of moulded hollow-section glazing bar (45), suitable for extending across a side face of the glazing material (30), is cut and is then engaged with an arm (35) of the clip so that the arm enters the open end (49) of the glazing bar (45). This holds the end region of the glazing bar (45) against the side face of the glazing material (30). Preferably a matrix of intersecting glazing bars (45) is formed, and at least some of the ends of the bars that extend to the edge of the panel are held in place by U-shaped clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: Alan David Burgess
  • Patent number: 6763642
    Abstract: In a ceiling grid for a suspended ceiling having 2 ft.×2 ft. openings that support panels, a connection in the grid between a main beam and 4 ft. cross beam is made tighter than a connection in the grid between a 2 ft. cross beam and a 4 ft. cross beam. Both connections use the same connector, but with a different stop position on the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Worthington Armstrong Venture
    Inventor: William J. Platt
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6729100
    Abstract: A connector for a main tee of a suspended ceiling grid that has improved self-aligning and connection force properties. The connector has an end tab with a forward portion bent at a lead angle and a receiving pocket with an outwardly flared entrance that, with an opposed identical connector, cooperate to provide smooth horizontal alignment. The end portion, additionally, includes an edge profile that vertically aligns itself with the receiving pocket of the opposed connector. The receiving pocket includes a spring-like resilient wall that limits the assembly force to overcome interference with projecting lock lances even when the connectors are nearly out of dimensional tolerance. The spring-like pocket wall, shape of the lock lance, and reinforcing beads contribute to an improved audible click signaling that a connection has been completed. The lock lance works with a relief groove to augment self-alignment of the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald L. Koski, John M. Harcula, Brock R. Kavanagh
  • Patent number: 6708460
    Abstract: A stud bridging/spacing member (30) generally having at least three longitudinally spaced apart notches (26) for receiving and engaging therein a web of a metal stud. The notches (26) extend at an incline to the longitudinal axis of the elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Elderson
  • Patent number: 6694697
    Abstract: Main bars end intersecting cross bars each have mated slots in their aligned edges. Deformable pairs of arms on one of the sets set of bars are crimped into openings in the other set of bars at the bar intersections to hold the bars together and make a strong and attractive grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: John D. Shepherd
  • Publication number: 20030097809
    Abstract: A vertical intersecting lightweight steel frame composes of several main frames and side frames, which are connected with each other vertically. A first oblique fold is formed on two sides of the main frame and a protrusion is on the bottom of the side frame. The angle of the first oblique fold on both side of the indention of the main frame is less than 45 degree, a second oblique fold above the first oblique fold with angle of 45 degree. The angle of the protrusion of the side frame is also 45 degree. The whole structure is stronger and easier to assemble, the darken area of the vertically connected between the main frame and side frame is kept undisclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Jui-Jung Li
  • Patent number: 6453538
    Abstract: Top and bottom rails for an outdoor railing system, include a plurality of equally spaced recesses defined in a side of the rails into which spindle ends are fitted. Each of the recesses comprises a multi-sided configuration having an open side defined through an inward edge of the rails so that spindles having a complimentary shaped end can be pressed into the recesses from the sides of the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Spartanburg Forest Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen W. Michael, John M. Pastore, James R. Hall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6357195
    Abstract: A support frame is intended to support the decorative sheet product and is formed of a plurality of longitudinal elements and horizontal elements, which are in turn formed of a plurality of base portions and main bodies. The base portions are provided with a protrusion and a recess opposite in location to the protrusion, and two slots opposite in location to each other. The base portions are joined together by the mortise-tenon joints to form the longitudinal elements. The main bodies are provided with two protruded blocks opposite in location to each other and are arranged in alignment such that the protruded blocks are received in the slots of the base portions of the longitudinal elements, and that the main bodies form the horizontal elements perpendicular to the longitudinal elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Chia-Ching Chen
  • Publication number: 20020000074
    Abstract: A lattice girder supporting frame for tunnel lining includes upper and lower boom members arranged parallel to each other to form a triangle. Truss braces spatially connect the upper and lower boom members to each other, wherein each of the truss braces has straight brace parts angled relative to each other, and each of the straight brace parts is connected to each other at one end via a straight bridge piece. The truss braces are arranged in a symmetrical plane extending laterally from the upper boom member to an axis of the lower boom members. Cross ties extend at right angles relative to the lower boom members, for connecting the lower boom members to each other, wherein the truss braces abut the lower boom members without bending and are welded to the lower boom members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Inventors: Rudolf Seiz, Rudi Podjadtke
  • Publication number: 20020000075
    Abstract: A lattice girder supporting frame for mine and tunnel lining has a plurality of boom members arranged in parallel relative to each other, forming a triangle. The boom members are spatially connected to each other by straight braces arranged along the edges of a pyramid so as to form a truss brace. The braces are each welded to the boom members at the contact faces between a straight brace part and an upper boom and a straight brace part and a lower boom. The lower booms are connected to each other via cross-ties arranged at right angle relative to such booms and the cross-ties form two sides of the pyramid base surface wherein four comer points of the base are defined by the truss braces at the contact points between the lower booms and braces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Inventors: Rudolf Seiz, Rudi Podjadtke
  • Patent number: 6327819
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a face grating including bearer members having a large number of holding projections formed at predetermined intervals along their longitudinal dimension. The bearer members are fixed to the exterior wall above and below or to the left and right of a building window with the holding projections facing outwardly. A plurality of elastic panels are formed in a substantially channel-like shape with curved portions at their opposing longitudinal edges and are mounted on the holding projections of the bearer members with the holding projections pushed inwards. Elastic covering members have a large number of push-in projections formed at predetermined intervals for fitting into spaces between mutually adjacent panels at positions corresponding to the bearer members or in the vicinity thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Goumei Kaisha Kurose Shouten
    Inventor: Kazutoshi Kurose
  • Patent number: 6321499
    Abstract: An assembly type wood floor comprising a high frame and a floor. The high floor is a net-like lattice frame formed by a plurality of upper plates, a plurality of lower plates and a plurality of flat plates. At first, the shape grooves of the upper plates is engaged with the U shape grooves of the lower plates, and the lower extended rod on the two sides of the bottom of the shape groove may be inserted into the positioning holes on the two sides of the nut of the upper plate. The upper extending rods on the two sides of the top of the U shape grooves are inserted into the positioning holes on the two sides of the nut of the upper plate. Next, the groove on the lower surface of the flat plate is engaged to the engaging plate of the upper plate and the pillar on the center of the engaging groove is inserted into the positioning hole on the middle section of the engaging plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Fu-Min Chuang
  • Patent number: 6305139
    Abstract: A clip for attachment to the end of a main beam for a grid in a suspended ceiling. The beam has an inverted T cross section. The clip engages an identical clip on the end of another main beam to form an end to end connection. The clip has a tongue and channel that engages with a tongue and channel in the other clip of the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Worthington Armstrong Venture
    Inventor: Gale E. Sauer
  • Patent number: 6286265
    Abstract: A support for mounting a lighting fixture in recessed position in a suspension ceiling of inverted T-bars extending generally parallel to one another and spaced apart a certain distance. The support is in the form of an elongate sheet metal bar for installation in generally vertical position bridging two T-bars. As installed, the sheet metal bar has upper and lower edges and a pair of notches in its lower edge spaced apart the aforesaid distance. The sheet metal bar is placeable in a bridging position on the two inverted T-bars with the two T-bars extending through the notches in the support bar. The sheet metal bar has end portions extending outward beyond the notches. Each end portion includes a primary tab bendable to extend generally at right angles with respect to the sheet metal bar in position extending alongside an outside face of the respective inverted T-bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Eric R. Rinderer
  • Patent number: 6237299
    Abstract: A lattice girder generally including a top rail, a bottom rail, vertical end posts and slanted crossbeams, wherein all of the members consist of uniform hollow sections that may be fitted into one another and thereby rigidly interconnected. The girder rail consists of two half-sections (18,19) internally provided with longitudinal flanges (20, 21) having transverse serrations so that the two half-sections may be permanently secured to one another by pressing them together with the serrations in mutual engagement. The end of a slanted crossbeam (24) having notches (at 25 and 26) is inserted into openings (22,23) in the half-sections to lock and engage the rail. Weldless lattice girders may thus be produced, in particular for forming a walkway guardrail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Societe d'Etude et de Construction d'Appareils de Levage et de Traction
    Inventor: Guido Gortan
  • Patent number: 6216412
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for the reinforcement of a concrete beam, where the reinforcement comprises reinforcement rods which extend longitudinally and transversely and are locked at their mutual points of intersection. The invention consists of placing at least one reinforcement rod in an undercut corner in a cutout along outer sides of assembly frames disposed transversely to the reinforcement rods in that the assembly frames are two longitudinal girders and two transverse girders. A reinforcement rod may be locked with a spring shackle deformed for gripping around the reinforcement rod and one of the girders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: IB Andresen Industri A/S
    Inventor: Kurt Offersen