Side-by-side Terminus Shafts; E.g., Truss Patents (Class 52/690)
  • Publication number: 20100326005
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes a truss and a method for selecting components to construct a truss. The truss includes three or more chord elements (two or more upper chord elements and one or more lower chord elements) and one or more web elements. Embodiments of methods according to the disclosure include estimating a first change in length for each of the two or more upper chord elements and estimating a second change in length of each of the one or more lower chord elements, the first change in length and the second change in conditions to which the truss is exposed. The method may also include selecting the one or more web elements from the plurality of wood members such that it compensates for deformation caused by the first change in length and the second change in length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Weyerhaeuser NR Company
    Inventors: John E. Jones, III, Benjamin C. Donner
  • Patent number: 7832173
    Abstract: Screw fasteners are used to connect multiple trusses in side-by-side relationship. The screw fasteners join truss wood members which are in edge to edge relationship with the screws being driven through the edge of each wood member. The screws may be knurled screws as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,109,850; lag screws, or standard screws. The connection may also join wood board members in edge-to-edge relationship when bending of the wood members is limited by a restraining structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark G. Crawford, Steven E. Pryor, Alfred D. Commins
  • Publication number: 20100281632
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting the live and dead load balance between the arches of an arch bridge and the truss girder that supports the bridge deck. The method is achieved by providing hanger rods disposed between the arches and the top chords of the truss girder whose compression may be adjusted. In which the arch truss counter act the compression in the top chord of the truss. This interaction adds to the strength and safety of both elements of the structure. With this interaction there are no critical members which can cause catastrophic failure of the bridge by failing. By combining two of these bridges side by side, and then connected with the lateral members, both at top and bottom chord of trusses, it is possible to carry vehicular, train, and pedestrian lanes separated and accommodated with safety; all without a critical member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: H. Joe Meheen
  • Patent number: 7828161
    Abstract: A reinforced rack truss base to protect against damage to a rack truss storage system is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Konstant Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony N. Konstant
  • Publication number: 20100154333
    Abstract: Structural members, building structures, and methods for making them, are provided that are less prone to develop squeaks. The methods include, in one aspect, placing at least one panel on the flange surfaces of joists with an activatable adhesive provided between the panel and the flange surfaces to bond the flange surfaces to the panels in an effective long lasting manner. In another aspect, adhesive is introduced into a groove array in a joist flange surface to attach a panel pre-positioned on the grooved flange surface. Building frame structures, such as subflooring assemblies, made by the methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: HUBER ENGINEERED WOODS LLC
    Inventors: Brian M. Peek, Mikel Hill, Joel F. Barker, Joerg Student, Emily Joyce Ma, Sherry S. Walker, Eric Peterson
  • Patent number: 7739852
    Abstract: A bracketing system is provided having two brackets joined by a flexible adhesive material that allows bridging or backing members of variable lengths and widths to be mounted between vertical studs to enhance stability of the wall construction. A wall construction assembly according to an embodiment of the invention comprises two vertical studs and a bridge backing member mounted there between by a bracketing system, which includes a left bracket and a right bracket connected by a flexible adhesive material. Because the bridge backing member can be adjustably sized to be secured on the brackets, it can be sized to fit between studs regardless of any variation in the spacing of the studs. This obviates the need to prefabricate bridge backing members to fit between variably spaced studs. The bridge backing member can be mounted flush with the stud to eliminate unevenness in the wall structure. Bridge or backing members of various widths and lengths can be mounted to the bracketing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Brady Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Todd A. Brady
  • Patent number: 7730692
    Abstract: A truss bearing supports a web-type construction truss and has an elongated metal member that is secured along its length to the primary supporting chord of a truss. The truss bearing can include a pair of substantially parallel spaced-apart elongated wooden members sandwiching the metal member extending along and secured to the bottom of the primary chord, with the metal member adhesively secured to the primary chord through being adhesively secured to the pair of wooden members. An optional metal bearing plate can be substantially rigidly secured to the bottom surface of the elongated metal member near one or both ends of the truss, forming therewith a T-shaped cross-section, and can be welded to a supporting member of a larger structure using metal-to-metal connection. The bearing plate can have an angled extension affixed to the first diagonal truss member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Alliance Trutrus, LLC
    Inventor: Donald W. Hershey
  • Publication number: 20100088978
    Abstract: Embodiments of a panel for use in building a tilt-wall building are disclosed, some of which comprise a plurality of structural studs, each comprising: a baseplate; an exterior-facing sidewall and an interior-facing sidewall connected by the baseplate; and a tab punched out of each of the sidewalls; an exterior concrete surface in which the tabs punched out of the exterior-facing sidewalls are embedded; and an interior concrete surface in which the tabs punched out of the interior-facing sidewalls are embedded; where the exterior and interior concrete surfaces are substantially planar surfaces that are substantially parallel to each other. Methods for forming tilt-wall panels are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: John Valle
  • Publication number: 20100058687
    Abstract: A method of constructing a multi-storey building entails using prefabricated modular wall panels and floor panels. The prefabricated wall panels have a frame that includes studs, rebar and an upright channel into which concrete is poured and cured to form a concrete column (or a hybrid steel-and-concrete column). Prefabricated floor panels have a frame that includes joists, sheathing and a trench-like track that forms a trough for receiving concrete that cures in the trough to create a concrete beam (or a hybrid steel-and-concrete beam). This novel method is extremely efficient for constructing multi-storey buildings, substantially reducing both construction costs and construction time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Bernard M. NORMAND
  • Publication number: 20100024345
    Abstract: A truss member transportation apparatus may include a member transporter and a member queue. The member transporter may be configured to transport truss members including at least one pre-plated member for truss assembly. The member queue may be operably connected to the member transporter to receive the truss members prior to selection of the truss members for truss assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: David L. McAdoo, Timothy K. McAdoo
  • Publication number: 20090308016
    Abstract: A truss chord for use in a light steel truss includes a flange portion, a pair of web portions and at least one wing. The flange portion has an end and an end portion. The end portion has a double thickness. The pair of web portions extend substantially orthogonally from the flange portion and are spaced inwardly from the ends of the flange portion. The at least one wing extends outwardly substantially orthogonally from at least one of the pair of web portions. There is provided an alternate embodiment wherein the wing having a plurality of spaced apart holes formed therein. There is also provided a truss web. As well there is a truss which uses the truss chords and truss webs and a truss system which uses a plurality of trusses. In addition there is a mass customization system for the trusses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: PARADIGM FOCUS PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Strickland, Douglas M. Fox, Richard Wilson Strickland
  • Publication number: 20090282773
    Abstract: Methods and systems to manufacture lattice-based sandwich structures from monolithic material. Such methods and systems eliminate the bonding process which is conventionally used to join lattice based truss cores to facesheets to form sandwich structures. This bonded interface is a key mode of failure for sandwich structures which are subjected to shear or bending loads because the nodes transfer forces from the face sheets to the core members while the topology for a given core relative density dictates the load carrying capacity (assuming adequate node-bond strength exists). An aspect comprises a core and related structures that provide very low density, good crush resistance and high in-plane shear resistance. An aspect of the truss structures may include sandwich panel cores and lattice truss topology that may be designed to efficiently support panel bending loads while maintaining an open topology that facilitates multifunctional applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA PATENT FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Douglas T. Queheillalt, Haydn N.G. Wadley
  • Publication number: 20090272063
    Abstract: The present invention provides metal stud perimeter wall and load-bearing wall systems that support without eccentricity, concrete-topped floors on open-web steel joists, deep-profiled composite metal decks, and channel-shaped joists, and allow upper floor framing to be completed before Boor concreting; a composite steel beam, for open-web steel joist support; a new shear-connection-ready open-web steel joist; and a perimeter metal stud wall system that incorporates an in-wall wheel stopper. The wall systems incorporate web-perforated studs, and/or web-perforated tracks doubling as concrete closures, and other concrete closure devices. The composite beam incorporates shear connectors protruding through a special web-perforated track fitted with a load-bearing, block and cut-outs in the legs for open-web steel joist support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Wilfred Wing-Chow Siu
  • Patent number: 7597287
    Abstract: A device for reinforcement of hollow structures such as aircraft boxes, composed of a front panel, an upper panel, a lower panel, and a rear panel, the device comprising a network of reinforcement rods with the ends attached to at least some of the panels comprising the structure. The device comprises at least a first rod and a second rod, both inclined, the first end of the first rod being attached to the internal side of the front panel, the second end of the first rod being attached to the internal side of the upper panel, the second end of the second rod being attached to the internal side of the lower panel, the device comprising in addition a third rod connecting said second ends of said first and second rods, the first, second and third rods thus comprising a reinforcement triangle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Airbus France
    Inventor: Stephane Gay
  • Publication number: 20090193734
    Abstract: A modular wall panel have a wall face, a top cap, a bottom pan and two side framing studs at the perimeter sides extending vertically from the bottom pan to the top cap are all constructed integrally. The side framing studs also define a surface for at attaching finishing strips that extend from the base pan to the top cap. A foundation wall is constructed from a plurality of modular wall panels. The wall panels may also have interior vertical reinforcing studs with surfaces for attaching finishing strips at regular intervals. The panels may include a support column for a cross wall beam or for a support beam over a door frame opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher W. Harig, Walter B. Bradley
  • Publication number: 20090151275
    Abstract: A deck assembly uses plurality of joists preferably formed from metal located side by side and each having a web portion and a deck portion integrally formed with the web portion. The deck portion extends laterally from the web portion and the joists are spaced from one another such that the deck portions from a continuous deck surface with the joists being connected to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: Casata Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Naccarato, Joseph A. Severini
  • Publication number: 20090145075
    Abstract: A timber frame structure for a building, comprising elongate base members extending along lines of respective walls of the building, corner posts extending upwardly from the base members at intersections of respective walls, elongate head members extending between the corner posts at upper end parts thereof; and a plurality of wall panels extending between the head and base members to provide walls for the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Colin Michael Oakley
  • Publication number: 20090126302
    Abstract: An insulation material comprising a substrate (5) having a plurality of spaced attachment portions (7), each attachment portion (7) being formed so that in use structural members on either side of said substrate (5) can be adhered to one another where they overlie the attachment portions, and a plurality of spaced insulation portions (6) attached to said substrate (5) between said attachment portions (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Vaughan Thomas
  • Publication number: 20090107943
    Abstract: A reinforced rack truss base to protect against damage to a rack truss storage system is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: Konstant Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony N. Konstant
  • Publication number: 20090094905
    Abstract: Overhead truss assemblies for use with retail displays are provided. The assemblies include multiple trusses that are parallel to and spaced from each other, spanning overhead or otherwise elevated and connecting merchandise display racks on opposing sides of an aisle or aligned with and atop a single merchandise display rack. The trusses have horizontal truss segments and define variable mounting widths. The variable mounting widths are established with one or more connector assemblies that cooperate with and move longitudinally along the horizontal truss segments. Each connector assembly includes a captured plate that is slidingly housed inside of the horizontal truss segment, and an insert connected to and moving in unison with the captured plate. Moving the connector assembly inwardly toward a middle portion of the truss defines a relatively narrower mounting width, whilst moving the connector assembly outwardly toward an end of the truss defines a relatively wider mounting width.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Caleb Krisher, David L. Knoll
  • Patent number: 7448170
    Abstract: An indirectly prestressed concrete roof-ceiling construction is a prefabricated element for constructing large-span industrial buildings. The construction includes a distinctly wide and thin concrete soffit plate and an upper concrete girder of an inverse ā€œVā€-shaped cross section, interconnected by slender steel pipe-rods that are used to stabilize the upper girder against lateral buckling and to prevent the plate and the girder from getting closer or further away from each other. Prestressing of the soffit plate causes compression in the upper girder which passively (indirectly) pushes the ends of the construction, acting on some eccentricity over the center of gravity of the cross section, causing rotation of its ends, bending in that way the soffit plate upwards. There are two efficient methods of prestressing these constructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Mara-Institut d.o.o.
    Inventors: Milovan Skend{hacek over (z)}ić, Branko {hacek over (S)}mr{hacek over (c)}ek
  • Publication number: 20080202056
    Abstract: Longitudinal beams span between torque boxes located at each end. The beams attach to the torque boxes to prevent vertical movement or rotation about their horizontal axis, or a fixed end condition. The longitudinal beams cover the width of a platform used to support pallets, and the ends may have wheels for transport of the pallets. The torque box attaches to a moment beam to prevent rotation between the two members about the lateral axis. The torque box has a high strength to transmit all of the moment generated by the end condition through it and into the moment beam. This fixed end condition has the advantages of light weight, low deflection, and low beam depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Steve L. Jantzen
  • Publication number: 20080190068
    Abstract: A snap tight system including at least one fastening device is used for joining structural members to form an architectural assembly. The snap tight system includes a splice assembly having a first splice portion and a second splice portion. Further, the snap tight system includes a first structural member having one or more first openings, and a second structural member having one or more second openings. Further still, the snap tight system includes the at least one fastening device having a housing with a spring that actuates a first pin and a second pin. The fastening device joins the first structural member to the second structural member, such that the first pin extends through the first splice portion and the one or more first openings and, the second pin extends through the second splice portion and the one or more second openings so as to form the architectural assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Gary Tapscott, Jon Hilton
  • Publication number: 20080184653
    Abstract: A reinforced triangular truss column having two vertical pipe reinforcing columns added to the three rods of the truss column is provided. Also provided is a method of reinforcing triangular truss columns comprising adding two vertical pipe reinforcing columns to a triangular truss column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Kevin P. Bauman, Curtis J. Porr
  • Publication number: 20080178555
    Abstract: A tapered truss is provided. In one embodiment, the truss has a pair of base members configured to be attached to a top surface of a vertical support member. The truss may further have an upper pair of truss members and a lower pair of truss members. Each upper truss member each forms an acute angle with a respective base member and each lower truss member forms an obtuse angle from the respective base member such that the lower truss member is not parallel to the upper truss member. The truss may additionally include a ceiling joist member connected to each of the lower truss members. In one embodiment, the ceiling joist member is substantially parallel to the pair of base members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: C. Green & Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Green, Walter Green, Clarence Green, David Derwacter, Chester Prinkey, Darren Skeese, Daniel West
  • Publication number: 20080168981
    Abstract: Embodiments in accordance with the present invention relate to the design of inexpensive mounting and pointing apparatuses for linear arrays of solar energy collectors and converters. Particular embodiments in accordance with the present invention disclose a rigging system comprising at least one, and preferably a plurality of, tensile cables onto which a plurality of solar modules are fastened. Such an arrangement provides a way of suspending solar modules over land, vegetation, bodies of water, and other geographic features without substantial perturbation of the underlying terrain. Certain embodiments comprise additional tensile cables fastened to the solar modules, such that differential axial motion of the cables produces a rotational motion component of the individual solar modules of the array. This rotational motion component effects an orientation control along one rotational axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: CoolEarth Solar
    Inventors: Eric Bryant Cummings, Kirsten Kaye Pace, Jacques Jean Belanger
  • Publication number: 20080155919
    Abstract: A method of producing an engineered composite structural panel by selecting a structural panel having at least two structural shells, an insulating material extending therebetween, and a plurality of truss members extending therebetween. A determination is made if the two or more structural shells act as a unitary composite structural panel. If the structural panel is not a unitary composite structural panel, then parameters of the panel are adjusted and it is further determined whether the panel is a unitary composite structural panel. Combined truss systems for strengthening the structural panels may be formed by combining ladder truss members with warren truss members, by superimposing the ladder truss members and warren truss members, and by superimposing ladder truss members with a warren truss member and another warren truss member that is inverted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: PETROS KESHISHIAN, Armen Martirossyan
  • Publication number: 20080148681
    Abstract: A lateral bracing system is disclosed for affixing a column to a beam in a construction. The lateral bracing system includes a pair of buckling restraint blocks, one each affixed to a top and bottom flange of a beam. Each buckling restraint block includes one or more bores formed through a center of the block. The lateral bracing system further includes at least one yield link for each buckling restraint block. Each yield link includes a first end affixed to the column, and a second end fit through a bore in a buckling restraint block and affixed to an end of the buckling restraint block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Badri Hiriyur, Steven E. Pryor
  • Publication number: 20080134619
    Abstract: The I-beam of this invention is formed from a pair of parallel flange members and a continuous web material affixed to and joining the flange members. The web material is formed so as to define a plurality of differently shaped holes therein that provide access for mechanical elements without compromising the compressive and tensile load capability of the I-beam. The web material is preferably formed from OSB and even more preferably ? inch thick OSB. In addition, the I-beam of this invention preferably has one end where the web material is continuous and does not define any openings therein. This portion of the I-beam thus allows the I-beam to be trimmed so standard lengths of the I-beam can be cut to the desired length for a particular application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: Georgia-Pacific Wood Products LLC
    Inventors: Kirk M. Nichols, Richard Dean Graham, Robert R. Graham
  • Patent number: 7356974
    Abstract: A structural truss and method of forming a truss is disclosed. The truss includes an end configuration which does not rely on gluing components together. The end configuration is formed from a web which extends between the top and bottom chords of the truss and a connector system for connecting the web to both of those chords inwardly of the first ends of the chords. In another arrangement, the end configuration is a prefabricated end configuration comprised of top and bottom chord members and a web located between the top and bottom chord members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: John Tadich
  • Publication number: 20080078138
    Abstract: The disclosure depicts a high-strength yet lightweight material composed of interconnected struts that typically form a tetrahedral lattice structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Christopher Baker
  • Patent number: 7331149
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing backing in walls which include a first, second and third upright U-shaped stud. A first backing member has a first end, a second end, a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. The first backing member is disposed between the first and second studs. A second backing member has a first end, a second end, a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. The second backing member is disposed between said second and third studs. A hinge is operatively attached to the first side of the first and second backing members for permitting the second backing member to pivot with respect the first backing member between a first position wherein the first side of each of the first and second backing members are substantially in the same plane and a second position whereby the first and second backing members are not in the same plane. This permits the first backing member to be placed between a first and second adjacent vertical stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel W. Tollenaar
  • Patent number: 7275348
    Abstract: A precast, prestressed concrete truss which spans between exterior columns and forms an interior or exterior load bearing wall of a building. The truss includes top and bottom chords interconnected by at least one web member. Prestressed reinforcing members in the top and bottom chords apply a compressive stress in the chords. The top and bottom chords are configured to support concrete planks that form a floor and/or a ceiling of a building in which the truss is used. When used as an interior load bearing wall, the truss can include at least one opening that forms, for example, a corridor passage large enough for a person to walk through the opening. When used as an exterior load bearing wall, the truss can include at least one window opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Ericksen Roed & Associates
    Inventor: Michael A. Desutter
  • Patent number: 7231745
    Abstract: A joint having an improved rigidity realized by a shortened inter-joint distance and suitable for use in a truss structure is provided. A connection part is formed on the end of a pipe member to be used as a chord member. The connection part of the pipe for connecting with a parent plate for assembly of the truss structure is comprised of a tubular section formed by constrained pattern pressing of the pipe, and a flat section which is formed integral with and in close proximity to the tubular section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Bunichi Shoji
  • Patent number: 7171792
    Abstract: The present invention is a truss system constructed of rigid members and cables. In a preferred embodiment, the rigid members are used drill piping. Two inclined upper members are joined together at an angle to form a truss peak junction. A vertical member connects to and supports the lower end of each inclined upper member. The bottom of each vertical member sits in a collar attached to the top of a foundation member located in the ground. A tensioning member is perpendicularly attached to each inclined upper member near the midpoint of the inclined member. For each inclined upper member, a cable attaches to the inclined upper member near the truss peak, runs through a penetration in the tensioning member, and attaches to the lower end of the inclined member. Finally, a cable with first and second ends has its first and second ends secured so as to apply tension that opposes spreading of the lower ends of the inclined upper members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventors: Ethan L. Windahl, Barry W. Santana
  • Patent number: 7036707
    Abstract: Disclosed is a friction stir welding technique which avoids occurrence of a dent, in a joining region, extending to a level beneath the joined surfaces. At end portions of the frame members to be joined, at the joining region, thickened parts which project toward the rotary body joining tool are provided. Two adjoining thickened parts, of adjacent members to be joined, can form a trapezoid shape. The rotary body joining tool has a small-diameter tip portion and a larger diameter portion. The rotary body joining tool is inserted in the thickened parts. In a state where the rotary body joining tool has been inserted small-diameter tip end first, to a level where the larger diameter portion of the rotary body joining tool overlaps the thickened part but does not extend below the upper surface of the non-thickened surfaces of the members joined, the rotary body is rotated and moved along the joining region. Even when a gap exists between two thickened parts, a desirable joining can be carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kinya Aota, Masakuni Ezumi, Yasuo Ishimaru, Hisanori Okamura, Isao Funyuu, Akihiro Satou
  • Patent number: 7010890
    Abstract: A precast, prestressed concrete truss which spans between exterior columns and forms an interior or exterior load bearing wall of a building. The truss includes top and bottom chords interconnected by at least one web member. Prestressed reinforcing members in the top and bottom chords apply a compressive stress in the chords. The top and bottom chords are configured to support concrete planks that form a floor and/or a ceiling of a building in which the truss is used. When used as an interior load bearing wall, the truss can include at least one opening that forms, for example, a corridor passage large enough for a person to walk through the opening. When used as an exterior load bearing wall, the truss can include at least one window opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Ericksen Roed & Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. DeSutter
  • Patent number: 6993879
    Abstract: A molded plastic truss work includes an upper grid and a lower grid, with a plurality of interconnecting members interconnecting the grids. The upper grid includes longitudinal members and transverse members that extend between and interconnect the longitudinal members. The lower grid includes longitudinal members and transverse members extending between and interconnecting the longitudinal members. The longitudinal members in the lower grid are positioned such that each of the longitudinal members in the lower grid is not directly below any of the longitudinal members in the upper grid. The transverse members in the lower grid are positioned such that each of the transverse members in the lower grid is not directly below any of the transverse members in the upper grid. The plurality of interconnecting members extend between the upper and lower grids, and include a plurality of vertical members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Richard W. Cantley
  • Patent number: 6976343
    Abstract: A sinusoidal structural member having a dual component flange is provided. In the preferred embodiment, the flange (both upper and lower) is comprised of at least two components. These two components can be produced by dividing the flange lengthwise; where the division plane is substantially parallel to the plane of the web, when observing a standard flange-web relationship; and the geometry of the division border substantially matches the sinusoidal geometry of the web. The two resulting flange components substantially complement one another; wherein the sine peak of one component fits within the sine valley of its corresponding component, leaving a gap sufficient to accommodate the thickness of the web to be interposed. The sinusoidal web, substantially matching the division pattern of the flange components, is compressively sandwiched between the flange components, with sufficient compression to bring the sinusoidal web within dimensional compliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Kevin D. McGushion
  • Patent number: 6931364
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a technique of volume detailing a building structure that allow for the consideration of the positioning of various structural and non-structural components. Initially, a three dimensional building structure volume is created. Next, a three dimensional component is positioned at a desired location in the three dimensional building structure volume. Finally, the three dimensional building structure volume is sectioned at a point of interest to provide a building structure profile that includes a component profiled if the three dimensional component extends through the point of interest. In another embodiment, a plurality of additional component profiles are placed within the building structure profile at the point of interest such that the additional component profiles do not interfere with one another or interfere with the component profile of the three dimensional component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: G. Douglas Anturna
  • Patent number: 6915615
    Abstract: The present invention relates to prestressed composite truss girder and construction method of the same. The prestressed composite truss girder of the present invention comprises a concrete bottom plate having structure of composite truss; a lower-chord member being composed of prestressed concrete wherein prestress is induced to resist against the elongation strength generated when composing and not composing and to reduce the droop occurred at the state of composition and having perpendicular and horizontal cross-section of certain shape and certain length; web members wherein vertical chords and diagnal chords composed of rolled steel to upper plate of said lower-chord member; and upper-chord member combined with said web members along the longitudinal direction of said lower-chord member to resist against the compressive force generated before said concrete bottom plate being composed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Dae Yon Won
  • Patent number: 6892502
    Abstract: A space frame support structure for highway signs comprises upper and lower chord members; a plurality of weld-free, single-cast connectors attached to and spaced along the respective length of the chord members; a plurality of diagonal members disposed between the upper and lower chord members in a series of ā€œVā€-shaped configuration connected end-to-end, each diagonal member forming a leg of a respective ā€œVā€. Each leg including a bottom end portion and a top end portion. The bottom end portion is attached to a respective connector attached to the lower chord member. The top end portion is connected to another connector attached to the upper chord member. A plurality of pins are carried by each connector to secure each connector to the upper or lower chord member and to the respective bottom or top end portions of the diagonal members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: David A. Hubbell, Robert W. Blyth, Philip V. DeSantis
  • Patent number: 6854237
    Abstract: A plurality of studs (14) are spaced apart relative to each other. Upper end portions (32) of the studs fit into an upper channel space (22) and lower end portions (34) fit into a lower channel space (30). The lower channel space (30) is defined in part by a pair of spaced apart sidewalls (24, 26). Screw fasteners (52) extend through the sidewalls (24, 26) and connect them to the lower end portion (34) of the stud (14). The studs (14) have upper ends that are spaced from a web (20) forming the upper boundary of the upper channel space (22). Vertical elongated slots (48, 50) are provided in the sidewalls (38, 40) of the studs (14). Screw fasteners extend through the sidewalls (16, 18) of the upper channel member (10) and then extend into and through the slots (48, 50). The heads of the screw fasteners (52) bear against the sidewalls (16, 18) when the screw fasteners (52) are tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Steeler Inc.
    Inventor: Matt F. Surowiecki
  • Patent number: 6834470
    Abstract: A structural framework, method for forming the framework and web member for the framework are disclosed. The web member has a body and tabs at each end of the body bent at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to an axis of the body. The tabs can include an ancillary connector to temporarily locate and hold the web member in position until the web member is secured in place. The method for forming the framework comprises defining a theoretical connection point on at least one chord of the framework which provides structural integrity, and connecting a web member to the chords at a web member connection point spaced from the theoretical connection point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: John Tadich
  • Patent number: 6817155
    Abstract: A structural section for use in frame construction where the section includes a horizontal segment and a pair of spaced apart legs. Each leg has a first end portion attached to the horizontal segment, a second end portion opposite the horizontal segment, and a flange that extends inward from the second end portion toward the centerline of the structural section. Each leg further includes a longitudinal surface located between the first end portion and the second end portion. The longitudinal surface is positioned inboard of the flange so that the distance between opposed flanges that extend along each leg of the structural section is greater than the distance between opposed longitudinal surfaces that extend along each leg of the structural section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Steel Construction Systems
    Inventor: Jay W. Larson
  • Patent number: 6792733
    Abstract: A deflection clip comprising a planar base plate comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface, and a guide depending from the base plate. The guide comprises a first arm extending along a longitudinal axis substantially transverse to the base plate from a proximal end adjacent the second surface. The guide further comprises a second arm extending away from the base plate oriented in the same direction as the first arm defining a channel between the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Flex-Ability Concepts, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Frank Wheeler, Dick Ninness
  • Publication number: 20040128941
    Abstract: A floor frame for a transportable manufactured home includes spaced apart perimeter frame members having a vertical wall and two horizontal walls extending therefrom. A plurality of floor joists extend between the spaced apart perimeter frame members and have notched ends configured to each receive a portion of one perimeter frame member. An arrangement for coupling a transport structure to the floor frame is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas R. Brandt, James F. Shea
  • Patent number: 6758022
    Abstract: A web member for use in reinforcing a structural framework, such as a truss or a wall panel, comprised of beams and web members secured to the beams. A web member includes a support section with a longitudinally extending tab on each end thereof. The tabs are bent to engage inside surfaces of the beams for securement thereto as with screw fasteners whereby the web member is secured to and extends between beams of the truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Anthony Coll, John Tadich
  • Publication number: 20040118073
    Abstract: A truss system wherein the structural components and fixtures are formed from light gauge metal. The trusses are fabricated from roll formed truss chord members and truss web members. The truss chord members are roll formed to have a generally U-shaped cross-section with a base and two substantially parallel legs with recessed web attachment faces and outwardly extending stiffening flanges to improve structural capacity thus improving the strength-to-weight ratio of the chord member and minimizing costs. The truss web members are formed by nesting two roll formed C-shaped members to form a web member which is box-shaped in cross section. The web members provide the structural advantages of a box-shaped member and the ease and flexibility of a roll formed member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Harry J. Collins
  • Publication number: 20040074195
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a wooden beam, a wooden beam and a wooden frame for constructing a building ensuring a good distribution of the stresses, a flexibility of the frame, a resistance in case of earthquakes, a squaring and a crossbracing, and allowing to make beams having a wide span that do not require an inner bearing wall, to improve the living comfort by eliminating the grating and the creaking noise of the wood while reducing the risk of fissures and increasing the flexibility of the floor. The wooden frame (10) is constituted of identical wooden beams (1) each comprising four parallel square rulers (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) connected by crosspieces (3a, 3b) that are assembled to said square rulers (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) by means of a so-called flexible glue forming, after drying, elastic joints. The wooden beams (1) form a post (11a), a tie beam (11b) and a principle rafter (11c) connected together by means of gussets (6a, 6b) and spacers (7) to form modular frame sections (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Claude Schmerber