Diagonal Bracing Patents (Class 52/693)
  • Patent number: 6941718
    Abstract: A wall structure adapted to be fabricated in sections or modules and comprises an upper member, a lower member, a plurality of studs interconnected between the upper and lower members with respective studs including openings therein, and at least one diagonal brace member extending through the openings within the studs and interconnected between opposed corners of the wall structure. Because the internal brace extends generally centrally through the plane of the wall, the wall structure is designed to carry loads concentrically from the point of applied loads to a foundation or other termination point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael L. Torres, Robert W. Herrmann, Aaron M. Herrmann, Thomas C. Boyd
  • Patent number: 6931804
    Abstract: A novel prefabricated shearwall is disclosed with improved structural characteristics in terms of its ability to 1) transfer lateral loads to the foundation, 2) resist bending moments normally arising in conventional shearwalls between hold-down hardware and end posts or vertical framing members, 3) effectively diffuse stresses known to result in nail fatigue, and 4) reduce slippage between the bottom of the end posts and base in response to cyclic loadings. These superior properties result partly from its geometry in lower, or shear force transfer region, accompanied by thrust block/anchor rod assemblies to provide stiffness and strength over the lower portion of the end posts. Furthermore, specialized wrap-around connector plates that cover a portion of the bottom surface of these end posts also contribute to the enhanced prefabricated shearwall design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Shear Force Wall Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn M. Trarup, Thomas V. Leung, George Shahnazarian
  • Patent number: 6928782
    Abstract: An extruded metal structural component has a hollow generally rectangular section with the sides of the rectangular section adapted to interlock and engage with other structural components of the same cross section. The generally rectangular section includes on one side a shallow “U” shaped channel and the opposite side includes a projecting portion for mating receipt in the “U” shaped channel of a second structural component. The structural component includes a downwardly extending securing flange for engaging and securing connecting members when two such structural components form the top and bottom chord of a structural beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Aluma Enterprises Inc.
    Inventors: Allan James Becker, Zygmunt Dziwak
  • Patent number: 6920721
    Abstract: Off-site factory built structure employs a chassis including two interior longitudinal beam members joined at their ends to a perimeter structure. A floor system is integrated within the chassis perimeter. A ledger member is fixed to the inner surface of each longitudinal perimeter member so that a top surface lies in a plane coincident with top surfaces of the interior longitudinal beams. Lateral members are coupled to the tops of the interior longitudinal beams and to the top of the ledger members. The lateral members include secondary stiffening members such as C-channel members, metal Z-channel members, or other metal members of similar structural capacity, spaced apart from each other by a maximum distance S, related to the width of the floor system W, by the equation: S 12?½W.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Adv-Tech Building Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Evor F. Johns, James E. Rose, Skyler J. Epperson, Marc H. Pulver, Kenneth A. Long
  • 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 “V”-shaped configuration connected end-to-end, each diagonal member forming a leg of a respective “V”. 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: 6874294
    Abstract: A metal building includes a joist system having upper and lower longitudinally extending chords, the upper and lower chords being substantially parallel, and a plurality of web members interposed between the parallel chords. Each of the chords includes an upper chord segment, opposed parallel side walls, inwardly extending lower chord segments, the lower chord segments being parallel to the upper chord segment, and a pair of flanges extending downwardly from the innermost edges of lower chord segments, the flanges defining a longitudinally extending continuous web receiving aperture traversing the length of the chord, the upper chord segment, lower chord segment, parallel side walls and flanges, the web receiving apertures of the upper and lower chords being positioned in opposed relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: NCI Building Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: Eric Masterson, Leonard George
  • Patent number: 6871469
    Abstract: For a lateral face of the lattice girder, defined by an upper chord and a lower chord, the triangulation comprises compression bars substantially perpendicular to the chords, oblique tension bars of smaller length connecting the top of a compression bar to the lower chord, and other oblique tension bars of greater length, also connecting the top of a compression bar to the lower chord, at a point located further ahead toward the base of the next compression bar. This triangulation is used, in particular, for the jib and counterjib elements of tower cranes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Potain
    Inventors: Michel Lissandre, Jean-Pierre Gautier
  • Patent number: 6843026
    Abstract: A roof structure for a building in the form of a cone shaped polygon is disclosed. The roof structure includes at least three multi-element trusses attached on corresponding ends to a vertically extending central column. Each of the trusses is rotationally displaced from adjacent ones of the trusses, as measured in a horizontal plane, preferably, by the same angle. Each of the trusses is inclined outwardly and downwardly from the central column to form a series of triangularly shaped roof segments between adjacent ones of the trusses and so as to provide the roof structure shape. The central column may be a vertically extending length of hollow pipe and is essentially non-load supporting, whereby a lower end of the column is vertically spaced above a support structure for outer peripheral edge portions of the trusses. The support structure may be a series of wood posts, a different one of which is attached on an upper end portion to an outer peripheral edge portions of a corresponding one of the trusses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Steven Hoehn
  • Patent number: 6843036
    Abstract: A system for reinforcing, securing and stiffening a plurality of joists comprising a band extending across the top of a series of joists and connected to the joists and with a series of truss members attached to the underside of the band and extending between and abutting two adjacent joists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Kenneth G. Stewart, III
  • Publication number: 20040261351
    Abstract: A lightweight, deployable, portable shelter is described. The portable shelter may be a tent. The tent can be used indoors as well as outdoors. The structure of the portable shelter is determined by compression elements and tensile members such that the compression elements do not touch. The forces acting on each component of the structure are axially-loaded, thereby taking advantage of the characteristics of the compression elements and tensile members to provide a tent with improved strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Dana M. Ung, Robert E. Skelton, Jean-Paul Pinuad
  • 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: 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: 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
  • Patent number: 6715257
    Abstract: An improved construction member or joist is disclosed that includes upper and lower chords connected by various members including first and second trimmable webs at either end thereof, which webs include end portions received in grooves in the upper and lower chords. Significantly, the profile of the end portions of the webs includes at least one notch or ridge that fits within a corresponding notch or ridge in the chord to provide a more secure attachment, even under unusual loading conditions. Supplemental webs are also provided that can be attached to the member at various locations to provide an additional degree of support only where needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Kent Trusses
    Inventors: Michael L. Kent, Andrew G. Forsayeth
  • Patent number: 6701688
    Abstract: A molded concrete member has two facings, respectively active and passive, spaced from one another by a preselected distance, and between which is embedded a reinforcing cage. The cage has, on either side of a neutral axis, two layers, respectively active and passive, which are separated by a spacing. Each layer has at least one longitudinal solid bar of preselected cross-section, the spacing and the cross-section of the bars being determined in relation to loads to be applied, the two layers are respectively parallel to both facings of the molded element and are connected by transverse linking armoring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Societe Civile de Brevets Matiere
    Inventor: Marcel Matiere
  • Patent number: 6698152
    Abstract: An adjustable truss for reinforcing a floor supported atop horizontal joists has a beam which underlies the floor and includes reinforcing members having spaced apart limbs which provide space for the accommodation of utility components such as wiring, pipes, and conduits. The support members are removable from the beam so as to enable any selected support to be uncoupled from the beam and recoupled thereto following movement of the support member in such manner as to enable the utility components to be accommodated in the space between the limbs. The support members are rockable in either of two opposite direction so as to enable the beam to be adjusted in such manner as to maintain bearing engagement with the underside of the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas A. Bush
  • Publication number: 20030226330
    Abstract: For a lateral face of the lattice girder, defined by an upper chord and a lower chord, the triangulation comprises compression bars substantially perpendicular to the chords, oblique tension bars of smaller length connecting the top of a compression bar to the lower chord, and other oblique tension bars of greater length, also connecting the top of a compression bar to the lower chord, at a point located further ahead toward the base of the next compression bar. This triangulation is used, in particular, for the jib and counterjib elements of tower cranes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: POTAIN
    Inventors: Michel Lissandre, Jean-Pierre Gautier
  • Patent number: 6584741
    Abstract: A method for strengthening a truss having a principal rafter and a plurality of struts coupled to the principal rafter, defining a frame structure of the truss. The method includes the use of a bracket which is coupled between the principal rafter and one of the struts. The bracket includes a channel arranged to receive and mount the rafter therein. A strut anchor is coupled to the channel and extends outwardly therefrom for anchoring the channel on an outermost strut defining an end of the truss. The bracket provides torsional support and load bearing support between the strut and the principal rafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Fero Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Hatzinikolas
  • Publication number: 20030089069
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of use is provided for application with at least one truss chord having a web and at least one leg, where the leg has a non-linear profile. The universal member is attachable to the leg of the chord, the member having a nonlinear profile similar to that of the chord leg such that the leg and member nest together. The universal member can have a top portion to overlap the chord web and a bottom flange for stiffening. The universal member can be used alone or in conjunction with a second member. The member can nest along the exterior or interior surface of the chord. The member is useful as a splice for connecting chords together and can be used, typically in conjunction with a second member, as a pitch break connector. Further the universal member can be used in hanger applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: William Lon Babich, John Carpenter
  • Patent number: 6553736
    Abstract: There is provided a metal chord member for use in a building system which chord member is formed of two or more interlocked generally U-shaped chord tubes. The chord tubes are interlocked by means of the provision of a plurality of equisized, equispaced, longitudinal ribs formed along the length of the depending side arms of the U-shaped chord tubes defining elongated recesses therebetween, the ribs on one of the chord tubes being adapted to interlock into and mate with the recesses defined between ribs on the adjacent chord tube and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventors: Antonio Montanaro, Guiseppe Montanaro
  • Publication number: 20030061780
    Abstract: A metal building includes a joist system having upper and lower longitudinally extending chords, the upper and lower chords being substantially parallel, and a plurality of web members interposed between the parallel chords. Each of the chords includes an upper chord segment, opposed parallel side walls, inwardly extending lower chord segments, the lower chord segments being parallel to the upper chord segment, and a pair of flanges extending downwardly from the innermost edges of lower chord segments, the flanges defining a longitudinally extending continuous web receiving aperture traversing the length of the chord, the upper chord segment, lower chord segment, parallel side walls and flanges, the web receiving apertures of the upper and lower chords being positioned in opposed relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Eric Masterson, Leonard George
  • Patent number: 6539571
    Abstract: A system for use in constructing a lattice panel bridge, includes a plurality of substantially rectangular prefabricated steel lattice panels joined in end to end relationship to form a main girder for the bridge. Each panel comprises an upper chord, a lower chord of substantially equal length, a plurality of web members interconnecting the upper and lower chords, and joint forming devices at each end of each chord. The joint forming devices at either end of the lower chord mate and receive a transverse pin for connecting the lower chords of adjacent panels together. The joint forming devices at each end of the upper chord comprises a longitudinally facing plate provided with apertures for receiving fasteners for connecting the plates of adjacent panels together. A spacer is inserted between the plates and this reduces the tendency of the bridge to sag. Optionally the spacers can be used to give the resultant bridge an upwardly facing longitudinal camber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Mabey & Johnson Limited
    Inventor: Richard Charles Edward Forsyth
  • Patent number: 6532712
    Abstract: A hollow frame member is constituted by two face plates 11, 12 (21, 22) joined in a truss shape by ribs. End portions of one of the face plates are positioned in the vicinity of an apex of the truss structure of the hollow frame member. End portions of the other of the face plates have a projection extending toward the end portions of the face plates. The face plates are joined by friction stir welding. Due to the presence of the ribs, the load during the friction stir welding time is easily supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Kawasaki, Masakuni Ezumi, Masaki Yono, Toshiaki Sagawa
  • Patent number: 6526723
    Abstract: A draft block joist system for preventing an airflow circulation therethrough. The system comprises a first and second elongated I-beams each having continuous upper and lower flange sections with a panel member disposed therebetween. The upper and lower flange sections of the first elongated I-beam are respectively connected with the upper and lower flange sections of the second elongated I-beam. An air gap is formed between the panel members of the first and second elongated I-beams thereby. By forming the air gap, an insulation member is removably insertable therein for preventing the airflow circulation therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Westbay Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Fred E. Hovenier
  • Patent number: 6519908
    Abstract: A metal building includes a joist system having upper and lower longitudinally extending chords, the upper and lower chords being substantially parallel, and a plurality of web members interposed between the parallel chords. Each of the chords includes an upper chord segment, opposed parallel side walls, inwardly extending lower chord segments, the lower chord segments being parallel to the upper chord segment, and a pair of flanges extending downwardly from the innermost edges of lower chord segments, the flanges defining a longitudinally extending continuous web receiving aperture traversing the length of the chord, the upper chord segment, lower chord segment, parallel side walls and flanges, the web receiving apertures of the upper and lower chords being positioned in opposed relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: NCI Building Systems, L.P.
    Inventors: Eric Masterson, Leonard George
  • Publication number: 20020184847
    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: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Bunichi Shoji
  • Patent number: 6481176
    Abstract: Abstract: The storage roof truss has a non-triangular central opening to provide greater storage space. Truss chords and webs are arranged to provide a central opening with a horizontal bottom and vertical lower sides. This allows more usable storage space. The central opening chords and webs are connected to the top chords in a triangular mesh pattern such that loads on the element junctures are carried in tension or compression. This allows similar structural efficiency as a conventional truss. Therefore roof storage trusses can be constructed with similar costs as conventional trusses. Also, storage roof trusses can have the same range of pitches as conventional trusses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Snow
  • Publication number: 20020148189
    Abstract: A support assembly comprising first and second parts, each part comprising a pair of spaced parallel elongate members (12, 14, 62), and a support arrangement (16) extending between the elongate members (12, 14, 62), the first and second parts being mountable together with the planes thereof inclined relative to each other and first ones of the elongate members (12, 62) aligned adjacent and parallel to each other such that the apex defined by the meeting of the first elongate members (12, 62) provides a first support surface, and opposite sides of the other elongate members (14, 62) define second spaced support surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Willam David Steadman
  • Publication number: 20020148193
    Abstract: The structural wooden joist described comprises a lower chord, an upper chord, a plurality of connector members spaced along the joists and extending between the upper and lower chords, a plurality of plates attaching the connector members to the lower and upper chords and a laminated panel structure mounted at each end section of the joist. Each panel structure extends from an opposite end of the upper/lower chords to adjacent a first of the plurality of attachment plates and defines an uninterrupted surface which is formed of a series of elongated vertical planks secured edgewise to one another whereby the joist has opposite ends which are trimmable to provide one of reduced width.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Applicant: ROMARO 2000 LIMITEE
    Inventors: Robert Veilleux, Mario Labrie
  • Publication number: 20020148192
    Abstract: The structural wooden joist described comprises an elongated lower chord, an elongated upper chord and an openwork web structure joining the chords and consisting of a series of connector members formed of inclined branches and adhesively secured to the lower and upper chords. Each branch of a connector member is formed of at least two planks having contiguous sides adhesively joined to one another. The connector members define a series of triangular openings in the web structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Applicant: ROMARO 2000 LIMITEE
    Inventors: Robert Veilleux, Mario Labrie
  • Publication number: 20020124521
    Abstract: A wooden trussed structure includes beams which are constructed from at least three elementary planks, nailed together. The plank located in the central part is offset relatively to the ends of the lateral planks, so as to form thereat, tenons and/or mortises for inserting, at the junction forming a node, a panel-type reinforcement, positioned in the core, and wherein the shearing surfaces correspond to the lateral surfaces at each node. The panel includes a wooden structural element such as a micro-lath or plywood as a plate-type solid web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Sandoz
  • Publication number: 20020116892
    Abstract: An elongated structural member being formed of a pair of T-shaped chords located in a parallel spaced apart arrangement with a plurality of straight brace members being welded or otherwise secured there between. The brace members are located in a spaced apart arrangement. The directly adjacent brace members are located in an approximately ninety degree angle relative to each other. The directly adjacent brace members are staggered being located on opposite sides of the T-shaped chords.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Armen Baranian
  • Patent number: 6438920
    Abstract: A hybrid truss and a system of fabricating a building using a hybrid truss is provided. The hybrid truss is designed to span large widths without center support. Each hybrid truss is typically made with two symmetrical truss members that join at the peak. Each member is made with an upper cord and a lower cord having cross bracing between the two cords. A peak end member is attached to the ends of the cords to join the two truss members at the peak to form the hybrid truss. Attached at the lower end of each truss member is a sleeve. The sleeve is rigidly attached to at least the lower cords and cross bracing. The sleeve redirects outward forces into the top of a post in a downward force and a slight rotational force. The sleeve is designed to slide over the top of a post or column to attach and properly position the truss on the top of the posts or columns. Vertical adjustment to level the hybrid truss is provided by vertical movement of the sleeve on the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventors: Russel J. Tobey, Jonh L. Smith
  • Patent number: 6434903
    Abstract: A section fixable in a mounted position to an anchoring base by means of fastening screws has at least one fastening segment extending in the mounted position substantially parallel to the anchoring base. The fastening segment is, for example, a fastening flange, which is provided with at least one screw hole for receiving a fastening screw provided with a slot or cross slot as the surface engaged by a screwdriver. A safety (or securing) tab protrudes from the fastening segment at least within the area of the screw hole. When the section is in its mounted position and after the fastening screw has been driven in, the safety tab can be deformed by bending or folding it into its safety or securing position. In this position, the tab grips over the edge of the screw head of the fastening screw and leaves free the surface engaged by the screwdriver. In an alternative embodiment of the section, a spring-elastic safety arrest is used instead of a bendable safety tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Profil-Vertrieb GmbH
    Inventor: Theo Hertweck
  • Publication number: 20020095880
    Abstract: The support system for a premanufactured building includes a foundation platform (12) having cleat walls (50-53) that penetrate the ground. A support stand (14) and its vertical support shaft (30) function as a pier to support the joist (18) of the building. A diagonal stabilizing strut (16) is connected at its upper end to the same or to an adjacent joist, and at its lower end to the support stand, so that compression forces applied by the joist to the strut (16) move from one side of the vertical load axis (28) to the other side of the axis and engage the foundation platform, so that the ground adjacent the cleats (50-53) resists movement of the joist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
  • Publication number: 20020092259
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for spacing structural members, in particular roof trusses, during construction and for permanently bracing the same structural members. The apparatus comprises three longitudinal members with a top attachment tab at each end that is fastened to the top side of each structural member and a pair of flanges at each end that are fastened to the facing sides of each structural member. In particular, the apparatus includes portions that reinforce the ends of ends of the second and third longitudinal members. The apparatus is preferably made in a length that is standard for spacing roof trusses, most commonly a nominal 24″. This allows the apparatus to be attached to one roof truss, then another, and left to form permanent bracing over which roof sheathing can be laid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2000
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Mark Crawford, Louay A. Shamroukh, Jin-jie Lin
  • Patent number: 6412246
    Abstract: A truss is disclosed which comprises a bottom chord (12) and a pair of top chords (14, 16) arranged obliquely with respect to the bottom chord (12). Webs (20) are arranged between the top chords and the bottom chord. The webs have punched nails (46) projecting from connector plate (40) portions of the webs. The webs have a middle section (30) and load bearing portions (60) are provided between the middle section and the two connector plates (40) at opposite ends of the web (20). The load bearing portions are shaped for blunt end engagement with the chords without regard to the angle of intersection of the web with the chord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: John Tadich
  • Publication number: 20020078655
    Abstract: There is provided a metal chord member for use in a building system which chord member is formed of two or more interlocked generally U-shaped chord tubes. The chord tubes are interlocked by means of the provision of a plurality of equisized, equispaced, longitudinal ribs formed along the length of the depending side arms of the U-shaped chord tubes defining elongated recesses therebetween, the ribs on one of the chord tubes being adapted to interlock into and mate with the recesses defined between ribs on the adjacent chord tube and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Antonio Montanaro, Guiseppe Montanaro
  • Patent number: 6408587
    Abstract: A structural member, e.g. a truss for erection of temporary structures, comprises a number of elongate elements disposed in spaced generally parallel relationship to one another with transversely extending elements therebetween, and an element extending longitudinally of the structural member has a formation extending lengthwise of it for engagement by an attachment member which is to be retained to the longitudinally extending element at any of a range of positions therealong. The attachment member may provide for connection of a safety element to the structural member, and be freely movable therealong in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Total Fabrications Limited
    Inventors: Christopher Patrick Noel Cronin, Neil Howard Darracott
  • Publication number: 20020073643
    Abstract: The storage roof truss has a non-triangular central opening to provide greater storage space. Truss chords and webs are arranged to provide a central opening with a horizontal bottom and vertical lower sides. This allows more usable storage space. The central opening chords and webs are connected to the top chords in a triangular mesh pattern such that loads on the element junctures are carried in tension or compression. This allows similar structural efficiency as a conventional truss. Therefore roof storage trusses can be constructed with similar costs as conventional trusses. Also, storage roof trusses can have the same range of pitches as conventional trusses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Snow
  • Patent number: 6378260
    Abstract: A form tie for joining a pair of form sidewalls includes first and second vertical struts presenting planar nailing surfaces for embedding in the first and second sidewalls. A web obliquely extends between the struts and across the cavity between the laterally spaced-apart sidewalls. The web includes a top strut which slopes between the vertical struts and across the cavity. The form ties are alternately placed in alternate 180° orientations along the sidewalls such that the web extends in alternate directions across the cavity which enhances the form rigidity. Concurrently, the top web strut slopes in opposed direction to form a V-type seat for placement of a horizontal rebar within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Phoenix Systems & Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay D. Williamson, Thomas E. Whitmore, David Henney, Kelly G. Chandler, Robert D. Grove
  • Publication number: 20020046534
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a truss system comprising first and second chords and a number of joists in bolted connection to form a load bearing structure. The first and second chords extend longitudinally in parallel alignment to form the beams upon which a load will be spread across. The first and second diagonal members of a joist are aligned at approximately 45 degree angles to the first and second chord, and perpendicularly to each other, to maximize the load bearing capabilities of the truss system. By utilizing a utility support grid to couple a first truss to a second truss, the present invention can support a load spread over a greater area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventors: John D. Heinly, Jack E. Biersdorfer, Ihab M. Ayoub
  • Publication number: 20020046514
    Abstract: A shear wall panel for a building has a rectangular frame of vertical and horizontal members. Inside of the rectangular frame, at least four diagonal members are joined at their ends to create a multi-segmented assembly having at least three vertices and first and second ends and possibly forming a polygon, one of the at least three vertices secured to each of the vertical and an upper horizontal members, the first and second ends secured to a lower horizontal member. The members are preferably of wood and connected together with toothed plates. The panel is shear connected to a foundation or laterally stabilized wall or floor below the shear wall panel, possibly by a bolt between the foundation or laterally stabilized wall or floor below the shear wall panel and the intersections between the vertical members and the diagonal members. Upper strap connectors attach the upper horizontal member to a roof, floor or wall of the building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Leung
  • Patent number: 6374551
    Abstract: A moveable structural reinforcement system is described including a moveable panel adapted to substantially close a building opening, the panel including variable shear load resistance means for regulating the shear stiffness of the building when the panel is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Ei-Land Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth T. Boilen, Arthur B. Richardson, John Hulls, Jean-Jacques Landry, Ralph C. Francis
  • Publication number: 20020029538
    Abstract: The present invention is a steel floor truss system for buildings, especially residential homes, wherein the truss includes a steel top member, or chord, extending between two vertical bearings. Typically, a vertical bearing is an inside (interior) or outside (foundation wall) steel stud, in which case, the steel chord is fastened to the top of the vertical steel stud, typically via a metal plate which overlaps and is screwed to both the chord and the stud. In some embodiments, however, a vertical bearing may be a concrete or cinder block (CMU) wall, and, in this case, the steel chord is fastened to the concrete or cinder block wall, for example, by being fastened to bolts extending up from the top or out from the side of the wall, or by interfitting into recesses made in the top of the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2000
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: Eric Webb
  • Publication number: 20020023349
    Abstract: Wooden roof trusses of the kind having a bottom chord (13) and at least one obliquely disposed upper chord (11) with webs connecting the chords by means of nail-pated joints, in which the webs are selected from a set of standard stock length webs (50), and the ends of the webs (49) are provided with a standard shape set without regard to the geometry of the particular web joints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Inventors: Bernard Joseph Kennelly, John Edwin Griffith
  • Publication number: 20010037614
    Abstract: An overhanging form system for attachment to a support structure is disclosed. The support structure includes an upper portion and a lower portion, and the overhanging form system comprises a pair of spaced apart hangers, with each of the hangers being adapted to engage the upper portion of the support structure. A pair of frames are provided, with each of the frames having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of each frame engages a corresponding one of the hangers, the second portion of each frame is adapted to engage the lower portion of the support structure. Each of the frames further includes a first leg and a second leg, with the first leg having an inner end disposed adjacent the first portion of the frame and an outer end disposed outwardly from the first portion of the frame. The second leg extends from the second portion of the frame to engage the outer end of the first leg. A plurality of stiffeners are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventor: John J. Hambelton
  • Patent number: 6308469
    Abstract: A shear wall panel for a building has a rectangular frame of vertical and horizontal members. Inside of the rectangular frame, at least four diagonal members are joined at their ends to create a multi-segmented assembly having at least three vertices and first and second ends and preferably forming a polygon, one of the at least three vertices secured to each of the vertical and an upper horizontal members, the first and second ends secured to a lower horizontal member. The members are preferably of wood and connected together with toothed plates. A lower horizontal member is shear connected to a foundation or laterally stabilized wall or floor below the shear wall panel. Upper strap connectors attach the upper horizontal member to a roof, floor or wall of the building. The upper strap connectors comprises metal straps, a first portion of which have teeth bent out of the metal strap, a second portion of which have holes for nailing through the metal strap into the roof, floor or wall of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Shear Force Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Leung
  • Patent number: 6298612
    Abstract: A wall strengthening component for a building construction, the building construction having a plurality of spaced apart vertical studs within a frame of a building wall or the like, the wall strengthening component includes first and second vertical support members disposed in a spaced apart relationship and a plurality of reinforcing members disposed between the first and second vertical support members. The reinforcing members are configured to resist lateral stress directed against the vertical support members such that the position of the first vertical support member is maintained relative to the position of the second vertical support member. The reinforcing members are configured in a truss-like arrangement forming triangular shaped portions between the vertical support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: James A. Adams