X-braced; I.e., Connectors Crossing Patents (Class 52/695)
  • Patent number: 11680405
    Abstract: A glued timber truss (FIGS. 1, 3), comprising chords (1, 2) and therebetween a first diagonal bar (3) and a second diagonal bar (4), which is crosswise relative to the first one, or a web panel (9) connected to each other with an adhesive and a finger joint (FIG. 3), whereby the first diagonal bar is present alongside the second diagonal bar or the web panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Inventor: Tuomo Poutanen
  • Patent number: 11512468
    Abstract: A truss bracing system for roof trusses is disclosed. The truss bracing system comprises of a lateral brace and a diagonal brace connected through a pivot point. Both the lateral brace and diagonal brace include a first support member and a second support member where the first support member is angled relative to, and preferably perpendicular to, the second support member. The pivot point allows the diagonal brace to rotate relative to the lateral brace. That is, the truss bracing system has a closed configuration with the diagonal brace resting adjacent and parallel to the lateral brace and an extended configuration with the diagonal brace rotated relative to the lateral brace, such that the diagonal brace is angled relative to the lateral brace. Thus, the truss bracing system provides both lateral and diagonal support to the trusses to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: Truss Brace Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Steve J. Szymanski
  • Patent number: 11118349
    Abstract: A rafter reinforcement bracket apparatus for securing rafters to strengthen a wood frame roof includes a bendable strap configured to conform to a rafter bottom side of a pair of opposing rafters and a beam between the pair of rafters. A left and right bracket are coupled to a strap top side adjacent a strap front edge and a strap back edge, respectively. Each has a perpendicular portion extending perpendicularly from the strap and an upper portion extending perpendicularly from the perpendicular portion and lying in a plane parallel to a plane of the strap. Each of the strap, the left bracket, and the right bracket has a plurality of mounting holes extending therethrough. Each of the mounting holes is configured to receive a fastener to fix the apparatus to the pair of opposing rafters and the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Inventors: Laura Montoya, Samuel Montoya
  • Patent number: 10409323
    Abstract: A kiosk chassis includes first and second oppositely disposed, vertically extending u-channel side members; a top region, a middle region, and a bottom region disposed between the first and second side members; and a cross brace disposed within the middle region and extending between the first and second side members. The cross brace includes two intersecting members secured together and forms respective first and second acute angles with one of the u-channel side members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Zivelo Inc.
    Inventors: Zubair Birgeoglu, John Kucera
  • Patent number: 10407281
    Abstract: A crane, such as a bridge crane or gantry crane, having at least one horizontally extending crane girder, which is designed as a lattice girder having a plurality of braces and on which a crane trolley having a lifting device can be moved. At least some of the braces are planiform, and each of the planiform braces has a flat main surface, which extends transversely to a longitudinal direction of the crane girder. On each longitudinal side of the braces, a first cut-out and a second cut-out are provided in the main surfaces. The longitudinal sides of at least some of the planiform braces are free of edge bends at least between the first and second cutouts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Konecranes Global Corporation
    Inventors: Christoph Passmann, Richard Kreisner, Thomas Schlierbach-Knobloch, Stefan Noll
  • Patent number: 10392803
    Abstract: A composite I-truss is provided, that comprises a pair of top and bottom flanges and an extending intermediate web having a first end secured to the first flange and a second end secured to the second flange. Each flange comprises one or more longitudinal beams secured to the flange connectors. The web comprises at least a pair of flange connectors extending away from the flange and toward the web. The web comprises a plurality of linking struts located at a plurality of longitudinal positions along a length of the I-truss and connecting the flange connectors of the first flange to the flange connectors of the second flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: 9306-1695 QUÉBEC INC.
    Inventors: Yvan Charest, Paul Girard, Yves Ouellet
  • Patent number: 10352036
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an anchoring device for walls, comprising a plate-shaped metal element, and a plurality of holes passing through the plate-shaped metal element adapted to house elements fastening the plate-shaped metal element to a first and a second wall. The plate-shaped metal element has a substantially “X” geometrical shape with four curved arms that converge in a central connecting portion and comprises at least two holes on two distinct arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Universita' Degli Studi Di Padova
    Inventors: Roberto Scotta, Luca Pozza, Davide Trutalli, Luca Marchi
  • Patent number: 10184241
    Abstract: A construction panel for use in erecting structures comprises a pair of vertical support members and at least one lower horizontal member, extending between lower ends of the vertical support members. At least one header member extends between upper ends of the pair of vertical support members. At least one horizontal purlin member braces the vertical supports intermediate the lower horizontal member and the header member. At least one intermediate vertical member extends between the at least one horizontal purlin member and one of: another horizontal purlin member; the header member; and the at least one lower horizontal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Inventor: Brian Wade Johnson
  • Patent number: 10138647
    Abstract: A roof system which includes a shear tie for the ridge beam is provided. This system is for use in connection with tile roofing systems in which a ridge vent for ventilation is also provided, but can be used with other roof systems. Sheathing is located on the rafters and a gap or slot is provided between the top edge of the sheathing and the ridge beam that extends along a majority of the ridge beam in order to provide an air flow path for building ventilation. A shear tie strap is connected to the ridge beam and to the sheathing on either side of the ridge beam. A shear tie strap is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Inventor: Martin J. Rotter
  • Patent number: 10119274
    Abstract: A bridging device in center girder construction for a building joint between two building components having at least two edge girders and at least one center girder arranged between the edge girders and on at least one cross member bridging the building joint that each have a cross member bearing for bearing the cross member on the respective building components at their lateral ends. The object of the present invention is to provide a novel bridging device that is formed in particular space-saving. The initially described bridging device has a cross member having at least two cross member segments arranged along a longitudinal axis of the cross member and arranged displaceable relative to each other toward the longitudinal axis, so the length of the cross member is variable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: MAURER SÖHNE ENGINEERING GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Christian Braun
  • Patent number: 9790680
    Abstract: A roof system which includes a shear tie for the ridge beam is provided. This system is for use in connection with tile roofing systems in which a ridge vent for ventilation is also provided, but can be used with other roof systems. Sheathing is located on the rafters and a gap or slot is provided between the top edge of the sheathing and the ridge beam that extends along a majority of the ridge beam in order to provide an air flow path for building ventilation. A shear tie strap is connected to the ridge beam and to the sheathing on either side of the ridge beam. A shear tie strap is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Inventor: Martin J. Rotter
  • Patent number: 9290926
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting adjacent parallel spaced apart joists from a perpendicular beam. Each of the joists extends between first and second ends and has top and bottom edges. The apparatus comprises an elongate member sized to extend between a first end proximate to a top edge of a first joist and a second end proximate to a bottom edge of an adjacent joist. The apparatus further comprises a joist support platform extending from the second end of the elongate member adapted to receive a bottom edge of a first joist thereon, at least one bottom beam engaging panel extending from the joist support platform and a joist cap extending from the first end of the elongate member adapted to overly a top edge of a second joist adjacent to the first joist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Geoffrey Rajay Sidhu
  • Patent number: 9121163
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a boom structure including an elongated body having a first end and a second end, the first end configured to couple to a dipper and the second end configured to couple to a support structure. The boom structure further includes a top member, a bottom member, and a pair of sides members of the body coupled to the top member and bottom member. Each side member includes a first portion extending between the first end and second end of the body and forming an outer frame structure. Each side member also includes a second portion coupled to an inner surface of the first portion and being substantially enclosed by the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Steven J. Ditzler, Henry J. Stulen
  • Patent number: 8966856
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for reinforcing adjacent parallel spaced apart wooden structural members wherein each of the structural members has opposed first and second edges. The apparatus comprises a rigid member being sized to extend between the first edge of a first structural member and the second edge of an adjacent second structural member. The apparatus further comprising first and second sockets connected to first and second ends of the rigid member each sized to receive and edge of one of the structural members therein. The method comprises engaging the first socket around the first edge of the first structural member and locating a second structural member with the second edge of the second structural member within a second socket. The method may also comprise rotating the rigid member between the first and second structural members until the first and second sockets are engaged around diagonally opposed edges the structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Int'l Structure Lock Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony T. Groenesteyn
  • Patent number: 8925278
    Abstract: A connecting fitting includes a vertical frame attachment section 15a that can be attached to an inner surface of a vertical web 7a of a vertical frame 7A, 7B by way of bolts B2 in a state where the vertical frame attachment section 15a is disposed along the vertical web 7a, a brace attachment plate 14, connected to the vertical frame attachment section 15a, which enables attachment of an end of a brace 10A, 10B at a position inward of the vertical frame 7A, 7B, and a fixing plate 11, welded to the vertical frame attachment section 15a, which can be fixed to a beam member 4 or a foundation 2 in a state where the fixing plate 11 is disposed along an outer surface of a lateral frame 8A, 8B facing outward in a state of being disposed to make up a frame shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignees: Sekisui House, Ltd., Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation
    Inventors: Masami Sugihara, Hitomi Sunagawa, Tomoya Hatae, Masayuki Ogawa, Hiroaki Kawakami, Kazunori Fujihashi
  • Patent number: 8826623
    Abstract: A diagonal brace connector and method is disclosed. The connector includes an upper planar member and a lower planar member connected by a rigid webbing. A center screw boss is disposed continuously and laterally along the webbing. The screw boss is adapted to receive a screw fastened through a structural member and into the screw boss. A corner screw boss is along the corner between the webbing and the lower flange. The corner boss is similarly designed to accept a screw fastened through a structural member and into the screw boss. A pair of parallel grooves are formed in the webbing to provide a visual guide for the locations to install permanent fasteners. The alignment grooves are disposed such that the screw bosses of adjoining members do not interfere with the permanent fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventors: James Armstrong, Brian Hall
  • Patent number: 8769887
    Abstract: A tensionable hold down clip system for erecting metal studs for building walls, the system including a tensionable member; and a hold down clip having a base portion, a leg portion orthogonal to the base portion, and a mount on the leg portion configured for adjustably connecting the tensionable member to the hold-down clip. A wall using the system may include two main studs and a plurality of common studs extending between a sole plate and a top plate, and hold down clips are disposed on both ends of both main studs. Two tensionable members extend diagonally through the studs and cross each other, and the tensionable members are fastened to mounts on the hold down clips on the upper and lower ends of the main studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Ray A. Proffitt, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140150372
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a steel pipe stiffening brace member which has a shaft constituted of a main shaft member and an auxiliary shaft member and a stiffening steel pipe obtained by connecting side edges of four flat steels surrounding the shaft to each other. In the stiffening steel pipe, inside nook portions facing a side edge of the main shaft member are formed in stiffening members 25 and 26 having a V- or L-shaped cross section by fillet welding, and outside corner portions 25b and 26b are formed in the stiffening members 25 and 26 by partial penetration welding. Thereafter, side edges of the stiffening members 25 and 26 are abutted against each other, outside corner portions 27b and 28b are temporarily assembled by partial penetration welding, and outside corner portions 25b and 26b and outside corner portions 27b and 28b are subjected to partial penetration welding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: JFE STEEL Corporation
    Inventors: Takuya Ueki, Hiroumi Shimokawa, Munetada Yamaji, Taku Funaba
  • Patent number: 8661764
    Abstract: A multilayered netlock girder system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of brace members positioned in a predefined multilayered network pattern, whereby positioning the plurality of brace members in the predefined multilayered network pattern enable the formation of a rigid network between at least two chord members comprising a plurality of insertion provisions for enabling a secured insertion of the plurality of brace members into the at least two chord members, a plurality of structural interlocks formed as a result of predefined multilayered network pattern configured for a secured interlocking of the plurality of brace members together at the plurality of interlockable junctions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Venkata Rangarao Vemuri
  • Patent number: 8590256
    Abstract: The present invention provides a joining structure of a roof truss using thin light-gauge shaped steel. In a joining structure for joining a subsidiary roof with a main roof, a valley bracket formed by bending a thin steel sheet is inserted and disposed in the longitudinal valley direction of a joining member for joining a rafter forming the subsidiary roof with a truss or a rafter forming the main roof. In a joining structure in which a roof truss upper chord member or a rafter intersects a wall on the upper surface of the wall, a bracket formed by bending a thin steel sheet is disposed at the intersection of these members and fixes the roof truss upper chord member or the rafter to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshimichi Kawai, Jun Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8528268
    Abstract: A building assembly for forming a frame of a building including at least two elongated column structures and a truss structure supported on the column structures. The truss structure has opposite end portions resting on the column structures at horizontally spaced locations. A trilateral bracing structure may be attached to the truss structure and one of the column structures to tie the truss structure to the column structure. The trilateral bracing structure may be separable from the truss structure and the column structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Component Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Tom Reaves
  • Patent number: 8297017
    Abstract: A composite floor panel includes a frame assembly having a base plate, a plurality of first lateral supports secured to the base plate, and a plurality of second lateral supports secured to the base plate. The first lateral supports lie in a first plane and the second lateral supports lie in a second plane. The first plane and the second plane each intersect the base plate and the first plane is disposed at an angle relative to the second plane. The composite floor panel also includes a concrete portion coupled to and supported by the first lateral supports and the second lateral supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Plattforms, Inc.
    Inventors: David H Platt, John E Charchenko, Daryl G Hodgson, Russell J Platt
  • Patent number: 8276328
    Abstract: A wall module for the construction of a housing module comprises two beams, two primary studs, two bracing members, primary reinforcements and a plurality of secondary studs. The two beams are spaced apart and substantially parallel to each other. The two primary studs are perpendicularly connected between different extremities of the two beams so as to define four wall corners. The two bracing members are connected substantially diagonally between two different opposed wall corners. The primary reinforcements are located at the wall corners and are connect one of the two beams to one of the two primary studs and to one of the bracing members. The secondary studs are attached to the two beams and to at least one of the two bracing members. The wall module may further comprise a sheathing attached to the secondary studs and a finishing sheet attached to the sheathing in between the secondary studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Technostructur Inc.
    Inventor: Guy Pépin
  • Publication number: 20120240509
    Abstract: A device for providing a flat surface on a deformed wooden stud, joist or rafter where said device has two elongated members where the first member is sized so that the first member is fastened to a surface of a stud, joist or rafter and a second member is fastened to said second member whereby said second member forms a level surface on said stud, joist or rafter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: Kentry, Inc.
    Inventors: Niall O'Shea, Noel Cronin
  • Publication number: 20120047841
    Abstract: Reinforcing system for retrofitting wall to increase the ductility and resistance to shear forces of a gypsum board wall to a level comparable to plywood-sheathed wall. Fiber-reinforced polymer panel is attached to substantially cover surface of gypsum board to protect it against rupture in earthquake. Reinforcement is enhanced by fiber anchors installed along base of wall and door frames. Connector strips tie together frame members to prevent separation from wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Edward R. Fyfe, Rustom Jamaji
  • Patent number: 7814723
    Abstract: A structure comprises a ridge beam, a plurality of truss beams, and a plurality of legs. The ridge beam comprises a first end and a second end. Each end comprises at least one tab member that projects in a direction that is substantially parallel to a plane of the ridge beam. Each truss beam comprises first and second ends that each comprises a plurality of apertures and at least one tab member that projects in a direction that is substantially parallel to a plane of the truss beam. Tab members of two truss beams are respectively capable of engaging a corresponding aperture of the other truss beam to form a peak section. At least one aperture of each of the two truss beams is capable of being aligned receiving a corresponding tab member of the ridge beam. Each respective leg engages the second end of a corresponding truss beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffry L. VanElverdinghe
  • Publication number: 20100229482
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connecting structure including: a node member having an accommodating space formed therein; a lower truss member disposed penetratingly at the lower portion of the node member, the lower truss member being made of a material with tension and compression-resistant rigidity and having a predetermined length; an upper truss member disposed penetratingly at the upper portion of the node member in such a manner as to be spaced apart from the lower truss member, the upper truss member being made of a material with tension and compression-resistant rigidity and having a predetermined length; and a filler adapted to be filled in the node member in such a manner as to be initially injected in a fluid state into the accommodating space of the node member so as to surround the lower truss member and the upper truss member, and then to be hardened as time elapses so as to rigidly couple the lower truss member and the upper truss member therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicants: NINE ARCHITECH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jae-Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 7788878
    Abstract: A boot assembly for securing a bracing strap to a wall in a light steel frame building. The boot assembly includes an elongated channel-shaped strap connector and a stud connector. The stud connector is adapted such that a stud may be connected thereto. The strap connector includes a seat for receiving a base of the stud connector and a pair of stops. One or more stops is disposed on each of two end portions of the strap connector. Each stop includes a stop surface to abut a portion of the base and to prevent or limit fore-and-aft movement of the base relative to the strap connector. The strap connector is adapted to be secured with the stud connector and a track, included in the wall, to an underlying support. The strap connector includes a flange adapted such that an end portion of a bracing strap can be connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, James E. Herrmann, Nabil Abdel-Rahman, John Parks Newby
  • Patent number: 7748180
    Abstract: A system for stiffening members such as joists, beams, trusses, and other like supporting members, the system affected by pre-tensioning. The system is offered in a plurality of embodiments for various applications provided little or no clearance below members. A corner brace embodiment is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Richard W. Plavidal
  • Patent number: 7687132
    Abstract: An ordered ceramic microstructure and a method of making the same. In one embodiment, the ceramic microstructure includes a base structure and one or more ceramic layers. The base structure includes a plurality of first truss elements defined by a plurality of first self-propagating polymer waveguides and extending along a first direction, a plurality of second truss elements defined by a plurality of second self-propagating polymer waveguides and extending along a second direction, and a plurality of third truss elements defined by a plurality of third self-propagating polymer waveguides and extending along a third direction. Here, the first, second, and third truss elements interpenetrate each other at a plurality of nodes to form a continuous material, and the base structure is self-supporting. In addition, the ceramic layers coat a surface of at least one truss element of the first truss elements, the second truss elements, or the third truss elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLC
    Inventors: Adam F. Gross, Alan J. Jacobsen, Robert Cumberland
  • Patent number: 7497051
    Abstract: It is composed of a framework made up entirely of pieces of recycled plastic that basically comprises bearers (1-2), distributed in several sectors along the whole length of the greenhouse and made up of sections (3-4) that are fitted to one another by means of linear connectors (5) which engage on lugs (12-16) and which are in turn joined by means of cross connectors (8) that engage on lugs (17) provided on horizontal sections (6) making up horizontal cross members (7) which brace the framework forming the roof, side walls, front wall and rear wall of the greenhouse. It includes inner spacer clips (23) and intermediate spacer clips (30) that engage on rods (27-27?-27?) securing inner plastic laminar layers (28-28?-28?), between which air chambers are formed that act as thermal insulation for the greenhouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Gosei Nakagawa SA
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kawanaka
  • Patent number: 7299596
    Abstract: A framed shear wall has a pair of crossed tension straps passing through the studs that make up the shear wall. The straps are preferably rods and are preferably attached to upstanding plates installed at the corners of the wall. Each of two straps is preferably attached to an opposite side of the upstanding plate such that the straps do not interfere with each other where the straps cross. The straps preferably include threaded ends and the upstanding plates preferably have threaded receptacles sized to accept the threaded ends of the straps such that the straps can be tensioned before and/or after installation. In one embodiment, the upstanding plates are bolted through a bottom surface of the wall into a threaded anchor plate at floor level, and the threaded anchor plate is attached to a top of a wall on a floor below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: John Hildreth
  • Patent number: 7231742
    Abstract: A metal panelized wall system having a plurality of generally parallel vertical wall studs with an opening formed in each one. A top horizontal member is connected to a top end of each of the vertical wall studs and a bottom horizontal member is connected to a bottom end of each of the vertical wall studs. Extending from the bottom horizontal member to the top horizontal member is at least one diagonal member. The diagonal member extends through the openings formed in the vertical wall studs such that loads from the vertical wall studs are not transferred to the diagonal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Kamran Reza Majlessi
  • Patent number: 7150127
    Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Underwood, Keith E. Metcalf, Ryan A. Herbig, J. Douglas Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6988346
    Abstract: The present invention provides a connection having a plurality of parallel structural members. The structural members are bridged by strap member, preferably light gauge steel. The end of the strap member is held in place by an overlapping strap holder. Fasteners hold the strap holder and the strap to the underlying structural member, with at least one passing through only the strap holder into the first side of the the first structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Louay A. Shamroukh, Mark G. Crawford
  • 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: 6920724
    Abstract: A bracket for use in fabricating steel structural panels has a first passageway for accepting a connecting member secured to a diametrically opposed bracket to introduce tension between the opposing brackets in the panel. The brackets each have an additional second passageway to accept a connecting member for securing the brackets to a horizontal structural slab or other floor systems. By mating pairs of structural panels with a plurality of horizontal structural slabs or other floor systems, a building may be fabricated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignees: Epic Metals Corporation, Infinity Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Hundley
  • Patent number: 6892504
    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 or strap extending diagonally across the wall structure. In one embodiment the strap is extended to opposed corner areas where opposed end portions of the strap are fastened to a portion of the upper or lower member and to a portion of an adjacent column or stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael L. Torres, Robert W. Herrmann, Aaron M. Herrmann, Thomas C. Boyd, Gary Bennett
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6799406
    Abstract: A joist (10) comprises an upper chord (12), a lower chord (14) and a plurality of compression and tension webs (16/18) extending between the chords (12/14) and secured thereto by means of bolts (50). A single bolt (50) per connection or nodal point is used to secure the compression and tension webs (16/18) to the chords (12/14). The metal joist (10) can easily be assembled in a shop or directly on site without highly qualified labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Bolmetco Inc.
    Inventors: Georges Gosselin, Vladimir Gocevski
  • Patent number: 6634150
    Abstract: A foundation for a manufactured home generally comprises a ground pan and a lateral brace assembly. Manufactured home has first and second elongate support beams with first beam supported by upright pier and second beam having a lateral flange having a free end. Ground pan, for disposition beneath pier includes a cleat for insertion in ground for preventing horizontal movement of pan. Lateral brace assembly includes an elongate, rigid, and adjustable-length lateral brace, having a bottom end pivotably supported by ground pan and a top end pivotably attached to a beam connector attached to second beam. Beam connector includes: a bracket including a traversing portion, traversing flange and a slot adapted for receiving flange; and a vertical retaining means for bearing on beam opposite slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: James Oliver, Evon L. Oliver
  • Patent number: 6634153
    Abstract: A truss for use in building construction having a center portion adapted to “go plastic” during a seismic event, and two outer portions at opposite ends, which remain inelastic during such event. The center portion features spaced opposed upper and lower C-channels connected to interposed spaced gussets, which gussets are connected by both vertical angle members and crossed bars. The crossed bars are also connected at their midpoints to a connection plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: JD2, Inc.
    Inventor: Gilbert A. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6505447
    Abstract: A foundation for a manufactured home having first and secondelongate support beams, each beam having a lateral flange, generally includes a ground pan for spreading out the load to a larger surface area to prevent sinking into the ground and for providing an anchor against horizontal movement, a cross brace assembly for supporting first beam and providing longitudinal bracing, and a lateral brace assembly connected between ground pan and second beam for providing lateral bracing. Cross bracing assembly includes front and back crossing braces of adjustable length, each having an upper end pivotally connected to a connector attached to first beam and each having a bottom end pivotally supported by the ground pan. A U-bolt assembly connects cross braces at their cross point, thereby preventing relative angular movement there between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventors: James Oliver, Evon Oliver
  • Patent number: 6499266
    Abstract: A truss assembly includes angled cross members and straight cross members which extend between two parallel truss members. Brackets are provided along the two parallel truss members for attachment to the ends of the angled and straight truss members. Slots are provided either in the brackets or in the angled truss members to permit pivotal movement of the angled truss members to accommodate varying dimensions of the truss assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Lemar Industries Corp.
    Inventor: Kirk Macumber
  • 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: 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
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6389778
    Abstract: A prefabricated modular wall panel brace is used in the construction of long wall for buildings. Each prefabricated modular panel brace is placed beside another framing component between a top plate and a bottom plate. Every other panel maybe inverted with respect to the adjacent panel so that the ends of a diagonal brace in each panel is adjacent to the diagonal brace in the adjacent panel. Each panel may have a movable/swiveling section to accommodate an angled portion of the wall. The modular wall panel brace may be used in single or multiple floor structures for either interior or exterior walls to provide shear or diaphragm bracing of the wall units of a building to provide bracing for wind or seismic loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Itec Steel Corporation
    Inventor: J. V. Strange
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6318032
    Abstract: A longitudinal stabilizing system for a premanufactured building having support joists extending along the length of the underside of the building and being supported above the ground by upright piers. The system comprises at least one foundation plate, a joist connector, a plate connector, and a rectilinear strut. The foundation plate is placed between the pier and the ground. The joist connector attaches to the joist of the building. Plate clamps may be used in conjunction with the joist connector to grasp the joist. The plate connector attaches to the foundation plate. The strut is attached to the joist connector at one end and the plate connector at the other end such that the strut slopes downward from the joist towards the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich