Abstract: An upper “hub and spoke” octagon is connected to a lower “hub and spoke” octagon by vertical shafts. Each of the vertices of both the above-ground and below-ground octagons houses a six-part educational/professional center. At the center of each octagon has a central hub that houses items such as restaurants, first aid centers, rock-climbing walls, etc. Each corridor houses at least two educational subjects, such that visitors are entertained and educated as they walk from one unit to another. The vertical shafts can provide experiences such as skydiving simulators, or just stairs that will allow visitors to get some quality exercise as they tour the invention.

Abstract: A cuboctahedron-based recreational structure may comprise a plurality of hubs and a plurality of tubes. A kit for assembling the same may comprise a plurality of hubs and optionally a plurality of tubes. The plurality of hubs may include tetrapod hubs, hexapod hubs, and/or octopod hubs, each being configured to receive tubes extending from different ones of the plurality of hubs to form one or more cuboctahedral frames. Each hub may comprise a plurality of tube receptacles. The plurality of hubs and the plurality of tubes may be arranged to form one or more cuboctahedral frames, each having twenty-four edges and twelve vertices. Edges of the one or more cuboctahedral frames may comprise tubes. Vertices of the one or more cuboctahedral frames may comprise hubs. Connections between the hubs and the tubes may be formed by an end portion of each tube disposed within a tube receptacle of a hub.

Abstract: A modular unit including a concrete pad and a base support affixed to the pad. An anchor collar affixed to the base support and defining spaced apart grooves with a multi-arm beam positioned in the collar, one arm in each of the grooves and extending radially outwardly from the collar. Floor sections affixed to the multi-arm beam to form a floor disc. Wall panels affixed to the floor disc and spaced apart around the periphery to define a wall. Each panel having channeled edges. A plurality of window inserts engaged in opposed channeled edges of adjacent wall panels. A retaining ring extending around the wall and having a downwardly opening groove engaged with an upper edge of each window insert and fixedly attached to an upper edge of each of the wall panels. A roof and roof support structure affixed to the roof.

Abstract: The utility model discloses a monolithic reinforced concrete piece for the construction of buildings which is characterized for having six columns arrange in a hexagonal distribution, a continuous beam with variable depth supported by the columns making six spans and forming a hexagonal perimeter viewed from top, a corbel fixed along the beam's external face, and a roof which has a hexagonal shape with a circular hole in the center in plan view and cambered in the elevation view which rest on the continuous beam. In use the reinforced concrete hexahedral module can be cast-in-place or pre-cast and transported to its final position on the construction site and used as part of a building defining the space and ambience of said building. This invention has the advantage of being safe, strong and reliable, providing a fast new method of construction for different kinds of buildings.

Abstract: The portable modular tornado and hurricane survival shelter kit can be quickly constructed, even by a single individual, or left assembled. The shelter provides for shielding people and animals from flying debris, the most frequently injurious danger in severe storms. The shelter's construction is understandable quickly, even to the novice, therein further providing for quick construction. The base slots that hold the flexed arcs differ one to the next so that no confusion between arc A members and overlapping arc B members exists in assembly. Modularity is key element, as various sizes are needed to accommodate varying numbers of occupants. Only differing bases need be used to alter overall human capacity as arc A members and arc B members can continue innumerably by varying only the base length. The shelter is inexpensive in order to be deployed to a plurality of imaginable application sites. Schools are but one example.

Abstract: Rounded vault forming structures and the systems and methods for making the same are disclosed. Such structures include a monolithic building having one or more arches, one or more integrated hip structures, and a non-circular outer circumferential shaped base. At least some of the structures result in zero to extremely low amounts of waste material from building such structures.

Abstract: A modular blind includes a left half and a right half that are constructed through a molding process where one half can be nested within the other half during transit and when displayed for sale. The left half and the right half of the blind include mating flanges that are positioned adjacent each other and secured together to form the blind. A retaining mechanism or plurality of retaining mechanisms is utilized to retain the mating ends proximate each other. Each half of the blind includes a plurality of slots through which a gun barrel can be inserted or through which an arrow can be shot. The blind can optionally include a door in either half or both halves for ingress into and egress from the blind. Because the halves of the blinds can nest within each other, the cost of transportation can be significantly reduced relative to a blind with a monolithic wall construction.

Abstract: A modular bicycle storage system designed primarily for use in urban environments includes a plurality of enclosures formed from a weatherproof fiberglass or plastic sheeting. The enclosure is accessed by a door that can be secured with a lock further includes lighting for nighttime use. A plurality of enclosures can be fastened and arranged in a modular fashion, both vertically and horizontally. The arrangement forms a pattern which is both space efficient and aesthetically pleasing. The enclosures also provide features which enable tethering to a ground surface if desired.

Abstract: A building structure includes a hexagonal grid in a vertical plane to thereby be structurally strong and solid, and has a variety of whole shapes.

Abstract: The portable structure will generally have a pod from which a suite frame and suite may be deployed. The suite will allow personnel to administer to many critical demands and activities. The portable structure may be deployed upon any terrain, whether level or uneven, rigid or soft, and both the pod and the suite may be leveled independently. Additionally, the portable structure may incorporate at least one cocoon section wherein the cocoon section comprises at least one interior layer contacting a mesh covering placed over the suite frame, at least one thermal layer affixed to the interior layer, wherein the thermal layer includes heat adding and heat removal members capable of removing or adding heat to the mesh covering or a substance adjacent the at least one thermal layer and at least one exterior layer affixed to the thermal layer.

Abstract: The KE architectural element is a component of a building or space. Designed by a licensed architect, interior designer, and general contractor, the KE architectural element will revolutionize the creative design approach to space planning of interiors. Used as a template tool, the KE architectural element will influence the arrangement of spaces. The KE architectural element will result in the efficient, effective, and sustainable solution of any project. The KE architectural element is formed out of standard metal framing parts and can fit any actual condition. Easy to assemble, the KE architectural element will be the central hub for all utility infrastructures, which is housed in compartments and distributed within zoned layers according to specified locations. The KE architectural element will adapt to a number of standard configurations of plumbing fixture, appliance, and cabinetry layouts.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, the inventive subject matter is directed to modular subunit based on a has a frame having three equal length structural segments joined at each end to form a triangular shape, and wherein the structural segments form a bounded section. The bounded section may be a load bearing structure. The bounded section may include three trapezoidal elements arranged to form a triangle. The bounded section may include one of the following: SIP, flooring system, a ceiling system, a roofing system, glass, drop panels, empty. A modular unit may be formed having two of the triangular frames separated by a perpendicular column at each corner to form a normal right pentahedral shape; and wherein the triangular frame further comprising three equal length structural segments joined at each end forming a triangular shape; wherein the structural segments form a bounded section.

Abstract: A pre-cast housing shelter unit includes: a polygonal floor surface; a plurality of pre-cast wall panels arranged in a polygonal shape adjacent the floor surface; a plurality of pre-made connectors positioned between each of the wall panels at corners of the polygonal floor surface, wherein the connectors are attached in place on the floor surface on-site; and at least one ceiling panel attached to the wall panels, wherein the housing shelter is sealed, in which the building structure is configured to support life and provide protection from disasters.

Abstract: A low-cost hurricane and earthquake resistant house structure includes a rounded shape external wall constructed of a plurality of circumferentially adjacent wall segments, each secured to an adjacent structural vertical stud secured to the ground via a shock absorber. Each wall segment includes a plurality of blocks located and secured on top of one another. A foundation groove receives at least a portion of a lowest block of each wall segment therein, and spaced from inside foundation walls. An aerodynamic roof is secured to the vertical studs, and a floor is mounted on shock absorbers on the ground and connected to the wall with a flexible material.

Abstract: The tornado shelter is constructed of a shell and supports forming an enclosure that is secured to a concrete slab. The tornado shelter is designed for indoor or outdoor use as a safety shelter during severe weather events including dangerous wind speeds. The shell of the tornado shelter is constructed of an inner shell layer and an outer shell layer that sandwich the supports therein. The shell includes a layer of extensive padding along an inner surface to protect occupants from injuries associated with impacting the inner layer. The shape of the shell includes a low-profile curvature that is aerodynamic in order to resist reaction to high wind speeds. A GPS locator alarm located inside of the enclosure is actuated in an emergency and provides location based date to emergency response personnel in order to locate the tornado shelter and occupants associated there with.

Abstract: Various modular construction systems exist and these all have limitations of cost, adaptability and strength. Some were also complex and time consuming to assemble. The present invention overcomes these problems by providing a simple modular construction element (10), which can be assembled with one another to form a strong structure. The invention comprises sheet-like materials, has a V-shaped cross section and is adapted to receive a connector so that elements in use are connected, one to another. The element may be rhomboid shaped, hexagonal shaped or triangular shaped.

Abstract: System, device and method for providing public, high-density bicycle storage and protection from elements and theft. System includes overhead conveyors from which bicycles are hung in a near side/far side arrangement where handlebars of only every other bicycle are aligned. Bicycles are rolled into a loading station on their back wheels by user and secured, from the front wheel, to a hook that is removably coupled to a load hoist. Access to loading station is controlled by an access control panel. Load hoist lifts the hook to place the bicycle in a hanging position. Robotic arm of a robotic elevator grasps, retracts and lowers (or raises) the bicycle into a multilevel storage area and onto overhead conveyors. Users may be bike-share users or storage users who store the particular bicycle they own.

Abstract: A tower is provided having a foundation, at least one concrete tower section located above the foundation and one or more upper tower sections. An adapter section is located between the concrete tower section and one of the upper tower sections. The adapter section is connected to one of the upper tower sections by a fastening system and to the foundation by a plurality of tensioning cables, which are configured to induce a compressive force on the concrete tower section. The fastening system and the plurality of tensioning cables are substantially vertically aligned so that tower loads are transmitted from the upper tower sections to the plurality of tensioning cables.

Abstract: The portable structure will generally have a pod from which a suite frame and suite may be deployed. The suite will allow personnel to administer to many critical demands and activities. The portable structure may be deployed upon any terrain, whether level or uneven, rigid or soft, and both the pod and the suite may be leveled independently. Additionally, the portable structure may incorporate at least one cocoon section wherein the cocoon section comprises at least one interior layer contacting a mesh covering placed over the suite frame, at least one thermal layer affixed to the interior layer, wherein the thermal layer includes heat adding and heat removal members capable of removing or adding heat to the mesh covering or a substance adjacent the at least one thermal layer and at least one exterior layer affixed to the thermal layer.

Abstract: An inhabitable space frame (100) can define and support inhabitable living space within, around and projecting from the exterior of the perimeter of the space frame (100). The space frame (100) includes a vector matrix of strut members (105) that defines a plurality of interconnected basic tetrahedral modules (110) and, optionally, a plurality of prime octahedral modules (115). At least a part of each prime octahedral module (115) in the plurality of prime octahedral modules (115) is adjacent to at least two of the basic tetrahedral modules (110). Use of one or more right triangular faces, or planes, within a repeating geometry of a vector matrix enables an interior of the space frame (100) to be inhabitable, with horizontal floors and vertical walls aligned with associated strut members (105).

Abstract: The secure modular shelter apparatus can be used to shelter those at bus stops, on campuses, using ATM's, waiting for trains, making calls, smoking, and for a host of other uses. Importantly, the apparatus is self-contained and can be placed as chosen, by a forklift for example, and either connected to existing power as an alternative energy source or used as is while providing its own power. Security may be guaranteed by entry only allowed by card or other secure personal identification means known in the art. Radiant assisted heating and cooling are provided. Information readout is provided by a lighted panel that may also feature scrolling schedule lights. A panic button and receiver/transmitter are also provided so that emergency communication with professionals is possible when needed. Audio and auxiliary lighting are provided for those with sight and hearing hardships. Automatic interior climate controls provide for thermostatically controlled comfort.

Abstract: A structure comprising a plurality of regular hexagonal tubes and a plurality of rhomboid inserts is disclosed. At least one of the tubes can be placed end-to-end relative to another of the tubes in a configuration where the central axes of the tubes are parallel. These central axes can be either collinear or not collinear depending upon the overall configuration of the structure chosen. Each rhomboid insert fits inside at least one section of a hexagonal tube. Those rhomboid inserts that fit into more than one hexagonal tube provide a means for interlocking the tubes.

Abstract: A prefabricated resin house includes a peripheral wall 10 achieved by assembling a plurality of peripheral wall structural members 11-19 constituted of resin and a roof 30 that is formed by assembling a plurality of roof structural members 31-39 constituted of resin and is placed on top of the peripheral wall 10.

Abstract: A method of mounting elements inside a wind generator tower which is made from various different sections of metal. Elements such as ladders, platforms, and electric cables are fixed to auxiliary supports such as beams or rings which are in turn fixed to the above-mentioned sections so as not to reduce the fatigue strength thereof.

Abstract: A pre-cast housing shelter unit includes: a polygonal floor surface; a plurality of pre-cast wall panels arranged in a polygonal shape adjacent the floor surface; a plurality of pre-made connectors positioned between each of the wall panels at corners of the polygonal floor surface, wherein the connectors are attached in place on the floor surface on-site; and at least one ceiling panel attached to the wall panels, wherein the housing shelter is sealed, in which the building structure is configured to support life and provide protection from disasters.

Abstract: A technical installation, especially a nuclear power plant, has a number of system components that are respectively supported by a number of beams, and a number of pressurized conduits. The technical installation is designed in such a way that secondary damage occurring in the surroundings of pressurized conduits are kept particularly low even if the pressurized conduits rupture. This is achieved in that at least one of the beams is embodied in a segmented manner in an area that is expected to be affected if a pressurized conduit ruptures, adjacent segments preferably being connected to each other via screw connections.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system or kit of injection molded and extruded panels and other components having integrated connectors which combine together to form an enclosure, preferably in the form of a gazebo. Optional kits are available to provide the gazebo with screen and/or solid enclosures. The support posts, roof rafters, roof supports, roof panels and walls are formed of injection molded plastic to interlock with one another without the need for separate I-beam connectors. The system incorporates a minimum number of components to construct a gazebo type enclosure by integrally forming connectors in to the injection molded components and panels. This minimizes the need for separate extruded or molded connectors to assemble the enclosure. The symmetry of the support posts, roof rafters, roof supports, roof panels and other components also minimizes the shapes of the components and simplifies construction of the gazebo.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system, or kit, of injection molded panels having integrated connectors which combine to form an enclosure, commonly in the form of a utility shed. The panels are formed of injection molded plastic to interlock with one another without the need for separate I-beam connectors. The ends of the wall panels have cavities to accept both roof and floor outwardly projecting locking bosses for interlocking cooperative engagement which serve to rigidly connect the components together. The symmetry of the wall, roof, floor and door components also minimizes component shapes and simplifies enclosure construction.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system of injection molded panels having integrated connectors which combine to form a low profile enclosure having a telescoping roof. The panels are formed of injection molded plastic to interlock with one another without the need for separate I-beam connectors. The ends of the wall panels have cavities to accept both roof and floor outwardly projecting locking posts for interlocking cooperative engagement which serve to rigidly connect the components together. The construction of the wall, roof, floor and door components minimizes component shapes and simplifies enclosure construction.

Abstract: A tornado resistant structure which includes a base and a building structure positioned on the base, The building structure includes a plurality of deflection walls and reinforced corners and a plurality of skylights carried on a roof of the building structure, wherein each skylight includes a tapered sidewall. The building structure includes an entrance and a drain positioned proximate to the entrance.

Abstract: Hygiene building with an outer wall which has a polygonal or circular circumferential contour, surrounds an inner area and has at least one access. A plurality of hygiene areas which are provided in the inner area, are delimited by side walls and are arranged against the outer wall along the circumferential contour. The hygiene areas have at least one fluid inlet and at least one fluid outlet A central area is provided in the inner area is accessible via the access and through which the hygiene areas are accessible At least one sanitary installation is connected to one of the fluid inlets and arranged in one of the hygiene areas. A fluid catchment device is connected to the fluid outlets to receive fluid can be conducted through the fluid outlets. The hygiene building is constructed from a plurality of modules such that it can be dismantled, modules at least the outer wall, the side walls, the sanitary installation and the fluid catchment device.

Abstract: A structural fabric comprises a plurality of discrete and spaced apart icosahedral elements and a plurality of interconnecting elements. The icosahedra elements are interconnected at selected edges by the interconnecting elements in tension so as to form a self-supported array of the icosahedral elements. The icosahedral elements may be icosahedrons (20 sides) or truncated icosahedrons (32 sides). Methods of constructing the structural fabric are also disclosed.

Abstract: A land use-efficient multiplex housing structure (10) is provided having a central housing unit (12) of generally cruciform plan configuration, with a plurality (preferably four) of peripheral dwelling units (14,16,18,20) interconnected with and spaced about the central unit (12). Each peripheral unit (14,16,18,20) preferably has a generally quadrate primary dwelling area (96,134,172,212) and an associated elongated extension section (84,124,162,202) which extends toward and is interconnected with a respective wall portion of central dwelling unit (12).

Abstract: An improved layout for a manufacturing facility is disclosed. The layout includes a hub surrounded by a production corridor. The production corridor comprises production stages used in the manufacturing process. The hub, having direct line-of-sight to the production stages, can easily monitor the manufacturing process.

Abstract: A mobile cellular telephone tower comprises a self-propelled base and a tower connected to the base. The tower includes a base segment and at least a first extendable segment operatively connected to a second extendable segment. A winch is connected to the base, and a first cable is connected between the base segment and the first extendable segment to extend the first extendable segment. A second cable is connected between the winch and the second extendable segment to retract the second extendable segment. Cellular telephone network testing equipment mounted on the tower.

Abstract: A versatile modular building element, made from the agglutination of three pairs of symmetrical prisms in three overlapping tiers, provides an arched component that can be congruently meshed with a similar one in several different ways. The prism may have rectangular or obliquely parallelogrammic sides or a combination of both while keeping their triangular end walls equilateral and side walls of the same width allowing for up to eight different configurations of the building element. Elements of the same or different types can be combined to construct and infinite variety of structures exhibiting high compressive strength, stability and resistance to multi-directional stresses.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a residential housing unit that is flexible to serve the changing needs in a family life cycle by providing two living units connected by common space. Each living unit is self-sufficient in that it may contain all the amenities necessary for independent living. Each living unit may be built on its own real estate lot and may be financed separately for ease in buying and selling. The common space may be built so as to divide the property line and may further comprise a removable, common wall.

Abstract: A building structure comprising: a support module; and one or more room modules, the or each room module being attachable to and cantilevered from the support module. The room modules are independently attached to the support module to allow independent removal or addition of room modules.

Abstract: A residential structure preferably has an N-sided polygonal footprint which has a central vertical axis. Inner walls separate a central common area from a number of outer individual residential units, each such unit occupying a sector of the footprint along an associated side thereof. Advantageously, the central common area includes a pool in a courtyard.

Abstract: A catastrophic event survival structure and method of manufacture such that the catastrophic event survival structure includes a monolithic outer shell formed from a single pour of concrete and enclosing a confined inner space therein. The monolithic outer shell of the catastrophic event survival structure is configured to withstand substantial wind and projectile impact forces and includes a door to permit resealable access to the confined inner space.

Abstract: A stackable building wall unit adapted to be stacked with a plurality of identical building wall units in a plane to form a wall comprising three rectangular panels each including inner and outer faces, a pair of spaced apart long edges, and a pair of spaced apart short edges joined to the short edges of the other two panels to form a triangular, stackable building wall unit which can be stacked with the exterior surfaces of the panels in abutting relation. The exterior face of at least one of the panels includes a female recess therein for receiving a complementally formed key to facilitate alignment and preclude relative shifting of the stacked units in a direction extending between said long edges between the long edges. The key may suitably comprise a complementally formed male projection extending outwardly from another panel of an abutting unit.

Abstract: Each panel of an interlocking construction system comprises: first and second sheathing members; at least one framing member secured between the sheathing members; a male and/or female panel side edge. The male panel side edge includes splines, each extending from between the sheathing members distally beyond the side edges, substantially perpendicular thereto. The female panel side edge includes a opposing pairs of parallel grooves, one on each sheathing member and extending proximally from the second side edge substantially perpendicular thereto. The female panel edge may engage a male panel edge of another similarly adapted panel with the splines of the other panel received within the grooves of the female panel edge. The male panel edge is adapted for engaging a female panel edge of another similarly adapted panel with the splines of the male panel edge inserted into grooves of the other panel.

Abstract: An architecture comprising an openwork of discrete, aerodynamic living units.

Abstract: A berth arrangement, especially for means of transport, is described, comprising a plurality of single berths (1) which are arranged in rows in a successive, superimposed and mutually offset fashion and receive at least one reclining seat (6), and which berths form a sitting room (2) and a foot room (3) starting out from the sitting room (2), with the height of the foot room being smaller than the sitting room height. In order to provide advantageous constructional conditions it is provided that the respective ceilings (5) and floors (4) of the sitting rooms (2) correspond to the negative shapes of the floors (10) and ceilings (9) of the foot space (3).

Abstract: A system and method for defining an enclosure comprising a front, a rear, sides and a closing portion. The system and method further provide a base on a base receiving surface and a closing portion. The front, rear, sides, base, and closing portion define a space enclosing an object or creating a sheltered environment. The system and method further provide stiffening devices extending from the sides and the closing portion, attachment means coupling the sides to the separate base and the sides to the closing portion and attachment means holding edges of adjacent sections of the sides and edges of adjacent sections of the closing portion together. The system and method also typically provide for access areas that have hinged sections. The system and method further comprise connectors located between the closing portion and the sides through which the fasteners also pass to couple the sides to the closing portion.

Abstract: Public storage lockers are designed particularly for storage of bicycles, such as at a public transportation terminal. In a preferred embodiment the storage lockers are on-demand, lockable by a user who must unlock the locker using the same electronic key and who must unlock the locker before using the key for any other locker. The lockers are visually open, with a secure screen or mesh on the locker door and optionally on walls and top cover. This reveals that the bike locker is occupied and prevents the use of the locker for unauthorized, privacy-requiring activities. The bike enclosure has a floor wheel guide for conveniently loading the bike, and a special door latch mechanism which provides for security by including a latch bar in a fixed frame, while a latch bar lifter, operable to permit door opening when the lock is unlocked, is on the door.

Abstract: The invention provides a kit of structural building elements for rapid erection and assembly to form a living space having a ridged roof, wherein the elements (1, 2) are linked together and comprise a central prism-like element (1) and corresponding outer elements (2), said elements being arranged so that in a first state, suitable for transportation, they form an essentially cuboid structure having overall dimensions not equivalent to those of a standard 40 foot freight container and, in a end, erected state, the outer parts are raised to form a roof ridge line (3). Erection of a prefabricated building using the kit of parts can be effected without the need for heavy lifting machinery by pushing the outer elements (2) inwardly so that they slide up the sloping faces of the prism like central part.

Abstract: A durable, secure small storage device that protects small vehicles from the elements and theft, as well as provides a platform upon which sponsors can advertise. Sponsors can include any entity that seeks to advertise or convey a specialized message such as corporations, universities, non-profit organizations, individuals, or governmental entities. The storage device includes a frame having a cross rod component and an upwardly extending rod component for laterally supporting a vehicle. A rigid shell is pivotally connected to the frame at the cross rod component and provides shelter and protection for the vehicle stored inside. The invention further includes an advertising means for displaying advertisements of sponsors. In another aspect, the invention comprises a method of providing site owners with such small vehicle storage devices at little or no cost using funds received from advertisers in return for advertising space in conjunction with the devices.

Abstract: The shower structure comprises a base for containing water, two panels and a two-part elongated joint. The base comprises a doorstep, a base edge and a bottom. The base edge has an inner portion lower than upper surface of the doorstep. Each panel has a first panel edge provided with an inner portion for contact with the inner portion of the base edge for fitting the base and the panel in a watertight manner, a second panel edge also provided with an inner portion. The joint includes an outer part having, along its length, two distal joint edges. Each joint edge is adapted for connection to the inner portion of the second panel edge for fitting the panel and the outer part of the joint together. An inner part of the joint is connected to the outer part for sealing the base and panels together in a watertight manner.

Abstract: A system and method for memorializing life is disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, a method includes storing human or other animal remains in a structure, such as an outer pyramid-shaped structure, wherein the remains are stored in vaults and urns. The embodiment also may include other structures, such as one or more inner pyramid-shaped structures housed by the outer pyramid-shaped structure. The embodiment also preferably includes computer resources employable to display holographic images and memorial records concerning the deceased, such as video and photographic images, medical records, such as DNA, as well as artifacts and personal belongings. The invention may also include a structure positioned underneath the outer pyramid-shaped structure, housing a world religions museum offering various displays, exhibitions, and services.