Abstract: A weatherproofing backer for installing windows and doors is described as having a foam layer and an adhesive layer. The adhesive is pressure-activated and is self-sealing about attaching hardware. The foam is self-setting and, in use, molds to the flange of the window unit. When installed, the foam layer is compressed between the inner window frame and rough opening and between the window flange and the wall surface adjacent the rough opening. The weatherproofing backer is designed to extend beyond the flange of the window unit and thereby receive the weatherproofing membrane thereover. The weatherproofing backer, then acts as a sealed bridge between the membrane and the window unit precluding entry of air and water. Both the foam and the adhesive have fire retardants in the formulation thereof. A tape form with a self-skinned foam layer and a sheet form, with polymeric covering web are provided.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a build set and a BOM from user-selected options from a single master source model.

Abstract: A drip edge device is disclosed for use with the drainage system of a cavity wall structure. The drip edge device is disposed in the outer wythe, above the shelf angle or lintel, of a cavity wall structure extending the flashing and directing water and water vapor collected within the cavity wall to the weep holes and beyond the exterior surface of the outer wythe. The drip edge further allows for cavity wall ventilation. Removal of the water and the water vapor inhibits staining and material degradation. The drip edge device is a molded polymeric which withstands adverse environmental elements, including ultraviolet radiation. The drip edge device includes a peel-and-stick hot melt adhesive which, upon pressure activation, creates a durable bond with the rough surface of the masonry block or the flashing material. Optionally, a foam layer is placed on the lower surface of the drip edge.

Abstract: A locking insert is described for use in a poured concrete structure. The locking insert includes a hollow elongated body, a longitudinal channel with two configured side edges and a channel floor, a paired gear nut and locking plate that interengages said configured side edges, an attachment bolt, and a method to prevent concrete from seeping into the locking insert. The embedment of the locking insert into a concrete structure provides a positive locking, positional and anti-slip method of attachment for a structural or secondary element. The locking insert allows for vertical positioning and locking of the paired gear nut and locking plate to ensure a proper connection with a structural or secondary element through an attachment bolt. The locking insert with an attached outwardly projecting element transfers the load associated with the structural or secondary element throughout the concrete structure to allow for a high strength connection.

Abstract: A reinforcing and spacing device is described for use in a masonry wall structure of successive courses of brick, block, stone or other similar masonry material. The reinforcing spacer device includes parallel side rods with interconnecting intermediate rods and spacing nodes disposed on the side rods and the intermediate rods. The embedment of the reinforcing spacer device in the horizontal and vertical mortar joints of a masonry wall structure provides simultaneous reinforcement of the horizontal mortar joint and uniform spacing of the brick, block, stone or other similar masonry material. The reinforcing spacer device is a labor-saving, combination device that is economical to manufacture and allows for proper positioning and strengthening of a masonry wall structure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for perpendicular attachment of a first structural member to a second structural member, or of a first structural member between a pair of parallel structural members that uses a uniquely designed angled connector bracket that is formed with angled plates from which a plurality of teeth or nails extend. The teeth on one plate are intended to be driven into the end of the first structural member, and the teeth on the other plate are to be driven into an upper or outer surface of the second structural member to effect a generally perpendicular joint between such members.

Abstract: Sill seal and termite shield (SSTS) devices are disclosed. The SSTS devices for residential housing are shown for poured concrete, masonry block, and frost protected shallow foundations. The polymeric foam pad of the SSTS device seals the rough surface atop the foundation wall. For the termite shield function, the SSTS devices use a metallic web—either of foil or of an impenetrable screen—or a nonmetallic web—either of plastic sheet or of impenetrable scrim. The termite shield or barrier layer is shown as adjacent to a weatherproofing membrane or as an interior layer of an polymeric laminate weatherproofing membrane. Hot melt adhesives attach the foam pad to the weatherproofing membrane and, where applicable, the barrier layer to the weatherproofing membrane. Pressure-activated, hot melt adhesives attach the SSTS device to the sill plate. A release sheet is applied forming a peel-and-stick device.

Abstract: A folded wall anchor and an anchoring system employing the same are disclosed. The anchor is a folded sheetmetal construct utilizable with various wire formative veneer ties. The folded wall tie enables the junctures of the legs and the base of the wall anchor to be located inboard from the periphery of the wall anchor and the legs to fully or partially sheath the mounting hardware. The sheathing function unifies the openings in the insulation required for installation and forms an anchoring system that is less intrusive. Upon installation with the surfaces of the enfolded leg and of the base coplanar, the leg and mounting hardware insertion point is sealed thereby. This sealing precludes penetration of air, moisture, and water vapor into the wall structure. Various embodiments show wall anchor configurations with suitable veneer ties and differing sheathing arrangements.

Abstract: Notched, surface-mounted wall anchors and anchoring systems employing the same are disclosed. The anchor is a notched, folded sheetmetal construct utilizable with various wire formative veneer ties. The depth of the notch is greater than the combined thickness of the wallboard and the waterproofing layer. Various embodiments show wall anchor configurations with suitable veneer ties and differing sheathing arrangements. The notches, upon surface-mounting of the wall anchor, form small wells in the portion of the notch extending into the insulation, which wells entrain water vapor, condensate and water, and relieve the same from being driven into the wallboard.

Abstract: A method of automatically placing pucks on a truss assembly table includes the steps of receiving input regarding the truss assembly table and a truss to be assembled on the truss assembly table, and processing the input. Locations on the truss assembly table for each puck are selected based on the processed input that optimizes the overall support given to the truss. The pucks are automatically moved to their selected locations.

Abstract: A heater unit for dispensing metered portions of molten lead includes a cavity capable of selectively receiving a metered portion of molten lead from the lead reservoir. The heater unit is moveable between a first position for receiving lead into the lead reservoir and a second position for dispensing molten lead from the cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus for placing an edge piece on a battery plate includes a feed mechanism which transports a strip of bendable plastic material. A bending mechanism forms this strip into an open top, U-shaped channel. A cutter cuts the channel into an edge piece having a length which is substantially equal to an edge of the battery plate which is to be covered. An in-feed conveyor transports a battery plate toward the edge piece, and a support mechanism supports the edge piece while the edge of the battery plate is inserted into it. The support mechanism then releases the edge piece so that it can travel out of the apparatus with the battery plate.

Abstract: An automated saw system for cutting a crooked piece of lumber with a mitered end and a length. The saw system includes a saw for cutting the piece of lumber, a lumber feed conveyor for feeding the piece of lumber to the saw, and a sensor that measures a deviation amount by which the piece of lumber deviates from an idealized straight piece of lumber. A controller communicates with the sensor to adjust either the saw or the conveyor in response to the detected deviation amount so that the piece of lumber is cut to correspond to a cut of the idealized straight piece of lumber.

Abstract: A structural truss and method of forming a truss is disclosed. The truss includes an end configuration which does not rely on gluing components together. The end configuration is formed from a web which extends between the top and bottom chords of the truss and a connector system for connecting the web to both of those chords inwardly of the first ends of the chords. In another arrangement, the end configuration is a prefabricated end configuration comprised of top and bottom chord members and a web located between the top and bottom chord members.

Abstract: The invention is directed toward a retrofit jig system for use with an existing truss assembly table having multiple planks extending lengthwise along the table. The jig system includes a motor and jig assembly for moving a puck lengthwise along the truss assembly table between adjacent planks of the table. A support member supports the screw between the adjacent planks. The support member is adjustable to allow the puck to move past the support member without interference.

Abstract: An automated truss assembly system includes a jigging table including a plurality of automatically actuatable pucks for use in positioning the truss components on the jigging table. A laser projector is positioned to project a laser image onto the jigging table for use in positioning the truss components on the jigging table.

Abstract: The invention as depicted in a preferred embodiment is a retrofitted automated truss assembly jig setting system and one or more removable plank units used therewith. Removable plank unit includes a pair of drive motors each connected to a motor plate that is fixed to the bottom surface of a plank. A pair of rods extends along the length of the plank and each is operatively connected to a motor such that activation of a motor rotates a rod. Puck assemblies are carried by rods and are linearly transposed along rods when motors are activated. A computerized control system is operatively connected to provide for automated positioning of pucks. Planks on existing truss assembly tables may be removed and replaced with removable plank units to turn a traditional truss assembly jigging table into an automated truss assembly jigging table.

Abstract: A heater unit for dispensing metered portions of molten lead includes a cavity capable of selectively receiving a metered portion of molten lead from the lead reservoir. The heater unit is moveable between a first position for receiving lead into the lead reservoir and a second position for dispensing molten lead from the cavity.

Abstract: A fastener includes a plurality of elongate, threaded studs which are connected to a common anchor portion for securing a frame member to a foundation. Attached to the anchor portion is a receiving element adapted to receive a positioner. The studs, anchor and receiving element are a one-piece integral assembly constructed of steel or high tensile strength steel. In addition, the fastener is adapted to receive a template and positioner for stability during the pouring and curing of the foundation.