Abstract: A first and second blank of corrugated paperboard scored to define wall panels that receive a reinforced wall panel assembly having a central pad with opposing vertical members and opposing horizontal members and a pair of U-shaped channels each attached in overlying relation with the pad, the vertical members and a respective horizontal member to secure the wall panel assembly together. A method of making a bulk materials container is disclosed.

Abstract: A shipping container for a personal watercraft, in which a first and second pair of roller guides attach to a pallet for removably receiving a pair of trusses that support a personal watercraft thereon, the trusses movable between a first position for loading or unloading the personal watercraft and a second position for storing and transporting of the personal watercraft at an oblique angle. A method of containing a personal watercraft in a shipping container is disclosed.

Abstract: A first and second blank of corrugated paperboard scored to define wall panels that receive a reinforced wall panel assembly having a central pad with opposing vertical members and opposing horizontal members and a pair of U-shaped channels each attached in overlying relation with the pad, the vertical members and a respective horizontal member to secure the wall panel assembly together. A method of making a bulk materials container is disclosed.

Abstract: A truss for incorporation into a building structure includes a fundamental component with at least one necked-down portion which changes the width or depth of the component. The fundamental component can be employed in joists, heels, and/or other joints for a roof truss.

Abstract: A truss and connector assembly for use in housing structures is shown. The connector provides a direct and integral mounting of the truss to the wall studs to provide increased mounting strength for the roof assembly to the side walls of a structure. A connector according to the invention can be integrally preassembled to a truss at one location and connected to remaining portions of the truss at a separate location.

Abstract: A hinged plate is provided for pivotally attaching a pair of lumber members together in a double-hinged manner. A building truss incorporating the double-hinged plate is provided which can be assembled and erected in a facilitated manner.

Abstract: A composition of matter for joint or texture compound used in wallboard applications which incorporates an ingredient which has been reclaimed from waste wallboard panel. A method and system for reconstituting the waste wallboard into the joint compound is also provided. Waste wallboard is thereby recycled so that the waste wallboard does not need to be disposed in a landfill.

Abstract: A truss and tie-down strap assembly for use in conventional building structures are shown. The strap provides direct mounting of the truss to the wall studs to provide increased mounting strength for the roof assembly to the side walls of a structure. One leg of the flexible strap is mounted to the truss assembly and the other leg of the flexible strap is mounted to the top plate and stud assembly. The strap is formed of a flexible material such that it can be easily deformed to accommodate different truss structures and side wall configurations. A truss and tie-down strap according to the invention can be preassembled at one location and mounted to the top plate and wall stud assembly at a separate location.

Abstract: This invention relates to automatic lattice fabrication apparatus for automatically forming sections of lattice from strips of wood of a predetermined length and width. The apparatus includes an elongated horizontal conveyor that conveys lattice strips from a lay-up section through an automatic adhesive dispenser, under an automatic stapling bridge where the lattice is stapled, through rip saws that trim the sides of the lattice and, when desired, cut the lattice in half, and through an automatic cross-cut saw mechanism that periodically stops the conveyor, lowers a saw and cuts off a section of lattice when it reaches a predetermined length, and then lifts the saw out of the way and resumes conveyor movement.

Abstract: This invention relates to automatic lattice fabrication apparatus for automatically forming sections of lattice from strips of wood of a predetermined length and width. The apparatus includes an elongated horizontal conveyor that conveys lattice strips from a lay-up section through an automatic adhesive dispenser, under an automatic stapling bridge where the lattice is stapled, through rip saws that trim the sides of the lattice and, when desired, cut the lattice in half, and through an automatic cross-cut saw mechanism that periodically stops the conveyor, lowers a saw and cuts off a section of lattice when it reaches a predetermined length, and then lifts the saw out of the way and resumes conveyor movement.

Abstract: Testing apparatus for measuring the load bearing capabilities of structural members under a uniform load comprises a fixed base that supports one side of the structural member; a flexible, inflatable tube engaging the length of a second side of the structural member opposite the first side; a restraining mechanism extending along the length of the tube and adapted to urge the tube against the second side of the structural member as the tube is inflated; a suitable air pressure source for inflating the tube; and a load sensing device for measuring the load placed on the structural member by the inflation of the tube. The restraining mechanism comprises a plurality of channel sections arranged end to end and positioned over the inflatable tube a predetermined distance from the second side of the structural member. The channel sections are mounted on brackets that are in turn slidably mounted on parallel guide rails that run transversely to the structural member.