Abstract: A channel construction beam, typically metal, comprises a plurality of chutes of rectangular cross-section perpendicular to the beam for receiving a plurality of generally rectangular building studs in sliding relation within the chute. The chute comprises two or more vertical guides on each chute side inward of the beam channel aligned on a line normal to the beam web. Opposing beam ridges projecting inward of the channel may comprise the chute alignment guides. In an alternative embodiment, the chute may comprise projections outward of the beam channel sized to receive a building stud or a stud tongue extending from the stud and running longitudinally along opposing stud sides. Wall board is combined with the beam to provide a fire-rated wall. The wall stud comprises a longitudinal slot in which a screw attached to the beam flange may slide without restricting vertical movement of the stud in the beam.

Abstract: A waler bracket is disclosed for securing a waler to a modular form system having a pair of panels being separated by a filler channel, with the filler channel including a pair of flanges with each flange being joinable to an adjacent panel edge portion. The waler bracket includes an inner portion and an outer portion. The inner portion includes an inner through member disposed parallel to the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the panel edge portions, with the inner through member being sized for insertion between the filler channel flanges and being adapted to receive a fastener. The outer portion is adapted for attachment to the waler. Accordingly, the panels, the filler channel, and the bracket inner portion may be connected to each other using a fastener extending through the inner through member, and the waler may be secured to the bracket outer portion, thereby securing the waler to the panels and thereby permitting the form system to be lifted as a unit.

Abstract: A bridge device for providing a transition between two bordering floor segments of different levels includes a securement shank, a terminal shank and a transition shank. The securement shank is positionable under one of the bordering floor segments which are separated by a space. The terminal shank has spaced upper and lower ends and opposite sides extending between the upper and lower ends. The terminal shank is attached at the lower end to the securement shank and is positionable in the space between the floor segments. One side of the terminal shank is disposed adjacent to and faces toward the one floor segment whereas the other side of the terminal shank faces toward the other floor segment.

Abstract: The invention provides a temporary portable shelter for an individual or individuals from the severe effects of a tornado or hurricane. The Enclosure consists of an case, having six sides, which is constructed of polycarbonate thermoplastic of extremely high quality and of superior strength and endurance. The Enclosure has a hinged door with door latch assemblies that may be operated from the inside. It has ventilation padding to protect the individual from injury while within the Enclosure. It may be bolted to the floor. Light may enter the Enclosure and a person inside may see out of the Enclosure. The Enclosure may also be outfitted with reflective tape detailing or a battery operated strobe light to help emergency staff quickly locate victims of severe weather conditions.

Abstract: A combination grille for window, which includes four hollow side frame bars arranged at four sides, and crossed hollow transverse frame bars and hollow longitudinal frame bars arranged within the side frame bars, and a plurality of sliding cover plates respectively covered on the side frame bars and the transverse frame bars, wherein the side frame bars and the transverse frame bars each have a longitudinal opening at one side, two sliding grooves longitudinally extended along two opposite sides of the longitudinal opening; the side frame bars each have a longitudinal series of coupling holes at one side adjacent to the respective longitudinal opening; the transverse frame bars each have a plurality of longitudinally spaced transverse through holes across the respective longitudinal opening for the passing of the longitudinal frame bars; the sliding cover plates are respectively covered on the longitudinal opening at each of the transverse frame bars and the side frame bars, each having two coupling flanges l

Abstract: A composite baluster includes an elongated core made of wood, and a plastic outer shell molded over and enclosing the core. A bottom end of the core projects outward and downward from a bottom end of the outer shell. A wooden end piece is connected to and covers the bottom ends of the core and outer shell. The end piece has a top end face recessed to form a cavity for receiving the bottom end of the core. The top end face of the end piece abuts against the bottom end of the outer shell.

Abstract: A wall system includes a wall section, such as a section of a partition, having a horizontal frame defining a horizontal row of attachment sites, such as a row of slots. An adjustable bracket includes a pair of vertical blades constructed to engage selected ones of the attachment sites, and further includes at least one telescoping horizontal support spanning between and supported by the pair of vertical blades, and still further includes universal connector brackets for engaging the telescoping horizontal support. The horizontal spacing of the blades can be adjusted to accommodate a component, and the telescopingly adjustable horizontal support can be adjusted to reach between the blades. The universal connectors adjustably engage the horizontal support and include slots to facilitate attachment to connectors on a back, a bottom, or sides of the component.

Abstract: A method of protecting liquid storage tanks from earthquakes and an anchor especially adapted to carry out this method are described. The method includes providing an energy dissipating anchor between the liquid tank and structure which will move with the ground. The anchor includes a stainless steel shaft which is secured to a ring foundation. This shaft is surrounded by a clamp which frictionally grips the same and is secured to the tank.