Abstract: An improved structural framing system and associated method of construction is disclosed wherein an open web dissymmetric steel beam fabricated having a plurality of trapezoidal openings formed along the web thereof between a narrowed, thickened top flange and a widened bottom flange is horizontally disposed and supported between adjacent vertical columns erected on conventional foundations. The dissymmetric beam is preferably fabricated from a standard rolled, wide flange beam split longitudinally according to a specific cutting pattern to produce substantially identical open web beam sections having a single wide flange. A flat bar plate is then welded along the open web beam section to provide the top flange and thereby produce the dissymmetric beam for use in the present system.

Abstract: An improved structural framing system and associated method for constructing same wherein a specially configured dissymetric steel beam is horizontally disposed and supported between adjacent vertical columns erected on conventional foundations. The dissymetric beam is fabricated having a compressed, block-like top flange formed opposite a substantially flattened bottom flange and integrally connected thereto by an intermediate web. Standard hollow core sections of precast, prestressed concrete plank spanning perpendicular to the dissymetric beam are disposed on either side of the beam and together assembled thereto so that the web of the beam is disposed centrally between facing edges of the plank sections with the bottom flange of the beam supporting the lower surface of the plank and the top flange substantially aligned with the upper plank surface.

Abstract: A safe, efficient, human powered vehicle for on and off road use. The preferred embodiment has four wheels and seats two operators side by side. The vehicle incorporates several features which drastically reduce the energy required to propel such a vehicle and optimizes the energy produced from the operators. Each operator is provided with an independent foot pedal and drive mechanism. Each independent drive mechanism has multiple speeds which are independently controlled by each operator. The invention allows each operator to provide power to both rear wheels simultaneously. The drive train includes a simple, lightweight, energy efficient freewheel mechanism which acts as a differential and allows each rear wheel to rotate at different speeds when turning corners. This differential mechanism saves energy by eliminating tire skid which occurs when both rear wheels rotate at the same speed during a turn. The suspension system is energy efficient.