Abstract: A program for defining a support structure for a dual curved surface preferably runs on computer equipment (10) and receives a definition of the surface. The program then extracts a first curve and a second curve from the definition. The program defines at least two headers (14) matching the first curve and a plurality of ribs (16) matching the second curve. The program defines the spacing for the headers (14) and ribs (16), such that the surface is adequately supported, defines the attachment points for the ribs (16) along the headers (14), and rib angles for the attachment points. The program then generates control files for use by a machine (24) in producing the headers (14) and ribs (16).

Abstract: A chair operable to change between an original shape and a plurality of different shapes is disclosed. The chair has a continuous surface, comprising a sheet of metal, which enables the chair to change shape without requiring the use of complex moving elements. The shape change is a reaction to the weight of a person seated in the chair, and creates an asymmetric rocking motion in reaction to shifts in the weight of the person.

Abstract: A panel attachment system (10) comprising a plurality of covering panels (12), a plurality of retaining members (16) to hold the panels (12), and a plurality of mounting structures (18) to secure the retaining members (16) to a surface (20). The panels (12) are held to the retaining members (16) through the use of protruding locking members (32) formed on the panels (12) which interlock with a slot (48) formed on the retaining member (16). The panels (12) may be coupled to the retaining members (16) without the need for precise alignment, thereby expediting the installation of the surface (20). The retaining members (16) additionally contain a drainage channel (50) to carry water and other debris away from the surface (20).

Abstract: A method of transferring a representation of an image to a surface (12) of a building (14). The method comprising receiving the image as an image file, converting the image file to a raster file comprising a series of dots, scaling the raster file to the surface and dividing the raster file into a plurality of sub-components, associating the dots with markings (26), and transferring the markings (26) onto a plurality of metal sheets (24). The markings (26) may be indentations, holes, and/or bumps. The dots may be manipulated to accommodate features (20) of the surface (12), such as windows, doors, indicia (22), and edges of the sheets (24). The markings (26) are preferably transferred to the sheets (24) by a metal working machine (28). Thus, the method may include generating one or more control files that may be used by the machine (28).

Abstract: An I-beam (10) comprises a first D-shaped flange (20) and a second D-shaped flange (60) connected by a web (100). Each flange includes a planar segment (30,70) and a curved segment (40,80). A lip (50,90) depends from the planar segment (30,70) of each flange (20,60) and is adapted to be attached to the web (100). The curved segment (40,70) of each flange (20,60) includes an outer surface (42,82) and an outer surface (44,84). The outer surface (42,82) is serrated to grip a wall panel or other structure attached to the flange (20,80) and the inner surface includes ridges (46,86) to strengthen the flange (20,60).

Abstract: A program for defining a support structure for a dual curved surface preferably runs on computer equipment (10) and receives a definition of the surface. The program then extracts a first curve and a second curve from the definition. The program defines at least two headers (14) matching the first curve and a plurality of ribs (16) matching the second curve. The program defines the spacing for the headers (14) and ribs (16), such that the surface is adequately supported, defines the attachment points for the ribs (16) along the headers (14), and rib angles for the attachment points. The program then generates control files for use by a machine (24) in producing the headers (14) and ribs (16).

Abstract: A method of transferring a representation of an image to a surface (12) of a building (14). The method comprising receiving the image as an image file, converting the image file to a raster file comprising a series of dots, scaling the raster file to the surface and dividing the raster file into a plurality of sub-components, associating the dots with markings (26), and transferring the markings (26) onto a plurality of metal sheets (24). The markings (26) may be indentations, holes, and/or bumps. The dots may be manipulated to accommodate features (20) of the surface (12), such as windows, doors, indicia (22), and edges of the sheets (24). The markings (26) are preferably transferred to the sheets (24) by a metal working machine (28). Thus, the method may include generating one or more control files that may be used by the machine (28).

Abstract: A panel attachment system (10) comprising a plurality of covering panels (12), a plurality of retaining members (16) to hold the panels (12), and a plurality of mounting structures (18) to secure the retaining members (16) to a surface (20). The panels (12) are held to the retaining members (16) through the use of protruding locking members (32) formed on the panels (12) which interlock with a slot (48) formed on the retaining member (16). The panels (12) may be coupled to the retaining members (16) without the need for precise alignment, thereby expediting the installation of the surface (20). The retaining members (16) additionally contain a drainage channel (50) to carry water and other debris away from the surface (20).

Abstract: A fish hook setting device which is formed into a safety pin type configuration from an elongated segment of tempered wire.The triggering mechanism is configured from a second tempered wire having a helical coil lever arm to provide a sensitivity adjustment. The second embodiment includes an adjustable line drag mechanism for supporting one end of the fishing line.

Abstract: A combination fishing rod holder and fish hook setter apparatus comprising a rod holder having a trigger mechanism for releasably securing the rod holder in a predetermined or preselected position for holding a fishing rod, adjustable dual torsion spring means for supporting the rod holder whereby a predetermined pressure is transmitted to the rod holder upon release of the trigger mechanism, fish line receiving means carried by the trigger mechanism for receiving the fish line therearound, adjustable tension spring means engagable with the fish line receiving means for adjusting the pressure required on the fish line for releasing the trigger mechanism to set the fish hook, adjustable stop means for limiting the movement of the rod holder in one direction upon release of the trigger mechanism, and means for supporting the apparatus in a stable position during use thereof.