Abstract: The improved joint connection provides a separate stress ring for each of the compressive loading zone and tensile loading zone at the end of a timber beam and a central stem secured to one ring and unsecured to the other ring. The connection is such that shrinkage in the timber beam along the major axis of the cross section can be accommodated by movement of the unsecured stress ring relative to the stem. A plate is provided at the end of the stem to retain the moveable stress ring in the joint connection.In one embodiment, a pair of one-piece connectors can be secured at the end of each timber between the timber and the respective stress rings of the joint connection.In another embodiment, a second pair of coaxial and concentric rings may be employed with the outer rings being of polygonal shape to have flat sides against which the respective beams may be secured.In still another embodiment, the stress rings and stem may have a polygonal shape.

Abstract: The one-piece steel connector is secured to an end face of a laminated timber via tendons which are embedded in the timber and nuts which are threaded onto the ends of each tendon. In one embodiment, a connector is secured to a cylindrical hub via bolts which are threaded radially into the hub. In another embodiment, a connector connects two co-linear timber members together. In another embodiment, a connector connects two angularly disposed timber members together.

Abstract: The horizontal axis wind turbine converts wind into electrical energy and includes a pitch control vane with a flyweight mechanism on each rotor blade to provide aerodynamic efficiency at operating wind velocities, near constant speed and zero lift pitch of the rotor blades when speeds exceed the design speed of the system. A gravity neutralization means composed of a bevel gear and pinions couples the blades together while a flyweight arrangement connected to the bevel gear acts to neutralize centrifugal torque on the blades.