Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing element comprising: a flexible roofing substrate; a photovoltaic element disposed on the flexible roofing substrate; and an electrical connector operatively coupled to the photovoltaic element, wherein the flexible roofing substrate has formed therein a recess shaped to at least partially receive the electrical connector.

Abstract: The present invention provides a laminate stair tread a core having a top surface and a bottom surface, and opposing read side and front side, the front side being substantially curved, and a laminate layer affixed to the top surface of the core including the curved front side, thereby providing a flat, unobstructed, and seamless surface.

Abstract: A skylight assembly is provided with a glazing unit which transmits light while limiting heat transfer. The glazing unit has spaced apart top and bottom layer defining an enclosed cavity at least partially filled with translucent insulating particles. A peripheral frame formed in situ from a polymeric material about the glazing unit forming a leak-tight joint.

Abstract: A protective cover for windows and doors is formed of a resilient and flexible material such as rubber, for example, a rubber material made from recycled tires. The cover may be rolled up to form a cylinder for storage when not needed and then unrolled when needed to cover the window or door. A kit contains a pre-sized protective cover and means for securing the cover to a building. When needed, the cover is attached to a cover frame which holds the perimeter of the cover around the window or door to be protected, and support is provided, such as by straps extending across the cover frame, between the cover and the window or door to be protected to limit the stretching of the material.

Abstract: A point fixing apparatus is described. The point fixing apparatus is suitable for mounting an insulated glass unit (IGU) to a support structure, the IGU having first and second panes of glass spaced apart from one another, the point fixing apparatus including: a spacer apparatus for spacing the first and second panes from one another; a first clamping block configured for clamping the first glass pane against the spacer apparatus; a second clamping block configured for clamping the second glass pane against the spacer apparatus; and one or more stop devices configured to inhibit overtightening of the clamping blocks against the panes and spacer apparatus, the one or more stop devices disposed between the clamping blocks when assembled.

Abstract: A muntin bar clip and an insulated glass unit employing the clip are provided, wherein the clip has a base, a tree for engaging the hollow end of a false muntin bar extending upward from the base, and a wedge extending downward from the perimeter of the base, wherein the wedge tapers as it extends away from the base. The wedge is inserted between one of the sheets of glass and a foam spacer frame when the clip is installed. The face of the wedge that is in contact with the foam spacer frame may be provided with a projection, such as an inverted tetrahedron shape, to increase frictional resistance to movement of the clip along the spacer frame, without compromising the seal between the spacer frame and the glass.

Abstract: A combined wall panel is composed of a plurality of main body boards.

Abstract: The invention includes an electrified framework system having a plurality of grid members which form a grid framework. A conductive material is disposed on a surface of at least one of the plurality of grid members as shown throughout the drawings. The system includes connectors which provide electrical connections between the conductive material on the grid framework and various electrical fixtures. The electrified framework system includes a support clip for supporting depending articles suspended from the grid framework into a room space. The support clip does not interfere with the electrical and mechanical actuator controlling the connector and grid interface connection mechanism. The support clip attaches the connector to the grid element such that the connector, and any device attached thereto, will not inadvertently become detached from the grid element during a seismic event.

Abstract: A composite article includes a first pane comprising a first window layer formed from a vitreous material and a reinforced silicone layer disposed adjacent to and in contact with the first window layer. The reinforced silicone layer includes a cured silicone composition and a fiber reinforcement. The composite article includes a second pane spaced from the first pane to define a gap therebetween and a frame disposed adjacent to and in contact with the first pane and the second pane to enclose the gap. The composite article may be suitable for load-bearing applications requiring thermal and acoustic insulation.

Abstract: A ceiling panel structure which includes a fire retardant mat, a scrim and a substantially clear scrim coating. The fire retardant mat includes a fire retardant fiber component and a binder material which binds the fibers. The fire retardant fiber component includes natural fibers treated with a fire retardant. The scrim being attached to a surface of the mat and the substantially clear coating is applied to the surface of the scrim opposite a surface of the scrim positioned next to the mat. The ceiling panel structure has flame spread index of 25 or less and a smoke generation index of 50 or less, as measured by ASTM E 84 that is uniform throughout the mat.

Abstract: A novel building block is described which is formed of two similar interlocking elements with chamfered surfaces to allow the elements to rest against each other. In one embodiment, the block is used to made structural walls, In another embodiment, a single block with a transparent or translucent pane is provided to form a window. In yet another embodiment, a building is made with at least one floor, one roof and support structures supporting the roof and being formed of the interlocking elements. Each element is made of L-shaped components.

Abstract: A unit (1) for the construction of slab foundations, the unit (1) includes modules (M) of domes (C) made of plastic material and which are suitable for being laid in the ground of a site in accordance with modules (M) of at least one dome (C) which are arranged laterally in relation to each other to form a gridwork of channels (2) which are engaged by reinforcing bars or sheaths (F). Interconnecting elements (10) are arranged in an intermediate position between at least two adjacent modules (M) of domes (C) to connect to each other the adjacent module (M) of domes (C) defining a reciprocal positioning distance.

Abstract: A foundation for enabling anchoring of a wind turbine tower thereto by means of replaceable through-bolts includes a foundation sole with a set of through-holes for accommodating the through-bolts, wherein the through-holes extend from an upper surface to a lower surface of the foundation sole; a workspace arranged beneath the foundation sole for enabling access to lower ends the through-bolts when arranged in the through-holes; and a passage allowing access to the workspace from a location outside an area of the foundation sole to be covered by the tower. A method for providing such a foundation is also disclosed.

Abstract: A spacer (100) for providing space between a first roof member (110) and a second roof member (120), where the spacer limits compression of an insulator (130), the insulator (130) being at least partially between the first roof member (110) and the second roof member (120).

Abstract: A vent baffle can be arranged so as to direct air near an underside of a roof. The vent baffle can feature bending structures, which can allow the vent baffle to transition from a substantially columnar orientation to a bent orientation.

Abstract: A cladding system, intended to exclude water from within a building having a cavity wall structure, includes passive means (a) for minimising any flow of water from the exterior that may reach the interior, and (b) open guides or enclosed channels for diverting such water so that it flows by gravity down the cavity to be drained outwardly. One implementation provides impervious battens modified to have water-diverting sides, and another provides solid slabs including channels connected by drainage cuts along their length to a surface to be drained.

Abstract: Compound glass brick for a glass wall, characterized in that the compound glass brick is transparent (light-permeable) and comprises an assembly of at least two or more plates which are stacked one on another or next to one another are arranged with their plate surfaces facing one another, and are connected to one another at their plate surfaces by means of a force-transmitting adhesive bonding means, with all of the plates and all of the force-transmitting adhesive bonding means being composed of transparent material and in each case being transparent, and with at least the outer plates or all of the plates being glass plates, the plate surfaces of which are smooth as glass.

Abstract: A resilient floor tile is described that comprises a base; a protective film layer; and a decorative layer disposed between the base and the protective film layer; wherein the resilient floor tile has a top surface and a convex edge along a perimeter of the top surface. In another embodiment, the resilient floor tile comprises a decorative layer comprising a printed ink forming a decorative pattern disposed between a base and a protective film layer; wherein the decorative pattern extends over at least a portion of a contoured edge of the tile such that the decorative pattern is substantially undistorted. The process for making a resilient floor tile comprises preheating a printed tile blank; cutting and molding the printed tile blank concurrently to form a resilient floor tile having a convex edge along a top, outer perimeter of the resilient floor tile.

Abstract: A compressible mineral fibre insulation element (1) having a first major surface (3) opposed to a second major surface (4), and having side surfaces (5) connecting the two major surfaces (3, 4) and defining a thickness of the insulation element (1). The thickness is at least 10 cm. The insulation element comprises a facing (20) provided with at least one extension flange (21) of which the outer end (22) is not secured to the insulation element. The facing (20) is attached to at least a part of the first major surface (3), and the extension flange (21) is prepared for extending over and covering a substantial part of the side surface (5) of the insulation element (1). A method of installing a compressible insulation element is also disclosed.

Abstract: The retainer for cut wallboard is a device for repairing a piece of wallboard from which a smaller piece has been removed. The retainer includes a closed band having opposed inner and outer faces and opposed first and second edges. A plurality of outer retaining members are attached to the first edge of the closed band, with the plurality of outer retaining members extending outwardly therefrom. Further, a plurality of inner retaining members are attached to the second edge of the closed band, with the plurality of inner retaining members extending inwardly therefrom. A plurality of resilient members are further attached to the first edge of the closed band and also extend inwardly therefrom.

Abstract: A roofing system formed of a plurality of support members secured to a load bearing roof deck. A plurality of roofing panels are positioned on the support members and are oriented to form overlapping joints between the panels. Sealant is positioned within the overlapping joints of the panels. A compression bar is positioned over the overlapping joints and is secured to the overlapping joints and support member by a fastener arrangement.

Abstract: A flexible height-adjustable clamp for clamping a solar panel to a support structure or base, with flat surfaces on the upper and lower parts of the clamp, the upper section clamping on the panels; and the lower section mounting against the base; with a hole through both flat surfaces for bolting a connector through the surfaces to secure the clamp and panel to the supporting structure; and a flexible section connecting the two surfaces in the form of an arc or folded section; with mechanical stops to allow positioning to against said panel.

Abstract: A deck containing joists and decking planks can be assembled quickly and easily without requiring any fasteners and using a “snap lock” type arrangement by providing a connector on top of the joist which contains a number of clips that can be bent out of the plane of the top wall of the connector and which can engage with the decking planks.

Abstract: An aesthetic cover assembly includes first mounting portion of a cover wall for concealing a portion of a building structure that is secured to the building structure. An alignment pin is secured on one of the first mounting portions and the building structure. The alignment pin supports a second mounting portion of a cover wall for concealing a portion of the building structure. A method of installing an aesthetic cover assembly is also included.

Abstract: A frame construction for a low rise building. In the construction, a wall frame panel is made of thin light-gauge section steel by bonding together a surface member, a lower frame member, vertical frame members and an upper frame member. Roof or floor support girders are made of heavyweight section steel having H-shape or channel shape. The girders are coupled to frame construction panels by bolts or hold-down fasteners.

Abstract: A bracket for use with metal construction framing which is a generally planar construct having a first outer flange and a second outer flange, configured to form a recess between such flanges suitable to engage at least one face of a metal construction stud and to interlock with the stud via at least two non-longitudinal tabs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cast-in channel having a channel body which forms a receiving space for receiving a connecting element used to fixedly attach a fastening element to the cast-in channel, the channel body further being provided with rim holes and with anchoring members which can be fixedly attached to the channel body by mounting them in the rim holes. The free ends of the rim holes point toward the receiving space.

Abstract: In constructing a home, a plurality of upwardly opening U-shaped channel members are installed onto a floor structure. Wall sections are then set into the plurality of U-shaped channel members. The result is that the U-channel members locate the wall sections. Each wall section may be pre-fabricated with lines for service (e.g., electrical lines or plumbing conduit) running through it. After the wall sections are set in place, the lines for service may be interconnected. Cut-outs may be provided at the sides of the wall sections to provide access to the lines for service to allow their interconnection.

Abstract: A versatile sway brace fitting, includes a pair of spaced jaws, for firmly and deformingly gripping a brace, and a method for manufacturing the fitting. The fitting can withstand substantial loads and is adaptable to receive a variety of braces such as bracing pipes, angle irons, channels, plates, among others. The fitting includes a set screw, preferably angled, and a sharp-cornered recess which assist in resisting withdrawal of the brace from the jaws. The method of manufacturing is desirably simple and expeditious, thereby ensuring that the fitting is inexpensive.

Abstract: A stacking apparatus and method of multi-layer stacking of objects of different sizes on a support to form a stacked support includes providing a support handler. A support is elevated with the support handler and objects of different sizes and shapes are stacked on the support to form a stacked support. A stacked support is removed and an empty support supplied with the support handler. A placeholder is provided above the support handler. The placeholder has a first mode for receiving objects on the placeholder. The placeholder has a second mode for providing access to a support on the support handler. The placeholder is put in the first mode while the support handler removes a stacked support and supplies an empty support. The placeholder is put in the second mode when the support handler is elevating a support being stacked with articles.

Abstract: An apparatus for compressing a loose material that includes a compression chamber. Movement of a first ram discharges the loose material in a compressed state through an outlet port in the compression chamber. A packaging receptacle is positioned proximate the outlet port to receive the compressed material. The packaging receptacle is then moved to a second position where the movement of a second ram ejects the compressed material from the inner volume of the packaging receptacle. The second ram may be alternatively extended into and retracted from the packaging receptacle during ejection of the compressed material. The refilling of the compression chamber for the next cycle may begin prior to the retraction of the second ram from the packaging receptacle. A packaging jacket may be positioned about the packaging receptacle such that the ejection of the compressed material injects the compressed material into the packaging jacket.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming a stack of food products in a storage container, and a method therefor. The apparatus comprises a first gate moveable between an open and a closed position that drops a row of food products onto a second gate moveable between an open and a closed position. The second gate receives multiple rows of food products and once a predetermined number of rows have been received, the second gate opens to release the rows of food products into the storage container below it. As the first gate shifts from the open to the closed position, it can advance, at least in part, a subsequent row of food products onto the first gate for later release onto the second gate. The area defined by the second gate and the first gate is a temporary staging area which can increase in height after receiving subsequent rows of food products.

Abstract: A folding mattress support system replaces both a conventional box spring and the bed frame with rails. The mattress support system is lighter, quieter and easier to transport, and also provides more storage space beneath the mattress. The mattress support system includes bed frame assemblies, central connecting bars, edge attachments and a bed skirt. Leg brackets fold out from the bed frame assemblies, which themselves unfold in the middle. Central connecting bars connect inner side edges of the bed frame assemblies. Plastic edge attachments are attached at outer corners of the bed frame assemblies and hold a bed skirt taught around the frame assemblies when the frame assemblies are standing on the extended leg brackets. A mattress is then placed on top of the assembled mattress support system. Optionally, metal edge attachments at the head corners of the mattress support system both hold the bed skirt and support a headboard.

Abstract: A sealed plastic container and a method for producing it are provided. The method for producing the sealed plastic container includes the steps of providing a container body having an end, providing a closure member having a skirt, inserting the closure member into the container body, heating the closure member skirt and container body end, and rolling the closure member skirt top and container end inward thereby fusing the closure member to the container body.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for removing a plastic wrap from a cylindrical module includes a conveyor transporting the cylindrical module toward a disperser with the cylindrical axis of the module parallel to the direction of conveyor movement. In another embodiment, the disperser is a travelling head disperser thereby providing relative movement between the modules and the disperser. The direction of the wrap around the module is determined and the cover is removed during rotation of the module, either by unwrapping the plastic or by slitting the plastic and then rotating the module. The equipment used to handle a cylindrical module is moved out of the path of movement of a conventional rectangular module so an installation can handle both rectangular and wrapped cylindrical modules.

Abstract: An equine training apparatus used in conjunction with: 1) a bridle supporting a bit, 2) a noseband, 3) riding reins connected to the bit, and 4) a breastplate, the apparatus comprising a head communication assembly comprising a cord member having a first end attached to a first O-ring, a second end attached to a second O-ring and noseband connection means between said first end and said second end and dividing said cord member into a first fork and a second fork; a sliding member in slidable engagement with said first fork and said second fork; and fork-body connection means for anchoring said sliding member to any of a breast plate, neckstrap, girth, cinch or the like. The sliding member acts as a pulley about which at least one fork is disposed and, when anchored to body tack via fork-body connection means provides a pivot point about which each fork may act; the sliding member effectively divides force applied through the reins into a mouth force component and a nose force component.

Abstract: A horse blanket (1) has an overlay (2) of traditional shape for a horse blanket and a set of protuberances (3) which stand proud of the lower surface of the overlay (2). The protuberances (3) are arranged substantially according to a rectangular grid that overlies only a portion of the underside of the overlay (2). Each protuberance (3) is approximately triangular in cross-section and has a base portion (11) that is fixed in any suitable manner to the overlay (2). The region (12) that would otherwise be the apex of the triangle is truncated and rounded. The protuberances (3) are made from gas-filled plastic so that each protuberance (3) is formed as a longitudinally extending, hollow body.

Abstract: The lubricant coalescing filter element is provided that includes a cylindrical outer screen member, at least one filter element disposed inside the cylindrical outer screen member and being coaxial with the outer screen member, and a drainage arrangement disposed between the cylindrical outer screen member and the at least one filter element to drain accumulated lubricant out of the at least one filter element.

Abstract: The invention relates to a filter apparatus for depositing impurities from a fluid stream by means of use of a filter element (10) which is accommodated in a filter casing (12). By virtue of the filter casing (12), according to the characterizing part of claim 1, having a swirl space (14) such that the fluid stream to be filtered is conducted at least partly in a swirling flow around the filter element (10), the properties of a cyclone are utilized for the actual filtration operation to the extent that the swirl space of the filter casing brings about multiple deflection of the direction of motion of the fluid to be filtered.

Abstract: An air cleaner assembly, a main filter element, and a method for servicing an air cleaner assembly are provided according to the present invention. The air cleaner assembly includes an air cleaner housing and a main filter element. The air cleaner housing can include a safety liner or support having a closed end cap that supports the main filter element, and helps reduce the tendency of the main filter element to rotate during use of the air cleaner assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is a disposable filter made of mesh or fabric, as is customary in the sector, and which is designed to be affixed to the air inlet or outlet aperture of a home computer casing. The filter can be sold in a kit that includes one or more said filters along with a tube or standard container of non-drying adhesive. The product is also designed for use on other electronic and electrical appliances.

Abstract: A media pack for including in a filter cartridge of an air filter arrangement, is provided. The media is a non-rectangular perimeter configuration, an example shown being trapezoidal. Filter cartridges including such media packs, air cleaner assemblies and equipment systems are described. Also methods of use assembly are described.

Abstract: According to the present disclosure an air cleaner and air filter cartridge arrangement is provided. The air filter cartridge is a removable and replaceable cartridge for use in the air cleaner. The cartridge includes, among other things, an end cap having a preferred outwardly directed radial seal and a groove. The air cleaner includes a housing with a ring projecting into an interior, positioned to project against an end of the filter cartridge, when the filter cartridge is mounted for use. Methods of assembly and installation are described.

Abstract: This invention relates to a nonwoven fabric for filters, in which a melt blown nonwoven fabric formed of polybutylene terephthalate or polypropylene terephthalate fibers with an average fiber diameter of 1 to 8 ?m and a spunbonded nonwoven fabric formed of polyester-based fibers with an average fiber diameter of 10 to 30 ?cm are laminated for integration.

Abstract: A cylindrical wound wire filter with an inner bore, suitable for use with an airbag inflator, has at least two different outer diameters and/or at least two different inner diameters. Wires in adjacent layers can be bonded together by adhesive or brazing, or have a sheet-like material therebetween, such as a ceramic filter paper.

Abstract: An adjustment mechanism for reel-to-bedknife clearance includes an adjuster base having an internal bore, an adjustment knob attached to a rod extending through the internal bore to engage one of the reel or bedknife, and a detent spring captured between the adjuster base and the adjustment knob and biased against the adjustment member to resist rotation of the adjustment knob. The detent spring may engage radial notches on the adjustment knob at a plurality of reel-to-bedknife clearance positions.

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a hay baler having an in-feed pickup including a rigid member base member fixedly securable with respect to the baler and located forwardly of the same, a rake comprising first and second sweep arms, means swingably connecting the sweep arms to the base member, and a plurality of tined raking members spaced apart from one another longitudinally along each of respective ones of the rake sweep arms for sweeping cut crop material lying on the ground into a windrow. The sweep arms diverge outwardly from one another in a direction forwardly away from the baler with reference to the direction of travel during baling. The apparatus provides means for laterally shifting marginal edge portions of the windrow relative to a selected path of travel of the baler pickup during baling.

Abstract: A master link for a chain assembly is provided. The master link includes a body member with a first side, a second side positioned opposite the first side, a shoe surface configured to receive a track shoe, and a rail surface positioned opposite the shoe surface. The master link also includes first and second apertures extending through the body member from the first side to the second side and third and fourth apertures located between the first and second apertures. The master link also includes a strut member dividing the third and fourth apertures. The master link also includes a first gap located in the body member and extending from the first aperture to the third aperture and a second gap located in the body member and extending from the fourth aperture to the second aperture. The master link further includes a third gap located in the strut member and extending from the third aperture to the fourth aperture.

Abstract: A power plant may include a combustion apparatus (11) producing an exhaust gas (12), an absorber (20) receiving the exhaust gas (12), the absorber (20) including a desiccant and producing a first stream of desiccant solution containing water and a first concentration of desiccant, and an apparatus (29, 70, 94) for dehydrating the first stream of desiccant solution while maintaining the water in a liquid phase. The apparatus (29, 70, 94) may include a heat exchanger (71, 110), a crystallizing heat exchanger (74, 96), a separator (78, 98) and a flash tank (112) for dehydrating the desiccant solution while maintaining water in a liquid phase and subsequently recovering water from the solution.

Abstract: Power from wind, solar, and other intermittent energy sources cracks carbon dioxide, NOx, SOx, and other emissions from fossil fuel power plants, which provide baseload power to the grid. By this hybrid power system, intermittent sources can be integrated in power generation without compromising the reliability of the grid and without long power line connections. Carbon dioxide becomes, in effect, a storage medium for energy produced by intermittent sources. The CO2 can be pipelined to sites where wind, solar, tidal or and other intermittent energy sources are available, or power lines can be run from such intermittent sources to convenient sites for cracking.