Abstract: The present invention teaches a method of making a custom article of footwear. Further, the article of footwear can include a spring element that can provide improved cushioning, stability, and running economy. In addition, the components of the article of footwear can be selected from a wide range of options, and can be easily removed and replaced, as desired.

Abstract: A shoe system is provided that comprises a removable upper unit and a sole unit that can be interconnected utilizing respective upper and lower connecting means. The sole unit can include a support panel that can extend substantially continuously about a periphery of the sole unit. A lower portion of the support panel can be connected to an interior area of the sole unit and an upper portion can extend generally upwardly from the lower portion and be disposed circumferentially within the interior of a lower connecting means along the sole periphery. The support panel can be so configured so as to provide structural strength to the shoe system when worn to resist transverse force and reduce tactile friction of the user's foot against the upper and lower connecting means.

Abstract: An athletic shoe comprising: an upper portion; a sole, where the sole is attached to the upper portion; and an opening in a toe area of the upper portion. The sole may include a heel portion and an arch support. In one particular embodiment, the sole further includes an inner sole that extends beyond the toes of user. The athletic shoe may further include shoestrings, where the shoestrings secure the shoe on the users foot.

Abstract: An asymmetrical shoe upper is combined in a shoe body. The shoe upper at a medial side of a foot dorsum inclines to a lateral side of the shoe upper and to a front end of a foot sole so as to form an asymmetrical design. Accordingly, when wearing the shoe body, muscles of the foot dorsum are constrained by the shoe upper. At this time, the shoe upper affects pressures applied onto the medial and lateral sides of the foot dorsum. Thereby, based on the lever principle, the foot can be automatically adjusted so as to form a specific angle such that a heel has a medial side not constrained by the shoe upper at the medial side of the heel, and an inverted ankle can be avoided.

Abstract: A disposable pad is constructed of materials that provide an alternate sole for the shoe, such as providing near or identical characteristics to the heel and sole of traditional bowling shoes. The pad will contain multiple layers including an adhesive layer that will allow the user to temporarily affix the pad to their own footwear. The pad may include multiple die cuts to accommodate male, female and children's footwear, for example, for ages five years old through adult. The pad may be used to transform the user's shoes, which are typically used for one purpose, to be adapted for use for a second purpose.

Abstract: A sole with folding iron fittings around it, formed by a sole of any material, either natural or synthetic, between the layers of which one or more straps, provided with one or more folding iron fittings through which an interchangeable shoe cut passes, are attached. This allows users to vary the color, shape, length, etc. of the straps, and therefore design the piece of footwear according to their needs.

Abstract: A shoe sole with a footbed (5) is described which forms a flexible foot support. In order to provide advantageous constructive conditions it is proposed that the foot support consists of a flat structure (4) receiving tensile forces which is held in a freely suspended manner in a frame (1) defining the edge contour of the footbed (5).

Abstract: A ventilating shoe including a removable deodorant and/or a perfumed pad includes a water resistant sole, an upper shoe portion and connecting means for fastening the sole to the upper shoe portion. A series of closely spaced small openings are disposed between the sole and the upper shoe portion surrounding the shoe with the exception of a back portion thereof. In addition, an open porous pad impregnated with a deodorant and/or perfume and a longitudinally extending air chamber are provided.

Abstract: A shoe with an air circulation system has a porous ventilated upper and a compressible pumping chamber in the heel which pumps cooling ambient air from an external air intake into a three dimensional mesh air distribution pad and out through the porous ventilated upper, providing cooling and reducing moisture in the cavity containing the wearer's foot.

Abstract: A method puts into operation a clearing apparatus suitable for picking up ballast and is disposed in an endless configuration during employment so as to encircle a railroad track. The clearing apparatus has a horizontal cross-duct which, prior to a start of the employment, is intended to be positioned below the railroad track and connected, on the one hand, to a rising duct and, on the other hand, to a return duct of the clearing apparatus. The method includes displacing ties of the railroad track in a longitudinal direction of the railroad track to create a tie gap; lowering the cross-duct through the tie gap between two rails of the railroad track and transferred, below the ties, into a working position extending crosswise to the longitudinal direction of the railroad track; and connecting the cross-duct to the rising duct and to the return duct.

Abstract: A plow assembly for attachment to a vehicle, the vehicle having a longitudinal axis, comprises a plow blade having first and second ends, a first plow wing pivotally mounted to the first end of the plow blade, a plow support adapted to be mounted to the vehicle, the plow blade being pivotally mounted to the plow support to permit the plow blade to pivot relative to the vehicle between a center position, where the plow blade is positioned generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and a first position, where the first end of the plow blade is pivoted toward the vehicle, and between the center position and a second position, where the second end of the plow blade is pivoted toward the vehicle, and either a single link rod, a resilient connecting member, or a cam and follower mechanism connected to the first plow wing and to the plow support and configured to pivot the first plow wing relative to the plow blade during pivoting of the plow blade relative to the vehicle such that when the plo

Abstract: A mud removing device includes a case which is merged into water and has an opening and a space. At least one at suction tube and multiple injection tubes respectively extend and connect to the case. The injection tubes are located around the opening of the case and one end of the injection tubes reaches to the periphery of the opening. A working station introduces high pressure water to flush the mud located below the opening of the case and at least one the suction tube sucks the mud which is collected to the working station. The case has weights and the working station can be carried by a floating carrier. The working station has a crane which has a cable to hang the case.

Abstract: An illuminated construction traffic control system comprising a handheld sign having a first and second side, a two-way communication system for relaying audio signals between paired signs, a power means for illuminating a lighted portion on both sides of the sign and a post for supporting the sign and allow ease of sign rotation. An illuminated indicator light is provided on the sign to correspond with standard traffic light signals and text on the sign to improve clarity for motorists in low light and bad weather conditions, while an attached radio improves coordination between paired construction crew personnel directing traffic through a construction site. Power is provided via an external generator or imbedded battery power for more independent operation. Radio communications function on a radio frequency or similar wireless link between paired signs, wherein audio transmission and receiving is provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable display panel system including a rack, upper and lower rods having pairs of upper and a lower holder ribs, and a cloth or a panel of a printable material. Each of the rods has a through-cavity. An elastic string extends through each of the upper and lower holder ribs and is attached to the outer ends of the outermost rods. Male and female couplings are arranged at the abutting ends of the rods arranged in pairs, which may be brought together in either two positions, which are turned by 180°, or four positions which are turned by 90° relative to each other. At least one pair of the rods are bent or angled.

Abstract: A display arrangement includes at least two banners adapted to be displayed side-by side to form a continuous display. Adjacent edges of the banners are adapted to overlap one another by a predetermined overlap area. The overlap area of one banner bears identical material to the overlap area of the other banner. Each banner is secured to a first rod along another edge and these rods are adapted to connect together in such a way that the banners are retained in a side-by-side relationship with said predetermined overlap banner areas overlapping one another. This forms a continuous display across the two banners so that the display arrangement gives the appearance of comprising only a single banner, the joint between the banners being difficult to discern. In some embodiments, one of the banners is secured to a roller-banner stand that is adapted to connect to and thereby support the other banner.

Abstract: A firearm with barrel interlock system for a rotary mounted quick coupling barrel assembly. In one embodiment, the firearm includes a receiver and barrel assembly rotatably mounted thereto. A bolt carrier supporting a bolt is slidably disposed in the receiver and axially movable into and out of battery with the barrel assembly. The barrel interlock system may include a first barrel anti-rotation locking element disposed on the barrel assembly and a mating second barrel anti-rotation locking element disposed on the bolt carrier that is engageable with the first element. When mutually engaged, the first and second locking elements form a meshed relationship and prevent rotation and removal of the barrel assembly from the receiver. In some non-limiting embodiments, the locking elements may be in the form of a protrusion and complementary shaped recess.

Abstract: A weapon-mountable designator/illuminator unit having a light source adapted to generate a light beam in a direction away from the unit. The light beam is variable between a collimated light beam and a divergent light beam for, respectively, designating a target and illuminating a target area of the weapon. At least a first modular power supply is adapted for installation in the designator/illuminator unit. The power supply includes a cage adapted to receive a power source, a first end adapted to be received within the designator/illuminator unit, and an end cap adapted to be exposed when the power supply is assembled with the unit. The power supply is adapted to deliver power from its power source to the light source of the designator/illuminator unit. The end cap may contain a light source for generating a light beam in addition to the light beam generated by the designator/illuminator unit.

Abstract: A fishing pole holder suitable for use with a conventional pole and reel, but secured into ice is contemplated to provide deep securement of the holder into the ice, and self stabilizing by the holder against the ice. The holder may actually work in other materials, such as logs and earth, but may be sized and shaped to be particularly well adapted to securement into ice. The handle for turning the shaft may eventually come to rest on the ice to stabilize the holder and fishing pole handle disposed therein.

Abstract: A bait holder adapted for securing a fishing hook to a soft plastic bait while fishing a “weedless” technique during bass fishing. The bait holder includes an attachment portion, adapted to be inserted through the eye of the fishing hook for securely attaching to the fishing hook. The bait holder further includes a first hook extending from the attachment portion and being adapted to be inserted through a portion of a soft bait for securing the soft bait to the first end of the fishing hook during use. The bait holder of the present invention allows the fisherman to pull his bait through the thickest of vegetation without the top of the plastic bait sliding down the shaft of the hook.

Abstract: According to the principles of the present invention a combination sinker and bait stabilizer for a fishing hook is provided. The device is intended for use with a fishing hook having a curved shaft and a sharp tip extending from the curved shaft. The device includes an attachment portion including an eye adapted for receiving the curved shaft through the sharp tip and for lying on the curved shaft. The device further includes first and second capture members attached to the attachment portion and spaced apart from each other, the first and second capture members lying in a plane lateral to the plane of the fishing hook and extending upwardly to be inserted into a portion of a soft bait to maintain the soft bait laterally to the fishing hook.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for elimination of insect pests and their eggs. A collapsible enclosure, intended to promote portability, is provided which operates under positive pressure to heat treat household or other items placed therein.

Abstract: A non-chemical, organic method to kill/control ticks and other vectors using heated water is disclosed. The method causes no immediate or residual toxicity to humans, pets, beneficial insects, and wildlife, and may be employed in both residential and commercial settings. The method employs water temperatures from about 145° F. to about 155° F. to kill/control ticks and other vectors without damaging plants. The method can be adapted to higher water temperatures to kill/control unwanted vegetation that is the primary habitat for ticks and other vectors, with the least environmental impact. Delicate plants can be pre-treated using a thermally-insulated backpack. A specialized nozzle for use in the present method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Bio-based wax compositions contain at least one non-hydrogenated epoxy product and at least one wax component containing insect wax. The wax compositions can be used to produce candle compositions such as free-standing candles and container candles, and/or composite materials.

Abstract: A water in oil emulsion having 70 to 99 wt % diesel fuel the diesel fuel having 0 to 50 vol % biodiesel blended fuel, 0.5 to 30 wt % water, 0.01 to 5 wt % alkyl amine ethoxylate at least 25 wt % of the alkyl amine ethoxylate being C10 to C14 alkyl amine ethoxylate and at least 25 wt % of the alkyl amine ethoxylate being C16 to C18 alkyl amine ethoxylate and 0.03 to 1 wt % of the product obtainable by reacting a polyisobutylene succinic anhydride of molecular weight 9000 to 2600 with 1 to 2 moles of a tertiary alkanol amine. The emulsion is stable and is useful as a biodiesel blended fuel.

Abstract: Renewable fuels are produced in commercial quantities and with enhanced efficiency by integrating a bio-oil production system with a conventional petroleum refinery so that the bio-oil is co-processed with a petroleum-derived stream in the refinery. The techniques used to integrate the bio-oil production system and conventional petroleum refineries are selected based on the quality of the bio-oil and the desired product slate from the refinery.

Abstract: A method for producing an aviation fuel oil base includes obtaining a first generated oil by hydrotreating a feedstock by bringing a feedstock which includes an oxygen-containing hydrocarbon compound derived from an animal or vegetable oils and fat into contact with a first dual functional catalyst which has dehydrogenation and hydrogenation functions and which includes a metal of group 6A of the periodic table, a metal of group 8, and an amorphous solid acidic substance, in the presence of hydrogen; and obtaining a second generated oil including an aviation fuel oil base by hydroisomerizing the first generated oil by bringing the first generated oil into contact with a second dual functional catalyst which has dehydrogenation and hydrogenation functions and which includes a metal of the group 8 of the periodic table and a crystalline solid acidic substance, in the presence of hydrogen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of hydrotreatment in co-processing of petroleum feeds, in a mixture with at least one feed obtained from renewable sources, for producing fuel bases (kerosene and/or gas oil) having a sulphur content below 10 ppm, said method comprising the following stages: a) a first hydrotreatment stage in which said feed passes through at least one first fixed-bed catalytic zone comprising at least one bulk or supported catalyst comprising an active phase constituted by at least one group VIB element and at least one group VIII element, said elements being in the form of sulphide and the atomic ratio of the group VIII metal (or metals) to group VIB metal (or metals) being strictly greater than 0 and less than 0.095, b) a second hydrotreatment stage into which the effluent from the first hydrotreatment stage is sent directly, and in which said effluent passes through at least one second fixed-bed catalytic zone comprising at least one hydrotreatment catalyst.

Abstract: The invention discloses a process for hydrolyzed reforming of the ligneous cellulose biomass to produce bio-gaso-line, which directly transfers the hydrolyzed-material liquid obtained from ligneous cellulose biomass through hydrolyzing into in aqueous catalytic reforming system, the feed subjects to aqueous catalytic reforming reaction in low-temperature reforming reactor filled with catalyst Ni/SiO2-Al2O3 and in high-temperature reforming reactor filled with catalyst Ni/HZSM-5 in turn, the reactant is condensed and phase-separated: uncondensed bio-gasoline is absorbed by absorption liquid-C6 alkane, condensed liquid is phase-separated through phase-separator, bio-gasoline is obtained in the upper layer of the phase-separator. The invention creates a new process for producing high-quality liquid fuel oil using biomass as feedstock, which can automatically layer and separate, omitting the step of rectifying and purifying product. The feedstock is cheap and broadly available.

Abstract: Cetane improver for diesel fuels, characterized in that it comprises at least one ester of stearic acid, selected from the esters of linear or branched monoalcohols containing 1 to 6 carbon atoms: a) added in the pure state to a mixture of at least one vegetable or animal oil ester in crude or partially hydrogenated form b) or else included in a mixture of esters of one or more vegetable and/or animal oils, in crude or partially hydrogenated form, the mixtures of saturated or unsaturated esters being such that the ratio by mass of the amount of stearic ester(s) to the total sum of the amounts of unsaturated esters present in the vegetable or animal oil esters varies from 1% to 12%, and the unsaturated fatty acid esters being esters of mono or polyunsaturated acids containing at least 18 carbon atoms with monoalcohols.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for modifying the volatility of petroleum prior to ethanol addition. The methods can include (a) providing (i) a supply of gasoline, (ii) an ethanol standard, and (iii) a supply of butane; (b) analyzing the volatility of a sample formed by mixing the gasoline and ethanol standard; (c) calculating from the volatility a ratio of butane that can be blended into the sample without causing the sample to pass the one or more fixed volatility limits; and (d) blending butane from the butane supply with gasoline from the gasoline supply at or below the ratio calculated in step (c).

Abstract: A method for production of coke chamber-compatible coal briquettes. Horizontally feeding coal into a pressing mould formed from a plate having two parallel terminating walls, which are stationary with respect to the direction of movement of the plate, and a terminating stop wall disposed transversely to the direction of movement of the plate. The side of the pressing mould open to coal is closed by a stationary wall, and the plate is locked in the horizontal direction for the pressing operation. The coal is compacted by a tamping device, having a vertically acting force onto pressing mould to produce a coal briquette. After completion of the coal briquette, the plate is moved horizontally in the longitudinal direction so that the space in the pressing mould becoming free in the horizontal direction is used for producing the next coal briquette. A device for carrying out the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing a low-pyrophoricity, transportable, storable dewatered solid fuel from a low rank coal, includes a mixing vessel 1 in which an oil containing a solvent oil is mixed with a coal to prepare a raw material slurry; evaporators 2 and 3 that evaporate moisture from the raw material slurry; a solid-liquid separator that performs solid-liquid separation on the slurry from which moisture has been evaporated; and an element that adds a heavy oil to the slurry after the completion of or in the course of evaporating moisture.

Abstract: The invention relates to a green wall including a plurality of plant subjects rooted in the ground immediately next to the wall and attached to the surface of a glass substrate. The invention also relates to a method for encouraging climbing plants to anchor to a wall including the attachment of the plants to a glass substrate.

Abstract: A gravity feed subterranean system for watering plants at their roots, comprising a vertically disposed reservoir buried at least partially in the ground, a water input line having positive water pressure connected to a float valve constructed and arranged within said reservoir such that when the liquid in the reservoir reaches a desired level, the float valve stops water flow from the input line, a buried output line connected to the reservoir below ground level on one end and plugged at the other, such that the water in the reservoir gravity pressurizes and fills the output line, and at least one hole through the output line.

Abstract: A low-profile particulate handling assembly (24) is provided for use in conjunction with a downstream treating device, such as a seed treater unit (22). The assembly (24) includes a plurality of juxtaposed particulate bins (34) and a surmounting turret assembly (36) designed to successively deliver particulates to the bins (34). The particulates within the bins (34) are delivered to the downstream treating device through respective lower outlets (110) each equipped with an adjustable slide gate assembly (112) and a lower, multiple-chute assembly (114). Preferably, each bin (34) has a top wall (50) which in plan configuration approximates a sector of a circle, planar sidewalls (64), and downwardly tapered, arcuate sidewall structure (58) leading to the lower outlet (110); in this fashion, the bins (34) can be grouped with the sidewalls (64) in close adjacency, and with the outlets (110) located to feed into a single inlet (26) of the downstream treating device.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for optimal CO2 enrichment for plant production by suspending CO2 tubing in a secured position between both the plant canopy and lighting system within an indoor garden. The method provides for CO2 tubing to be secured to the lighting system of an indoor garden, thus allowing for the CO2 to be evenly dispersed directly over the optimal upper third portion of the plant canopy. By securing the CO2 tubing in the optimal distribution point, the invention also provides a method for users of the CO2 tank “timed release” system of CO2 enrichment to maximize the amount of CO2 over the upper third portion of the plant canopy during the limited time it is released in the indoor garden during the “lights on” portion of the grow cycle. The invention also provides an apparatus for carrying out the method.

Abstract: Method and system for gasifying biomass. Tar loaded gas from the reactor for gasifying the biomass is subjected to a saturation and absorption treatment with a first and second fluid respectively. The first fluid comprises aromatic hydrocarbons whilst the second fluid comprises linear hydrocarbons. Tars received in the aromatic fluid is entered together with such fluid in a separation column. Separation is effected based on evaporation temperature and the lighter fraction is returned to the inflow of the saturation separator. The heavier fractions are either discharged or sent back to the biomass reactor. An intermediate buffer vessel can be provided between the discharge of the saturation cleaner and the separator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an opening leaf upper module of this type particularly comprising a rigid frame and a flexible weather strip. The method of manufacturing an opening leaf upper module according to the invention, comprising a molded frame based on at least one thermoplastic polymer and a molded weather strip secured to the frame and based on at least one elastomer, comprises a step whereby a moving-platen mold or alternatively transfer molding is used to perform multiple-shot injection molding of materials that are intended to form the frame and the strip which are injected in succession, the elastomer being a thermoplastic elastomer compatible with this thermoplastic polymer, so as to obtain the module formed as a single piece. For preference, the strip comprises a continuous wiping lip for wiping the glass panel and an interface lip for interfacing with the bodywork of the vehicle, and the frame has a longitudinal hollow.

Abstract: The present invention presents a novel alternative to side-hinged swinging doors that offers access to a broad egress opening width needed to meet higher occupancy egress requirements while simultaneously qualifying as a lire/smoke harrier. In a preferred embodiment, a single overhead coiling fire door shaft assembly is counter-balanced to allow a fire door curtain to automatically close at a governed controlled descent upon reaching an established critical low battery condition. An operator is provided that will run the door under both normal condition and during a power failure or fire/smoke condition at an established average door speed, and also provide established levels of low battery warning signals/actions while also providing the ability to open as required for emergency egress until the temperature at the opening is not conducive for human life.

Abstract: In areas with propensity for tornados, for example in the central part of the country, the plain states, the mid-west, and also in Florida, it is customary to have some form of storm shelter in which the occupants of commercial and residential buildings can seek refuge in the event of a tornado. The safest type of storm shelter is a so-called in-ground storm shelter. The embodiments of the In-Ground Storm Shelter are comprised of a bottom, a left side and a right side. The In-Ground Storm Shelter is further comprised of a front side and a back side, and a top side. The top side is further comprised of a removable back door, a sliding door, a top left shoulder and a top right shoulder.

Abstract: A device for protecting door or window closure elements for roofs or the like against atmospheric precipitation has at least one covering element, which can be connected to the structure of a building by virtue of connection elements. The covering element can be arranged in at least one position for use, in which, at least partially, it is arranged above and faces at least one door or window closure element that is defined substantially parallel to a portion of the cover of the building.

Abstract: A mounting system for attaching solar panels or similar structures to a surface and to each other to form an array is disclosed. In accordance with the invention, a bracket that has an upper section with a mounting surface and a retaining lip spaced apart to accept an edge of the panel is provided. A riser connects the upper section to a base disposed on the surface. A ballast disposed against the base keeps the array in place. When the edges of the panels are engaged under the retaining lip of each bracket and the brackets moved to lock the panel in place, the array remains mounted to the surface without mechanical fastening. In certain embodiments, a wind deflector is attached between adjacent panels, and in certain embodiments a separator block is also inserted to fully lock the panels in place. Methods of assembling an array of panels without tools or fasteners are also disclosed.

Abstract: A solar support structure includes a plurality of sections, each section including a channel member having a flat major wall and opposed side walls extending therefrom. The major wall of each section is covered with a thin film solar laminate and each section further includes an electrical connection box positioned adjacent one end and electrically coupled to the thin film solar laminate. The sections are formed into a roof panel by channel-shaped beams attached to opposed ends of each section and the beams mount the sections in a parallel abutting relationship. Columns are affixed to the beams and mount the roof panel in a desired orientation relative to an underlying surface. Electrical wiring from the boxes is positioned in one of the beams and extends into one of the columns.

Abstract: Photovoltaic wiring arrays and photovoltaic wiring systems suitable for use in rooftop photovoltaic power generation systems are provided. Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides a photovoltaic roofing wiring array for use with a plurality of photovoltaic roofing elements, the photovoltaic roofing wiring system including: a positive parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a positive connector; and a negative parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a negative connector. In some embodiments of the invention, the photovoltaic roofing wiring arrays are substantially prefabricated.

Abstract: This invention involves in one kind of Energy Integrative Building with Ecological Environmental Protection, which includes the overall structure of building, top of building, doors and windows, and guardrails, there is the concrete strengthened layer which is casted on the top of building; the fertile soil is transferred on the top of building, the moist soil dries fast under the sunlight, the fertile elements are increased, the harmful bacteria and parasite are killed in the soil, so as to keep away from the infringement to the soil caused by mouse, mosquito and housefly; solve the decreasing farmlands due to construction, make the abandoned and wasted farmlands become the qualified farmlands for growing crops; solve the loss of soil, water and fertile soil; the solar device takes the role of protection within the growing periods of crops, which can prevent crops from harm of climatic situations such as typhoon, hailstone and rainstorm; can plant crops around the year adjust and retain the urban weather and

Abstract: An apparatus aids in indicating the location of pipe and conduit that may be within or behind walls. Specifically, an in-wall pipe and conduit location indicator apparatus helps to indicate the presence and location of pipes and conduit disposed behind drywall wallboard within a room in a building. Methods of using the same are further provided.

Abstract: A manufactured assembly and method used to form poured concrete foundations and walls. The foundation and wall form's lattice grid exterior face holds adequate flow though concrete, with the assistance of the exterior grid fingers, for smoothing and decorative treatments and troweling is aided by lattice grid exterior screed guide points. The lattice grid panels, the lattice grid forming panel flow through concrete and the form cavity poured concrete become a substantially monolithic structure when the concrete is set and hardens dry. Rigid foam insulation is added to the center of a lattice grid paneled poured concrete wall form.

Abstract: A building wall system has a plurality of panels positioned adjacent one another for securement to a frame structure of a building via a plurality of fasteners. A plurality of rails secures a façade to the panels. Each rail has a first, second and third portion. The first portion receives the fasteners to secure the bracket to the frame structure. The second portion provides a surface for securement with the façade. The second portion is spaced from the panel so that fasteners do not enter the panel. The third portion rests against the panel to provide rigidity for the rail.

Abstract: A building panel, such as a flooring panel or wall panel and a method of assembling the same into a floor, wall cladding, etc. The panel is provided with a locking means in the form of groove (6) and tongue (7) forming a tongue/groove joint for assembling of the panels. In a preferred embodiment, the groove (6) and the tongue (7) are made of water resistant material and fanned with a snap-together joint.

Abstract: A building structural component, such as a wall, roof, ceiling, floor, or the like, is resistant to weather and moisture while facilitating the drying and elimination of water vapor and liquid water. The component includes a vapor-permeable membrane that resists penetration of liquids including water, but that permits gases including water vapor to pass through the membrane to resist buildup of moisture in the building component. A batten, such as an insulated batten, forms a cavity in the building component to facilitate air circulation, and reduces heat flow through structural studs of the building component to increase the overall insulation value of the finished component.