Abstract: A masonry block having chambers and cavities that form recesses in the block such that, when the blocks are laid on bond, re-bar may be inserted in horizontal and vertical directions for rectangular grid reinforcement, and the wall may be constructed without the use of mortar. The masonry block includes a stretcher block, end block, and a half-block and each block block has recesses for receiving insulation, re-bar, and/or a line pin.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a modular building system comprising a plurality of building elements (1), which are assembled to form a building section, such as a wall, a floor and/or a ceiling, said building elements (1) each comprises an elongated insulation panel (2) having a first side (23) and an opposite second side (24) with two oppositely positioned end sides (25, 26) and two oppositely positioned panel contact sides (21, 22) therebetween, and at least one of said first and second sides (23, 24) are provided with a cover profile (3), which covers the width of the first side (23) and/or the second side (24), wherein said cover profile (3) has a base portion (31) at which the cover profile (3) is attached to the first or second side (23, 24) of the insulation panel (2), and first and second side flange portions (32) on each side of the base portion (31); said first side flange portion (32) having a tongue (37) at the side edge (35), and said second side flange portion (32) having a groove (36) compleme

Abstract: A reinforced tapered edge cementitious skin for use in a SIP panel provides a recessed edge having an underlying reinforcing web. When panels having the reinforced tapered edges are to be joined together and fastened to underlying shims, the resulting joint has both structural integrity and a recess for receiving joint compound that can be made flush with the skins.

Abstract: A panel member for a cyclorama includes a concavo-convex body having integrally-formed first and second side portions with an intermediate portion therebetween. The first side portion, the second side portion, and the intermediate portion have a radius of curvature in a Y-Z plane, and the first and second side portions have a radius of curvature in an X-Y plane that is different from the radius of curvature in the Y-Z plane to uniformly reflect or diffuse sound and light incident on the panel member.

Abstract: A set of machines and related systems build structures by the additive assembly of discrete parts. These digital material assemblies constrain the constituent parts to a discrete set of possible positions and orientations. In doing so, the structures exhibit many of the properties inherent in digital communication such as error correction, fault tolerance and allow the assembly of precise structures with comparatively imprecise tools. Assembly of discrete cellular lattices by a Modular Isotropic Lattice Extruder System (MILES) is implemented by pulling strings of lattice elements through a forming die that enforces geometry constraints that lock the elements into a rigid structure that can then be pushed against and extruded out of the die as an assembled, loadbearing structure.

Abstract: A lightweight interlocking metal roof capping system for installation onto a steep or inclined structure roof either directly over the roof decking material or over an existing shingle roofing system, with the metal roofing system installed from the roof ridgeline down to the drip edge of the roof gutter. Cooperating outwardly extending flanges and receiving pockets for capturing and interlocking the metal panels of the roofing system create an interlock between and among panel members with overlying edge ends configured to be resistant to lift up due to winds either across the roof or along the roof edges.

Abstract: The present invention is directed roof edge seal and barrier devices and their method of manufacture. A method of manufacturing a comb-like sealing strip for use as a roof edge seal or barrier comprises stamping or cutting an elongate strip of material along a sinuous path located between the edges of the strip and then separating the strip into two portions, each of which consists of a fixing edge corresponding to the edge of the original strip from which project a series of teeth or prongs forming a comb structure.

Abstract: Flashing for use at the edge of roofs or decks that are provided with surface materials are presented. In exemplary embodiments, flashing may be provided at the edge of a roof to retain or provide an edge treatment for an aesthetic and functional surface material, such as, for example, a cast paver, while at the same time allowing for water drainage. In one embodiment, a piece of flashing material contains a leg that is fastened along the edge of the top of a flat roof. This embodiment continues into two legs that form a V-shaped trough which comes off the roofing membrane and has penetrations at the bottom to release water. The outer leg of the “V” most commonly extends to a level higher than the roofing membrane in order to make contact with and edge an installed surface material. Various other shapes and end treatments, including various embodiments providing both an edge flashing as well as an integrated rectangular shaped gutter-like trough are also presented.

Abstract: A stair tread and method of building a stairway is provided. Each stair tread includes a metal pan having one or more walls forming a cavity. Concrete filler is disposed in the cavity to provide an upper walking surface. Reinforcement bars and foam blocks can be positioned within the cavity. Concrete treads including the pan can then be transported to a job site for attachment between a pair of stringers.

Abstract: A tile system has been devised that includes novel, integral self-aligning and self-spacing features on the side walls of the tiles to provide uniform self-alignment continuously during installation in all directions, both on vertical and horizontal surfaces. Border and corner tiles with similar self-alignment features are shown. The self-alignment features will align the tiles in either a straight-laid or running bond (or brick) pattern. The self-alignment features define regular, parallel gaps between adjacent tiles, without the need for separate spacers, in which waterproof grout is applied. The self-alignment features have application with bonded and non-bonded tiles, driveway/walkway/deck pavers and mortared interior and exterior brick, which can be manufactured in a variety of materials and processes. This Invention pays particular attention to plastic injection molded tiles that are to be bonded to a surface and subsequently grouted.

Abstract: A method for installing a finish trim molding on a wall, the method includes mounting a trim holding device on the wall, the trim holding device comprising a mounting bracket configured to mount in facing contact with the wall, the mounting bracket further comprising a pair of mounting flanges disposed on the mounting bracket, the pair of mounting flanges being substantially horizontal and extending perpendicularly outward away from the mounting bracket and the wall; and mounting the finish trim molding onto the trim holding device, the finish trim molding defining a pair of channels, the pair of channels being substantially horizontal and defined perpendicular to a vertical rear surface of the finish trim molding, the pair of channels configured to receive the pair of mounting flanges.

Abstract: A machine for distributing insulation material from a package of compressed insulation material is provided. The machine includes a chute having an inlet end and outlet end. The inlet end is configured to receive the package of compressed insulation material. The chute further has a removable hose hub configured for wrapping with a distribution hose. The removable hose hub is further configured for engagement with opposing flange assemblies such that rotation of the hose hub results in rotation of the flange assemblies. A lower unit is configured to receive the compressed insulation material exiting the outlet end of the chute. The lower unit includes a plurality of shredders and a discharge mechanism. The discharge mechanism is configured to discharge conditioned insulation material into an airstream.

Abstract: A device for laying floor and wall covering for outside corners includes two portions, namely a rigid “central” first portion that is substantially in the shape of a hollow tetrahedron or of a quarter of a truncated cone, and a flexible “peripheral” second portion that is substantially triangular in shape and that extends from the periphery of the central portion. The peripheral portion comes to bear against the floor portion and against the wall portions that are disposed facing the device.

Abstract: A connecting clamp for template assembling includes: a left clamp unit (1) and a right clamp unit (2), wherein the left clamp unit (1) is rotatably connected to the right clamp unit (2) through a shaft (3); clamping faces (13) and positioning-correction faces (14) corresponding to frames (101) of templates (10) are provided at front portions of both the left clamp unit (1) and the right clamp unit (2); a fixer is provided at rear portions of the left clamp unit (1) and the right clamp unit (2), wherein the fixer enables the front portions of the left clamp units (1) and the right clamp unit (2) to grip the frames (101) of the templates (10). The present invention has advantages such as a simple structure, convenient use and adaptability to assembling of various templates.

Abstract: An apparatus for tying a wire 46; 52 around one or more objects such as concrete reinforcing bars 2 is disclosed. It comprises means for passing the wire 46; 52 in a loop around the bars and a rotatable head 4 for twisting the ends of the loop together. The head 4 has at least one gripping means such as a variable force clutch 32 for gripping the wire, the gripping means being adapted to provide a variable gripping force so as to apply a predetermined tension to the wire during at least a first phase of twisting. Also disclosed is pre-feeding the wire between tying operations; conditioning the surface of the wire; and using the electrical conductivity of the reinforcing bars to verify that the bars are present before tying.

Abstract: A building cleaning system for cleaning a side of a building can include an elongate brush structure that is rotated by an electric motor, a frame for supporting the brush structure that can be oriented to face toward the side of the building, and a plurality of air moving devices mounted to the frame for generating counterforce to force the frame toward the building. The air moving devices can including fans or blowers. The air moving devices can be being spaced apart from one another in an orientation that extends along the length of the frame. A lift arrangement can be provided for moving the frame along the side of the building.

Abstract: A sustainable floating and land application community based on a mass-produced modular, pre-fabricated kit of parts referred to as floating modular units (FMU) or land module units (LMU). Both modular units are designed to allow for various needs while remaining simple to deliver and assemble by hand in remote destinations prone to volatile shifts in water levels and currents. Both floating and land module units can be erected for use on land and bodies of water.

Abstract: A hybrid residential and commercial building. The building includes two or more ground floor single-story units configured for commercial use that each have a front facing entry for providing access to each individual unit. The building further includes two or more multi-story units configured for residential use situated above the ground floor units, wherein each of the multi-story units has a dedicated rear facing entry. The building has a front side facing a public street and a rear side facing a private courtyard area. Additionally, the individual ground floor units are separated by removable demising walls, which allows a business to expand by combining adjacent units. The hybrid residential and commercial building provides an economically efficient alternative to current building types that are restricted to a single type of use by providing for both residential and commercial use within a flexible ground-floor space while providing dedicated residential units directly above.

Abstract: An assembled house has a house framework, a roof framework, wall panels and a roof panel. The house framework has multiple beams, columns, and connectors. The roof framework has multiple rafters. Each one of the connectors is mounted securely in the column, and has multiple screw sleeves mounted securely in a concrete body. Thus, the beam can be connected securely to the column by screws screwed into the screw sleeve of the connector. Welding is not required for assembling the house framework on the site of the assembled house, thereby effectively accelerating the assembling. In addition, the beams and the columns are connected without welding, which eliminates the problem that the welded portions may easily rust. Furthermore, the columns, rafters, and the beams are hollow tubes, which can effectively lower the weight of the whole assembled house.

Abstract: A surface gravity wave generator and wave pool is disclosed. A wave pool is formed of opposing side walls and a center channel of water. The channel includes a bottom contour with a depth that runs from a deep end to a shoal or beach. One or more three-dimensional foils are vertically arranged along at least one side wall, and moved against the water in the channel. Each foil has a curvilinear cross-sectional geometry that defines a leading surface that is adapted to generate a wave in water moving past the leading surface, and a trailing surface configured for flow recovery to avoid separation of the flow of water in the wave and to mitigate drag from the foil from the water moving past the leading surface.

Abstract: A liner for finishing an interior pool surface is disclosed, the liner including a water resistant material; and a predetermined decorative pattern or design, wherein the pattern or design is applied onto at least one side of the liner. The patterns and designs may be either two- or three-dimensional, and can include iridescent and/or reflective inks, reflective beads and/or pebbles and so on, and be arranged in either predetermined or randomized arrays. A customized pool skimmer face plate system is also disclosed, including at least a skimmer face plate cover; a template having a size and shape proportional to the size and shape of the face plate cover; a water-resistant material bearing a color, pattern, or design; and a wrapper created from the water-resistant material using the template that complements neighboring colors, patterns and designs surrounding the skimmer face plate installation location.

Abstract: A protective enclosure provides patient privacy and protection from inclement weather to a patient on a mattress on a stretcher. The enclosure includes a pair of slidable base portions and a cover connected to, and extending between, the base portions. The base portions are movable toward and away from each other in a transverse common plane underneath the mattress along a transverse axis that extends widthwise of the mattress. The cover bounds an interior space in which a body part of the patient is received. The cover has an overhead structure that extends along the transverse axis above the transverse common plane.

Abstract: A key for operating a mechanical lock, which key includes a head portion for holding by a user, a lock-engaging portion for inserting into the lock for operating the lock by the application of a turning force, and a joining portion between the head portion and the lock-engaging portion and fixing the head portion to the lock-engaging portion. The joining portion includes a shape memory material, which reversibly deforms without breakage when a first turning force on the key is exceeded, where the first turning force is lower than a second turning force. The second turning force being a turning force which if exceeded causes breakage of the lock-engaging portion or the head portion. The shape memory material may exhibit a superelastic effect in which the shape is restored when the turning force ceases, or shape memory effect in which the shape is restored on heating above a state-transition temperature.

Abstract: A electronic lock system and method including an electronic lock, a mobile device and/or a wireless device. The electronic lock is capable of sending a message to the mobile device via wireless communication and/or to the wireless device based on a triggering event. The mobile device and/or the wireless device may in turn perform an action based on the received message. In one embodiment, the electronic lock, the mobile device the wireless device communicate with one another wirelessly via Bluetooth communication.

Abstract: An exemplary lockset is configured for installation in a standard door preparation, and includes an exterior assembly, an interior assembly, and a center assembly connecting the exterior and interior assemblies. The exterior assembly includes an exterior escutcheon which houses a credential reader assembly including a multi-tech credential reader. The interior assembly includes an interior escutcheon which houses a control system. The center assembly includes a chassis, an outer surface of which may define a channel. The credential reader assembly is in communication with the control assembly via a wire harness, a portion of which may pass through the channel.

Abstract: A dual action gravity latch device to secure a gate in a closed position comprising a latch assembly including a pivotal latch member movable between a latched and unlatched position, a keeper assembly including a striker pin to maintain the pivotal latch member in the latched position, a first and second actuator assembly each movable between a first configuration and a second configuration disposed on opposite sides of the gate to selectively engage the pivotal latch member such that when the second actuator assembly is in the first configuration and the first actuator assembly in the second configuration the pivotal latch member is in the unlatched position to allow the gate to be opened and when the first actuator assembly is in the first configuration and the second actuator assembly is in the second configuration the pivotal latch member is in unlatched position to allow the gate to be opened.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a door latch assembly for a roller door that has a plastic mounting plate and a latching plate and latch tongue positioned substantially within the mounting plate. The use of a plastic mounting plate avoids the problems of corrosion when two different metal surfaces are fixed to each other.

Abstract: A safety lock and access key for doors that otherwise need to remain locked comprising a lock body containing a spring biased catch extending from one end of the body to engage in a keep of the door frame, a lever for moving the catch into the body to unlock the door, and a tool for unlocking locked doors.

Abstract: A knob claim lock has been developed. The knob clamp lock includes a frame piece with two slots and a shackle opening that fits over a lock piece with two tabs and a matching shackle opening. The tabs and slots fit together to make sure the shackle openings align to allow the knob clamp lock to be secured.

Abstract: A method for securing a portable electronic device having a housing to a substantially immovable object utilizing a locking assembly having a security rod or spike formed with an anchoring end separated axially by a protruding end, a locking device with an internal locking mechanism and a cable permanently attached to the locking device at one end, includes several steps. The steps include securedly fixing the anchoring end of the security rod or spike to the portable electronic device upon or through the housing, attaching an other end of the cable to the substantially immovable object and inserting the protruding end of the security rod into an opening in the locking device to actuate the internal locking mechanism and lock the locking device to the captive security rod. Locking the security rod to the locking device concurrently locks the portable electronic device to which it is anchored to the substantially immovable object.

Abstract: An impact resistant releasable retainer is for a door, such as for covering a glove box or other vehicle storage compartment. A pawl retains the door closed and releases to allow the door to open. A pivotally mounted catch engages the pawl, such as within a notch, when the door is closed or moved in a forward direction, opposite the opening direction. An actuator moves the catch allowing the pawl to move, such as by engagement with the actuator following the engagement with the catch, for releasing the door to open. The catch otherwise remains secured to the pawl for preventing the inadvertent release of the door, such as during movement in the forward direction as the result of an impact.

Abstract: A device for restricting movement of a door includes a door member, a floor member, and a connecting member. The door member is fixedly mounted to a door and includes a first opening having a first predetermined shape. The floor member is fixedly mounted to a floor and includes a second opening having a second predetermined shape. The connecting member includes a first leg and a second leg. The first leg extends in a first direction and has a first end removeably engaging the first opening. The second leg extends in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction and has a second end removeably engaging the second opening simultaneously when the first end removeably engages the first opening thereby preventing rotation of the door.

Abstract: A window balance system includes a mounting bracket configured to be secured to a window jamb, a shoe body and a coil spring movably coupling the mounting bracket to the shoe body. The window balance system also includes an engagement member extending from at least one of the mounting bracket and the shoe body, wherein the engagement member includes at least one resilient arm having a pawl extending therefrom. The window balance system further includes a receiving member defined in at least the other one of the mounting bracket and the shoe body, wherein the receiving member includes at least one rack having at least one tooth extending therefrom such that the pawl is engageable with the rack.

Abstract: A structure configured to raise and lower vehicle glass door, the structure includes: a door glass; a raising-and-lowering guide tab that is disposed at a vehicle width direction inner side of a glass end section at one vehicle front-rear direction side of the door glass; a slider that includes a slide groove section open at the one vehicle front-rear direction side and into which the raising-and-lowering guide tab is inserted, that is fixed to an inner surface at the vehicle width direction inner side of the glass end section, and that is raised and lowered along the raising-and-lowering guide tab; and restricting sections that are respectively provided at an upper end portion and a lower end portion in a vehicle up-down direction of the slider, that project out from an inner side groove wall face at a vehicle width direction inner side of the slide groove section toward a vehicle width direction outer side, and that face the raising-and-lowering guide tab in a vehicle width direction further toward a vehicl

Abstract: The description relates to devices, such as computing devices that have hinged portions. One example can include a first portion and a second portion. This example can also include a hinge assembly that can rotatably secure the first portion to the second portion with a flexible hinge that is biased into the second portion such that a length of the flexible hinge exposed between the first and second portions changes as the first and second portions are rotated through a range of angular orientations.

Abstract: The description relates to devices, such as computing devices that have hinged portions. One example can include a first portion and a second portion. This example can also include a hinge assembly and a magnetic assembly. The hinge assembly can rotatably secure the first portion to the second portion. The magnetic assembly can be positioned relative to the hinge assembly and the first and second portions that bias the first and second portions to a closed position where the first and second portions overlay one another and to an open position where the first and second portions are juxtaposed and coplanar.

Abstract: A door closing device for installation between a door and a door jamb includes a closer rod having an end configured to be fixed to the door jamb, the closer rod being movable between a withdrawn position in which the door is closed and an extended position in which the door is opened. The device also has a hold-open mechanism that includes a driver fixed to the closer rod and movable between a release position that permits movement of the closer rod, and a hold position that holds the closer rod in the extended position, and a resilient retainer configured to capture the driver in the hold position. The driver is separated from the retainer by a disengagement force applied to the retainer.

Abstract: A door opening and closing apparatus for a vehicle includes a support member interposed between a body and a door of the vehicle and expandable and shrinkable so as to enable holding of the door at an open position. The support member includes a first housing unit having an electric motor driving mechanism and a second housing unit integrally joined to the first housing unit. The second housing unit includes an outer cylinder, an inner cylinder disposed concentrically in the outer cylinder and engaged with the outer cylinder by fitting engagement in a movable manner relative to the outer cylinder, a spindle connected to the electric motor driving mechanism, and a spindle driving mechanism for moving the inner cylinder relative to the outer cylinder in an axial direction due to rotation of the spindle.

Abstract: A swing door actuation system for moving a door about a pivot axis between open closed positions relative to a vehicle body. The system includes a power swing door actuator having a housing connectable to one of the swing door and the vehicle body, an extensible member that moves relative to the housing, and connects to the other of the swing door and the vehicle body, a motor connected to a gear train, and a normally engaged clutch. The motor is operatively connected to a clutch input end through the gear train. The output end is operatively connected to the extensible member. The clutch is disengageable to disconnect the motor from the extensible member. The clutch has a slip torque that is sufficiently high to prevent movement of the door when the door is exposed to less than a selected external torque and the motor is stopped.

Abstract: An automated window closure system for a vehicle and an associated method are provided. The automated window closure system includes a multi-action switch that is electrically connected to a window controller. The multi-action switch has a deactivated state, a first activated state, and second activated state. In operation, the window controller receives information including a window open indicator and a window closed indicator. The window controller initiates a window opening routine when the multi-action switch is in the first activated position. The window controller initiates a window closing routine when the multi-action switch is in the second activated position and the window open indicator is received. Finally, the window controller initiates a window vent routine when the multi-action switch is placed in the second activated state and the window closed indicator is received.

Abstract: A safety access to a room in particular a class room with a safety lock, an entry from outside and an exit to the room, comprising a first door in the exit and a locking door which renders the locking chamber lockable.

Abstract: A door assembly includes a subdoor. The subdoor is selectively openable by pivoting relative to the main door and includes a window panel (typically glass). An array of screens is disposed in front of the subdoor and includes a plurality of relatively smaller screens that are physically separated from each other by a lattice. The structure of the door allows for greater ease of assembly while providing an appearance of having “true divided lights.” Related methods are also discussed.

Abstract: A room, such as a bedroom, used by a disabled user is provided with a ramp-door installed within an opening in an exterior wall. The ramp-door opens to the outside. Embodiments intended for use on the first floor of a building open to contact the ground directly. Embodiments intended for use on upper floors of a building open to hang against the exterior wall. An overhead rail mounted within the room connects a fixed loading location to the opening of the ramp-door. An extension rail stored within the opening rotates into alignment with the overhead rail to place the rail terminus outside of the building a distance away from the exterior wall. A winch assembly may be driven along the overhead rail. The winch assembly supports a harness that may be raised and lowered, permitting a disabled user to access the outside and be lowered to ground level.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a structural assembly including a first frame member hingedly coupled to a second frame member. A support member extends outwardly from the first frame member. At least one glazing panel is disposed above the support member. A thermal clip is coupled to the support member. The thermal clip insulates the support member from a building exterior. The support member extends less than an entire length thereof and reduces loss of thermal energy from a building interior to the building exterior via the support member.

Abstract: An insulating glazing unit having a first pane, a second pane, an outer pane interspace, an inner pane interspace, and a spacer is described. The spacer has a glazing interior surface, a first pane contact surface, and a second pane contact surface, a plastic profile, a primary sealing means, and a main member. The main member contains a sealing material containing a drying material. The plastic profile separates the outer pane interspace from the inner pane interspace. The main member is arranged in the outer pane interspace adjacent the plastic profile and the primary sealing means is arranged in the outer pane interspace adjacent the main member.

Abstract: The invention relates to the manufacturing of solid wood doors and consists in increasing the insulating value of a door by inserting an insulating material between the internal and external panels and in the center of the structural parts of the door. In this way, a door with a minimum of non-insulated surfaces is achieved. By using this system, the insulating value of the assembled door is significantly increased and reach the requirements of high energy efficiency programs such as ENERGY STAR™. In addition to this, the rigidity and the durability of the solid wood door are not significantly compromised. A door with a traditional style and high thermal resistance levels is achieved.

Abstract: The invention described relates to the manufacturing of solid wood doors and consists in the insertion of steel reinforcing bars in the frames of the door to increase its rigidity. By increasing the rigidity of the door, the effect of possible warping in the door is diminished. In addition to this, alloying the steel, which possesses an elasticity modulus that is around ten times superior to that of wood, we achieve significantly higher rigidity for the piece of solid wood and this, by adding very little steel. The arrangement and the geometry of the reinforcing bars permit the conservation of traditional manufacturing techniques.

Abstract: There is provided a heat insulating film including: a support; a fibrous conductive particles-containing layer; and a protective layer, in this order, in which the fibrous conductive particles-containing layer includes a binder including a material having a maximum peak value of reflectivity for far infrared rays at a wavelength of 5 to 25 ?m which is equal to or greater than 20% or a material having an average transmittance for far infrared rays at a wavelength of 5 ?m to 10 ?m in conversion of a film thickness as 20 ?m which is equal to or greater than 50%, as a main component, and fibrous conductive particles, and the protective layer includes a material having an average transmittance for far infrared rays at a wavelength of 5 ?m to 10 ?m in conversion of a film thickness as 20 ?m which is equal to or greater than 50%, as a main component. The heat insulating film is manufactured at low cost and satisfies both of a low haze value and high heat insulating properties.

Abstract: A non rectangular controllable window covering, for a window frame of corresponding non rectangular shape and having a covering frame defining a base frame segment and a non rectangular frame segment together forming a covering frame to fit the non rectangular window frame, and a window covering supported in the covering frame, consisting of a first covering panel and a second covering panel spaced apart from one another, one of the covering panels being movable relative to the other, and, a control element connected to the moveable covering panel.

Abstract: A shade system that is designed to shield at least part of a space from light and be embedded into a stable structure or frame, comprises: a top fixture, a bottom fixture, an attachment component, wherein the attachment component is held in place by the top fixture and the bottom fixture, and a flexible light or sun shield component, wherein the shield component is retractably attached to the attachment component. It should be understood that a contemplated shade system is designed to shield the interior of a car, boat, vehicle or space from sunlight, street light or bright light to a fixture, such as a neon sign. Methods of securing and using contemplated shade systems are also disclosed.