Abstract: A tubular strainer having a wall defining interior and exterior surfaces, and a first flange on the upper end of the wall, a tubular insert having a cylindrical wall sized for reception by the tubular strainer, and a second flange carried by the insert wall, an elastomeric seal having a tubular body fittingly sealingly carried by the insert cylindrical wall, the seal body configured for progressive compressive radial sealing engagement with the strainer wall interior surface when endwise inserted by the insert within said tubular strainer.

Abstract: A major water leak prevention apparatus for a water inlet valve, in which a water receptacle tray is mounted on a water inlet valve body and includes an overflow port. The water receptacle tray has a bottom in which an opening is formed. A counterweight float is mounted on the water inlet valve body and includes a water compartment and a buoyance compartment arranged at a lower end of the water inlet valve body. The bottom opening of the water receptacle tray is connected via a passageway pipe to the counterweight float. The water compartment selectively blocks a lower end opening of the passageway pipe or opens the lower end opening of the passageway pipe. This arrangement helps stop water ingress through the water inlet valve when major water leakage occurs in a water tank.

Abstract: A urinal is disclosed as having a spreader assembly. The spreader assembly includes a spreader body that may be mounted to the urinal, and a spreader mat. The spreader mat includes a series of spray holes. The spreader body is connected to a water supply, and a perimeter of the spreader mat is sealed to the spreader body. Each spray hole of the spreader mat is oriented to direct water onto a particular area of the urinal, when water is supplied to flush the urinal.

Abstract: There is provided a plastic infiltration unit comprising: a top deck which extends in a plane, at least one pillar extending from the top deck for supporting the top deck, wherein the top deck is provided with at least one integrated connector arranged to connect the plastic infiltration unit with another at least one integrated connector, of another plastic infiltration unit in a side by side arrangement.

Abstract: A flexible modular trench includes an open-faced channel extending along a central axis between a pair of axial ends. The open-faced channel includes a pair of axially-extending shelves connected by a trench wall. The trench wall has a smooth inner surface and a corrugated outer surface. The corrugated outer surface has corrugations extending along a plane perpendicular to the central axis to allow for increased flexibility such that the flexible modular trench is bendable in a direction perpendicular to the central axis.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a modular connector pipe screen for a catch basin having a plurality of screen segments and a deflector screen. The screen segments may be stacked and adjoined side-by-side wherein the segments are secured together with only fasteners and without any separate frame structure for connection or support. Accordingly, each screen segment is comprised of a single perforated panel having a bottom flange, and at least one of an upper flange, and a side flange which provide integrated structure support as well as surfaces to which the single segments can be fixed together. When stacked, the bottom flange of a first screen segment may be connected to the upper flange of a second screen segment through a fastener or screen segments may be adjoined side-by-side and fastened at the side flanges. Additional screen segments may then be added to create different shapes for various installation needs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a structure comprising inner and outer skeletons, each defining a cage-like structure consisting of metal structural elements, where the inner skeleton is housed within the inner space defined by the outer skeleton, and where the inner and outer skeleton are connected at one or more locations.

Abstract: The invention is related to methods and pergola systems comprising a plurality of pergola components, a plurality of pergola brackets that engage with the pergola components and allow for the pergola components to attach to a building at a range of angles with respect to the pergola bracket.

Abstract: A corner assembly for a portable shelter is disclosed herein. The corner assembly includes a corner connecting member configured to couple a support post member to one or more roof frame members of a portable shelter; and a corner trim member configured to be coupled to the corner connecting member, the corner trim member configured to be secured to the corner connecting member by a user disposed in the interior of the portable shelter. In one or more embodiments, the corner assembly further includes a support post member, the support post member configured to support a roof frame structure of a portable shelter. The corner connecting member may include a downwardly extending flange configured to extend along an interior surface of the support post member. The corner trim member may be configured to be coupled to the downwardly extending flange of the corner connecting member.

Abstract: A material for use in building construction (partition, wall, ceiling, floor or door) that exhibits improved acoustical sound proofing and fracture characteristics optimized for efficient installation. The material comprises a laminated structure having as an integral part thereof one or more layers of viscoelastic material which also functions both as a glue and as an energy dissipating layer; and one or more constraining layers, such as gypsum or cement-based panel products modified for easy fracture. In one embodiment, standard paper-faced wallboard, typically gypsum, comprises the external surfaces of the laminated structure with the inner surface of said wallboard being bare with no paper or other material being placed thereon.

Abstract: Described embodiments include a method, including arranging one or more frames (22) and one or more boards (24), such that the frames, together with the boards, enclose a space (26). The method further includes pouring first concrete (28) into the space, and, after the first concrete solidifies, within the space, into a structure (42), removing the boards from the structure. The method further includes pouring second concrete (70) over the frames, such that the second concrete solidifies, over the frames, into respective walls that are adjacent to the structure. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A screen assembly includes a first screen, a second screen, and a connector. Each screen includes a panel with a recess and a receiver positioned within the recess. The receiver has a locking member and an actuator. The actuator is operable to move the locking member relative to the receiver. The connector includes a body, a first contact extending from the body in a first direction, and a second contact extending from the body in a second direction. The first contact is received in the receiver of the first screen and has a first opening through which the first locking member extends. The second contact is received in the receiver of the second screen and has a second opening through which the second locking member extends.

Abstract: Storey ceiling construction having a first lower wooden support (5) for supporting a storey ceiling, a first upper wooden support (5) for supporting a further storey ceiling and a first support head (6) made of wood for introducing the forces of the storey ceiling into the first lower wooden support (5). The first support head (6) lies on the first lower wooden support (5). The first upper wooden support (5) is supported directly on the first lower wooden support.

Abstract: A concrete tie for use in an insulated concrete panel, the concrete tie including a main body having (1) a length, an inner surface, and an outer surface; (2) a protrusion extending away from the inner surface of the main body and along the length thereof; (3) at least one upper foot extending above a top surface of the main body and at least one lower foot extending below a bottom surface of the main body, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage with a slot formed in an insulation layer.

Abstract: A high elongation ridge ventilation sheet for a sloping roof, having a coated composite aluminum membrane with multiple circular holes, each side of the coated composite aluminum membrane being bonded respectively with a folded composite aluminum membrane via a butyl adhesive tape for central linking, on a side of each folded composite aluminum membrane adjacent the coated composite aluminum membrane is arranged with a hot melt adhesive for connecting a polyester nonwoven fabric with each folded composite aluminum membrane, with the polyester nonwoven fabric covering the whole coated composite aluminum membrane. Further, a fabricating method therefor that realizes wholly dry construction; ridge ventilation sheets adopted on ridge locations not only make the whole roof prettier, but more importantly, enable air convection under the roof in a true sense, taking out extra dampness and heat, resulting in better energy saving effects, and extending life span for the roof.

Abstract: A membrane composite comprising a polymeric membrane panel, an adhesive layer, and a release member, where the adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is at least partially cured, and where the adhesive layer has a thickness of at least 102 ?m.

Abstract: Systems for water collection and recycling are described herein. A downspout having a downspout groove is vertically disposed on an exterior wall. Electrical wiring that is operatively connected to at least one electrical power generator is disposed along the downspout groove. The downspout and electrical power generator are supported by downspout brackets. The downspout is fluidly connected to a gutter and an outdoor water storage tank for collecting rain water. A water pump moves grey water from a shower tub drainage pipeline to a water path switch valve. A control switch directs the water path switch valve to divert the grey water to a toilet storage tank, an outdoor water storage tank, or a washing machine water tank.

Abstract: A duct flashing panel configured to provide weatherproofing for single wall ducts extending through the walls of a structure and having a terminal end extending outside of the structure. The duct flashing panel includes a panel body and an elastomeric collar sized and configured to circumferentially engage the exterior surface of the duct to form a fluid-tight seal between the duct and the collar to prevent fluid migration along the exterior of the duct. The collar includes an annular bead which provides rigidity and strength to the collar to urge the collar into compressive engagement with the exterior surface of the duct.

Abstract: A drip edge assembly having an underlying drip edge. A body portion includes first and second ribs extending therealong. The body portion includes an inner edge having a fold and an outer edge that includes a protrusion. A vertical wall extends downward from the body portion and includes a lower kick defining an inwardly-facing channel. An overlying drip edge includes a body portion having first and second ribs extending therealong. The body portion includes an inner edge having a fold and an outer edge that includes a protrusion. A vertical wall extends downward from the body portion and includes a lower kick defining a rearwardly-facing channel. The lower kick of the underlying drip edge is configured to define a pivot axis about which the overlying drip edge rotates during assembly.

Abstract: A wall surface covering system comprising: a wall surface covering for covering an underlying vertical support surface constituted by a wall, said wall surface covering comprising a rigid body; a first component of a hook-and-loop fastener fixable to the rigid body of the wall surface covering; and a second component of the hook-and-loop fastener that is fixable to the underlying vertical surface. The first and second components are cooperable such that, when the first component is fixed to the surface covering and the second component is fixed to the underlying vertical surface, the first and second components can be engaged to cause the wall surface covering to grip the wall.

Abstract: A panel for a surface covering system of a plurality of like panels, the panel comprising: a base layer; a first joint extrusion attached along a first edge of the base layer; a second joint extrusion attached along a second edge of the base layer, opposite the first edge; a covering layer covering at least part of the first joint extrusion and at least part of the second joint extrusion; wherein the first extrusion is configured to join to a second extrusion of an adjacent like panel, and the covering layer substantially conceals the first extrusion and the second extrusion when installed.

Abstract: A tile that may be used as a covering on a floor, wall, or ceiling surface comprises at least a top section and a core layer may be made from a densified foam material. In most embodiments, but not all, the top section comprises a polyvinyl chloride layer, and may also comprise a wear layer and/or a decorative layer. The tile includes a plurality of sides with an exposed portion(s) formed along at least one of the sides, but in some embodiments also across a middle section of the tile. The exposed portion(s) may be formed on the polyvinyl chloride layer below the tile's top surface at a depth to closely resemble an actual grout line. The tile may further comprise an interconnecting mechanism that at least partially enables an efficient tile installation. The interconnecting mechanism may further contribute to tile's visual appeal by at least partially concealing a connector(s).

Abstract: A corner beading device and methods of using and manufacturing the same are provided. The device has a single fixed body defining: a cavity for receiving flowable material, an inlet sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the corner bead cross section, an outlet opposite to the inlet shaped to correspond to the corner bead cross section, and of larger vertical size than the inlet, and a guide comprising at least one of a channel and a protruding ridge. To use the device, a user inserts a corner bead into the inlet, along the guide, and out the outlet, whereby the upper edge of the outlet scrapes off all but a thin, substantially uniform layer of flowable material from the surface of the corner bead. A method of manufacturing the device comprises the step of injection molding the single fixed body of the device.

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 compliant trim for use between concrete slabs is disclosed, intended to seal the joints and provide a decorative cover over the forms. The compliant trim is placed on the forms prior to the pouring of concrete. The compliant trim contains features which anchor the compliant trim to the slab at numerous points along its length, thereby constraining the compliant trim against any shrinkage effects, and doing so in a manner that introduces minimal stress concentration into the slabs. When the compliant trim is anchored to both of the adjacent slabs, it is capable of following slab motions due to thermal expansion or other environmental effects. The surface of the compliant trim may be used to support the screed. Additionally, the compliant trim may be used to produce a chamfered or radius edge, thereby eliminating the need to radius-trowel the slab.

Abstract: A recess insert for a lift anchor assembly in a precast Portland cement concrete shape. The lift anchor assembly has a bilaterally symmetrical lift anchor comprising a lifting end, and an anchor leg end. The lifting end comprises an opening therethrough. The recess insert comprises a semicircular shaped shell that defines an opening, a top cap shaped to cover the opening, at least one anchoring clip on the top cap, adapted to engage the opening of a lift anchor when the recess insert is cast with a lift anchor assembly in a precast Portland cement concrete shape for securing the top cap to the semicircular shaped shell. The top cap also has a disengagement plane or one or more apertures providing access to the at least one anchoring clip for disengaging the top cap from the lift anchor.

Abstract: A framing template tool may include a face plate; a top plate joined to the face plate at about an edge thereof, wherein the top plate is substantially orthogonal to the face plate; and alignment features. The alignment features may include slots formed in the face plate along its length; and one or more flaps joined to at least one edge of each of the slots, wherein each of the flaps protrude in a substantially orthogonal fashion from the face plate and in a direction away from the top plate.

Abstract: A carpet pulling apparatus includes a base including a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The bottom surface includes a plurality of spikes. A winch is attached to the top surface of the base. A cable extends from a first end to a second end. The first end is received by the winch. A clamp is attached to the second end of the cable. A diverter is configured to receive the cable at a location between the first end and the second end and divert a direction of extension of the cable. The diverter is capable of being moved relative to the base.

Abstract: A pool apparatus configured to carry liquids has a side wall and a bottom surface. The side wall has a plurality of structure drawstrings, an outer side wall, and an inner side wall. Two sides of the structure drawstrings draw respectively the outer side wall and the inner side wall, so as to maintain a predetermined shape of the pool apparatus. The structure drawstrings include a main drawstring portions and at least two branch drawstring portions. The main drawstring portions have a first main string side configured to connect a first branch drawstring side of the at least two branch drawstrings. A second branch string side of the at least two branch drawstrings connects respectively to different positions of the outer side wall and the inner side wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatuses for improving pool skimmers. In some embodiments, the apparatus is a pool skimmer basket system that includes a skimmer basket, a first tube that is attached to the skimmer basket, and a second tube that is adjacent to and rotatable relative to the first tube. The first tube includes a longitudinal slot that feeds water into the skimmer basket. Without being bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the slot increases the velocity of water flowing into the basket and that the system increases the debris-holding capacity and allows one to avoid having to reach through dirty water to remove the skimmer basket.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a breakage-resistant composite composed of several superposed layers, particularly as planking for a stud wall, roof or ceiling structure, wherein the composite comprises at least one first gypsum board panel in the form of a paperbound gypsum board panel, at least one metal sheet arranged on the first gypsum board panel, and at least one second gypsum board panel in the form of a gypsum fiberboard panel arranged on the metal sheet.

Abstract: A technique for reinforcing a telecommunication tower includes attaching a temporary structure to a vertical portion of the tower, transferring antenna equipment from the vertical portion of the tower to the temporary structure, and reinforcing the vertical portion of the tower while the transferred antenna equipment continues to operate. Once the vertical portion of the tower has been reinforced, the antenna equipment is transferred from the temporary structure back to the vertical portion of the tower. The temporary structure may then be moved to any other vertical portion of the tower, where the above acts may be repeated.

Abstract: A method of forming a post sleeve within a post hole in the ground to include a post receiving cavity to insertably receive and support a post is provided. The method includes positioning a post sleeve core within the post hole with the aid of an elongate installation member and depositing uncured material into the post hole to at least partially surround the post sleeve core while the post sleeve core is attached to the elongate installation member. The method further includes allowing the uncured material to harden around the post sleeve core to form at least a portion of the post-receiving cavity of the post sleeve and removing the post sleeve core from the hardened material to expose the post receiving cavity to receive and support the post. Other related methods of forming post sleeves are also provided.

Abstract: An inflatable air mattress for preventing snow accumulation is provided. The mattress comprises an inflatable portion comprising a textile material, and an outside air intake. A fan draws outside air into the inflatable portion through the air intake, and circulates the air when inflated. An air divider alternates between an inflating position and a circulating position that determines which air the fan blows. An air heater heats the air that passes through the fan. A controller activates the fan and air heater based on a signal from a snow sensor; controls the divider based on a signal from a pressure sensor; and controls the heater based on a signal from a heat sensor.

Abstract: The rotatable leg provides a way to quickly setup a security barricade without the need for fasteners or tools. The leg is permanently attached to the security barrier frame and can be rotated 90 degrees in order to align the feet either in line or perpendicular to the barricade frame. The leg uses a simple spring and washer mechanism to provide holding force to the frame while also allowing the leg to be rotated in the desired position using a V notch surface that mates to the bottom crossbar of the barricade. This leg can be easily rotated 90 degrees using only hand pressure without any tools. This invention provides not only a quick setup of the barricade but also prevents loss of parts such as pins or other fasteners used with detachable feet in typical barricades.

Abstract: A system and method for an adapter device. The adapter device can be used to couple to a pole for positioning or extraction. The adapter body has a first end coupled to a guiding edge and a second end coupled to a gripping edge. A securing device couples the adapter coupler to the adapter body via at least one coupler guide. The adapter coupler exits the coupler guide and forms a closed loop. When pulled, the closed loop tightens around and grips the pole.

Abstract: An actuation handle having a handle, having a handle neck and rotatably connected to an installation body, is provided. The handle connects to an actuation element in the door or window via a driver. Two detent elements engage in at least one functional position of the handle. An axially movable, non-rotatably mounted detent ring includes a first detent element. A counter detent ring includes a second detent element that corresponds to the first detent element. A guide sleeve provides a non-rotating receptacle for the driver, aligns centrally with the rotary axis of the handle, and has guide elements along its inner circumference. The detent ring has an opening and has guide elements along its outer circumference. The detent ring is inserted into the guide sleeve and the opening receives the driver, while its guide elements are engaged with the guide elements of the guide sleeve in an axially movable manner.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for electronic locks with a selectable power off function. The electronic lock includes an electronic controller disposed within a lock housing and operable to control a state of the lock between locked and unlocked positions. An electronic actuator electrically coupled to the controller is movable between first and second positions corresponding to a locked position and an unlocked position of the lock, respectively. The electronic lock further includes at least one electrical energy storage device and a selector switch coupled to the controller to define a desired state of the lock between one of an electrically locked (EL) and an electrically unlocked (EU) state in an electric power off condition.

Abstract: The invention provides a unique security box secured to a fixed object for securing phone and tablet charging cords as well as electrical cords, thereby preventing theft of said cords. The security box includes a first groove formed in the interior surface parallel to one edge running the length of the lid and a second groove formed in the interior surface near the opposite edge, the two grooves aligned with identical grooves in a bottom portion of the box when the lid is closed. One annular hollow feature is centered within a groove in the bottom portion, a second and third annular hollow features securely positioned in the second groove spaced apart from each other at a distance equal to the length of the first annular hollow feature; the annular features forming an enclosed tube accepting a locking threaded through holding the box securely closed with the locking cable.

Abstract: A motor vehicle lock arrangement having a motor vehicle lock, wherein the motor vehicle lock has the locking elements of lock latch and pawl, wherein the lock latch is0 adjustable into an open position, into a main locked position and optionally into a pre-locked position, wherein the pawl is adjustable into a lowered position in which it retains the lock latch in a locked position, and into a raised position in which it is disengaged from the lock latch, wherein provision is made of an actuating lever for raising the pawl, wherein a switchable clutch arrangement is arranged between the actuating lever and the pawl, via which clutch arrangement a drive connection between the actuating lever and the pawl is establishable in the engaged state, and in the disengaged state the drive connection between the actuating lever and the pawl is severable.

Abstract: A vehicle latch is provided having a ratchet, a primary pawl, an auxiliary ratchet and a secondary pawl, and further including a gear that is movable to a secondary pawl locking position wherein the gear directly blocks movement of the secondary pawl and locks the secondary pawl in an auxiliary ratchet holding position to prevent premature or unintended opening of the latch.

Abstract: A lock device for an opening/closing device, is provided with: lock sections located on both sides of the lid; a pair of link rods provided with hook sections provided at the front ends of the pair of link rods; pressing means for pressing the hook sections in the direction in which the hook sections engage with the lock sections; a pusher for sliding the hook sections in the direction in which the hook sections do not engage with the lock sections; pressing members disposed on both sides of an opening and pressing the lid in the direction in which the lid opens; and a holding lever and a holding protrusion which hold the hook sections in a state in which the hook sections do not engage with the lock sections.

Abstract: The invention relates to a lock for a motor vehicle with a locking mechanism comprising a catch (4), a first-position pawl (13), a primary-position pawl (6), a blocking lever for blocking the primary-position pawl, and a driver for the first-position pawl, wherein the driver is a lateral contour area of the first-position pawl (13) and functions to rotate the primary-position pawl out of its notched position.

Abstract: A support for a closed flap of a vehicle, particularly a tailgate of a motor vehicle, has a bearing part arranged at the flap or at a wall area of the vehicle body adjacent to the closed flap. The bearing part can be adjusted in its position before its fastening. In its premounting position, a clamping element is frictionally or form-fittingly adjustably connected with the bearing part such that, after a fastening of the bearing part previously adjusted in its position, the clamping element can be adjusted by an applied force from the premounting position into a clamping position limited by a stop, in which the clamping element is frictionally and/or form-fittingly fixedly held at the bearing part and, at least indirectly, under a pretensioning force, rests against the flap or the wall area, when the flap is closed.

Abstract: A bump stop assembly is provided for an access door. The assembly comprises a bump stop configured to couple to the access door or a door frame and a door closure gauge movably coupled to the bump stop. A closure pad couples the bump top to one of the door frame or the access door. The closure pad engages the other side of the access door and door frame when the door is closed. The thickness of a selected closure pad is determined based upon the extent that the door closure gauge protrudes relative to the bump stop.

Abstract: A door operation apparatus for a vehicle is provided to open or shut a door at a speed corresponding to a user's force or information selected by the user. In particular, the door operating apparatus installed in a body to open and shut an internal room of the body includes: a power member connected to the door for applying a moving force to the door; a detector for detecting a force applied by the user to the door; a controller for determining an open and shut speed corresponding to the detected force and controlling the power member to be driven to open and shut the door at the determined open and shut speed; and a driver for driving the power member based on a command from the controller.

Abstract: An electronically-operated gun safe or other lockable container is communicatively connected to an alarm system or one or more alarm system elements. When the alarm or the alarm system elements is/are triggered, a signal is received by the gun safe, which then unlocks the door to the gun safe to allow access to the contents of the gun safe, or takes other action to facilitate easier access to the contents of the gun safe.

Abstract: A spacer profile adapted to be used in a spacer frame of an insulating glass unit includes a hollow profile body made of a first synthetic material and a chamber for accommodating hydroscopic material, the hollow profile body having an inner wall that is, in an assembled state of the insulating glass unit, directed to the intervening space between panes of the insulating glass unit, an outer wall on the opposite side of the inner wall, a first side wall and a second side wall on the opposite side to the first side wall, the walls being connected to form the chamber, and a diffusion barrier portion made of a second synthetic material with sheet silicates and being formed as at least a part of the outer wall.

Abstract: We disclose a headrail for window coverings that may include an extensible end cap and a gearbox which automatically adjusts the headrail mounting. The extensible end cap may include a mounting bracket which may be connected to a piston. The piston may be connected to a floating bearing. The gearbox may include a motor-driven main gear which rotates a threaded rod. As the threaded rod rotates, an end of the threaded rod may move toward a floating bearing. The floating bearing may apply force the piston which may transmit the force to the mounting bracket. The extensible end cap may also include a sensor which detects the amount of pressure or force applied to the mounting bracket. When the sensor collects a measurement below a defined level, the motor may actuate the main gear to rotate the threaded rod and apply additional force to the mounting bracket.

Abstract: A battery-powered window treatment, such as a roller shade, may include a battery compartment that provides access to batteries while the window treatment is assembled and mounted to a structure. The battery compartment may be supported along a pivot axis by a housing of the window treatment, and operable between opened and closed positions by pivoting the battery compartment about the pivot axis. The batteries may be concealed when the battery compartment is closed, and may be accessible when the battery compartment is open. The battery compartment may define a central axis that is offset relative to the pivot axis, and along which the batteries may be aligned. The window treatment may include a fascia that is operably connected to the battery compartment, such that when the battery compartment is opened, the fascia does not obstruct access to the batteries, and does not interfere with the shade.