Connections Patents (Class 14/14)
  • Patent number: 11105084
    Abstract: A dry connection prefabricated assembly steel-concrete composite beam, comprising a steel beam (400), a concrete slab (300) composed of steel bars (301) and concrete, a steel plate connector (100) composed of a steel plate (101), shear connection pieces (102) and connection rods (103), and a pair of inter-plate connection pieces respectively composed of an upper connection plate (501), a lower connection plate (502), a horizontal connection plate (503), a triangular reinforcing steel plate (504) and first and second shear connection pieces (505, 507).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Inventors: Bing Cui, Canhui Zhao, Zhengyu Liu
  • Patent number: 10557266
    Abstract: A roof system including roof support and roof, preferably a flat roof. The roof support includes (a) a plurality of first joists and (b) a plurality of second joists. Each first joist acts as a roof girder. Each second joist extends between a pair of adjacent first joists. Each first joist and each second joist includes a top chord, a bottom chord and web members connecting the chords. Each top chord is hollow, rectangular cross section and sealed; each bottom chord and web member is preferably a hollow sealed pipe. As a result the roof support can be made of joists with a minimum of flat surfaces and nooks and crannies where dust and particles can collect, so that the roof support is easier to wash and regularly sanitize.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: AUSTIN BUILDING AND DESIGN INC.
    Inventors: Gregory James Carr, Barry Allen Rogers, James Brandon Davis, Alex Sestak, Jeffrey J. Morris, Herman J. Miller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10344436
    Abstract: An access module for a modular access structure has a longitudinally and vertically extending first frame and a longitudinally and vertically extending second frame. The second frame laterally opposes the first frame. A deformable lower support structure laterally extends between the first and second frames. The lower support structure includes a deck spanning a longitudinal length of the access module. A deformable upper support structure laterally extends between the first and second frames. The upper support structure is spaced above the deck. The access module is configurable by deformation of the lower and upper support structures between an extended configuration in which the first and second frames are spaced apart a first distance and the deck is generally horizontal and a collapsed configuration in which a distance between the first and second frames is less than the first distance. The access module is adapted to be fastened end to end to a second access module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: TECNIK TECHNOLOGIES PTY LIMITED
    Inventor: Savas Guven
  • Patent number: 10190936
    Abstract: A mobile bridge apparatus includes one or more mobile bridge modules and a plurality of sensors for sensing a deformation of the one or more mobile bridge modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: BAE Systems plc
    Inventors: Ian Edward Tothill, Timothy John Davis
  • Patent number: 10081942
    Abstract: A building element includes an upper side, a lower side, at least one first lateral face, and at least one first end face, where the at least one lateral face is formed with a longitudinal lateral groove such that a longitudinal upper grove edge and a longitudinal lower groove edge are formed. The upper groove edge has a toothed shape. A building includes one or more load bearing elements, and a plurality of building elements connected to respective load bearing elements. A method of joining building elements and load bearing elements in a building includes providing the load bearing elements with a not-cast upper part, putting up the load bearing elements, arranging two or more double T building elements therewith, pulling the telescoping elements, and cast filling the joints between the building elements and the upper part of the load bearing elements such that a smooth surface is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Svein Berg Holding AS
    Inventor: Svein Berg
  • Patent number: 9915045
    Abstract: Folded plate girders can be connected end to end to form a cambered girder, wherein a connector system including a peripheral connecting flange secures adjacent girders in series at the desired camber arc or angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
    Inventor: Atorod Azizinamini
  • Patent number: 9343996
    Abstract: For transmitting voltage and current between a source and a load, a magnetic amplifier with a power winding connectable with the source and the load and with at least one control winding is provided, and current and voltage difference between the source and the load are controlled by applying a portion of a rectified source voltage to the at least one control winding of the magnetic amplifier, and applying a portion of a rectified load voltage to the at least one control winding of the magnetic amplifier to prevent the current from exceeding a level which can endanger the source and/or the load and to minimize the voltage difference between the source and the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Pavel Dourbal
  • Publication number: 20140190095
    Abstract: Structural assemblies for constructing bridges and other structures. A structural assembly may comprise an elongated member defining an internal space. The structural assembly may also comprise a plurality of framing members connected to the elongated member at a plurality of pin connection nodes, each pin connection node comprising a pin interconnecting the elongated member, a first one of the framing members, and a second one of the framing members, the pin having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, at least one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the pin being located in the internal space of the elongated member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventor: Alexandre DE LA CHEVROTIERE
  • Patent number: 8745933
    Abstract: A reinforcing system for a guy anchor used in a guyed or additionally guyed tower includes a concrete structure formed around the guy anchor. The concrete structure has a top surface slightly above grade level. The reinforcing system further includes a supplemental anchor shaft. The supplemental anchor shaft is attached to the existing anchor head and extends down into the concrete structure, where it is retained and encased therein. The concrete structure preferably has a base and at least one wall that extends down from the base and has a surface that faces the tower to resist horizontal forces. The reinforcing system is sufficiently strong to keep the guy anchor in place even if the original anchor shaft completely corrodes. The supplemental anchor shaft does not generally come into contact with soil. It therefore resists corrosion and is expected to provide a long service life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: ATC IP LLC
    Inventors: Jaime Reyes, Hanming You
  • Patent number: 8667633
    Abstract: Structural assemblies for constructing bridges and other structures. A structural assembly may comprise an elongated member defining an internal space. The structural assembly may also comprise a plurality of framing members connected to the elongated member at a plurality of pin connection nodes, each pin connection node comprising a pin interconnecting the elongated member, a first one of the framing members, and a second one of the framing members, the pin having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, at least one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the pin being located in the internal space of the elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Alexandre De La Chevrotiere
  • Publication number: 20110146193
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a novel moment resisting connection system, for use, but not limited to, with a pony-truss bridge system. The connection system comprises multi-hollow sections that can be, but are not limited to, extruded aluminum and a joint or node connector that can be casted, milled, forged or made by any other means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Alexandre de la Chevrotière
  • Patent number: 7882586
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a novel moment resisting connection system, for use, but not limited to, with a pony-truss bridge system. The connection system comprises multi-hollow sections that can be, but are not limited to, extruded aluminum and a joint or node connector that can be casted, milled, forged or made by any other means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Alexandre de la Chevrotière
  • Patent number: 7874035
    Abstract: Provided are a connection apparatus and a connection method capable of rapidly and fixing a pre-cast deck slab with a beam. The connection apparatus includes a main body buried in the pre-cast deck slab and having a hollow part formed in an axial direction thereof! a plurality of support portions integrally formed with an outer surface of the main body, each of which has a body having a certain length and a hook integrally formed with an end of the body; a bolt having a bolt body inserted into the hollow part of the main body and a fixing hole of the beam, and a head integrally formed with an upper end of the bolt body! and a nut threadedly engaged with the bolt body of the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Sungkyunkwan University Foundation for Corporated Collaboration
    Inventors: Sun-Kyu Park, Sung-Oh Kim, Sung-Nam Hong, Tae-Wan Kim, Kyoung Bong Han
  • Patent number: 7568253
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a novel moment resisting connection system, for use, but not limited to, with a pony-truss bridge system. The connection system comprises multi-hollow sections that can be, but are not limited to, extruded aluminum and a joint or node connector that can be casted, milled, forged or made by any other means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Alexandre de la Chevrotière
  • Patent number: 7281287
    Abstract: There is disclosed a prop-type damping device which effectively consumes energy of up-and-down vibration on a main girder of a bridge caused by earthquakes, winds, passing vehicles or the like to prolong a life of the bridge and improve comfort for bridge users with a simple constitution. The prop-type damping device comprises: an inclined prop member having a higher end thereof connected to a lower part of a main girder of a bridge to be horizontally movable relative to the same, and a lower end thereof connected to a position below a main girder supporting point of a pier or abutment for supporting the main girder to permit up-and-down movement of the higher end; and a damper connected to the higher end of the prop member and the main girder lower part to brake relative horizontal movements therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignees: Tokai University Educational System, Nippon Comsys Corporation
    Inventors: Yoji Shimazaki, Morio Obata, Wataru Morijiri
  • Patent number: 7036707
    Abstract: Disclosed is a friction stir welding technique which avoids occurrence of a dent, in a joining region, extending to a level beneath the joined surfaces. At end portions of the frame members to be joined, at the joining region, thickened parts which project toward the rotary body joining tool are provided. Two adjoining thickened parts, of adjacent members to be joined, can form a trapezoid shape. The rotary body joining tool has a small-diameter tip portion and a larger diameter portion. The rotary body joining tool is inserted in the thickened parts. In a state where the rotary body joining tool has been inserted small-diameter tip end first, to a level where the larger diameter portion of the rotary body joining tool overlaps the thickened part but does not extend below the upper surface of the non-thickened surfaces of the members joined, the rotary body is rotated and moved along the joining region. Even when a gap exists between two thickened parts, a desirable joining can be carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kinya Aota, Masakuni Ezumi, Yasuo Ishimaru, Hisanori Okamura, Isao Funyuu, Akihiro Satou
  • Patent number: 6892409
    Abstract: A bridge is provided with at least five segments connected in series. Each segment includes two opposed ends. The ends of adjacent segments are in pivoting connection with respect to each other. The bridge also comprises a plurality of cables. For each end of each segment, at least one cable extends between the end of the segment and at least one end of at least one other segment. The cables have sufficient sizes, such that when the segments are pivoted to an orientation which forms an upwardly bowed arch, each of the cables extends in a substantially straight line between the ends of the segments. In addition, the segments on the ends of the bridge may be pivoted toward each other to provide slack in the cables, which enables the segments to pivot with respect to each other to form a compact configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Jillian Marie Kaup, Marc Ramsey Washington, Jazlyn L. Carvajal, Carl Peter Frank
  • Patent number: 6892410
    Abstract: Through co-action between auxiliary triangular structural frames, which are each constructed at opposite ends of a truss girder or arch girder, and a cable stretched between the auxiliary triangular structural frames, an upwardly directed force is exerted to the truss girder or arch girder, thereby effectively inducing a load resisting force. A reinforcement structure of a truss bridge or arch bridge is comprised of a truss girder or arch girder, a first and a second end of which are each provided with a main triangular structural frame. The main triangular structural frame is provided at an inner side thereof with an auxiliary triangular structural frame. The auxiliary triangular structural frame is joined at vertexes thereof with frame structural elements at respective sides of the main triangular structural frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Asahi Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Tokuno, Fumihiro Saito, Seio Takeshima, Yoshiaki Nakai
  • Patent number: 6804927
    Abstract: A modular system for the construction of a lattice panel for a bridge, comprises first and second chord members (20, 28) and a plurality of web members (1). Each web member comprises three legs forming a triangle. One leg (2) extends perpendicularly between the chord members. The second and third legs (3, 4) are joined to each other and to the ends of the first leg. The ends of the first leg (1) are provided with means for connecting the web member to the chords (20, 28). Interlocking means (13, 19) are provided at the joint between the second and third legs, and mid way along the first leg, so that adjacent web members can be connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Mabey & Johnson Limited
    Inventors: Richard Charles Edward Forsyth, Bevil Guy Mabey, John Meynell Richardson
  • Patent number: 6631530
    Abstract: A modular bridge apparatus includes a self-supporting truss section that can be lifted and transported as a structural unit. The modular bridge has left and right longitudinally extending trusses. Each truss section is made of an upper longitudinal chord member and a lower longitudinal chord member which are connected together at a plurality of joints with vertical and diagonally inclined web members. In the preferred embodiment, these longitudinally extending trusses occur on opposite sides of the bridge, defining the sides of the road surface and extend between supports on each end. A plurality of transverse beams extend between the left and right side trusses of the bridge at an elevation that is higher than the lower longitudinal chord members of the trusses. Some of the transverse beams extend beyond the lower longitudinal chord member, and are connected to the upper longitudinal chord members with an inclined diagonal kicker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Donald C. Makofsky
  • Publication number: 20030150187
    Abstract: A modular system for the construction of a lattice panel for a bridge, comprises first and second chord members (20, 28) and a plurality of web members (1). Each web member comprises three legs forming a triangle. One leg (2) extends perpendicularly between the chord members. The second and third legs (3, 4) are joined to each other and to the ends of the first leg. The ends of the first leg (1) are provided with means for connecting the web member to the chords (20, 28). Interlocking means (13, 19) are provided at the joint between the second and third legs, and mid way along the first leg, so that adjacent web members can be connected together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Richard Charles Edward Forsyth, Bevil Guy Mabey, John Meynell Richardson
  • Patent number: 6591567
    Abstract: A modular fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) module that interlocks with other similarly designed modules. Specifically, each FRP module has a female, receiver, end and a male, inserter, end such that the inserter of a first FRP module interlocks with, or “snaps into” or “slids into,” a receiver of an adjacent second FRP module. Once interlocked, the two connected FRP modules are further secured by either adhesive and/or thermal connections. An FRP module is made of multiple layers of multi-axial fiber reinforcement and a resin matrix, the layers being continuous throughout the entire shape of the module. An overlay may be placed over the top face of one or more FRP modules joined together to provide a uniform surface. In addition, one or more exterior FRP composite laminates, grids, plates or fabrics may be bonded continuously to the top face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: West Virginia University
    Inventors: GangaRao V. S. Hota, Siva Ram V. Hota
  • Patent number: 6539571
    Abstract: A system for use in constructing a lattice panel bridge, includes a plurality of substantially rectangular prefabricated steel lattice panels joined in end to end relationship to form a main girder for the bridge. Each panel comprises an upper chord, a lower chord of substantially equal length, a plurality of web members interconnecting the upper and lower chords, and joint forming devices at each end of each chord. The joint forming devices at either end of the lower chord mate and receive a transverse pin for connecting the lower chords of adjacent panels together. The joint forming devices at each end of the upper chord comprises a longitudinally facing plate provided with apertures for receiving fasteners for connecting the plates of adjacent panels together. A spacer is inserted between the plates and this reduces the tendency of the bridge to sag. Optionally the spacers can be used to give the resultant bridge an upwardly facing longitudinal camber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Mabey & Johnson Limited
    Inventor: Richard Charles Edward Forsyth
  • Patent number: 6374445
    Abstract: Tension rod for use as a chord for bridges, having a middle part consisting of fiber composite material and having ends consisting of metallic material. The middle and end parts are connected by a glued tapered overlap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Dornier GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhold Fuessinger, Friedrich Graf
  • Patent number: 6131357
    Abstract: An articulated modular beam formed by a plurality of rigid modules designed to withstand compression on a planar surface, and a bendable coupling piece connecting the modules on one side such that the distance between one side of the modules can be varied so as to achieve a desired shape or curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Alejandro Martin-Lunas Sourdeau
  • Patent number: 5920936
    Abstract: A trough bridge is composed of a plurality of interconnected bridge sections each formed of a roadway deck segment and side wall segments located at opposite sides of the roadway deck segment. An articulation for pivotally attaching the side wall segments to each roadway deck segment includes spaced and aligned first hinge sleeves affixed to the roadway deck segment; a separate first hinge recess defined next to each first hinge sleeve; spaced and aligned second hinge sleeves affixed to the side wall segments; and a separate second hinge recess defined next to each second hinge sleeve. In an assembled state the first hinge sleeves are received in respective second hinge recesses and the second hinge sleeves are received in respective first hinge recesses. The first and second hinge sleeves are in alignment with one another. A hinge pin passes through the first and second hinge sleeves for pivotally joining the side wall segments to the roadway deck segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Krupp Fordertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Norbert Wiedeck, Hans-Joachim Berlin
  • Patent number: 5724691
    Abstract: A deployable bridge is assembled from individual components. The components include cross girders and pavement slabs disposed between the cross girders, the cross girders each having opposite ends and first and second continuous girders each disposed along one of the opposite ends, respectively, of the cross girders. Each continuous girder comprises an upwardly pointing truss having top and bottom chords and truss members arranged between the top and bottom chords and connected to the top and bottom chords at top and bottom nodal points, respectively. The top and bottom chords are each divided in regions of the top and bottom nodal points into a plurality of top chord members and bottom chord members. Each continuous girder further includes connecting elements connecting together the top chord members and connecting together the bottom chord members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Krupp Foerdertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Norbert Wiedeck, Wolfgang Diefendahl
  • Patent number: 5682635
    Abstract: A reinforced precast construction includes a generally panel-shaped reinforced concrete structural unit having a relatively flat upper surface adapted to support vehicles thereon and opposing ends configured to be positioned in abutting end-to-end contact and in abutting side-to-side contact. One of the opposing ends includes a horizontally extending gasket so that, when abutted against an adjacent identical article in an elongated arrangement, the abutting opposing ends sealingly engage the seal. Connectors are attached to the structural unit in positions so that they align and are interconnectable with fasteners to hold the structural unit to an adjacent previously laid structural unit. In one form, the precast structural units are adapted to rest on parallel beams to form a bridge construction, and include locators for locating the precast structural units horizontally on the beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventors: Wilbur E. Tolliver, Larry R. Magnuson
  • Patent number: 5570486
    Abstract: A bridge is assembled by locking truss-like girders along the sides of a bridge section to the transverse beams by a bayonet-type coupling and a swinging of the trusses relative to the transverse beams. Roadway plates are supported by the transverse beams and additional sections are assembled onto the previous sections. The sections can be advanced across an obstruction on a pair of support beams guided through roller frames affixed to at least the first and last sections, which support beams can later be mounted on the bridge span to function as guardrails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: Krupp Fordertechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Norbert Wiedeck
  • Patent number: 5526544
    Abstract: A deployable bridge having at least one bridge section which includes a base body; and a road section articulated to the base body for pivotal movement about a horizontal pivot axis oriented transversely to the length of the base body. The road section has a first pivotal position in which the road section lies lengthwise on the base body. The road section has a second pivotal position in which the road section is in a raised state relative to its first pivotal position. There is further provided a pivot shaft mounted on the base body and having a horizontal pivot axis oriented transversely to the length of the base body. A support member adjoins the base body and is articulated to the base body by the pivot shaft. The support member has a first pivotal position in which it is in a flat-lying state. In such flat-lying state the free outer end of the support member projects beyond the outer end of the road section in a direction away from a location situated at midlength of the bridge section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: Krupp Fordertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans N. Wiedeck, Wolfgang Diefendahl
  • Patent number: 5457836
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bridge comprising at least one bridge elements. The bridge elements has a base body that has chamfered end surfaces on which roadway plates rest that can be necessarily brought out of a drive-on position into a coupling position by hinged ramp plates in that respectively two bridge elements are moved toward the ramp plates into a drive-on position. The apparatus for laying the bridge has a guide (support rail, holding sheet) for the guide members of the ramp plates so that the bridge elements can be reliably guided together. Moreover, the apparatus has guide rails with which the locking elements (hook, pins) can be centrally actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Krupp Fordertechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Norbert Wiedeck
  • Patent number: 5437072
    Abstract: Advantageously, the present invention also facilitates a unique method for post-tensioning segmental viaduct structures, for rapid transit use or otherwise, wherein post-tensioning cables do not follow load diagrams but instead follow uniform paths through each viaduct segment. In this way, each viaduct segment need not be specially fabricated to accommodate uniquely positioned cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: J. Muller International
    Inventors: Antonio Dinis, Gerard Sauvageot
  • Patent number: 5414885
    Abstract: A transportable bridge having longitudinal sides, includes plural bridge sections connected in series and presenting first and last bridge sections in the series. Each said bridge section in the series includes a deck slab extending across a width of the bridge and having front and rear transverse ends, and an inverted triangular truss on each longitudinal side of the bridge. Each truss has a lower corner portion and an oppositely disposed top beam. The lower corner portion of the truss is connected to the rear transverse end of the deck slab and additionally to the front transverse end of the deck slab of an adjacent following bridge section in the series of bridge sections. The top beam of the truss of the bridge section is connected to the top beam of the adjacent following bridge section thus forming a trough-shaped bridge having a lateral truss structure. A further deck slab is associated with the last bridge section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Krupp Fordertechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Berlin, Wolfgang Diefendahl, Johann Matuschek
  • Patent number: 5335386
    Abstract: A bridge structure is provided for short bridges spans of eighty feet or less in length and includes a series of girders consisting of flanged steel beams. The girders are maintained in place by lateral braces which hold the girders with a series of tie rods or bolts affixed thereto. In one embodiment the lateral braces are formed with top and bottom steel members of relatively small size and which are notched to help maintain the girders in position. Side rail posts are affixed at the ends of the lateral braces for attachment of a guardrail or the like. The longitudinally positioned girders are not welded or weakened with bolt holes therethrough and the structure provides a convenient and economical bridge constructions for use with conventional timber or other decking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: Donald J. Newell
  • Patent number: 5331700
    Abstract: The invention concerns a bridging system comprising several uniform bridge section in the form of track supports (1). The width of the bridge can be continuously adjusted with telescoping pipes ( 2 ). The stationary ramps ( 3 ) on the track support are slotted like a comb and, once the have been assembled and connected to the pivoted-out lower truss system (4), can accommodate any compression forces and bending moments that occur when traveled. Since each track support is the same shape, the bridging system has a smoothly curving upper roadway edge.The traction component (5) in each track support travels back and forth between pivoting stays (9) provided with connectors (8) and the overall lower truss system can be pivoted into the track support.This bridging system, which consists of modular track supports (1), is outstanding for its compact traveling state and few connectors and can be positioned by appropriate transporting and laying equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Assignee: Man Gutehoffnungshutte AG
    Inventors: Hans-Jurgen Karcher, Walter Kinzel
  • Patent number: 5297308
    Abstract: A bridge includes a bridge element which has a basic bridge body; a folding ramp situated at opposite sloped end faces of the bridge body; a hinge connection pivotally attaching each folding ramp to the bridge body; and a locking device supported by the bridge body for locking the folding ramp to the bridge body in the downfolded position of the ramp in which the ramp forms a common access ramp with the respective sloped end face of the bridge body. The locking device includes a locking pin and an actuating device for moving the locking pin into a locking position or into a withdrawn position. In the locking position the locking pin extends into a locking pin-receiving opening of the folding ramp if the folding ramp is in its downfolded position or into a locking pin-receiving opening of an adjoining basic bridge body in the upfolded position of the folding ramp. The hinge connection includes a double-jointed lever connected to the bridge body and the respective folding ramp by pivotal joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Assignee: Krupp Industrietechnik Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung
    Inventor: Hans N. Wiedeck
  • Patent number: 5255996
    Abstract: A method of constructing a paved surface such as a roadway in which piles (8) are placed in the ground (G) and preformed slabs (4) are laid over the piles (8) to form a continuous paved surface. The preformed slabs (4) may be short in length and may be supported at opposite ends by separate beams (6) which comprise the pile caps. In a preferred embodiment, suitable for the construction of an elevated roadway, the method further comprises the steps of supporting preformed structural elements 5, 15 on the piles 8 and supporting the preformed slabs 4 on the preformed structural element 5, 15. The preformed structural elements 5, 15 may be shaped so as to provide an open work structure. Preferably, the preformed structural elements 5, 15 comprise substantially V-shaped channels which are laid with their longitudinal axes at right angles to the longitudinal centrelines of the roadway 2, and with their flanges 14 directed downwards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventors: Ong S. Kiat, Lam H. Beng, deceased, by Yap S. Chee, personal representative
  • Patent number: 5134741
    Abstract: The method comprises: the prefabrication of pairs of frames (21, 23) having a shaped surface (25) in order to form, in two contiguous segments or blocks (11), matched coupling surfaces for perfect in situ coupling; the arrangement of a plurality of spaced pairs of frames (21, 23) in a formwork apparatus for concrete castings; the simultaneous formation, in said apparatus, of a plurality of contiguous segments or blocks, each incorporating a frame (21; 23) at both ends, and each having an end surface (25) perfectly matched with the abutting surface of the contiguous segment or block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: Marco Carcassi
  • Patent number: 5113543
    Abstract: A system for assembling a crossing structure for the bridging of gaps, comprising at least two sections (1) which are placed end to end to form at least one runway and of which at least the mutually opposite ends (1a, 1b) are equipped with interlocking members (10) of complementary shape comprising a succession of projecting parts (11) and of recesses (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventor: Jacques Sevenet
  • Patent number: 4987629
    Abstract: A bridge, the deck of which comprises two superimposed frames (4,5) each serving as a roadway. These frames are connected by diagonal connecting girders (6) slanting both relative to the vertical and relative to the length of the bridge and joining the edges of the upper and lower frames, and auxiliary connecting girders (7) situated in vertical planes passing through the edges of the lower frame. The prestressing cables (17) of a diagonal girder (6) are anchored to the edge of the upper frame, pass transversely through the lower frame, and then through the diagonal girder which is symmetrical therewith relative to the longitudinal vertical plane of symmetry of the bridge, and are anchored on the opposite edge of the upper frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1991
    Inventor: Jean M. Muller
  • Patent number: 4965903
    Abstract: A modular bridge comprising two end modules adapted for connection to respective end footings, a plurality of side railings adapted for modular interconnection in two parallel rows between the end modules, adjacent ones of the side railings being connected via interlocking splices, a plurality of floor beams arranged orthogonally between the two rows of side railings, and a structural connection for securing respective ones of the floor beams to corresponding ones of the side railings. The interlocking splices preferably each comprise a plurality of ribs disposed within respective ends of adjacent ones of the side railings for defining respective slots therebetween, a plurality of plates adapted for insertion into the respective slots, and apparatus for securing the plurality of plates within the respective slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: Kitchener Forging Ltd.
    Inventor: Christopher G. Bish
  • Patent number: 4853998
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for spreading and depositing a spanning beam from a vehicle wherein, in the transport position of the spanning beam on the vehicle, the outer extreme element of the spanning beam is pivotally supported and maintained at its free end by a mobile support device of the vehicle occupying a raised position while the inner extreme element of the spanning beam rests on the outer extreme element along same and wherein the spanning beam can be raised by winding of the working cable on a winch of the vehicle into a position where the inner extreme element is pivotally supported at its free end by the support device with concomitant release of the free end of the outer extreme element from the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: Constructions Industrielles de la Mediterranee (C.N.I.M.)
    Inventors: Jean Bernard, Roger Brunet
  • Patent number: 4665830
    Abstract: A vehicle supporting guideway is presented, the guideway is comprised of upper horizontal stringers, lower horizontal stringers vertically oriented diagonal members affixed to the upper and lower horizontal stringers and horizontally oriented diagonal members are affixed between the lower horizontal stringers. These features present a guideway having an upwardly extending U-shape construction which can be supplied with wheel supporting channels, and upper support channels. The entire structure is reinforced by ribs which are generally within the horizontal stringers, and the entire guideway may be enclosed by a cover. Overlapping members join adjacent sections of the horizontal stringers together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1987
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: J. Edward Anderson, Donald C. Sassor
  • Patent number: 4615063
    Abstract: An anchoring rod extends vertically through a hollow box girder underlying a suspension bridge or suspended walkway. The anchoring rod is connected at its upper end to a suspension cable and is provided at its lower end with a stop member which can be tightened against the lower wall of the girder. The opening in the lower wall of the girder through which the anchoring rod extends is larger than the opening in the upper wall of the girder, and a tubular, load-bearing sleeve is carried on the anchoring rod through the lower wall opening. The tubular sleeve is sized so that the upper end abuts against the inner surface of the upper wall of the girder and the lower end abuts against the stop member when the stop member is tightened against the lower wall of the girder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1986
    Inventor: Carl R. Rolen
  • Patent number: 4589157
    Abstract: This invention relates to a production of a structure by means of arch stones. The arch stones comprise series of mixed steel-concrete arch stones (V.sub.M), each comprising a metal frame of steel integral with an upper concrete slab, these series being separated by interposed concrete arch stones or sections, (V.sub.B), the assembly of the arch stones being reinforced longitudinally by prestress cables which penetrate the metal frames and are attached at their ends to the concrete arch stones. This invention may be applied to bridge floors and similar structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1986
    Assignee: Bouygues
    Inventor: Pierre Richard
  • Patent number: 4534079
    Abstract: A folding bridge is provided with flush top and bottom chords when opened through 180.degree. by a hinge comprising two hinge blocks pivotally interconnected by a swinging link, the rotation of each block relative to the link being limited to 90.degree. by a stop mechanism and being sequenced by a restraining mechanism. In specific application to a bridge, the restraining mechanism is gravity urged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1985
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventor: Maurice K. Tucker
  • Patent number: 4520523
    Abstract: A bridge module is preassembled from girder sections the type disclosed in Pat. No. GB 1209747, and integrated by stabilizing means so as to provide a crane-assisted building method which is less labor intensive and less time consuming than known manual methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1985
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventors: James P. Fitzgerald-Smith, Bertram Bird, Michael Willis
  • Patent number: 4489659
    Abstract: A girder for supporting a movable body has a truss structure of a cross-sectional shape forming an isosceles triangle with a horizontal base. The truss structure is formed of three main tubes of a circular cross section that are located in positions corresponding to respective corners of the triangle and extend continuously over the length of the girder. A plurality of branch tubes of circular cross section are fixed at their ends to respective pairs of the main tubes by joint pieces, such that three branch tubes lie in a plane extending through the respective joint pieces perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the main tubes so as to form the isosceles triangle. A rail support is secured to each main tube of the base of the isosceles triangle at a position disposed upwardly and outwardly of the center thereof, and a rail, along which the movable body is traversable, is supported on each rail support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1984
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideaki Kamohara, Minoru Imamura, Hiroshi Higaki, Yuji Yoshitomi, Syuzo Uno, Kazuhiro Makino, Hiroshi Nomura, Kyozo Yoshioka
  • Patent number: 4393533
    Abstract: The present invention relates to means for connecting two fixed or floating bridge elements together. A first bridge element comprises at least two retractable studs (1, 2) oriented obliquely with respect to the surface of the element, one on the intrados and the other on the extrados, so as to cooperate with a recess (3', 4') either of the extrados or of the intrados of a second bridge element. This invention may be used to assemble all types of bridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1983
    Assignee: Etat Francais
    Inventors: Michel E. Terrien, Claude Bouvet
  • Patent number: 4151695
    Abstract: A pre-fabricated bridge panel having a projecting "male eye" member in the form of an elongate block for connection to an adjacent panel. The upper surface of the inner end portion of the member slopes downwardly towards the inner end, this end portion being welded to a chord of the panel. The projecting end of the member has a hole formed therethrough transverse to the length of the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1977
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1979
    Assignee: Thos. Storey (Engineers) Ltd.
    Inventor: John R. Johnson