Roof Patents (Class 248/237)
  • Publication number: 20110203220
    Abstract: A portable worker support bracket for releasable engagement of a work surface such as a truss member or other construction member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: CRAIG S. BRONKHORST
  • Publication number: 20110192941
    Abstract: A multi-purpose universal support is disclosed that can be configured to support multiple pipes, pipe junctions, vertical strut channels, horizontal strut channels, and thread rods. The disclosed support system allows for quicker installation, easy height adjustments, and a fewer supports than previously known supports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Alain Michaud, Adrian Paunescu, Dominic England, William Smith
  • Publication number: 20110173900
    Abstract: A mounting system is provided for supporting equipment such as solar module arrays on a rooftop or other underlying surface. The mounting system includes a pipe, and a grasp section. These couple to a base that is extended into or otherwise integrated with the underlying surface. The pipe may be coupled so as to extend a height from the underlying surface. The grasp section is coupled to a top section of the pipe and is structured to secure to a section of the solar module array when the solar module array is installed on the underlying surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Joshua Reed Plaisted, Brian West
  • Patent number: 7971847
    Abstract: According to the present invention, a rook rack and a system of multiple roof racks of the present invention may be used to securely support equipment, such as, but not limited to, a satellite, to the roof of a portable shelter. The roof rack of the present invention generally comprises a crossbar and a pair of side supports coupled to each end thereof. A roof rack system of the present invention comprises at least two of these roof racks. The present invention further relates to a method of securing equipment to the roof of a portable shelter. This method comprises first providing a roof rack, and assembling and securing the same to the roof. After the roof rack system is secured to the roof of the portable shelter, the equipment, or an equipment platform, is placed on the crossbars and secured in its position by securing means, such as one or more clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Azimuth, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig W. Hartzell, Kevin G. Koch, Aaron M King, Douglas L. Shaffer
  • Patent number: 7963074
    Abstract: A fixing device for fixing a photovoltaic module on a sloping roof having a roof structure and a roof covering with individual roof covering elements includes a roof-side connecting piece disposable beneath the roof covering and a module-side connecting piece disposable on an edge of the photovoltaic module. A flexible retaining element interconnects the roof-side connecting piece and the module-side connecting piece. The flexible retaining element is loadable by pulling and adapted to be guided through the roof covering without altering a position or shape of the individual roof covering elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Solon SE
    Inventors: Sascha Oliver Schwarze, Maik Schaefer
  • Patent number: 7950620
    Abstract: An air conditioner condenser platform is described for supporting an air conditioner condenser installed on a roof. The platform provides a fixed base and an adjustable platform whereby the fixed base is installed on the roof and the adjustable platform is configured to provide a level platform on which to install the condenser. It provides a durable metal weather resistant platform on which to install the condenser, and a standard platform that may be quickly installed in a variety of roof slopes and configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Dan Knight
  • Patent number: 7946082
    Abstract: A structure support apparatus for anchoring and supporting a structure upon a roof includes a bowed plate having a dome-shaped convex portion formed in the center of the bowed plate projecting from the concave side toward the convex side of the bowed plate. A screw hole is formed in the dome-shaped convex portion, penetrating the center of the bowed plate, and the structure is supported by the apex of the dome-shaped convex portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasushi Ohkoshi, Miho Terunuma, Yoshihiro Aramaki
  • Patent number: 7921607
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting an article to a roof includes a base plate, threaded stud, lag bolts, spacer, and flashing. The base plate includes bolt holes to accommodate the lag bolts to secure the base plate to the roof. The threaded stud is secured to and extends vertically from the base plate. The spacer is inserted over the stud so that the stud passes through an aperture in the spacer, and is secured by a nut. The spacer acts as a lift for mounting an article up off the roof, thereby permitting drainage. The spacer includes a recess to accommodate the head of a lag bolt. The wrap-around flashing is captured between the base plate and spacer, creating a water free environment underneath the assembled unit. The flashing slides up underneath the roofing shingles to prevent water from penetrating the structure, and includes a lip to accommodate the base plate, and a detent to accommodate the bolt heads beneath it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Thompson Technology Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel S. Thompson, Monty Mullins, Richard I. Proctor, Zhan Zhang
  • Patent number: 7905064
    Abstract: A system for attaching an article to a roof having shingles disposed on top of a structural member includes a flashing member which is rotatably connected to a stanchion. The flashing member includes a sheet of flashing which is slid up under one or more shingles. A hole is drilled through the shingles and into the structural member. The stanchion is then bolted to the structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart H. Wentworth, Claudia H. Wentworth
  • Publication number: 20110049118
    Abstract: A raceway extends along an edge of roof of a structure and is adapted to house a cable, such as an industry standard ice and snow melt heating cable designed, Listed and approved for the purpose. An open side of the raceway exposes the cable and allows for the insertion, replacement and inspection of the cable per industry practice. A side of the raceway may have a radiused edge providing added resiliency to springably retain and/or removably secure the cable in raceway. In the case of a heating cable, heat is transferred to the surrounding structure, and may be concentrated at the drip edge to maximize ice melt efficiency. Methods of installation of the raceway are applicable to new construction and retrofitting existing structures, including drainage systems, bridge structures and other outdoor enclosures, and may be used with many types of roofing materials including asphalt, wood and metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: MARTIN ENGINEERING COMPANY
    Inventor: Malcolm Brent Nark
  • Patent number: 7895808
    Abstract: A method and system for attaching an article to a roof having shingles disposed on top of a structural member includes a flashing member which is rotatably connected to a stanchion. The flashing member includes a sheet of flashing which is slid up under one or more shingles. A hole is drilled through the shingles and into the structural member. The stanchion is then bolted to the structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart H. Wentworth, Claudia H. Wentworth
  • Publication number: 20110005128
    Abstract: A solar energy greenhouse includes a main structure, a roof structure disposed on the main structure and a plurality of thin-film solar cell assemblies which are disposed on the roof structure in an unequal gap defined there between. The thin-film solar cell assemblies can absorb sunlight and generate electrical energy. The unequal gaps between the thin-film solar cell assemblies are determined from the radiation angle of the sunlight and the position of plants in the solar energy greenhouse, so the amount that the sunlight radiates on the thin-film solar cell assemblies and the plants can achieve a better distribution, which improves the amount of electrical energy generated by the thin-film solar cell assemblies and the rates of growth of the plants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: LITE-ON GREEN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Mei-Chen CHUANG, Cheng Chung, Ming-Chao Hsiao
  • Patent number: 7861485
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing a stanchion on a tile roof includes a tile which has an aperture and a stanchion which fits through the aperture. An existing roof tile is removed and the stanchion is connected to the roof sheathing at the place of removal. The tile is then placed over the stanchion so that the stanchion project through the aperture. In an embodiment of the invention, a sleeve surrounds the aperture and a seal provides a weather proof seal between the stanchion and the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart H. Wentworth, Claudia H. Wentworth
  • Patent number: 7857269
    Abstract: A mounting system is provided for supporting equipment such as solar module arrays on a rooftop or other underlying surface. The mounting system includes a pipe, and a grasp section. These couple to a base that is extended into or otherwise integrated with the underlying surface. The pipe may be coupled so as to extend a height from the underlying surface. The grasp section is coupled to a top section of the pipe and is structured to secure to a section of the solar module array when the solar module array is installed on the underlying surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: PVT Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Reed Plaisted, Brian West
  • Publication number: 20100319277
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a modular, structural framing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: UniRac, Inc.
    Inventors: Juan Suarez, Jim Webb, Laura Devitt, Chris M. Meier, Stacy Harris
  • Publication number: 20100313499
    Abstract: Multiple brackets are used together to support photovoltaic cells upon a roof. Each bracket includes a mounting rail at an upper side and a bottom rail at a lower side. The bottom rail of one bracket is configured to overlap the mounting rail of another bracket. Lateral joints on each bracket overlap each other to connect adjacent panels of photovoltaic cells. Cell support structures are interposed between the mounting rail and bottom rail to support a photovoltaic stack assembly thereon. Wind clips allow the bottom rail of a higher bracket to be interconnected with a mounting rail of a lower bracket. An undulating end piece allows airflow to enter beneath a lowest bracket and pass up beneath the brackets to provide cooling air for the overall system of photovoltaic cells mounted upon the brackets. Edge flashing precludes water migration laterally at edges of the panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald J. Gangemi
  • Patent number: 7836639
    Abstract: There is provided a structure mounting and supporting device that can facilitate mounting a structure on a roof. The device allows a plurality of fixing members to be fixed to sheathing, which underlies a roofing material, perpendicularly, while allowing a supporting member fixing and supporting the structure and the fixing members to be fixed together at their respective side portions. More specifically, the supporting member to be carried by the plurality of fixing members has one end initially connected to one fixing member. The supporting member thus has the other end pivotably to provide a degree of freedom to a position at which the other fixing member and the supporting member are secured together, in mounting and fixing the fixing member and the supporting member together. The structure mounting and supporting device is thus applicable to a roof having a plurality of pieces of sheathing inclined at different angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Aramaki, Kenichi Sagayama
  • Patent number: 7814899
    Abstract: In a first embodiment a framed solar panel is retained by a rod inserted through a hole in the panel frame. The rod is attached to the top of a bracket, which is mounted at its bottom to a substantially flat surface. In a second embodiment, a framed solar collector panel is retained by a clip which is designed to fit over the top edge of the frame. The clip is then attached to the top of a second bracket. In a fourth embodiment a tether is fastened between the through hole and the flat surface. These embodiments may be used at either or both ends of the frame. Each embodiment may include a safety tether that is connected between the frame and the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Jonathan Port
  • Publication number: 20100252706
    Abstract: A wind turbine mounting assembly for mounting a wind turbine on a roof of a structure is provided. The wind turbine mounting assembly generally includes a ridge member, a mast, a first roof mounting assembly, and a second roof mounting assembly. The ridge member may be configured to extend along a ridge of a roof. The mast has a mast proximal end joined to the ridge member and a distal end for mounting a wind turbine. The first and second roof mounting assemblies may be joined at opposing ends of the ridge member and are configured to secure the mounting assembly to the roof. The first and second roof mounting assemblies may include a first and second ridge member elevator, respectively, to elevate the ridge member above the roof ridge. The assembly may include a third roof mounting assembly joined to the ridge member near a ridge member midpoint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Samuel Pierce Hargis
  • Publication number: 20100243837
    Abstract: An anchor point has a foot, an elongated absorbing element, and a coupling feature for attaching a coupling element to the means of absorbing energy. The elongated absorbing element is provided with plates which extend radially and are situated axially at a distance from each other, and a casing that is situated about the absorbing element and is attached to the foot at a first end and at the second end is connected to an end of the absorbing element in such a way that it can be detached. The absorbing element is attached to a safety device at the other end with which the absorbing element is secured to the casing to prevent twisting. The safety device is provided with a locking device for locking the pin in the absorbing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Gerardus Antonie Martinus Maria Cox
  • Publication number: 20100236162
    Abstract: A system and method for mounting photovoltaic solar panels onto a roof. The system includes first and second strut rails spaced from the roof employing a series of standoffs, the strut rails having a length, cross section, a base and side walls, side walls terminating with first and second turned in edges. First and second mounting fixtures are attached to the photovoltaic solar panels which are of a type and geometry enabling the solar panels to be removably appended to the strut rails. The first and second mounting fixtures can be applied to the photovoltaic solar panels before being elevated to a roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Tweedie
  • Patent number: 7797883
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes a roof support apparatus which may be used for securing a load to a tile-covered roof. The roof support apparatus comprises a mounting plate, a first and second attachment member, an upper support member, and a load. The mounting plate engages its base with an upper surface of the roof. A track of the mounting plate extends parallel to the base and has a width less than a width of said base. The first and second attachment members are adapted to extend downward through an exposed surface of the base on both sides of the track. The upper support member is adapted to pass vertically upward through an opening in a roof covering material, such as tile, and engage a screw which may slide along the tack until the screw and the upper support member are fully engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Ben Tarbell, Christine Concho, Soren Jensen, Zack Ardell-Smith
  • Publication number: 20100213005
    Abstract: A load supporting platform for mounting onto the header plate and adjacent sides of a peaked roof may be characterized as including an upper load support structure including a substantially planar upper support, a lower base structure disposed beneath and adapted to support thereon the upper load support structure, and a rigid elongate member extending along, and mounted to, the upper load support structure and the lower base structure, wherein the elongate member substantially bisects the upper load support structure and the lower base structure. A lower elongate protrusion extends downwardly from the elongate member so as to extend beneath the lower base structure. The lower elongate protrusion is sized for mounting onto the header plate between the sheeted upper edges of the adjacent sides of the peaked roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Martin Sistonen, Laura Weir
  • Publication number: 20100192505
    Abstract: Interlocking support posts form an interlocking rack system which may have a single mold which provides both a male and a female joinder member. Between the support posts can be mounted panels such as solar panels. Under the support posts can be installed a roof stand off assembly which prevents water from weakening the roof. Various combinations of construction members offer a cost effective building block array of mounting panels, wind turbines, and any appliance on a roof and/or anywhere in a building. A two recess mounting bracket is ideally suited to mount solar panels on a roof. A lower recess can be fastened to a bolt anchor on the roof. The opposing recess can secure a mounting clip which attaches directly to the solar panel. Identical support posts can interlock. Various embodiments include conduit clasps, slider tracks, mounts for cabinets, sign posts, and thru roof screwed anchors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: D THREE ENTERPRISES, LLC
    Inventors: Richard F. Schaefer, David Kreutzman, Don N. Tamm
  • Patent number: 7766292
    Abstract: A system for removably and adjustably mounting a device on an object is provided. The system for removably and adjustably mounting a device on an object, according to the present invention, includes an apparatus and method useful for removably and adjustably mounting one or more photovoltaic modules on an object such as a pole or roof, and includes one or more triple track rails. Also included are one or more connector brackets that are demountably attachable to the one or more triple track rails and to the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: UniRac, Inc.
    Inventor: John E. Liebendorfer
  • Patent number: 7762027
    Abstract: A system for attaching an article to a roof having shingles disposed on top of a structural member includes a flashing member which is rotatably connected to a stanchion. The flashing member includes a sheet of flashing which is slid up under one or more shingles. A hole is drilled through the shingles and into the structural member. The stanchion is then bolted to the structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventors: Stuart H. Wentworth, Claudia H. Wentworth
  • Publication number: 20100175337
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for efficiently securing solar panels on a roof surface that does not require penetration of the roof membrane. Supports for the solar panels are designed with a small footprint with sufficient spacing to allow free drainage between the supports. A simple, low-cost attachment member or clip can be integrated with each support to attach the panel to the support, and in some instances the clip (or its mount on the support) can also be used to lift the support to the roof. The panels can include one or more rails that can slide through a loosened clip, but be held securely in place by a tightened clip. The panels can be installed initially with the clips grasping the rails loosely and once the supports and rails are in their final positions, the clips can be fully tightened to form a rigid solar panel array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: OPTISOLAR INC.
    Inventors: Gianluigi Mascolo, David F. Taggart, Ning Ma, Philip Rettger
  • Patent number: 7752861
    Abstract: The present invention includes foundation legs of an outdoor unit that are made of a relatively thin plate material, and can reduce cost. This outdoor unit includes a compressor, an outdoor refrigerant circuit that includes pipes and a heat exchanger, a case that houses the refrigerant circuit, and a plurality of supports provided so that they protrude downward from the bottom part of the case. Furthermore, foundation legs are provided at the lower ends of the plurality of supports for fixing such, so that they extend towards the inner side of the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroki Ishihara, Hiromune Matsuoka, Toshiaki Mukaidani, Tadashi Sao
  • Publication number: 20100171016
    Abstract: Systems are presented for the installation of a cross member (32) on a roofing surface (12). In this regard, the systems generally provide for a low-profile cross member assembly (30) for securement to a standing seam (20) on a roofing surface (12). The cross member assembly (30) includes a mounting device (34) that is attachable to a standing seam (20) of a roofing surface (12) and a detachably mounted adapter (36) having a flat first adapter section (60) that may parallel the roofing surface (12). A second adapter section (62) forms a cross member-receiving aperture (74) with a closed perimeter to accommodate the cross member (32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Robert M.M. Haddock
  • Patent number: 7686268
    Abstract: A structure fixing apparatus for attaching a structure on roof tiles, for example, the structure being a solar cell apparatus, includes a support device for supporting attachment hardware which is a part of a base for fixing a solar cell module, a fixing member formed to reach a sheathing through the support device and a roof tile, and a tubular portion formed to surround the fixing member and to be inserted in a through hole formed in the roof tile. The tubular portion is formed to be smaller in size than the through hole formed in the roof tile and to be in non-contact with the through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Miho Terunuma, Yoshihiro Aramaki, Yasushi Ohkoshi
  • Patent number: 7665248
    Abstract: A roof anchor includes a base member and a connector. The base member has an intermediate portion interconnecting a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end are proximate one another at an end opposite the intermediate portion. A first interruption is proximate the junction of the first end and the intermediate portion, and a second interruption is proximate the junction of the second end and the intermediate portion. The first and second interruptions assist in bending the first and second ends outward from one another and from the intermediate portion. The connector is operatively connected to the intermediate portion proximate an opposing end relative to the first end and the second end thereby extending outward from the first end and the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: D B Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew J. Blackford
  • Patent number: 7658356
    Abstract: A bracket is disclosed for attaching solar panels to roof structures. The bracket may comprise first, second and third planar portions, the first and third portions generally parallel to each other, and the second planar portion disposed at an oblique angle with respect to first and third portions. The first portion may have a plurality of elongated stiffening members disposed at oblique angles with respect to a longitudinal axis of the bracket. Gussets may be provided across the transition between the first and second portions, and the transition between the second and third portions. The gussets and stiffening members are shaped, sized and oriented to enhance the strength of the bracket. The bracket may have a drain hole to allow water to pass through the bracket, and a plurality of fastener holes are provided to enable the bracket to attach to a variety of different solar panels and roof structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Unistrut International Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Olen Nehls
  • Patent number: 7651064
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a roof clamp and, more specifically, to a plastic clamp that removable secures itself between shingles to attach a holiday decoration to the roof. The present roof clamp comprises a textured, rectangular backplate that is pushed under adjacent shingles. Two prongs extend from a center portion of the backplate such that they travel between the two adjacent shingles. A rectangular front plate is hingedly attached to the back plate along their lower lengths. The two prongs travel through two corresponding apertures on the front plate to lockingly engage the roof clamp in place by means of a catch release. A narrow plastic hook extends from the lower side of the backplate. A gripping prong is hingedly attached to the hook at its terminal end. The gripping prong is capable of rotating such that it can be manipulated to reconcile with and grasp the rigid angle of the decorative element it is holding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Dyno Seasonal Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Trevor Jackson
  • Publication number: 20100012805
    Abstract: A clamp assembly is provided for securing an ancillary device (16) to a standing seam (8), the standing seam comprising a protruding web portion (10) with a head portion (12) at an outer extremity. The clamp assembly includes a substantially rigid member (18; 54) adapted to overlie and contact the head portion of the standing seam. First and second substantially rigid arms (22, 24; 58, 60) extend from the member and are adapted to embrace the head portion in co-operation with the member, at least one of the arms (24; 58, 60) being pivotally interconnected with the member at hinge means (28; 62, 64). The first and second arms have first and second free extremities (36, 38; 70, 72) adapted to face one another and to contact opposite sides of the web portion. Threaded fastener means (40, 41; 86) passes through the ancillary device and into a threaded aperture (46; 88) in the member, from an outer surface of the member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Peter Taylor
  • Publication number: 20090229213
    Abstract: A platform adapted for mounting on the roof of a garage or other building and being capable of supporting a hunter, thereby enabling such hunter to practice shooting from a level above ground level at a target at or near ground level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: Michael J. Mistelski
  • Publication number: 20090211177
    Abstract: Various novel roofing brackets and roofing systems are disclosed. A first embodiment can be considered a roofing bracket to be coupled to a vertical post and a horizontal purlin of a roofing system whereby the horizontal purlin is positioned to support roof panels at a requisite pitch. The roofing bracket includes a reference brace and a clip. The reference brace includes a first brace face positioned planarly parallel with the vertical post and a second brace face extending at an angle angle from the first brace face and positioned planarly parallel with the vertical post. The clip includes a first clip face positioned to be fastened generally flush with the horizontal purlin and a second clip face extending at an angle from the first clip face and positioned to be fastened planarly parallel with the vertical post. The second clip face is coupled to the first brace face at a pivot point such that the clip can be rotated a particular angle relative to the reference brace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Michael A. Grafton, Ernest G. Perry, JR.
  • Patent number: 7574842
    Abstract: Rectangular photovoltaic (PV) modules are mounted on a building roof by mounting stands that are distributed in rows and columns. Each stand comprises a base plate and first and second different height brackets attached to opposite ends of the base plate. Each first and second bracket comprises two module-support members. One end of each module is pivotally attached to and supported by a first module-support member of a first bracket and a second module-support member of another first bracket. At its other end each module rests on but is connected by flexible tethers to module-support members of two different second brackets. The tethers are sized to allow the modules to pivot up away from the module-support members on which they rest to a substantially horizontal position in response to wind uplift forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Schott Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: Miles C. Russell
  • Patent number: 7576704
    Abstract: A universal eave mount is shown which is capable of mounting a satellite dish antenna on a structure with a sidewall and a roof with an eave. A base bar, with an initially open interior, attaches to a base plate designed to attach to the sidewall of the structure. An elbow shaped primary dish support, including a generally cylindrical upright leg connected to a generally horizontal leg, is provided. The horizontal leg of the elbow shaped primary dish support is sized to be telescopically inserted into the base bar. A threaded anchor element anchors the elbow shaped primary dish support to the eave of the structure in order to provide a sturdy location to mount a satellite dish antenna on the elbow shaped primary dish support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas E. Woodward
  • Patent number: 7568671
    Abstract: A novel roofing bracket is disclosed wherein use of a plurality of the roofing brackets provides a generally horizontal working surface on an inclined standing seam roofing panel. The roofing bracket comprises a first and second section, each section defining a base and an upright extending from the base, and a clamping mechanism for securely and removeably fastening the first section upright and the second section upright juxtaposed to one another abutting opposite sides of the standing seam. The roofing brackets further define a retaining element for engaging and retaining a plank suitable for providing a generally horizontal working surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Mario Lallier
  • Publication number: 20090184223
    Abstract: A fixing device for fixing a photovoltaic module on a sloping roof having a roof structure and a roof covering with individual roof covering elements includes a roof-side connecting piece disposable beneath the roof covering and a module-side connecting piece disposable on an edge of the photovoltaic module. A flexible retaining element interconnects the roof-side connecting piece and the module-side connecting piece. The flexible retaining element is loadable by pulling and adapted to be guided through the roof covering without altering a position or shape of the individual roof covering elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: SOLON SE
    Inventors: Sascha Oliver Schwarze, Maik Schaefer
  • Publication number: 20090166494
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mounting system, in particular for solar modules (1), consisting of supports (2) with a closed hollow box profile (3), with connectors (4) for solar module fastening means, and connectors (5) for roof fastening means. At least the connectors (4) for the solar module fastening means are formed from longitudinal groove pairs—or longitudinal flange pairs in or on the hollow box profile (3) that are arranged at a distance from each other. The fastening means for the solar module (1) or solar modules (1) in the area of the support consist of a clamping piece with a shaped part (8), with each shaped part (8) having at least two webs (9.1, 9.2), arranged opposite each other on the shaped part (8) whereby at least one positive click connection with one of the groove pair—or flange pairs can be made by means of the ends remote from the shaped part (8), and the shaped part (8) has at least one bore hole (11) for the insertion of a fastening bolt (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: HaitCon GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Bartelt-Muszynski, Gido Genschorek
  • Publication number: 20090145691
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for repairing or installing roof coverings that comprises a support strap that is configured to be spaced away from the roof to allow install of the roofing materials. The support strap has an attachment member for securing said support strap to said roof on a first end. The support strap has a platform mount configured to receive a horizontal support member at a second end. A contact member rests against a finished portion of said roof beneath the second end of said support strap to support the weight of workers without damaging previously finished work.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: John R. Burgart
  • Publication number: 20090134297
    Abstract: A mounting support for mounting photovoltaic modules constructed with at least one glass pane on a flat roof surface includes a flexible elongated strip having a bottom side with a substantially smooth surface for attachment to the roof surface and a top side with a substantially smooth surface for supporting the photovoltaic modules. The top side of the strip includes recesses oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the strip and separating strip segments which allows the mounting support or strip to be easily rolled up. The strip segments include integrally formed fastening members configured to engage with cooperating fasteners for securing the photovoltaic modules on top side of the strip. The top surface may also include longitudinal grooves or tubes holding the fastening members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: Blitzstrom GmbH
    Inventor: BERNHARD BECK
  • Publication number: 20090032661
    Abstract: An assembly for attaching a securing line to a roof structure beam covered with a panel has a bracket, an attachment member, and a fastener. The attachment member has a hook on the second end thereof which is inserted through a panel aperture in the panel and hooked around the beam supporting the panel in abutment therewith. The first end of the attachment member extends outwardly through the panel aperture when the hook is hooked around the beam in abutment therewith and is extended through a member aperture of the bracket. The fastener is then fastened to the first end of the attachment member in abutment with the bracket and with the bracket abutting the panel, thus securely attaching the bracket to the panel and beam. The secure line, connected to the bracket, is thus secured to the panel. An optional reinforcing block is used for attaching the assembly to corrugated roof panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Luc Letourneau
  • Publication number: 20090019796
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show a low profile mounting system that includes a at least one rail. A plurality of tracks is formed in the rail with opposing jaws. The opposing jaws define a slot. The opposing jaws are disposed in the rail asymmetrically to the longitudinal axis of the rail. At least one ledge monolithically extends from the rail for holding an object such as a solar panel. A coupler is provided for demountably connecting a solar panel to the rail. A cleat also is provided for attaching the system to a surface. A connector connects the rail to the cleat. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: UNIRAC, INC.
    Inventor: John E. LIEBENDORFER
  • Patent number: 7469773
    Abstract: An assistant ceiling device designed to shield an escape hatch installed to a ceiling of an elevator cab is provided. The assistant ceiling device includes two elongated rail guides and a rectangular assistant ceiling plate. Each guide is installed at either side of the emergency escape hatch and has a length longer than that of the emergency escape hatch and shorter than that of the ceiling of the elevator cab. The assistant ceiling plate is laid on the rail guides to shield the emergency escape hatch. Each guide has a latching jaw so as to allow the assistant ceiling plate to be installed to the rail guides by laying both sides of the ceiling plate on the latching jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Ii Shik Yoon
  • Publication number: 20080302934
    Abstract: A base element for assembly of a roofing bracket comprises a fastening means for temporarily or attaching the base element to a metal or non-metal roof and an upper surface. The upper surface comprises a means for engagement of an underside of an upper member of the roofing bracket. The upper member can be selectively attached to the base element in a first or second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventors: Robin Nelson, Jiri Krupka, Han Yao
  • Patent number: 7435897
    Abstract: Rectangular PV modules (6) are mounted on a building roof (4) by mounting stands that are distributed in rows and columns. Each stand comprises a base plate (10) that rests on the building roof (4) and first and second brackets (12, 14) of different height attached to opposite ends of the base plate (10). Each bracket (12, 14) has dual members for supporting two different PV modules (6), and each PV module (6) has a mounting pin (84) adjacent to each of its four corners. Each module (6) is supported by attachment of two of its mounting pins (84) to different first brackets (12), whereby the modules (6) and their supporting stands are able to resist uplift forces resulting from high velocity winds without the base plates (10) being physically attached to the supporting roof structure (4). Preferably the second brackets (14) have a telescoping construction that permits their effective height to vary from less than to substantially the same as that of the first brackets (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Schott Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: Miles Clayton Russell
  • Patent number: 7410140
    Abstract: An industrial hanger assembly for attaching to a truss. The industrial hanger assembly includes a first member, a portion of which is operable to fit within a gap between the inner surface of a first angle iron and the inner surface of a second angle iron. The first member can contact the upper surface(s) of the first angle iron and/or the second angle iron. The first member can contact an outer surface(s) of the first angle iron and/or the second angle iron. The industrial hanger assembly also includes a second member that is coupled (directly or indirectly) to the first member. The first member can contact a lower surface(s) of the first angle iron and/or the second angle iron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Sam K. Hartwick
  • Patent number: 7367697
    Abstract: At least some of the illustrative embodiments are decorative light support device comprising a bulb retention portion having an aperture and an affixation portion coupled to the bulb retention portion. The affixation portion comprises a first straddle member and a second straddle member. The first and second straddle members are configured to straddle an overhang portion of a roofing material and to at least partially affix the decorative light support device to the roofing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Brent George