Abstract: A machine for assembling rebar cages includes a support frame, axial rollers mounted to the support frame for rotatably supporting a cylindrical wire cage for axial rotation about an axis of elongation, a carriage movably mounted to the support frame for translation, with the carriage adapted for driving an elongate rebar rod in a first axial direction. A drive mechanism is mounted to the support frame for driving the carriage in translation back and forth between a retracted position and an extended position for driving rebar rods into the rebar cages for assembly.

Abstract: A reinforcing bar with improved adherence for reinforced concrete component, consists of a metal profile section (1) in the form of a flattened strip of rectangular cross section with two opposite wide faces (10, 10?) on which longitudinally separated projecting anchoring portions are formed.

Abstract: A solar panel mounting system includes a plurality of solar panel support structures which can be formed from solid concrete in adjacent rows with mounting surfaces that are tilted towards the equator. The solar panels can have an adhesive backing which can be used to secure the solar panels directly to the mounting surfaces. The support structures can be made of concrete and formed with a slip form machine. This construction can reduce the time and materials required for the solar panel installation. The solar panel mounting system can also occupy significantly less ground space than conventional solar panel installations.

Abstract: Concrete reinforcing members having rolled cross sections, and methods for manufacturing and using such reinforcing members in concrete construction are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a concrete reinforcing member is formed from a piece of metal having a first elongate edge portion spaced apart from a second elongate edge portion. The piece of metal further includes an inner surface portion extending between the first and second edge portions, and an outer surface portion extending between the first and second edge portions. In this embodiment, the piece of metal is rolled about a longitudinal axis in an overlapping fashion into coiled or spiral cross-sectional shape.

Abstract: A structural reinforcement device for insertion into a cavity of a structure and method for making the same including a first reinforcement section that has at least one projection of a first expandable polymeric material secured to it; and a separate second reinforcement section mated with the first reinforcement section, the second reinforcement section being configured to include at least one cavity, into which the at least one projection penetrates upon mating, and at least one aperture defined therein through which the expandable material flows during expansion and where it will remain upon curing of the material, thereby causing the first reinforcement section to be coupled with the second reinforcement section.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a facade panel for the outer lining of a building in which tiling forming the outer surface of the panel is formed on the surface of the back panel meant to be the background of the facade panel. Tiling is attached to the back panel and the seams between the tiles are seamed with the help of a seam mass. A bottom panel on top of which a tile controller is set to adjust the locations of the tiles positioned upside down. The back panel is pressed on top of the tiles whereupon attachment spikes attached to the back panel penetrate the seams between the tiles. The tile seams are filled with a jagged rough mass and then filled with a hardening seam mass and attachment spikes attached to the back panel penetrate into the seam mass.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to tie components that allow for the length of an overall tie assembly to be adjustable, after being anchored in place. Such tie components may exhibit a swiveling capability where a portion thereof may rotate with respect to a corresponding adjustment member, resulting in movement of the tie component and adjustment member back and forth relative to one another, as desired. One or more tie components of a tie assembly may be anchored (e.g., to a wall), yet the overall length, or tension, of the tie assembly may be adjusted. A tie component may include a first portion having an anchor end that may be fixed to a wall, and a swivel end located opposite thereof The tie component may also include a second portion having an adjustment end that may engage with an appropriate adjustment member, and a swivel end located opposite thereof. The respective swivel ends of the first and second portions of the tie component may be rotatably coupled.

Abstract: A fall-arrest anchor comprising a single, elongated member having a breaking strength more than 5,000 lb (22.5 kN). The single, elongated member comprises a first anchor portion sized and configured for attachment to a building and a second worker-attachment portion sized and configured for attachment to a worker's lifeline. The first anchor portion is at least about twice as long as the second worker-attachment portion, and the first anchor portion and the second worker-attachment portion are joined at an angle such that subjecting the fall-arrest anchor to a fall-arrest stress load visibly deforms the fall-arrest anchor and visibly changes the angle.

Abstract: A composite member provides support to a structure. A wooden core of the composite member has a perimeter and a length. The wooden core provides support to the structure. A metal jacket is tightly wrapped to an optimum circumferential pre-stress around the entire perimeter of the wooden core of the composite member and spans the entire length. The metal jacket provides also support to the structure. Furthermore, the interaction between the wooden core and the metal jacket provide a combination of strength that surpasses the sum of individual strengths.

Abstract: Embodiments include but are not limited to apparatuses and systems for post-tension strand repair. A post-tension strand repair apparatus may include two or more guiding legs, each guiding leg including a strand guide configured to engage a strand end, wherein the two or more guiding legs are coupled to allow the strand guides to be drawn toward each other and thus urge the strand ends toward each other. Other embodiments may be described.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of enhancing fire resistance of high-strength concrete by mixing a spalling reducer (fiber cocktail) into the concrete to control spalling and performing shear reinforcement of main steel bars using shear stiffeners based on a wire rope and spacers.

Abstract: A polymer-based composite sandwich includes a reinforced core bonded between a pair of composite facesheets. The core includes a truss formed by groups of composite pins held in place by a layer of structural foam. The pins in the groups are radially arranged around nodes. The ends of the pins are splayed and sandwiched between the foam layer and the facesheets.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a reinforced concrete beam which greatly increases the effectiveness of stirrups in contributing to shear resistance. The method for fabricating a reinforced concrete beam generally includes the steps of positioning a plurality of rebars parallel with respect to each other to form the internal reinforced frame of the beam. A plurality of stirrups may then be extended around the plurality of rebars to provide additional support. An equivalent spacing value is computed in terms of transverse spacing (sw), longitudinal spacing (sL) and effective depth (d) and efficiency is then maximized in light of practical considerations by varying the transverse spacing (sw), In a preferred embodiment, after calculating the longitudinal spacing (sL) of the stirrups and the effective depth (d) of the rebars, the stirrups are positioned within the rebars using a transverse spacing (sw) calculated by the following equation: s w = ( s L d ) 0.5 ? d .

Abstract: A rebar installation system that uses rebar drive stations to secure rebar against the inner surface of a coil for securing thereto. The system may increase the ease and speed with which the rebar can be attached while reducing the amount of manpower necessary to complete the project.

Abstract: Techniques for reinforcing concrete using rebar are disclosed. Some example embodiments may include prestressed concrete structures reinforced by twisted, threaded reinforcing bars. An example reinforcing bar for a prestressed concrete structure may include an elongated, generally cylindrical rod; an external thread disposed on the generally cylindrical rod, the external thread formed from an elongated, generally nonlinear channel wrapped about a radial surface of the generally cylindrical rod in a generally helical fashion. A base portion of the nonlinear channel may be disposed substantially against the radial surface of the generally cylindrical rod and/or an upstanding portion of the nonlinear channel may extend generally orthogonally from the radial surface of the generally cylindrical rod.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device for anchoring the ends of tension members made of fiber-reinforced plastic flat strip lamellas on reinforced concrete beams that have a connecting piece and a flange with a horizontal flange lower face, two flange lateral faces, and two upper faces that run from the flange lateral faces to the connecting piece. A base plate can be positioned on the flange lower face in a horizontal manner, and at least one lateral part can be positioned along at least one flange lateral face in a vertical manner.

Abstract: Concrete reinforcing members having rolled cross sections, and methods for manufacturing and using such reinforcing members in concrete construction are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a concrete reinforcing member is formed from a piece of metal having a first elongate edge portion spaced apart from a second elongate edge portion. The piece of metal further includes an inner surface portion extending between the first and second edge portions, and an outer surface portion extending between the first and second edge portions. In this embodiment, the piece of metal is rolled about a longitudinal axis in an overlapping fashion into coiled or spiral cross-sectional shape.

Abstract: A method for providing a natural stucco appearance for a steel structural panel comprises providing a steel sheet and coating the exterior surface with a low gloss protective coating, and then embossing the exterior surface with a low relief pattern. The steel sheet is then embossed with a second, higher relief pattern under high pressure. The double embossment together with the low gloss coating achieves a natural stucco appearance.

Abstract: Insulated panels and methods of forming insulated panels are provided. According to the method, mold bulkhead and a sealing strip including a first anchor extension, a second anchor extension, and a panel cap are provided. The method also includes removably attaching the exterior face of the sealing strip to the interior mold surface on at least one of the plurality of mold sides, wherein the first anchor extension and the second anchor extension project into the interior mold volume, and wherein the sealing strip defines a sealed insulation zone. A curable building material is introduced into the interior mold volume to form a first slab. The first slab at least partially surrounds the first anchor extension. The method also includes inserting an insulation material layer into the interior mold volume, wherein the insulation material layer is at least partially within the sealed insulation zone.

Abstract: The invention comprises connector for a pair of opposed spaced concrete forming panels. The connector comprises an elongate spacer member having flanges formed thereon intermediate a central portion thereof and each opposite end thereof. A portion of at least one end of the spacer member is sized and shaped to selectively engage an elongate panel bracing member. A composite insulated concrete form and a method of using the insulated concrete form are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for constructing prefabricated foam panels is provided. While making a longitudinal pass over a foam block, the apparatus flattens the foam block, cuts longitudinal kerfs in the foam block, and draws metal studs into the kerfs. The apparatus comprises a unique, heated blade having a shape similar to the cross section of a metal stud. The blade kerfs foam blocks, including blocks made of recycled or low-grade foam. The associated method includes kerfing the foam blocks by passing the blade through the foam blocks and drawing metal studs into the kerfs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing a core structure. Firstly, a first core structure and a second core structure are fastened. The first core structure and the second core structure are positioned at a defined distance. A reinforcement element is introduced into a cavity between the first core structure layer and the second core structure layer. The reinforcement element, the first core structure layer, and the second core structure layer form a self-supporting core structure.

Abstract: A method of producing a light steel structural member includes the steps of: forming surface treatment in a piece of sheet material; forming a plurality of embosses in the sheet material; and shaping the sheet material into a predetermined shape to form a light steel structural member. A light steel structural member includes a web portion, and a pair of flange portions. The web portion has a web face. The pair of flange portions each extend generally orthogonally from each side of the web portion. Each flange portion is in a plane that is generally parallel to the plane of the other flange portion. Each of the flange portions has a flange face. At least one of the web face and the flange face has a plurality of embosses formed therein; and at least one of the web face and the flange face has a surface treatment formed therein.

Abstract: The invention relates to a formwork ribbed metal profile member assisting in the construction of metal/concrete flooring, including longitudinal edges (2, 3) defining upper (4) and lower (5) areas connected by webs (6) and comprising recessed deformations, characterized in that at least a portion of each web comprises a recessed deformation (60) defined by a continuous line which extends parallel to the longitudinal direction of the profile member, and the length of which is greater than that of said portion of the web in said longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A plurality of framework supporting decorative panels. The framework is interconnected collectively so as to form a modular, ornamental, closed plane structure.

Abstract: “METHOD FOR BANK EQUIPMENT REINFORCEMENT AND FIXATION THROUGH AN ANCHORAGE BASE”, which is intended for the reinforcement and clamping of ATMS and “Cash Dispensers” type equipment, being characterized by envisioning the installation of jackets (1) in the said equipment, being that the said jackets (1) are protective plates installed in the safes, being basically composed by a box (2) made of Metal plate, having material layers in its internal part having the objective to provide resistance against burglary, being the first layer of material contained in the box (2) forming the jacket (1) a chemical compound (3) providing resistance against the effects of a blow torch while the second layer is preferably produced with concrete (4), providing mechanical strength to the parts; the chemical protection which constitutes the layer (3) is, essentially, a flammable compound, preferably containing bitumen, pitch and sulfur at duly specified layer amounts and thicknesses; in its turn, layer (4), which constitutes the m

Abstract: A method for reinforcing a metal tubular structure (1) including the following steps: introducing inside the metal tubular structure (1), a plurality of substantially linear elements (4) having a tensile strength higher than a predetermined value; and injecting a curable filling product inside the metal tubular structure, so that the curable filling product contacts an inner surface of the metal tubular structure (1) and coats the substantially linear elements (4) of said plurality of elements.

Abstract: A method for casting monitored pilings and a pour diverter used in connection with the method is provided. The method includes positioning a plurality of pile strands in a form, and then connecting a suspension assembly having at least one sensor to at least one of the pile strands so that the at least one sensor is located in a piling core area. A pour diverter, having a generally V-shaped configuration, is positioned over the suspension assembly. Concrete is poured into the form over the pour diverter so that a flow of the concrete into the form is split and flows down on either side of the suspension assembly until the at least one sensor is covered. The pour diverter is then removed to finish the casting. Preferably, provisions are provided on the pour diverter for holding or covering an antenna assembly during the pour, prior to it being placed into the concrete forming the piling.

Abstract: A guardrail system and method comprises utilizing at least one through-hole of a poured concrete wall of a structure to affix a stanchion to the wall inside a bay of the structure. The stanchion allows for a guardrail to be conveniently and securely positioned within the bay without damage to the structure and without covering an edge of the structure. A fastener inserts through the through-hole which is preferably a pre-existing tie-hole resulting from formation of the wall. In one optional aspect a guardrail stanchion includes a base segment having at least two slots for receiving fasteners which insert through two tie-holes of the wall, and at least one side segment having at least one adjustment port, the side segment extending generally perpendicular to the base segment. A pair of stanchions may be affixed to opposing walls within the bay, and guardrails affixed thereto and spanning across the bay.

Abstract: A lightweight floor slab comprises a meshy shuttering (1), a metal mesh (3) and cement mortars (2), wherein the meshy shuttering (1) and the metal mesh (3) are formed to a whole by filing the cement mortars (2).

Abstract: A beam shoe for attaching a (first) beam end-on to a load-bearing construction, especially to a second beam disposed in the same plane as the beam to be attached and running at right angles thereto, the beam shoe comprising an originally flat, one-piece, strip-like sheet-metal portion or blank, which is shaped to an upwardly open channel-shaped retaining member having a web-like rectangular bottom for bracing the beam to be attached on the beam shoe as well as two web-like, parallel retaining legs, the retaining member embracing, in assembled condition, an end portion of the beam to be attached at the underside and side faces thereof, the legs, which are bent over upwardly from the bottom at right angles and disposed along two opposite borders of the bottom, being provided with through holes for rod-like fasteners such as nails in particular in order to join the beam shoe to the beam to be attached, the inside spacing of the legs therefore being (at least) as large as (and if necessary somewhat larger than) t

Abstract: Embodiments of a structural stud and panel for use in building a tilt-wall building are disclosed. Devices and methods for forming structural studs and panels are also disclosed.

Abstract: A thermal energy storage system comprises a pressure vessel configured to withstand a first pressure, wherein the pressure vessel has a wall comprising an outer surface and an inner surface surrounding an interior volume of the pressure vessel. The interior volume of the pressure vessel has a first end in fluid communication with one or more compressors and one or more turbines, and a second end in fluid communication with at least one compressed air storage component. A thermal storage medium is positioned in the interior volume, and at least one reinforcement structure is affixed to the outer surface of the wall, wherein the at least one reinforcement structure configured to reinforce the wall to withstand a second pressure greater than the first pressure.

Abstract: A method for making a reinforcement device for a concrete structure includes the steps of (a) installing a plurality of parallel reinforcement rebars, and (b) embracing the reinforcement rebars with a cable unit by winding the cable unit around the reinforcement rebars. The cable unit has a plurality of wires twisted together.

Abstract: A prefabricated relief form member for use as an architectural trim feature on a structure using structural elements from connected wire assemblies such as corner aid to make a prefabricated relief form member and fastening the structural elements together such as by glue and putting a sheet of paper under the relief form member and applying plaster to form a trim.

Abstract: A method of replacing a concrete utility pole for the overhead distribution line without interrupting service is developed by adopting a pole clamp and pole crusher, whereby work stability is excellent and utility pole replacement work can be carried out quickly and effectively. The method is comprised of a process for connecting a pole clamp to the end portion of the boom of an auger crane, mounting the pole clamp onto the outer circumference of the old concrete utility pole to be replaced; mounting a pole crusher to the old utility pole below the pole clamp using a hot-line bucket truck, crushing the concrete of the old utility pole, cutting the reinforcing bars of the old utility pole, removing the lower portion of the old utility pole, erecting and installing a new utility pole, and relocating the arms and wires to the new utility pole.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a mixer-settler used in hydrometallurgical metal processes, such as liquid-liquid extraction, and to a mixer-settler structure where chemically resistant material, such as plate-like wall elements made of reinforced plastic, is used.

Abstract: A method for providing a connection between concrete parts. One of the concrete parts is provided with a number of encased, projecting reinforcing bars. The other concrete part is provided with a series of cavities in which said reinforcing bars are placed and are then fixed to the concrete part in question by being encased. The cavities are produced by encasing a body, which at least on the outside comprises a polysiloxane material, in the concrete. When a tensile force is applied to the body a considerable reduction in its cross section takes place, so that it is possible for the non-sticking body to be removed from the concrete in a simple way, after which the desired cavity remains.

Abstract: A method for making a reinforcement device for a concrete structure includes the steps of (a) installing a plurality of parallel reinforcement rebars, and (b) embracing the reinforcement rebars with a cable unit by winding the cable unit around the reinforcement rebars. The cable unit has a plurality of wires twisted together.

Abstract: A masonry anchoring system for use in commercial and residential construction is described. In one aspect, the invention includes a brick tie that interfaces the masonry veneer and interlocks with an anchor plate mounted on a structure.

Abstract: A method of welding reinforcement steel bars (rebar) and assembly of fusion-welded rebar into panel assemblies that are self-stabilizing to withstand the rigors of transport to and positioning within construction sites. The rebar welding method generates fusion welds in such a manner that the weld imparts stability and strength to the welded rebar assemblies. The rebar welds permit the assembling of larger and more varied rebar panel configurations without the need for tie wire or other coupling devices. Further, the welded panels allow positioning of large rebar configurations, insuring that the spacing of the individual bars exceeds all required tolerances. The self-stabilizing fusion rebar welding process allows a more efficient, flexible and rapid method of rebar panel construction by using assembly systems on mobilized trailers or at stationary locations.

Abstract: A metal joint for concrete slabs including means of separating the slabs and means allowing the horizontal movement of slabs relative to each other while avoiding vertical movement between the edges of the slabs, the metal joint comprising a first part incorporated in a first slab, comprising a vertical web with an upper edge and provided with a series of tenons which extend horizontally towards the exterior of the slab and a second part incorporated in a second slab comprising in its upper section a web with an upper edge and a series of mortise elements which extend towards the interior of the slab and are arranged opposite the tenons so that they can engage with each other, wherein the upper edges of the webs terminate at the top by an upper sharp edge strengthened by a cold-rolled fold so as to form a right angle on the outer side of the slab and a sharp edge with an acute angle in contact with the concrete of the slab thus forming a smooth upper surface and a sharp edge of the joint of the adjacent slabs

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a brace apparatus having a core member configured to absorb energy generated by seismic or other forces by undergoing plastic deformation. A buckling restraining assembly is included for maintaining the structural integrity of the brace after the core member has undergone plastic deformation. The buckling restraining assembly includes one or more bearings is located proximal the core member. The bearings are adapted to minimize friction between the core member and the buckling restraining apparatus. An air gap is positioned between the core member and the one or more bearings of the buckling restraining apparatus are adapted to prevent bonding of the core member and buckling restraining assembly. Projections are included in the core member of the brace apparatus to minimize movement of the middle portion of the core member relative to the buckling restraining assembly.

Abstract: A method for making a composite structural member. The composite structural member has a flange having a base wall and two side walls extending from the base wall, the base wall and side walls forming a pocket to receive a portion of a web. Each side wall of the flange is doubled with an inner wall panel and an outer wall panel joined along a fold line spaced from, and parallel to, the base wall. Fasteners are formed from each side wall adjacent the fold line, each fastener having inner and outer wall panel sections joined by a section of the fold line and extending transversely from its side wall toward the other side wall. The flange is used with the web, a portion of the web mounted in the pocket with the side walls of the flange adjacent the sides of the web and the fasteners pressed into the sides of the web to secure the flange to the web.

Abstract: An apparatus for making reinforcing cages, the apparatus having: a frame; a former adapted to receive a plurality of longitudinally extending reinforcing rods; a bed attached to the frame, wherein the former rests on and is able to rotate relative to the bed; a drive for rotating the former; a loading module located adjacent to the former; a shuttle mounted on the loading module for longitudinal reciprocal movement towards and away from the former, wherein the shuttle feeds reinforcing rods into the former by moving towards the former, and withdraws the reinforcing rods from the former by moving away from the former as a reinforcing band is positioned around the reinforcing bars; and a rotatable cage holder adapted to hold a reinforcing cage during construction of the reinforcing cage, the cage holder being adapted to substantially prevent twisting of the reinforcing rods which form part of the reinforcing cage.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for the continuous manufacture of structural members, in which two parallel, flat wire mesh mats comprising longitudinal and transverse wires intersecting with each other and welded together at the points of intersection are advanced on a production line and between the wire mesh mats is introduced an insulating body, whereupon the straight link wires are passed through the insulating body and with their ends welded to the wire mesh mats, so that the latter are held a predetermined distance apart, wherein first an endless, coherent web of insulating material is produced from individual insulating panels and advanced and then the insulating body is cut off this web of insulating material in a selectable length.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for the continuous coating and fabrication of spiraled steel rebar product for concrete structures. Specifically, methods and systems are provided by which linear uncoated rebar is supplied to a polymeric (preferably, epoxy) powder-coating unit whereby a substantially uniform coating layer of a polymeric material is applied onto the uncoated rebar to form a linear coated rebar; and thereafter the linear coated rebar is bent into a spiraled steel rebar product. The bending unit employed to bend the linear coated rebar includes a series of bending wheels having separated upstream and downstream bending wheels and a central bending wheel which is disposed between and below these upstream and downstream bending wheels. By bringing the linear coated rebar into contact with the series of bending wheels, the rebar may be bent gently into spiraled steel rebar product without damage to the polymeric surface coating.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the industrial manufacture of a formwork panel in a continuous manner. In this process, a corrugated reinforcing metal core is manufactured in the form of a continuous metal core band. The metal core band is supplied onto a main conveyor. Simultaneously, a mixture of components that react with each other to make an insulating foam, is prepared and continuously injected at the inlet of the main conveyor. The foam that is being formed and expands along the main conveyor, is compressed so as to form to a continuous main body band having a given height and given thickness. This continuous main body band incorporating the continuous metal core band. Last of all, the continuous main body band and the continuous metal core band incorporated therein are cut at the outlet of the main conveyor to obtain the requested panels.

Abstract: An apparatus for making reinforcing cages, the apparatus having: a frame; a former adapted to receive a plurality of longitudinally extending reinforcing rods; a bed attached to the frame, wherein the former rests on and is able to rotate relative to the bed; a drive for rotating the former; a loading module located adjacent to the former; a shuttle mounted on the loading module for longitudinal reciprocal movement towards and away from the former, wherein the shuttle feeds reinforcing rods into the former by moving towards the former, and withdraws the reinforcing rods from the former by moving away from the former as a reinforcing band is positioned around the reinforcing bars; and a rotatable cage holder adapted to hold a reinforcing cage during construction of the reinforcing cage, the cage holder being adapted to substantially prevent twisting of the reinforcing rods which form part of the reinforcing cage.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for the continuous coating and fabrication of spiraled steel rebar product for concrete structures. Specifically, methods and systems are provided by which linear uncoated rebar is supplied to a polymeric (preferably, epoxy) powder-coating unit whereby a substantially uniform coating layer of a polymeric material is applied onto the uncoated rebar to form a linear coated rebar; and thereafter the linear coated rebar is bent into a spiraled steel rebar product. The bending unit employed to bend the linear coated rebar includes a series of bending wheels having separated upstream and downstream bending wheels and a central bending wheel which is disposed between and below these upstream and downstream bending wheels. By bringing the linear coated rebar into contact with the series of bending wheels, the rebar may be bent gently into spiraled steel rebar product without damage to the polymeric surface coating.