Unilateral Of Plane Patents (Class 403/172)
  • Patent number: 5165214
    Abstract: A space frame of double-layer flat grid type, in which the upper grid is skewed or angularly displaced by 45.degree. relative to the lower grid, has pairs of oblique struts (16) connecting the lower grid nodes (14) to the upper grid nodes (15). At a lower grid node (14) where two chords (10, 11) are superimposed, one pair of oblique struts (16) in a vertical plane through one chord (10) has a common terminal (17) between the two chords (10 and 11). A bolt (22) through the terminals (17) and the chords (10 and 11) secures the parts together. At the nodes (15) of the upper grid, the terminals (19) of the struts (16) are interposed between the superimposed upper grid chords (12 and 13) and secured by bolts (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Assignee: Harley Systems Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Edwin T. Codd
  • Patent number: 5154033
    Abstract: A pivotal frame connector or pivotal coupler for pivotally attaching two adjacent display structures wherein each of the display structures includes a skeletal frame formed of a network of elongate support rods joined by hub assemblies which provide for articulation of the support rods. The pivotal frame connector includes ends identical in structure to the ends of the support rods to engage those hub assemblies disposed on the periphery of the display frames. These peripheral hub assemblies have empty unused sockets to which the pivotal frame connector is readily attached. The pivotal frame connector is U-shaped and substantially shorter in length than each of the support rods to remain out of sight and out of the way when the display frame is covered by a skin-like aesthetic covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Sorenson, Philip C. Gerberding
  • Patent number: 5116160
    Abstract: A connector including a rectangular block for attachment to the side of a first frame member, with wings preferably fit into slots within the block and extending laterally from the block, edges of the wings provided an interference fit within hollow frame members to connect the hollow frame members to the first frame member. The wings preferably have cross pieces slotted over their ends so that four edges provide the interference fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Inventors: Juri Pold, Ilmar Pold
  • Patent number: 5115828
    Abstract: A frame structure which possesses portable readily assembled and disassembled standardized components for erection of a semi-permanent tent structure in a generally rectangular form and provided with at least one pair of opposing hip roof sections. The vertical legs, horizontal beams and the conventional cross and hip rafters are removably connected by hook-like ends mounted in open bracket receptors. The primary rafters are removably fixed via a tongue telescoped within a hollow end socket of the rafters to provide extra stability and strength. The components are standardized to allow use of the same components with or without extension members to erect frame structures having variable dimensions. At least one crown connector is included to conveniently removably connect the rafters to a common crown and adapted for use with at least two different hip roof designs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Shaffer Tent & Awning Co.
    Inventor: Stephen E. Spaulding
  • Patent number: 5114300
    Abstract: A robotic structure having a low mass, capable of providing seven degrees of freedom, and movable in a hemispherical workspace. The robotic structure includes several platforms connected by actuatable longitudinal members and movable joints made of intersecting or interwoven wire members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Wovenwire Corporation
    Inventors: Mohsen Shahinpoor, Bradford L. Smith
  • Patent number: 5108025
    Abstract: A ceramic-metal article including a ceramic rod, a metal rod, and a braze joining the ceramic and metal rods at a braze area of a coaxial bore in the metal rod. The bore gradually decreases in diameter, having an inward seat area sized for close sliding fit about the ceramic, a larger brazing area near the joint end, and a void area intermediate the braze and seat areas. The ceramic is seated without brazing in the bore seat area. The side wall between the brazing area and the metal outer surface is about 0.030-0.080 inch. The braze includes an inner braze layer, an outer braze layer, and an interlayer about 0.030-0.090 inch thick. A shoulder between the brazing and void areas supports the interlayer during bonding while preventing bonding between the void area and the ceramic member, leaving a void space between the void area and the ceramic member. A venting orifice extends generally radially through the metal member from the outer surface to the void space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: GTE Laboratories Incorporated
    Inventors: Shinhoo Kang, John H. Selverian, Hans J. Kim, Edmund M. Dunn, Kyung S. Kim
  • Patent number: 5066161
    Abstract: A frame structure for an electronic or electrical cabinet is disclosed including structural members which comprise a substantially closed square shaped tube wherein two walls of the tube substantially adjacently meet but turn outwardly into two flanges. The structural members may be attached together to form corner structures for a frame by either welding or modular means. In a modular arrangement, a block-shaped corner member having block-shaped protrusions is used to hold three structural members in a rigid corner arrangement. In a welded arrangement, three structural members are intersectingly connected with the flanges formed to mutually abut such that welding the flanges of one structural member to one of the flanges of each of the other structural members is all that is necessary to hold the three structural members in a rigid corner arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Inventor: Richard C. Pinney
  • Patent number: 5051019
    Abstract: A space frame node and connector assembly is provided in which the node is provided with a series of sockets each of which is formed into an inner and outer part, the inner part being screw-threaded for receiving a screw-threaded spigot portion of a connector and the outer part being of enlarged shape for co-operation with an enlarged spigot portion axially adjacent the screw-threaded spigot portion. Preferably the enlarged portion of the socket and co-operating enlarged portion of the spigot are of truncated conical shape such that the connector is firmly urged into the tapering enlarged socket formation when the screw-threaded spigot and socket are interengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Inventor: Rainer A. Kohl
  • Patent number: 5044137
    Abstract: In a structure and method for joining post and beams, the post has a joint projected at the end. The joint is of a square cross section and is axially shifted 45 degrees. A vertical groove is provided along the diagonal line of the joint. End portions of the beams have grooves deep in the longitudinal direction thereof, and strips having a plurality of holes arranged on a straight line from one end to the other are securely inserted in the grooves of the beams. The beams are arranged end to end with the joint in-between so that the strips are inserted through the groove of the joint and entered in the grooves of the opposite beams, and the beams and the post are securely connected via pins driven through the holes of the strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Inventors: Terada Shigeru, Shu Terada
  • Patent number: 5033901
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fastening system for angle plates which include support arms to provide a more precise and reliable connection and attachment between the angle plates comprising an inner support member having two side walls defining an angle of about 90 degrees therebetween and two upper surfaces defining an angle with the side walls, each having an opening or bore cut therethrough; an outer support member having two side walls defining an angle of about 90 degrees therebetween, the inner support member and the outer support member having a threaded bore centrally cut therethrough; each angle plate having side walls and upper surfaces to position its support arms, each of the upper surfaces having an opening or bore cut therethrough to cooperate with the bores in the upper surfaces and with the support arms to firmly maintain the support arms in a stable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: Sebastiao F. Dias
  • Patent number: 5011323
    Abstract: An angle coupling structure for knockdown cabinets includes an angle coupling, a plurality of connectible sections, and a plurality of securing rods. Within each connectible section, an elongate channel is formed to receive a connecting rod projecting from the angle coupling. An elongated recess is formed generally below the elongated channel to receive one of the securing rods for permitting the rod to slidably move therein. An elongated slot is formed in a wall between the channel and the recess. A screw can be inserted through a hole preformed in the securing rod and past through the elongated slot to screw into a hole formed on the connecting rod, due to the adjustable position of the securing rod. The connectible sections, angle coupling, and securing rods are thus joined together tightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Chih C. Liuo
  • Patent number: 4984407
    Abstract: A framework has bearing members, each of which consists substantially of a wire spiral, which is stayed by means of a plurality of stiffening wires, which extend in the longitudinal or pitch direction of the spiral and are arranged around its circumference and which are securely fastened to it at mutual contact points. At each end, the bearing members are closed by an end ring. Joint elements serve to connect the ends of two or more bearing members to one another. The joint elements have the shape of a regular polyhedron and consist of several wire rings which are arranged on the delimiting surfaces of the polyhedron, which contact each other pair-wise on the edges of the polyhedron, and which are securely joined with each other at mutual contact points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Assignee: Kurt Ziehmer
    Inventor: Kurt Ziehmer
  • Patent number: 4954007
    Abstract: A frame structure for an electronic or electrical cabinet is disclosed including structural members which comprise a substantially closed square shaped tube wherein two walls of the tube substantially adjacently meet but turn outwardly into two flanges. The structural members may be attached together to form corner structures for a frame by either welding or modular means. In a modular arrangement, a block-shaped corner member having block-shaped protrusions is used to hold three structural members in a rigid corner arrangement. In a welded arrangement, three structural members are intersectingly connected with the flanges formed to mutually abut such that welding the flanges of one structural member to one of the flanges of each of the other structural members is all that is necessary to hold the three structural members in a rigid corner arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Inventor: Richard C. Pinney
  • Patent number: 4951440
    Abstract: A construction set for the erection of support structures comprises supporting rods and at least one connecting joint containing a plurality of mutually parallel chambers. Cylindrical beads are formed on the ends of supporting rods. Those beads are inserted into the cylindrical chambers of the connecting joint. The chambers are dimensioned to form a clearance relative to the beads in order to facilitate the insertion of the beads into the chambers. The beads are formed by a rolling-in of the free ends of the supporting rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Assignee: Octanorm-Vertriebs-GmbH fur Bauelemente
    Inventor: Johannes E. O. Staeger
  • Patent number: 4941499
    Abstract: A tenting structure with two angularly related sidewalls forming a roof and having at least one collapsible frame for externally supporting each of the sidewalls and where the frame includes a hub radially carrying a plurality of flexible struts whose distal ends are secured in external pockets positioned around the edges of each of the sidewalls and where the frame is sized and dimensioned in respect to the sidewalls that the frame members take on a compression induced dish shaped outward bow. The hub includes a plurality of pivotal strut mounting sockets which rotate about their pivotal axis to a discrete splayed position and to a definitive stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Assignee: T. A. Pelsue Company
    Inventors: Bradley A. Pelsue, Mark R. Niksic
  • Patent number: 4932808
    Abstract: An assembly of prefabricated structural components for lattices or trusses includes a plurality of rod-like, load-bearing elements, a plurality of joining elements for joining the rod-like elements to one another, a plurality of connecting elements for connecting the rod-like elements to the joining elements, and a plurality of clamping elements for clamping the connecting elements and associated rod-like elements to the joining elements. Each joining element has a spherical peripheral surface provided with first and second T-grooves disposed at opposite ends of a predetermined diameter of the surface and at least one additional T-groove extending circumferentially of the surface in a plane normal to the predetermined diameter. The connecting elements resemble T-bolts and one connecting element is receivable in each first and second groove while several connecting elements are receivable in each additional groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignees: Kanya AG, Ludemann & Co.
    Inventors: Walter Bar, Georg Rohles
  • Patent number: 4930930
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connective apparatus between a truss beam and another object, e.g., a second truss beam or another device, for rigidly joining the two together. The connective apparatus comprises a unitary attachment device which is connected to one of the frame elements in a truss beam. The device includes a rabbet member capable of attachment to a pair of struts of the frame element and a connector member attached to the rabbet member. A connector strut is provided for joining two or more truss beams to each other by interconnecting two nodes of the respective beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Anthony P. Coppa
  • Patent number: 4928470
    Abstract: An assembly piece for connecting metallic carpentry sections includes an angle piece having two parallel quadrants and an arced middle portion. A flat angle bar defined by two perpendicular portions is attached between the quadrants. A respective perpendicular portion extends from between the quadrants parallel to a respective side of the quadrants. Each perpendicular portion has two radially directed arms separated by a radial space opening away from the other perpendicular portion. With this construction, the two arms of each perpendicular portion are received in suitably provided radial runners of the carpentry section. Each arm also includes an aperture therein so that a screw passing through the carpentry section is received therein to hold the carpentry section to the angled piece. A flat bar extending perpendicular from one quadrant and having an aperture therein is also preferably provided in order to attach another carpentry section to the angled piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Inventor: Maria I. Perez
  • Patent number: 4929114
    Abstract: A tubing connector enables an attachment tube to be selectively and removably connected to the side of a base tube. A tubular support member is affixed to the base tube and projects therefrom. A clip is mounted to one wall of the support member, and has an aperture therethrough which is threaded to receive a set screw. A slot in the wall of the support member allows the set screw to pass therethrough. The set screw is of a length which will extend across the interior of the support member so as to contact the opposite wall when rotated in a clockwise fashion. The attachment tube is connected to the support member by sliding the attachment tube thereover. The attachment tube has an aperture aligned with the set screw to allow access thereto. Clockwise rotation of the set screw will expand the support member by pushing outwardly on the wall with the clip on it and the wall opposing the clip, thereby causing frictional contact with the attachment tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Inventor: Errol D. Young
  • Patent number: 4890952
    Abstract: A sawbuck is constructed of short lengths of lumber, and comprises a horizontal rail member disposed between and interconnecting a pair of end supports. The end supports are made up of metal brackets, which provide angularly disposed sockets for arms and legs and an additional socket for an end of the rail member. The brackets are fabricated from sheet metal, preferably joined by rivets or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Richard G. Jones
  • Patent number: 4889322
    Abstract: A bracing system is disclosed which is particularly suitable for providing line and end corner bracing for "T-post" fence construction. The bracing system comprises slidable collars which are positioned over the posts and located vertically between the lugs at a desired location. A wedging arrangement is used to secure the collar between adjacent lugs on the posts, and the collar has provisions for accepting accessories to permit a rigid cross-brace, typically also another "T-post", to be inserted therebetween for providing rigid cross-bracing between adjacent "T-posts" of the fence. Accessories also are disclosed to adapt the posts for uses other than fences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Assignee: Product Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Wagner
  • Patent number: 4885883
    Abstract: Corner joiner units for connecting standard two-by-four lumber and the manner of making structures from these is depicted. The corner units are of plastic and have two horizontal sleeves for receiving horizontal two-by-fours and at least one vertical sleeve for receiving the butt end of a vertical two-by-four. The plastic unit includes internal walls and internal openings between the sleeves, so that each two-by-four received in the horizontal sleeves is in direct wood-to-wood contact with approximately half of the butt surface of the vertical two-by-four, so as to directly transfer vertical forces there between, without the joiner unit being subject to such vertical forces. Several variations of such joiner units are disclosed for different types of corners, as is a framework made from such members and two-by-fours.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Inventor: Robert L. Wright
  • Patent number: 4844649
    Abstract: A bracket assembly for interconnecting support struts of the framework of a domical structure such as a geodesic dome. The bracket assembly includes a central annular hub member and a bracket member for interconnecting each of a plurality of circumferentially arranged and radially extending struts to the hub member. The outer end of each bracket member includes a pair of spaced apart side members which straddle the strut and are mounted to the strut by a pair of bolts. The inner end of each bracket member includes a pair of axially spaced apart triangularly shaped bosses located on opposite ends of the hub which are mounted to the hub by a bolt extending through both bosses at a location spaced radially inwardly of the hub member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Inventor: James J. Vandenboom
  • Patent number: 4815727
    Abstract: An indoor jungle gym assembly comprises a plurality of paper pipes having a multi-wound cylindrical body formed on its surface with a synthetic resin film and a plurality of joints formed of a synthetic resin comprising a hollow columnar member provided around its inner center with ribs capable of being fitted over the paper pipe and extension extending at right angles with respect to the axis of the paper pipe and being able to be fitted in the paper pipe. The plurality of joints are of the L-shaped type having two extensions subtending therebetween an angle of 90 degrees, the T-shaped type having three extensions each one of which subtends an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the other, and the cross-shaped type having four extensions each one of which subtends an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Assignee: People Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shin-ichiro Kiribuchi
  • Patent number: 4787182
    Abstract: A central hub carries a main pivotal shaft, on respective sides of which extend pivotal links, to each of which is fixed an end of a truss which trusses can be moved together and parallel when the links are in a straight line for displacement of the structure, and can be spaced and radiating when the links are disposed along a closed contour, for use of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Assignee: G. Gillard et Cie
    Inventor: Gillard Serge
  • Patent number: 4782637
    Abstract: A frame structure for the construction of a box-shaped casing, in particular for air treatment devices. The frame structure comprises straight profile members (22), on the one hand, and corner elements (50,52) with three mutually perpendicular protrusions, each being connectable to one of said profile elements, on the other hand. Each corner element consists of two parts, namely an external part (50) including the external portions (50a, 50b,50c) of said protrusions and an internal part (52) including the internal portions (52a,52b,52c) of the protrusions. Said protrusion portions together form a closed cross-section fitting internally into the likewise closed cross-section of the profile members (b 22). The profile members can be slid onto the corner element protrusions while simultaneously securing the external and internal corner element parts (50,52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1988
    Assignee: AB Bahco Ventilation
    Inventors: Arne Eriksson, Weine Hammarberg, Kurt Pettersson
  • Patent number: 4729197
    Abstract: A geodesic dome includes a strut assembly including groups of primary struts having end connectors, each of which has a first hinge loop pinned to a second hinge loop of a successive primary strut end connector so that the end connectors formed closed rigid hubs from which the primary struts outwardly extend. Interconnection of the primary struts by means of the end connectors forms a plurality of primary triangles. Each primary triangle is divided into four secondary triangles by means of three secondary struts having their ends connected to the midportions of the three primary struts forming the primary triangle. Each primary strut and each secondary strut is composed of a pair of glued-together pre-finished wooden beams, the hinge loops of the primary strut end connectors being attached to opposite sides of a plate attached between the wooden beams at each end thereof. A plurality of straps are also attached between the wooden beams and extend from the outer surfaces of the primary and secondary struts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1988
    Inventor: Alvin E. Miller
  • Patent number: 4726701
    Abstract: A modular assembly for use in forming an article of furniture or the like including a connector member for joining together three elongated members on mutually perpendicular axes. The connector member includes three pairs of flanges which are received respectively in U-shaped channels in the three elongated members with the members secured in each case to the connector member by a clamping member which clamps the flanges of the elongated member between the flanges on the connector member and flange portions on the clamping member. The portions of the connector member receiving the horizontal elongated members are recessed inwardly or rearwardly from the connector member portion receiving the vertical member so that the ends of the horizontal elongated members may pass behind the vertical member to hide the raw edges of the horizontal members. The connector member and the various fastening elements are essentially totally hidden from view in the final assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Inventor: Olivier A. Thomas
  • Patent number: 4724642
    Abstract: A body member comprising either a concrete block or molded or stamped product, includes upwardly opening recesses forming an anchor seat for building elements. The recesses may extend fully from side to side and also open out the sides so that building elements can be laid horizontally therein or fully across the body member. The recesses also include a central socket for receiving an upright pillar. Embodiments of the invention may include depending foot members. Embodiments of the inventions also include structure for fastening building elements to the body member. A further embodiment employs depending projections at outer portions thereof which frictionally fit on top of a base block and stabilize the body member against lateral movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1988
    Inventors: Paul Hoffman, Sam H. Bright
  • Patent number: 4715160
    Abstract: Rod elements with variable section, straight and discontinuous allow erection of flat and spatial structures. There are also provided flat panels with turned back edges and surface lining panels which can be associated with said flat panels as well as roofing panels which can be partially overlapped. Angle elements with L-section allow joining of several structures in miter, T and cross joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1987
    Inventor: Luciano Romanelli
  • Patent number: 4703594
    Abstract: Building construction using pentagonal and hexagonal concavo-convex components joined by connectors into which the rod ends of the building components are inset and positioned in a diverging manner. The connectors are apertured to receive fasteners which serve to temporarily attach forms to the building components in a spaced manner. A column supports an uppermost pentagonal form as well as floor joists. The forms define two sets of openings for form securement to either equilateral or isosceles triangular areas of the hexagonal and pentagonal building components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1987
    Inventor: Dwight E. Reber
  • Patent number: 4702638
    Abstract: Inexpensive, knock-down, furniture constructions, assembled with mating, molded, plastic shells for corners and elbows are disclosed for use in furniture pieces for use by children. The furniture constructions include panel members of inexpensive sheet material. Each corner connector is formed of two mating shells, that are each molded of plastic and which are shaped to provide internally thereof pairs of telescoping pins and sleeves, which frictionally hold the shells assembled after the pair of shells are pressed together. Each corner connector provides at least two socket means, each for receiving a wooden rail with a channel along its length. The panel members are positioned in and held by the channels of a pair of rails. A pin or sleeve provided on at least one of the corner connectors extends through an aperture provided in each panel member, to effect a holding of the panel member in its proper intended position relative to the plastic mating shells and to the channeled rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1987
    Assignee: American Toy & Furniture Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Jon Zalesak
  • Patent number: 4687366
    Abstract: A corner connecting arrangement for lengths of profile or similar elements which are provided with cavities and can be connected at an angle to each other, and which can be releasably connected by means of connecting devices. The invention makes it possible to connect together lengths of profile, etc. which have a cavity, at an angle to each other irrespective of the cross-section shaping of the said cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1987
    Inventor: Olof Wahlin
  • Patent number: 4673308
    Abstract: This invention relates to a folding structure and more particularly, to a novel hinge mechanism for use with a folding structure. The hinge mechanism comprises a corner joint with at least one flange extending therefrom. A pivotal support means is provided with a securing means to secure the corner joint to the support means to provide a pivotal connection thereto. The novel hinge mechanism when used with the folding structure provides a device which is simple to manufacture, easy to use and which requires no special tools or expertise to assemble or disassemble. It can be quickly and easily converted from a folded position to an unfolded position and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Assignee: Miranda Investments Limited
    Inventor: Frederick W. Reilly
  • Patent number: 4637748
    Abstract: This invention relates to an improved self-adjusting hub and strut-endcap assembly for tent frame roof and wall struts characterized by a two-part hub section sandwiched together in stacked relation to define a set of four sockets, each of which has a channel-shaped entryway which is adapted to receive the socket-forming neck projecting from the ball on the inner end of one of the strut endcaps for limited side-to-side movement therein when in extended position as well as movement between its extended position and a folded position wherein the strut connected thereto lies in nested essentially parallel relation to the other struts of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1985
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1987
    Assignee: T. A. Pelsue Company
    Inventor: Allan E. Beavers
  • Patent number: 4637805
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for engaging toothpicks to assemble a toy structure having different possible structural configurations. The toy structure is formed using toothpicks in conjunction with one or more support members, each support member including a plurality of support sleeves radiating outwardly therefrom. Each support sleeve has a conically shaped passageway therein for engaging one end of the toothpick wherein the support sleeve connects the toothpick to the support member. The toy structure is assembled by interconnecting the toothpicks with a plurality of support members. The support sleeves project outwardly in both the horizontal and vertical directions to provide support for toothpicks in the horizontal and vertical planes. The unattached end of a toothpick is "capped" with an additional support member having support sleeves thereon to act as sites for future expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1987
    Inventor: Willard L. Sweetin
  • Patent number: 4624090
    Abstract: A spherical node element body is composed of several parts (31, 32, 33) held together by a screw (3), these parts contacting each other in pairs along boundary surfaces (35, 36) lying in a plane containing the geometrical nodal point (6) and along boundary surfaces (37, 38) inclined with respect to this plane and oriented toward the nodal point (6). By indentations at these boundary surface pairs (35/36 and 37/38), open cavities (20, 21) oriented toward the geometrical nodal point (6) are formed on the outside of the body, these cavities receiving in a force-derived and/or shape-mating connection respectively one extension (23) of a framework bar end (24) adapted to such cavity (20, 21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1986
    Assignee: Paul Trohler
    Inventor: Karl H. Stienen
  • Patent number: 4622795
    Abstract: A space frame consists mainly of a number of frame members, assemblies of which have their ends co-joined at nodes, the frame members connected at nod being an assembly of chords and in many cases, a further assembly of oblique struts. At a node, the nodal end of each frame member of an assembly includes transversely stepped upper and lower parts, the upper part being superimposed on the lower part of the nodal end of the next succeeding frame member of the assembly each pair of upper and lower parts superimposed at the node being secured together, for example bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1986
    Assignee: Tulserate Limited
    Inventor: Edwin T. Codd
  • Patent number: 4621938
    Abstract: A joint between a vertically oriented hollow section column (1) and a horizontal load-carrying beam (3) in a two-story building structure such as an exhibition stand, which can be rapidly erected and dismantled, includes a straight core (2) fitted into the upper end of the column (1). The quadratic hollow section core (2) has a projecting bolt head (21) at the middle of either side surface. Each side wall of the generally quadratic hollow section column (1) has a central, axial slot (12) on its inside. On its underside the beam carries a dependent guide body, the width of which corresponds to the width of the internal column slot and is guided by this slot. The short end of the beam (3) has a vertically directed Tee slot (32,36) extending upwardly from the central area of the beam for accommodating the head and a portion of the shank of the screw on the core (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1986
    Assignee: Hennix i Stockholm AB
    Inventor: Gerth Weilow
  • Patent number: 4600232
    Abstract: A frame or rack of off-the-shelf cold rolled tubing, is erected on rear of pick-up trucks, employing novel multi-piece bracket, formed of die stamped pieces designed to define reinforced channels of the tubing in two and three dimensional array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1986
    Inventor: W. Dale Phillips
  • Patent number: 4592671
    Abstract: A connector plate for erecting structures of varied configurations. The plate comprises a main body having connections formed thereon by which the ends of six different struts can be connected together in a particular manner to form a cluster, with the number of strut ends of a cluster depending upon the selected function of the cluster respective to the building desired. The connector plate has a plane of symmetry which passes longitudinally through two of the six connections, with the two connections lying in different planes arranged at an obtuse angle respective to one another, and thereby provides attachment means by which a roof strut is connected to a vertical wall strut end. This positions the roof strut at about a fifteen degree roof pitch. There are also two right and two left strut connections lying to either side of the plane of symmetry, with the two right connections lying in the same plane and intersecting one another at a 60.degree. angle to thereby form the apex of a wall triangle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1986
    Inventor: William K. Daum
  • Patent number: 4584810
    Abstract: A metal space truss comprises two generally horizontally extending and vertically spaced lattices, an upper one composed of two intersecting groups of parallel steel T-bars having downwardly directed webs with generally vertically oriented side faces forming one or more inner corners in each node, and a lower one composed of two intersecting groups of parallel steel bars also having cross sections presenting generally vertically oriented side faces forming in each node one or more inner corners being unobstructed in a direction towards said upper lattice. The two lattices are interconnected by a plurality of struts, each of which has a generally trough-shaped cross section and extends from a first node in said upper lattice to a second node in said lower lattice in a manner to form an oblique angle with the respective planes of the two lattices and also an oblique angle to the bars thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1986
    Inventor: Arne Hill
  • Patent number: 4584801
    Abstract: A kit of contructural elements permitting the quick assembly and knockdown of a temporary building structure. The kit includes a plurality of base beams which form the base frame of the structure. The two ends of each base beam are opposingly stepped whereby adjacent base beams can form an overlap joint at each base corner. Aligned apertures are formed through the overlap joint. Beneath each step at the end of a beam there is provided an undercut, whereby at a corner the undercuts merge to provide a notched corner. An upright stud with a depending bolt is inserted into the aligned joint and projects into the notch whereby a nut can fit onto the bolt without lifting the frame. The single nut is used to interconnect a vertical stud and two adjacent horizontal beams. Upper beams are utilized at the roof level and also include stepped corners. Wall panels can be inserted into grooves formed in the various beams and studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1986
    Inventor: Edward A. Weinberger
  • Patent number: 4583330
    Abstract: A modular dome structure constructed by using uniform Y joints which have branches forming angles of 120.degree., 120.degree. and 108.degree.. The Y joints are interconnected by uniform length members to form pentagonal and hexagonal structures. These modular structures are interconnected to form a modular dome structure which may have a pentagonal apex structure or a hexagonal apex structure. All members are made to harden after inflation due to vulcanization and curing process, so that permanent resistance to stress and strain will be provided in its final form. Due to inflatability of members, the logistic involved in actual construction will be kept minimum, and the freight cost for material transportation will be saved significantly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1986
    Inventor: Yen T. Huang
  • Patent number: 4580922
    Abstract: A master fitting is disclosed adapted to be subdivided into a set of vertex fittings for use in a truss structure which comprises a plurality of frame elements. Interchangeable vertex fittings with accurately aligned surfaces, slots and holes are provided at a low cost. The vertex fittings are adapted to form the frame elements with mating struts, or to form hinge joints for interconnecting groups of frame elements. The invention permits ease of assembly and quick and easy removal and replacement of a strut in the truss structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1986
    Assignee: General Electric Co.
    Inventor: Anthony P. Coppa
  • Patent number: 4566818
    Abstract: A ledger hanger for a geodesic dome having a seat and upstanding sidewalls connected to a spline which serves as a seat back and an adaptor connected to the spline. The adapter connects to a metal hub connector in the wall of the geodesic dome. A special pin securely attaches the ledger hanger to the structural metal hub in the wall. Ledger members are placed in the seats of the ledger hanger, bolted and form a secure partial or full ring around the inside perimeter of the dome at a second floor height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1986
    Assignee: Timberline Geodesics, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor M. Schwartz, Robert G. Miller
  • Patent number: 4566245
    Abstract: A construction assembly for making a collapsible structure has a post extending along and defining an upright post axis and having one end formed with an axially centered threaded bore open in one axial direction, normally upward. A first plate fixed on the post offset in the opposite axial direction, normally downward, from the one end extends generally perpendicular to the axis and is formed with at least one vertically throughgoing cutout offset from the post axis. A frame has a first fitting formed with a projection extending in the opposite direction through the hole and formed on the side of the first plate directed in this opposite direction with a passage that is throughgoing parallel to the first plate, and a second fitting at the one post end and formed with a projection extending in the one direction. A locking member engaged through the passage bears in the one direction on the first plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1986
    Assignee: E. Ruter GmbH
    Inventor: Ewald Ruter
  • Patent number: 4552482
    Abstract: Junction for connection and assembly of truncated conical-pyramidal geometric shapes for multi-directional elements of three-dimensional structures, comprises a rigid envelope of truncated conical-pyramidal shape whose small base is continuous and whose large base is disposed on the perimeter of a polygon on the flat sides of the pyramid and on the internal or external surfaces of the envelope or on both, structural elements can be secured in known ways. The small base surrounds a hole for the passage of securement or assembly devices. A plurality of such joints can be assembled, with their small bases adjacent each other, to form a composite joint. The structure is useful for the construction of metallic three-dimensional structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Inventor: Alexis Vikroff
  • Patent number: 4551960
    Abstract: A structural system and method which utilizes a plurality of three dimensional nodal connectors and one or more struts extending between and secured to the nodal connectors. Each connector is comprised of at least three relatively flat planar plates and preferably, three pairs of relatively flat planar plates which are assembled in three mutually perpendicular planes in space. Each of these plates in each of the three pairs are substantially similar in both size and shape and are uniquely designed so that they are capable of being interfitted in the mutually perpendicular planes. Also each of the struts are substantially similar in both size and shape and may be connected to the nodal connectors at connection regions which are slightly resilient so that the struts are capable of being snap fitted between such plates of each connector and releaseably retained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Inventor: Gregg R. Fleishman
  • Patent number: 4544069
    Abstract: Modular elements for composing frame for the construction of cabinet structures and containers for electrical, electromechanical and electronic components, for internal and external use, wherein said elements form the perimetral cabinet frame defined by section bars (10, 10') and angle pieces (19, 19', 19") connected together; the angle pieces (19, 19', 19") are constituted by a corner portion (20, 20', 20") from which there extend several mutually orthogonal tube portions (21, 21', 21") of substantially quadrilateral cross-section; the section bars (10, 10') are constituted by tubular elements arranged for insertion onto said tube portions (20, 20', 20") and comprising, extending from one corner (11) thereof in mutually orthogonal directions, two flanges (12) from which there extend two further converging flanges (14) from which there extend two mutually orthogonal profiled portions (16) which can be provided with standardized holes (17) arranged for supporting electronic and electromechanical containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1985
    Inventor: Gianfranco Cavallini