Additional Rod Held By Encompassing Means Patents (Class 403/175)
  • Patent number: 11452372
    Abstract: A configurable storage and display frame includes a plurality of frame panels and a plurality of connecting joints. Each of the connecting joints include a base having a plurality of receiving slots and a securing member. The securing member includes a plurality of securing arms and a plurality of securing slots formed on the securing arms respectively. Connecting members of two of the frame panels are arranged to be securely received in the securing slots respectively, wherein the securing member is arranged to detachably attach on the base in such a manner that the securing arms are received in the receiving slots respectively so as to securely restrict a lateral movement between the securing member and the base for providing a joint of the connecting members of two of the corresponding frame panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Inventor: Frank Wei
  • Patent number: 11270049
    Abstract: A computer-aided design (CAD) system may support detection of internal channel networks for 3D printing and may include a CAD model access engine and a channel network detection engine. The CAD model access engine may access a CAD model of a physical object to be constructed through 3D printing. The channel network detection engine may detect an internal channel network included in the CAD model of the physical object, including by identifying channel openings along a surface of the CAD model that satisfy an opening size threshold and recursively identifying internal faces of the CAD model that form the internal channel network, wherein the internal faces are faces of the CAD model that are internal to the surface of the CAD model. The channel network detection engine may also perform a channel verification on the identified internal channel network to support the 3D printing of the physical object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Siemens Industry Software Inc.
    Inventors: Xueqin He, Sheng-Der Tang, Zhi Li, Chee-Keong Chong, Jingmei Wang, Yunfei Wu, Lei Yang
  • Patent number: 9828786
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tower of a wind power plant, having a lower part in the form of a lattice tower or truss tower with at least two corner bars, and an upper part in the form of a cross-sectionally substantially round tubular tower, wherein each particular corner bar is put together from a plurality of steel tube profiles that are connected together in the longitudinal direction. In order to achieve good transportability and easier assembly of the components of such a tower, the invention proposes a modular tower concept. According to the invention, each particular corner bar is in this case put together from at least three steel tube profiles which are provided with perforated flanges for holding screws, wherein the corner bars are connected together by cross struts and/or tension struts attached to the flanges, and wherein the steel tube profiles of each particular corner bar are spirally welded steel tube profiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: THYSSENKRUPP STEEL EUROPE AG
    Inventors: Adrian Paton, Mark Hirt, Lothar Patberg, Hasan Bagci, Rainer Fechte-Heinen, Stephan Drewes, Konstantinos Savvas
  • Patent number: 9027182
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a functional table for patient transportation, including: a patient supporter which supports a patient laid thereon and allows the patient to be horizontally slidably transported, with its both sides being changed in their angle with respect to a vertical axis of the patient; a support frame which is located in the central bottom of the patient supporter and allows the patient supporter to be vertically moved; a base frame which is connected to the bottom of the support frame and supports the whole of functional table; and at least three transporting wheels which are connected to the base frame and allow the functional table to be freely moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Keimyung University Industry Academic Cooperation Foundation
    Inventors: Moo Seong Cho, Jae Young Bae
  • Patent number: 8870136
    Abstract: The subject invention is a clamp that has two halves of an annular ring hingedly connected at one end and capable of being securely fastened to each other at the opposite end. The annular ring is sized to fit tightly around a vertical support post. An upper surface of the annular ring has an upper annular channel, while the lower surface of the annular ring has a lower annular channel. When the clamp is fixed to the vertical support post, a horizontal support adaptor may fit into both the upper and lower annular channels. A resilient engagement strip or button on the adaptor is placed into contact with the lower annular channel in this position and frictionally engages the lower annular channel to prevent lateral movement of the adaptor on the annular ring until such time as the adaptor may be securely attached to the annular ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Playcore Wisconsin, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Andrew Ellingboe, Daniel R. Schneider, Kerry W. Leppert
  • Patent number: 8668402
    Abstract: Pipe holders retain a first pipe and a second pipe having a connector cable extending through the second pipe. The pipe holder has a first retaining section that detachably holds and fixes the first pipe and a second retaining section that detachably holds and fixes the second pipe. A second retaining chamber is surrounded by an internal surface of the second retaining section. A guide section communicatively connects the second retaining chamber to outside of the pipe holder, wherein the first retaining section, the second retaining section and the guide section are made of metal, and the connector cable that extends through second pipe and has at least one end to be connected to an electronic musical instrument is guided through the guide section to the outside. A coupling section couples the first retaining section and the second retaining section, wherein the guide section is formed in the coupling section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Roland Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Mori
  • Patent number: 8528291
    Abstract: The present invention includes a system for connecting tubes or rods, which are preferably uni-directional pultruded, filament wound, or roll-wrapped carbon-fiber tubes or rods, together to form trusses and other structures using a series of connector pieces preferably bonded together with adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Allred & Associates Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie B. Allred, III, Michael D. Griswold, Michael J. Hall, Matthew A. Bush, Joseph Kummer
  • Patent number: 7883288
    Abstract: A connector (11) for connection to a hollow frame member (12) the connector having at least one projection (17) for receiving a complimentary end of the hollow frame member, the projection having raised portions (19) on an outer surface thereof and the projection is dimensioned relative to the hollow frame member such that force is required to fit the hollow end over the projection and during fitting the hollow end of the frame member is deformed about the projection so as to be internally engaged by the raised portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Minnis & Samson Pty, Ltd.
    Inventor: Joannes Hendricus Maria Jorna
  • Patent number: 7540297
    Abstract: The erectable shelter includes an awning assembly for a shelter that is removably mounted to two or more adjacent legs of the shelter. The awning assembly is mounted so that it can be moved between a downwardly directed vertical position and an upwardly directed vertical position, and to an intermediate horizontal position between the downwardly directed vertical position and an upwardly directed vertical position, allowing the awning to provide shade and to serve as a holder for signage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 7445400
    Abstract: A structure of joining in a T shape two frame members of U-shaped cross sections having openings is provided. At a joint of the first frame member and the second frame member, a reinforcing member mounted with unfoamed resin is set within the first and second frame members. A foamed resin fills the spaces between the first and second frame members and the reinforcing member. The first and second frame members, foamed resin and reinforcing member are integrally united, having a high strength at the joint of the two frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toshihiro Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 6974276
    Abstract: A connecting part for attachment on a mounting rail has a fastening part with an at least approximately rectangular cross-section. The fastening part has legs and surrounds when mounted a mounting rail on all sides by having a matching cross-section formed by the legs. The fastening part has clamping devices for effecting a clamping fixation of the connecting part on the mounting rail. A cross-sectional plane of the fastening part has two diagonally opposed corners and the clamping devices are arranged on the two diagonally opposed corners, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Halfen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Georg Kirchner, Michael Binna, Beate Görtz, Andreas Hanke, Renate Neumann
  • Patent number: 6908258
    Abstract: Apparatus for maintaining a seawall disposed between a body of water and retained earth includes at least two anchoring devices installed on the seawall at spaced locations and a connecting member for rigidly interconnecting the anchoring devices to maintain the separation distance therebetween. The connecting member may have a fixed length or may be adjustable in length to adjust the separation distance between the anchoring devices. A method of maintaining a seawall involves forming a passage through the seawall from a water facing side to an earth facing side of the seawall, inserting an anchoring member in the passage, advancing the anchoring member into the retained earth to anchor an anchor of the anchoring member in the retained earth, and securing a retaining member on the anchoring member along the water facing side of the seawall to apply compressive force against the seawall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: James E. Timmerman
  • Patent number: 6887009
    Abstract: Structural system and method are disclosed for constructing reticulated frame structures. Nodal joints having large diameter connectors are used to connect framing members to the structure nodes. The large diameter allows the connectors to directly support or bear the framing members. As such, compressive forces on the framing member may be transferred directly through the connector to the nodal joint through bearing action. A collar is threaded to the framing member at one end, and engages the connector at the other end. Cover panels may be disposed on the reticulated frame structure. Support members secure the cover panels to the framing members. Each support member is attached to a corresponding framing member and to the nodal joints in a manner to help resist bending loads and prevent axial rotation of the framing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Conservatek Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Alfonso E. Lopez
  • Patent number: 6575652
    Abstract: An annular collar-clamp attaches to a vertical post at selected height and radial orientation and includes an annular pattern of upper and lower dovetail mount sites receiving a bifurcated component mounting assembly having a corresponding inter-fitting pattern of semi-annular dovetail mounts whereby the mounting assembly engages the collar-clamp at a selected discrete position thereon. By use of discontinuous or non-concentric surface engagement in such orientation and pattern to lock together the collar-clamp and the associated mounting component assembly, better load distribution and overall strength results while retaining an ability to position a component at any selected radial orientation relative to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Kurt F. Krauss
  • Patent number: 6478039
    Abstract: A side rail assembly including a side rail having two ends, and a fixture. The fixture is configured to be fixed at one end of the side rail, and defines a central hollow dimensioned to fit snugly around one of the plurality of uprights. The fixture further has a socket for receiving one end of the side rail, and hinged member. The hinged member defines one wall portion of the central hollow. The fixture is slidable around the upright when the hinged member is in an open position and fixture is fixed around the upright when the hinged member is in a closed position. A wedge portion of the hinged member defines a portion of the central hollow. A slot, dimensioned to receive the wedge portion of the hinged member when the hinged member is in the closed position, is also provided on the fixture. Lastly, a locking member is provided which is disposed to lock the hinged member in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Caravan Canopy International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dong Tack Suh
  • Patent number: 6471434
    Abstract: A joint structure, which allows a user to individually assemble and strengthens the stability of steel pipes. The joint structure mainly comprises of a fixture element, which can be slipped into a vertical steel pipe, a joint block, which connects two transversal steel pipes on the inner sides, and a fixture screw, which fastens a joint block and the vertical steel pipe to unite both of the transversal steel pipes and the vertical steel pipe. On the bottom of the vertical steel pipe and the fixture element, there are overlapped fixture screw holes. Both of the inner ends of the transversal steel pipes having clip holes. On the bottom of the extension panels located on the lateral sides of the joint block, there are inert blocks, which fit exactly with the clip holes. In the middle of the joint block, there is a piercing hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventors: Hsueh-Hung Chin, Philip Lo
  • Publication number: 20020090256
    Abstract: The invention provides a kind of joint structure, which allows a user to individually assemble and strengthens the stability of steel pipes. The joint structure mainly comprises of a fixture element, which can can be slipped into a vertical steel pipe, a joint block, which cannects two transversal steel pipes on the inner sides, and a fixture screw, which fastens a joint block and the vertical steel pipe to unite both of the transversal steel pipes and the vertical steel pipe. On the bottom of the vertical steel pipe and the fixture element, there are overlapped fixture screw holes. Both of the inner ends of the transversal steel pipes equip clip holes. On the bottom of the extension panels located on the lateral sides of the joint block, there are inert blocks, which fit exactly with the clip holes. In the middle of the joint block, there is a piercing hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventors: Hsueh-Hung Chin, Philip Lo
  • Patent number: 6397872
    Abstract: The erectable shelter includes a truss framework that provides an elevated, raised canopy that can have a high peak in a raised, extended configuration. The shelter includes a canopy, a leg assembly, and a perimeter truss linkage assembly having a plurality of perimeter truss pairs of link members connected to the leg assembly. The legs preferably have telescoping upper and lower sections with lower section for engagement with ground, and a slider member slidably mounted to the upper section of each of the legs. A canopy peak support assembly is provided that is movable between a raised position and a lowered position, with the canopy peak support assembly supporting the canopy above the top of the leg assembly in the raised position. The canopy peak support assembly includes a flexible center support member such as a rubber tube or spring coil that can bend in response to the force of strong winds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6382224
    Abstract: The lightweight erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. In one embodiment, the roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members comprises pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the legs, to be rotatable upwardly to engage and support the pole members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: United California Bank
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 6328498
    Abstract: The invention concerns a universal flexible sheath with bellow for articulated joint and equipment for fixing said sheath. The protective sheath consists of a tubular element (4, 5, 6, 7, 8) with fixing zones at its ends and a central conical bellow (1), whereof the folds comprise sloping flanks forming an angle of 0 to 45° with the sheath axis on the large diameter side and of 60 to 80° on the small diameter side, said sheath being associated with flexible or ductile mounting cones whereof the base diameter is variable. The invention concerns equipment for repair shops and the sheath is designed for protecting lubricated joints for transmitting movement to mobile members, and in particular to transmission elements in motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Patrick Mersch
  • Patent number: 6138702
    Abstract: The erectable shelter includes a truss framework that provides an elevated, raised canopy that can have a high peak in a raised, extended configuration. The shelter includes a canopy, a leg assembly, and a perimeter truss linkage assembly having a plurality of perimeter truss pairs of link members connected to the leg assembly. The legs preferably have telescoping upper and lower sections with lower section for engagement with ground, and a slider member slidably mounted to the upper section of each of the legs. A canopy peak support assembly is provided that is movable between a raised position and a lowered position, with the canopy peak support assembly supporting the canopy above the top of the leg assembly in the raised position. The canopy peak support assembly includes a flexible center support member such as a rubber tube or spring coil that can bend in response to the force of strong winds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Mark C. Carter
  • Patent number: 5785447
    Abstract: A connector for a structural apparatus. The connector includes a pair of oppositely disposed C-shaped connectors which are adapted to surround a post and are detachably connected to one another. The connectors include a first movable position allowing movement of the connectors relative to each other as well as to the post. In a second fixed position where the connectors are secured to the post. Each C-shaped connector has complementary interfitting end elements for assembling the pair of C-shaped connectors together to surround the post. The C-shaped connectors are secured to each other by complementary fastening elements that extend in the same direction as and cooperate with the complementary interfitting elements. The complementary interfitting elements or connections are provided on a transversely extending end surface at opposite ends of each C-shaped connector for assembling the C-shaped connectors to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Miracle Recreation Equipment Co.
    Inventors: Michael A. Fonti, Jack E. Gonzenbach
  • Patent number: 5752685
    Abstract: A vacuum pencil holder for holding a vacuum pencil used for picking up semiconductor dies or chips during fabrication of integrated circuit devices. The vacuum pencil holder has a wand stand adjustable in angular position about an elongated supportive member to which it is fastened, so that a vacuum pencil placed on the wand stand can always be turned to a position within reach of a fabrication engineer. The vacuum pencil holder includes a curved piece integrally joined to the wand stand. A pair of bearing members, each of which is substantially half-cylinder shaped, are attached to opposite sides of the elongated supportive member so as to form a cylindrical bearing member surrounding the elongated supportive member. The curved piece is slidably inset in slots formed on the curved surface of the two bearing members. The vacuum pencil holder can thus be turned about the elongated supportive member, allowing the wand stand to be adjusted in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: United Microelectronics Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph Tyan
  • Patent number: 5704185
    Abstract: A load bearing truss constructed of composite materials. The truss is made of three or more longitudinal load bearing composite members. Bracing for the truss is a combination of perpendicular and diagonal composite cross-members or all diagonal composite cross-members. The longitudinal and cross-members of the truss are joined together by a sandwich constructed joint which encapsulates the joint area as well as spacers, thereby tying all members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Pat Lindsay
  • Patent number: 5651630
    Abstract: A device for connecting together elongated construction materials has one or more end-surface connecting parts each for being connected to an end surface of one of the materials and a side-surface connecting part for receiving and being connected to side surfaces of another one of the materials. Each end-surface connecting part has a bolt-accepting hole formed for allowing a bolt to pass through and a counter-bored part formed on the reverse side for receiving therein the head the bolt. The side-surface connecting part has an indentation for accepting therein and being connected transversely to another of elongated construction materials. Bolts are passed through holes in the side-surface connecting part to securely attach it to side surfaces of this another elongated construction material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Ryoichi Nomura
  • Patent number: 5605410
    Abstract: A connector is provided for joining hollow elongate frame members, such as tubes, to a support structure such as an other tube. The connector has a base portion with inner and outer faces, the inner face being shaped to conform to the shape of the adjacent surface of the support structure. The connector has at least one spreading mechanism extending outwardly from the base portion and having external transverse dimensions enabling it to be inserted into an end of the elongated frame member. This mechanism has parallel first and second arms located adjacent to each other. A screw is located in a threaded hole extending transversely through the first arm. This screw can be used to push against the second arm and thereby spread the arms apart. The base portion can have a hole formed therein to receive an elongate fastener used to connect it to the support structure. In a preferred embodiment, the second arm is divided into two parallel prongs separated by a narrow slit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Inventor: George Pantev
  • Patent number: 5575580
    Abstract: An assembly for joining a generally cylindrical member to at least one other member wherein the assembly includes a pair of oppositely disposed C-shaped connectors that when connected together are in one of two selected conditions. When in the first condition the C-shaped connectors are slidable about the surface of the generally cylindrical member and when in the second condition the C-shaped connectors are secured to the generally cylindrical member at a preselected position on the surface thereof. The assembly includes a component receiver which receives the other member. The component receiver is slidably mounted on a selected one of the C-shaped connectors so as to be in one of two conditions. When in the first condition, the component receiver is slidable on the C-shaped connectors; and when in the second condition, the component receiver is secured to the adjacent C-shaped connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: Miracle Recreation Equipment Company
    Inventors: Terry V. Parrish, Duane R. Lundberg
  • Patent number: 5421356
    Abstract: An expandable framework structure can be folded for storage and expanded for use, especially as a canopy when a covering is placed on top of the framework. The framework includes a plurality of upright supports and a plurality of edge scissor assemblies that interconnect adjacent ones of the upright supports. Mounts are disposed on the upright supports to fasten outer, rectangular end portions of the edge scissor assemblies. The mounts have sockets which have facing, parallel sidewall portions to receive the rectangular end portions in close-fitted engagement along planar contact surfaces to resist lateral and torsional deflections of the edge scissor assemblies. A non-compressive fastening pin pivotally secures the outer end of each edge scissor assemblies in its respective socket. The mounts on each upright support are relatively movable to allow expansion and contraction of the framework; one mount is preferably a stationary mount and the other a slide mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Inventor: James P. Lynch
  • Patent number: 5244001
    Abstract: An expandable framework structure can be folded for storage and expanded for use, especially as a canopy when a covering is placed on top of the framework. The framework includes a plurality of upright supports and a plurality of edge scissor assemblies that interconnect adjacent ones of the upright supports. Mounts are disposed on the upright supports to fasten outer, rectangular end portions of the edge scissor assemblies. The mounts have sockets which have facing, parallel sidewall portions to receive the rectangular end portions in close-fitted engagement along planar contact surfaces to resist lateral and torsional deflections of the edge scissor assemblies. A fastening pin pivotally secures the outer end of each edge scissor assemblies in its respective socket. The mounts on each upright support are relatively movable to allow expansion and contraction of the framework; one mount is preferably a stationary mount and the other a slide mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: James P. Lynch
  • Patent number: 5238321
    Abstract: A modular construction system for connecting two or more structural members, comprising a universal unit for connection to a first structural member, the unit having at least one planar surface adapted to be oriented in substantially vertical orientation, one or more posts projecting in substantially horizontal orientation from the planar surface, and a pair of finger members defining vertical channels on opposite sides of the one or more posts. One or more connector units are also provided for removable connection to the universal unit, each of the connector units having a planar flange member adapted to be received in the vertical channels and to rest on the one or more posts, and one or more tongue members connected to the flange unit for receiving one or more additional structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Assignee: Uniserve International Products Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jarjoura
  • Patent number: 5127759
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector for a tubular truss assembly which is formed of tubes loosely fit between selected adjacent ones of the connectors. The tubes are held in place either by a set screw in connector receptacles into which the tubes are mounted or by a tensioning element connected between connectors for urging the connectors together. The manner of coupling and securement provides for very rapid assembly, minimization of stress concentrations and turning connector assemblies to form non-planar structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: Eric W. Orbom
  • Patent number: 5094562
    Abstract: A three-way clamp for the assembly of structural frameworks is disclosed. The clamp includes a block-like clamp body provided with a first bore extending through the block and second and third bores intersecting with the first at right angles and intersecting with each other at right angles. The clamp body is slotted in the plane of the axis of the second and third bores, to form cantilever extension portions of the block body capable of being squeezed together by a single compression bolt. Strut-like tubular structural elements are received in the several bores, one passing through the block, the other two being inserted endwise into the second and third bores. By tightening the single compression bolt, the clamp body is caused to be tightened down into secure gripping relation with structural elements in each of three right-angularly related, intersecting axes, significantly expediting assembly, disassembly and adjustment of frame structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Assignee: Robotic Originals, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Anderson
  • Patent number: 5025598
    Abstract: A modular structure for building parking lots, which is particularly suitable for building temporary parking lots, in which structure each basic modular unit comprises: a rectangular or square composite floor slab (3), four edge beams (4) along the sides of the said slab, four node elements (5) at the corners of the slab (3) for supporting the edge beams (4), four vertical pillars (6) below the said node elements (5), for bases (7) for supporting the structure on the ground below the said vertical pillars (6), a number of ties (8) and/or struts for bracing the structure, the bases (7) comprising means for adjusting the length of the pillars (6) and means for adjusting the position of the base plate with respect to the vertical position of the pillars (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1991
    Assignee: Centro Progettazioni Coordinate S.r.l.
    Inventors: Biagio C. Manna, Luciano Spellucci
  • Patent number: 5013176
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector for a tubular truss assembly which is formed of tubes loosely fit between selected adjacent ones of the connectors. The tubes are held in place either by set screws in connector receptacles into which the tubes are mounted or by tensioning elements connected between connectors for urging the connectors together. The manner of coupling and securement provides for very rapid assembly, minimization of stress concentrations and turning connector assemblies to form nonplanar structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Inventor: Eric W. Orbom
  • 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: 4864795
    Abstract: A structural framework assembly (150) is made up of framework subassemblies (102, 104, 104', etc.) interconnected by elongated horizontal structural members (122, 124, 126, 128, etc.). The subassemblies are made up of elongated structural members (114, 116, 118, 120) interconnected by clamping assemblies (106, 108, 110, 112). The clamping assemblies are made up of clamp elements (20a, 20b) with recesses (28, 30) which extend part way around the structural members and third portions (26) with cylindrical recesses (36) in which the ends of other elongated structural members are locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1989
    Assignee: Uni Corp.
    Inventor: Robert J. Burg
  • Patent number: 4789122
    Abstract: A table base construction includes a plurality of leg assemblies, a central attachment assembly integrating each of the leg assemblies, a vertical standard assembly mounted on the central attachment assembly, and a support plate assembly mounted on the vertical standard assembly. The leg assemblies include a plurality of elongated strips that are interconnected by machine screws in an overlayed construction.The central attachment assembly centrally connects each of the leg at its inner end in juxtaposed radial relation. The central attachment assembly includes a column washer and an attachment washer. The legs are affixed at their inner ends to the attachment washer by attachment screws extending through the aligned bores in the leg assemblies and the column washer and engaged in threaded bores in the attachment washer. When the leg assemblies are so connected, free edges at the inner ends of the leg assemblies form a non-circular opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Assignee: Ditto Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Gutgsell
  • Patent number: 4718787
    Abstract: A connector for scaffolding or similar structure permitting vertical poles to be connected to longitudinal transverse members or bars includes a star-shaped portion with a central bore having a plurality of arms which at their ends each carry a pyramid-conical opening into which engages a pyramid-conical or conical hook. A clip which is movable about a horizontal axis makes it possible to avoid accidental dismantling of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Assignee: Cegedur Societe de Transformation de l'Aluminium Pechiney
    Inventor: Kamel Bahloul
  • Patent number: 4706906
    Abstract: A single body of plastic material has three converging coplanar radial arms and a perpendicular central hole. Each arm has an axial seat with a blind bottom to receive one end of the tubular structure and means for locking said end. The central hole is designed to receive a rotation hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1987
    Assignee: Claber, S.p.A.
    Inventors: Gianfranco Roman, Romeo Boraso
  • 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: 4443127
    Abstract: A coupling for intercoupling at least two orthogonal bars or tubes includes an annular member surrounding one of the bars and rigidly fastened thereto. A loose annular member is also positioned on the bar and cooperates with angled guide surfaces. The other bars are provided with links having recesses and projections which cooperate with recesses and projections of the annular members. The rotation of the loose annular member results in it locking the links to the bar, by the cooperation of the loose annular member and the guide surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Inventor: Petrus J. L. de Leeuw
  • Patent number: 4421434
    Abstract: For use in constructing a framework comprising a plurality of elongate rectangular-section elements such as square-section tubes, a kit comprising a plurality of clamp members (such as A) each having at least one first part (10) defining a portion of a socket, a second part defining a portion of a recess or channel, and fixing means (15) whereby the clamp member can be secured to a like clamp member to form a clamp assembly. Selected ones of the clamp members of the kit can be secured together to form a plurality of clamping assemblies, the number of different clamping assemblies constructable being greater than the number of clamp members.At least one outer wall of a clamp member can have a depression (22) for a head (24a) of a fastener (24) whose stem projects outwardly of the clamp member, either via an aperture (23) therein or via a gap between adjacent clamp members, to enable auxiliary fittings such as wall panels etc. to be secured to the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1983
    Assignee: Opto-Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Bengt Magner
  • Patent number: 4236642
    Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting adjacent horizontal beams of a storage rack to an imperforate post substantially without permanently deforming and damaging the imperforate post. The connector assembly includes a pair of connectors that have support plates which are welded or otherwise secured to the beams and interlockingly engageable fingers that substantially prevent the connector assembly from being pulled apart when the beams are under load. A supplementary fastener connects the support plates and firmly clamps the connector assembly to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1980
    Assignee: Unarco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert H. Klein
  • Patent number: 4223966
    Abstract: An adjustable glass display case, which permits ready assembly and disassembly, is provided which includes a frame having four glass plates, a generally horizontally-disposed top plate, a generally horizontally-disposed base plate and two upstanding, spaced-apart side plates disposed generally between the top and bottom plates. Each of the glass plates has two longitudinally-extending, spaced-apart rows of holes formed therethrough and is detachably secured to the other plates of the frame adjacent thereto. The case also includes a back glass plate disposed adjacent to, and detachably secured to the frame. In addition, at least one vertical glass divider is positioned between and disposed generally parallel to said side plates and is detachably secured to the top plate and bottom plate by a clamping assembly which is at least partially retained within at least one of the holes of the top and bottom plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1980
    Assignee: Manhattan Store Interiors, Inc.
    Inventor: Albert C. Winters
  • Patent number: 4128353
    Abstract: The invention relates to a member for assembling tubular elements designed to form a two-dimensional or three-dimensional structure. Such member comprises two half-shells which can be nested one on the other, thus defining a passage for a tube of the structure, and having stub tubes onto which the other tubes are to be fitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1977
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1978
    Inventor: Jacques V. Lauterbach
  • Patent number: 4094417
    Abstract: A bracket device for a shelving or display system consists of a body and one or more support members removably attached to the body. The bracket body is adapted to be mounted on an upright. It has a series of open ended, part-circular recesses disposed in and about its periphery for receiving support members. Each support member has a corresponding part-circular tapered part which slides into and engages one of the recesses so as to be retained in the recess and another part for projecting through the mouth of the recess and supporting an element of the shelving or display system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1977
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1978
    Assignee: Cairnes Maltby Associates Limited
    Inventors: Denis Alan Cairnes, Derrick John Maltby
  • Patent number: 4084776
    Abstract: A furniture base comprising a central vertical element, at least two radiating leg elements, and a spider element comprising at least one radiating member for each leg element. The spider element is secured near the bottom of the vertical element and the leg elements are secured in a radial fashion to the spider element and to the vertical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1976
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1978
    Assignee: Cook Specialty Company
    Inventor: Donald W. Cook
  • Patent number: 4019298
    Abstract: A dual tapered dovetail shaped mortise is formed within a joist to receive a dual tapered dovetail shaped tenon extending from a beam. Laterally oriented cavities are disposed within opposite faces of the mortise to receive correspondingly configured ridges formed integral with the mating tenon. The resulting frictional interlock between the mortise and the tenon created by two forces acting in opposition to one another rigidly secures the beam to the joist without play therebetween. The ridges, mating with the corresponding cavities, affords use of the resulting joint in any plane from horizontal to vertical without danger of separation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1974
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1977
    Inventor: John J. Johnson, IV
  • Patent number: 4016612
    Abstract: A bed frame especially suitable for a hospital bed construction. The bed rails are provided by one or more extruded metal channel members connected into a familiar rectangular frame. Extruded metal corner brackets are riveted to the corners of the frame. The corner brackets have integral extensions and formations which serve a variety of functions such as for supporting safety side rails and for the bed headboard and footboard members, standards for supporting patient treating equipment, among others. The bracket serves a dual function of strengthening and/or retaining the channel members in the rectangular frame formation and providing means for attaching a variety of different devices to the bed frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1975
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1977
    Inventor: Peter Barile, Sr.
  • Patent number: 3999398
    Abstract: A retaining wall comprising a grid-shaped framework fabricated by a plurality of groups of members joined end to end in a vertically aligned relationship and another plurality of groups of members also joined end to end in a horizontally aligned relationship. The ends of the vertically positioned members meet the adjacent ends of the horizontally positioned members at right angles thereto to define a multiplicity of cruciform patterns which combine in a mutually overlapping manner to form the retaining wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1974
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1976
    Assignee: Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masayuki Kurose