Abstract: A radome with constructed panels that are mechanically fastened to each other to form a truncated faceted spherical structure. Each panel is constructed of a metal frame and a membrane attached to the frame. The mechanically fastened frame beams panel-to-panel contact spaces are sealed to prevent water ingress.

Abstract: A strut-and-node truss design that is applicable to all space frame structure designs can be made with using robotic (semi-autonomous and/or fully autonomous) or telerobotic assembly/joining. Nodes can include a 2-dimensional weld path in an effort to reduce the complexity of having to weld in 3-dimensions. Furthermore, each strut to node connection can be concentrated in a small area where each weld can be performed robotically from a fixed position that only requires the robotic weld head to swivel in a small operating window to reach each joint.

Abstract: Disclosed is a locking device, comprising an outer sleeve (1) and at least one locking unit (2) located in the outer sleeve (1), wherein the locking unit (2) is formed by connecting a plurality of pressing blocks (3), a gap (5) is provided between two adjacent ones of pressing blocks (3), a rod locking hole (6) is provided in the gap (5), and a set screw hole (7) is provided on the outer sleeve (1) at a position corresponding to the locking unit (2); and when a set screw is screwed into the set screw hole (7) to directly or indirectly press the locking unit (2), the locking unit (2) deforms and drives the pressing blocks (3) to tightly press rods (8, 9) mounted in the respective rod locking holes (6) at the same time.

Abstract: The present invention provides modular frame assembly including a plurality of connecting pieces. The connecting pieces can include a first plurality of coupling connectors, a second plurality of tee connectors, a third plurality of corner connectors, and a fourth plurality of elongate members. Each of the plurality of connecting pieces is adapted to receive at least two elongate members such that a rectangular structure can be constructed from the plurality of connecting pieces.

Abstract: A rafter bracket configured to connect a vertical post to a rafter and beam(s) is described herein. The rafter bracket may include lower vertical side plates, a horizontal plate, and upper vertical side plates. The horizontal plate may be perpendicular to the upper and lower vertical side plates and may separate the upper vertical side plates from the lower vertical side plates. The horizontal plate and lower vertical side plates may create a lower cavity that receives the vertical post. Meanwhile, the rafter may be positioned on one of the upper vertical side plates and positioned between two of the upper vertical side plates and may be angled at an acute angle relative to the vertical post as well as the upper and lower vertical side plates. One or more of the lower vertical side plates may receive lateral plates that define a lateral cavity receiving the beam.

Abstract: The rod coupler according to the present invention comprises two clamping jaws and locking means for locking said clamping jaws against one another. Each clamping jaw comprises an outside surface and a clamping surface, the latter providing at least a first and a second groove. Each groove runs laterally from a different part of the outside surface extending into the rod coupler, wherein longitudinal axis of the first groove and the second groove include an angle that is equal to or less than 160 degrees. Opposing grooves form an aperture. The apertures are adapted for receiving a rod if the locking means is released. Clamping jaws that are locked by the locking means clamp the rods received in said apertures.

Abstract: A cluster cap sealing mechanism and method for a Geodesic construction. A packaging for a sealant placed in a ring wherein the ring is a sealant delivery device for providing a predetermined volume of sealant to the joints of the Geodesic construction.

Abstract: A bicycle includes front and rear wheels, a frame supported on the front and rear wheels, and a seat post. The frame includes a seat tube having an upper end with a rear wall and a side wall, and the seat post is positioned at least partially inside the seat tube and is secured to the seat tube at a securing location spaced from the upper end. The rear wall of the upper end of the seat tube is spaced from the seat post by a first gap, and the side wall of the upper end of the seat tube is spaced from the seat post by a second gap that is smaller than the first gap. The seat tube has an effective length from a crank axis to the upper end, and the securing location is preferably spaced from the upper end by a distance that is at least 5% of the effective length.

Abstract: Hobby mechanical kits are provided. Kits illustratively include a hobby servo motor having a rotatable output shaft. The output shaft has gear teeth distributed around an outer diameter of the shaft. Certain embodiments of kits also include a hobby servo horn and a channel. The hobby servo horn has an inner diameter with gear teeth that correspond to the hobby servo output shaft gear teeth. The channel has a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The hobby servo horn and one of the panels of the channel include a star-shaped connection point.

Abstract: A corner connector for hollow profiles is provided, including a base element having a first and a second wall section connected at a right angle and in one piece to each other on one respective lateral edge that forms a connecting edge, a first guide and connection groove extends from a lateral edge that is adjacent and in parallel to the connecting edge, and at least one essentially plate-shaped, rectangular additional element, wherein two guide and connection projections protrude from its inner side complementary to the first guide and connection grooves which can be inserted into the first guide and connection grooves in a direction parallel to the connecting edge and, in the fully inserted position, secure the additional element flush on the base element in order to form a third wall section arranged at a right angle to the first and the second wall section.

Abstract: An assembled product includes at least three elements arranged in three different planes. A first element is connected perpendicular to a second element, and a third element is connected perpendicular to the second element. The assembled product includes one or more locking devices, each comprising a flexible tongue arranged in an insertion groove one of the at least three elements. The flexible tongue cooperates with a tongue groove, at an adjacent one of the at least three elements, for locking the one element and the adjacent element together. A second edge of the second element is connected to a second edge of the third element by a first of said locking devices.

Abstract: A three-dimensional jacket-plate connector connects at least two members. Each member comprises wide-flanged steel I-beam section. The jacket-plate connector comprises first and second three-dimensional jacket plates.

Abstract: A release device having a multi-segment split spool with a central bore adapted to axially restrain a tensioned member. A tensioned tape is overlappingly wound around the spool segments thereby preventing radial movement of the spool segments. The overlapping winding allows for a low profile housing for the-release device. The multiple segments require less radial motion for release of the tensioned member.

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.

Abstract: The connector of the present invention is provided with a cover member attached to an enclosure main body and has a plurality of terminal holes formed, wherein the cover member has engagement piece that is attached to the edge of an opening of a holding hole where a holding member is inserted.

Abstract: A joint element made of fiber-reinforced plastic having at least three tubular and/or profile-shaped connection regions. The joint element has at least one V-shaped or U-shaped rigid wall element, which is arranged between two connection regions and is connected to the fiber-reinforced plastic.

Abstract: Improvements in the design and construction of solar collector modules. Aspects of the invention include improvements in the layout of a frame for a solar collector module, and in the joining of structural members of the frame at nodes. In one example, a module of a solar collector includes a reflector and a three-dimensional structural frame that supports the reflector. The frame is made up of substantially rigid elongate frame members interconnected at nodes. Improved node connection components include hubs or frame members having tabs for receiving frame member connections. A tab may have a width that is substantial in relation to its height. The frame may incorporate asymmetry in its layout, in the size or presence of frame members, or in the positioning of the nodes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting node (10, 20) for constructing a three-dimensional framework (100), in particular a geodetic structure, wherein the connecting node (10, 20) has at least one connecting arrangement for connection by way of a definable number of (n) of basic structural elements (3) attached to the respective connecting node (10, 20) with other identical connecting nodes (10, 20). It is provided that the connecting node (10, 20) is formed as a disk (4, 6) having a predefinable number (n) of keyholes (1n), with each of the keyholes (1n) being penetrated by a connecting means (5) and engaging with a receiving element (3A) attached on the basic structural elements (3n), so that each basic structural element (3n) is rotatably supported in the formed first connecting arrangement (5, 3A) and can be pre-adjusted and subsequently attached at arbitrary predefinable angles.

Abstract: Connectors for linear members of wall structure which allows a variety of guide rails, fences, and pipes to be assembled in a desired pattern conveniently are provided. The connector includes a central body of annular shape; at least one socket member 6, the one end of the socket member being connected to the central body and the other end being connected to the linear member, such as pipe, wire or bar; and a rail means that connects the central body and the socket member such that the socket member can be moved along the circumferential surface of the central body.

Abstract: A foldable handrail structure includes a casing, a first handrail member and a first locking member. The first handrail member is rotatably connected to the casing. The first locking member is rotatably disposed in the casing. The first locking member is capable of rotating between a first locked position and a first unlocked position, so as to selectively restrain the first handrail member from rotating.

Abstract: A modular forming system with nesting brackets between associated stacked modular panels to join modular panels when stacked. As a part of the forming system, a modular panel is described having a forming member with a plurality of studs affixed to the non-forming surface, and a plurality of stiff-back structures affixed in a spaced-apart relationship to the plurality of studs. Each stiff-back structure includes a lower bracket having a slot therein and an upper lifting bracket having a lifting member adapted to slidably engage the slot in a lower bracket of an associated stacked panel arranged above the modular panel, and allowing the engaged brackets to be removably joined together.

Abstract: A modular structural system includes a hub in the general shape of a polygon, such as a hexagon or octagon, which may be somewhat rounded or may have a regular shape. The system includes a plurality of other structural members, such as hub spokes, for interfacing adjacent the hub, and leg spokes, for interfacing with the hub or with the hub spokes. The system also includes cross braces for providing additional support between the hub spokes and leg spokes. The hub, the hub spokes, leg spokes, and cross braces are joined by bores in the individual pieces and a plurality of dowels or rods placed into the bores. From these modular pieces, and currently available structural members, many useful and recreational structures may be assembled and then disassembled, such as frames, garden structures, furniture, shelving, and the like.

Abstract: A connector apparatus for connecting an air supply unit and a mattress or cushion.

Abstract: A modular storage assembly includes a plurality of connectors and a plurality of panels joined together by the plurality of connectors as to define a compartment. Each of the plurality of connectors includes a body having a plurality of first slots and a plurality of second slots. Two blocks are releasably mounted in one of the plurality of the second slots of the two connectors respectively. A door is pivotally connected with two blocks as to close the opening of the compartment and whereby the door is releasably mounted to the modular storage assembly.

Abstract: An improved umbrella includes a durable hub including a number of spherical rotating joint knuckles captured in a hub body. The joint knuckles provide rotational movement of rib and spreader elements which support a flexible umbrella cover. The joint knuckles provide increased bearing surface area that increases ease of use and durability. The hub design enables identical hub bodies to be used for a spreader hub and a rib hub.

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.

Abstract: A collapsible tent skeleton frame includes a plurality of poles, a plurality of joints mounted respectively on the poles, a plurality of side ribs pivoted respectively to the joints, a top joint, and a plurality of upper ribs pivoted respectively to adjacent pairs of the side ribs and to the top joint. Each of the joints has two arms, each of which is formed with a recess that has a round inner end section and an extension. Each of the side ribs has a rounded end that is received in and that conforms to the inner end section of the recess in a respective one of the arms of a respective one of the joints.

Abstract: A kit and structures that may be assembled using components of the kit are disclosed. The kit includes structural nodes and structural connections adapted for connecting the structural nodes. Each structural node has a polygonal openings from a central cavity to the outside of the node. Each of the structural connections has an elongated body having two ends from which stubs having a polygonal cross section extend. The stubs include at least one outward dimple positioned so that it resides within the central cavity of a structural nodes when the stub is inserted through one of the polygonal openings with the end of the elongated body abutting the structural node.

Abstract: A connection assembly for connecting parts of a multi-component product comprising a post having two releasably interlocking sides and an extension member. A slot provided in the exterior sidewall of the post at the juncture of the interlocking sides is configured to mate with the extension member. The extension member may be engaged with the slot when the two sides of the post are in a separated unlocked position. The two sides may then be placed in an interlocking position so as to fixedly connect the extension member therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a foldable mechanism for playard, comprising a connection element for connecting a pair of hollow rods, having an U-shaped cross section, two pairs of guiding grooves and a plurality of through holes for rivets being provided at both sides of the connection element; a pair of hollow rods in which a spring and a latching block are accommodated respectively, a through hole for rivet and a groove being provided at both sides of the hollow rods respectively; and a press-down element having two ramps, for pressing the latching block literally to disengage the engaged status between the connection element and the hollow rod, wherein the press-down element, hollow rod and latching block are fixed on the connection element by rivets, when a user presses the press-down element, the ramps of the press-down element would push the latching block to move literally so as to disengage the engaged status between the connection element and the hollow rod to achieve the effect of collapsing the

Abstract: A polyhedron-like structural assembly comprises a plurality of polygonal frames installed in upright position on each of a pair of opposite sides of a structural assembly that is square-shaped in a plan view, a plurality of frames having H-shaped cross-sections and connecting the polygonal frames to form a plurality of triangular planes therebetween, a plurality of polygonal flat plates attached in the triangular planes to provide polyhedron-like upper walls and polyhedron-like side walls between the polygonal frames, and a joint disposed in the center of the assembly and having a plurality of arms formed to fit within the frames.

Abstract: A connection assembly for constructing animal stalls including a connection body that is rigidly constructed and adapted for releasable and variable positioning upon an elongate support rail. A first releasable connector is formed in the connection body and is adapted for releasable fixation to an animal stall divider. The connection body is elongately constructed along a longitudinal axis with first and second ends that are distally located one from the other. The first releasable connector is positioned at the first end of the connection body. The connection body has first and second side flanges that are connected together by a webbing. At least a portion of the first and second side flanges project away from the webbing to form a receiving area between the portions of the first and second side flanges that is configured to insertibly accept a portion of an animal stall divider to be secured therein.

Abstract: A connector device assembly of the add-on type and suitable for securing a second member, such as a metal tube, as a branch extending from a position between the ends of a first member, such as another metal tube, without the need to slide components along the first member includes two connector devices each having a first body region which defines a recess formation to accommodate a first member of a structural assembly, and at least one of the connector devices including a second body region for securing relative to a second member which is required to be connected to the structural assembly, the two connector devices each having at least one edge formation provided with an aperture which extends substantially parallel with the longitudinal direction of the first member and respective edge formations of the two connector devices being aligned in the assembly to receive a locking member extending therethrough, the locking member being arranged in the assembly to be loaded substantially only in shear to hold

Abstract: A hub assembly for pivotally connecting the ends of support rods of a portable self-supporting display structure configured for a collapsed storage position and an expanded display position. The hub assembly may include first and second members and a connector. The first and second members are mated to provide bearing surfaces and to accommodate pivot pins affixed to the support rods. The connector secures the mated first and second members together by being extended through bores in the mated first and second members.

Abstract: An apparatus for a pop-up display structure that provides a hub structure that is divided into two sections that are held together by a thumbscrew. The two sections define internal channels in the hub for capturing guide pins attached to the tubes such that the tubes pivot about the guide pins and rotate about the hub through slots in the hub. The thumbscrew provides for removal of tubes from the hub structure without the use of tools and therefore provides for changes on the fly for reconfiguring the structure or for replacing broken tubes. The thumbscrew also provides a mounting structure for the channel bar that attaches to the pop-up structure. The channel bar is capable of folding into three sections and is capable of folding compactly without regard to the sequence of the folds.

Abstract: A continuity tie for providing both tension and compression resistance to externally induced movement of building structural members. A central body member is provided with a plurality of bolt mounting apertures in a staggered pattern and a pair of end plates having a rod aperture. One embodiment employs a tubular central body member having a hollow interior; another embodiment employs a generally U-shaped central portion with flanking flanges. Both embodiments can be mounted to building structural members separated by an intervening building structural member, with the continuity ties being secured together by means of a single rod arranged in the rod apertures in each continuity tie and secured in place by means of nuts. The staggered bolt patterns reduce the probability of mounting all bolts in a defect region of a timber building element. The hollow tube embodiment is symmetric and cannot be installed backwards. The rod aperture may be centered or offset from the central axis of the continuity tie.

Abstract: A hub assembly for pivotally connecting the ends of support rods of a portable self-supporting display structure configured for a collapsed storage position and an expanded display position. The hub assembly may include first and second members and a connector. The first and second members are mated to provide bearing surfaces and to accommodate pivot pins affixed to the support rods. The connector secures the mated first and second members together by being extended through bores in the mated first and second members.

Abstract: A corner joint for a building made of timber elements. The exterior surface of the building is a wall element made of logs, and the interior surface is a wall element is also made of logs. The space between the wall elements is fitted with thermal insulation. Both wall elements end inside the corner joint, so that the exterior corner, which extends over the wall line of the building is made of separate corner elements on top of one another. The interior wall elements are placed crosswise in the corner, reach to and end substantially in the exterior wall elements. The crosswise stacked corner elements have extensions, which between the interior and exterior wall elements, reach over the crosswise interior wall elements. The extensions have an inter-locking shape, such as a notch, at the interior wall elements.

Abstract: A space frame assembly designed for use in the constructing of a variety of substantially rigid, weight bearing structures including but not limited to walls, bridges, roof structures etc. The space frame assembly comprises a plurality of elongated preferably tubular frame members formed of a high strength, light weight material having opposite end portions formed to include an anchor portion thereon. Each of said plurality of connectors includes a base and at least one end portion mounted thereon such that correspondingly positioned interior surfaces of the base and end portion are disposed in confronting relation to one anther and wherein the base and the one end portion each include a plurality of sockets disposed in spaced and off-set relation to one another.

Abstract: A joint for a playen has a main base, two plate hooks, two wing bases and a press block. The wing bases are pivoted to the main base, and each connected to a support rod of the playen. The plate hooks are fixed to the press block, and each has two end barbs. The press block is movably connected to the main base with a guide pin passed through two aligned shaped holes of the main base; the guide pin is also passed through a long vertical hole of the press block. The joint is spread at an unfolded position with locating pins of the wing bases engaging the barbs of the plate hooks. To fold the joint, the wing bases is pivoted inwardly of the main base, and the press block is pushed up to disengage the locating pins from the barbs; the guide pin can move in the shaped hole sideways to permit the press block to move sideways, helping the barbs separate from the locating pins of the wing bases easily.

Abstract: A connection assembly for constructing animal stalls including a connection body that is rigidly constructed and adapted for releasable and variable positioning upon an elongate support rail. A first releasable connector is formed in the connection body and is adapted for releasable fixation to an animal stall divider. The connection body is elongately constructed along a longitudinal axis with first and second ends that are distally located one from the other. The first releasable connector is positioned at the first end of the connection body. The connection body has first and second side flanges that are connected together by a webbing. At least a portion of the first and second side flanges project away from the webbing to form a receiving area between the portions of the first and second side flanges that is configured to insertibly accept a portion of an animal stall divider to be secured therein.

Abstract: The clarifier cover has a shape defined by a low profile circular segment of revolution around the central column of the clarifier, for maintaining the volume of gas thereunder minimum. In another aspect, the support structure of the cover is made of a plurality of ring trusses disposed in a circular array and defining a circle, concentric with the circular wall of the clarifier, and a radial array of outer trusses each having an outside end mounted to the wall of the clarifier and an inside end mounted to the plurality of ring trusses. A series of inner trusses are individually affixed in an overhung mode to one of the outer trusses, such that the loading applied to the central column of a clarifier by the cover structure is minimal or negligible. The trusses define an array of triangular frame sectors.

Abstract: An assembly node for tubular structures in the form of two half-shells (1) joined together by bolts and provided with corresponding recesses (2) and/or holes (3) for the insertion and blocking of the ends of tubular elements (4 and 5). The assembly node is provided, for each end of a tubular element (5) to be mounted in at least one hole (3) of a half-shell (1), outside the joint planes (6), with at least one independent element (10) for holding and gripping the end without play. The assembly is more particularly applicable in the field of tubular structures, in particular tubular constructions, sport and leisure time equipment, as well as scaffolding and exhibition materials.

Abstract: An apparatus for a pop-up display structure that provides a hub structure that is divided into two sections that are held together by a thumbscrew. The two sections define internal channels in the hub for capturing guide pins attached to the tubes such that the tubes pivot about the guide pins and rotate about the hub through slots in the hub. The thumbscrew provides for removal of tubes from the hub structure without the use of tools and therefore provides for changes on the fly for reconfiguring the structure or for replacing broken tubes. The thumbscrew also provides a mounting structure for the channel bar that attaches to the pop-up structure. The channel bar is capable of folding into three sections and is capable of folding compactly without regard to the sequence of the folds.

Abstract: Disclosed are frame-connecting members such as straight, straight-curved, T-shaped and cross-shaped connecting members being used when assembling or fabricating vinyl houses, etc, and method for manufacturing the same. The frame-connecting member comprises a first connecting part, having a metal pipe shape, which connects a frame of a first direction, a second connecting part, having a metal pipe shape and corresponding to the first connecting part, which connects a frame of a second direction, and a fixed part, placed between the first connecting part and the second connecting part and molded with the molding material of a synthetic resin, which connects the connecting parts.

Abstract: A tile panel system has a frame for supporting one or more tiles. The system includes a plurality of vertical support member. Attached to the support members are two piece blocks that clamp around the vertical supports. Horizontal rails then extend between oppositely positioned clamp. Tiles are then releasably secured to the horizontal rails via spring clips or other appropriate mechanisms.

Abstract: The present invention provides a junction form which may be used to provide junctions in split tube used to protect optical fibers. The form consists of a base with multiple arms extending therefrom, with retainers at the base and at the ends of the arms. These retainers engage edges in the split tubes formed by the split found initially in the split tubes, and by a second split formed at the ends of the split tubes opposite the original split. The junction created by the junction form protects the optical fibers against being bent at a sharp angle, while allowing the optical fiber to be installed therein by simply pushing the fibers into the junction and the split tube. The present invention also provides methods of creating junctions from split tubes.

Abstract: A continuity tie for providing both tension and compression resistance to externally induced movement of building structural members. A central body member is provided with a plurality of bolt mounting apertures in a staggered pattern and a pair of end plates having a rod aperture. One embodiment employs a tubular central body member having a hollow interior; another embodiment employs a generally U-shaped central portion with flanking flanges. Both embodiments can be mounted to building structural members separated by an intervening building structural member, with the continuity ties being secured together by means of a single rod arranged in the rod apertures in each continuity tie and secured in place by means of nuts. The staggered bolt patterns reduce the probability of mounting all bolts in a defect region of a timber building element. The hollow tube embodiment is symmetric and cannot be installed backwards. The rod aperture may be centered or offset from the central axis of the continuity tie.

Abstract: In a connecting element for multiple-sided, in particular three-sided lattice girders made of fibre composite material, tubes (6, 7, 8, 9) are provided and arranged so that one of these is in the centre and the others are evenly distributed around this tube receiving or forming a central member, are held together by a fibre ring winding (12) and held apart by a disc (16) provided in the central tube (6).

Abstract: A switchgear cabinet with a frame having frame members and corner connectors, and an open base closable by one or more bottom plates. A simple mounting of the bottom plates is achieved because the frame members serving as lower depth struts are covered from below by essentially U-shaped cover elements that have lateral arms and are connected to the depth struts and/or the corner connectors. The depth struts are chamfered in a region of their outer edges and form a seat for the outer lateral arms of the cover elements. The inner lateral arms of the cover elements have bearing flanges for the bottom plates folded toward the facing depth strut. U-shaped clamping elements with clamping screws can be used to join the bottom plates to the bearing flanges of the inner lateral arms of the cover elements.