Abstract: A modular wall overlay system for installation on a support surface includes an outer frame having a pair of opposing ends and a pair of opposing sides and a customizable inner frame that is coupled to the outer frame. The inner frame includes a plurality of transverse supports that extend between the opposing sides and a plurality of longitudinal supports that extend between the opposing ends. The longitudinal supports and the transverse supports lie in a common plane defined within the outer frame. The system further includes a cover that is securely retained on the outer frame.

Abstract: An air filter for a ventilation device of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The air filter has a planar extension along which the air filter is able to be inserted into a flow area of the ventilation device transversely relative to a flow direction and has a filter medium arranged along its planar extension. The filter medium is bordered at least in certain regions by at least one frame wall. The frame wall has at least one section which is able to be brought into engagement with guide elements of the ventilation device in order to guide the air filter during insertion into the flow area. The section is a notch on an edge of the frame wall and is formed with an undercut relative to the edge such that the air filter is able to be braced transversely relative to the insertion direction during insertion in two directions.

Abstract: Interlocking clips are provided to assemble structures without the need for conventional fasteners. Structures such as fences, which may be assembled in situ, include the cooperating clips designed to provide a controlled amount of “play” between the pickets and rails of the fence to enable adjustment when racking the fences to accommodate sloping terrain. The clips are provided to interlock rails to cross members. The clips are preferably formed of a single sheet of a springy metallic material. The clips may be advantageously used to couple other types of apparatus.

Abstract: A drive unit includes a cable possessing connecting portions at both ends, one of the connecting portions inserted into a groove of an output shaft at one side, and the other one of the connecting portions inserted into a groove of an input shaft at the other side, wherein rotational torque from the output shaft is transmitted to the input shaft, and at least two projected portions provided on the respective connecting portions and arranged with a predetermined distance therebetween in a longitudinal direction of the cable, wherein the respective connecting portions possess bent-shaped structures and the two projected portions of the respective connecting portions become in contact with opposed surfaces of the respective grooves.

Abstract: A connector for a main tee of a suspended ceiling grid that has improved self-aligning and connection force properties. The connector has an end tab with a forward portion bent at a lead angle and a receiving pocket with an outwardly flared entrance that, with an opposed identical connector, cooperate to provide smooth horizontal alignment. The end portion, additionally, includes an edge profile that vertically aligns itself with the receiving pocket of the opposed connector. The receiving pocket includes a spring-like resilient wall that limits the assembly force to overcome interference with projecting lock lances even when the connectors are nearly out of dimensional tolerance. The spring-like pocket wall, shape of the lock lance, and reinforcing beads contribute to an improved audible click signaling that a connection has been completed. The lock lance works with a relief groove to augment self-alignment of the connectors.

Abstract: A connection assembly of first and second elements. The first element has a receiving opening through which the second element is passed and penetrates the first element. The first element is connected to the second element at one or more positions in the region of their intersection. At least one of the first and second elements have ridges arranged to lie adjacent the opposing elements. A plurality of the elongate elements can be interconnected in a plurality of connection assemblies to form a grid structure.

Abstract: A connection for securing a geogrid fabric to between two tiers of concrete blocks which are stacked to form an earth retaining wall. A groove is formed in the top of each block in the lower tier to extend across the width of each block substantially parallel to the face of the block. The fabric is positioned to extend from the rear of the block over the groove and a first rod is positioned in the groove over the fabric. The fabric is folded to wrap around the first rod to extend past the groove towards the rear of the block and a second rod is positioned in the groove over the fabric to the rear of the first rod. When an upper tier of blocks is stacked on the lower tier, the rods and fabric are locked into the groove in the lower blocks.

Abstract: A vacuum pump, in particular for brake booster systems in motor vehicles, with a drivable rotor via which a blade in a housing can be set in rotation is proposed. The vacuum pump is distinguished by the fact that the rotor consists of plastic and is formed as one piece.

Abstract: A utility pole with cross-arm connection includes an upright pole with an aperture formed therethrough for receiving a crossarm. A sleeve is journaled through the pole aperture and fastened to the pole, and the crossarm is journaled through the sleeve with opposite ends projecting outwardly from the pole. The crossarm is connected to the sleeve to secure the crossarm in position.

Abstract: There is provided herein a power drive adapter for a pencil sharpener or other manually rotatable tool which affixes a shank to the tool. In one embodiment this affixation includes a peripheral edge positioned on the tool and a shank attached to that edge. In another embodiment a holder member having a yolk of dual prongs is fitted with a power drive compatible shank. The inner surface of the prongs has grooves for engaging protruding edges positioned on the tool. As a result, the holder member securely grasps the manually rotatable tool (pencil sharpener) at one extremity and presents at its other extremity a shank for insertion into the chuck of the chosen electric drive.

Abstract: A connecting element (2) for joining at least two tubes (10) and/or sealing at least one tube end. The connecting element (2) can be joined to the corresponding tube (10) via a mortise and tenon joint (4, 6) or the like. The tenon (4) is preferably provided on the connecting element and the mortise (6) on the tube (10). The tube (10) is preferably hollow, at least in sections and at least in the area of the junction with the connecting element (2), and the connecting element (2) can be inserted into the tube (10).

Abstract: A device for securing an end on a load bearing member in an elevator system includes a socket portion and a wedge portion. The socket and wedge preferably are made from an extruded piece of metal or a formed piece of sheet metal material. A brace member secures the wedge within the socket portion to maintain the wedge, and the corresponding portion of the load bearing member in place within the socket portion. The preferred arrangement includes friction enhancing surfaces on the corresponding portions of the socket and the wedge to facilitate maintaining the load bearing member in place.

Abstract: A connection assembly of first and second elements. The first element has a receiving opening through which the second element is passed and penetrates the first element. The first element is connected to the second element at one or more positions in the region of their intersection. At least one of the first and second elements have ridges arranged to lie adjacent the opposing elements. A plurality of the elongate elements can be interconnected in a plurality of connection assemblies to form a grid structure.

Abstract: A grid tee of the double web type in which the elements of the web are integrally stitched together to prevent their separation. The stitches are created in an inexpensive rolling process that does not require control of the position of the stitches relative to the ends or other parts of the tee. According to the invention, after the stitches are formed and locked, they are flattened back into the plane of the web to a limited degree where they do not substantially increase the thickness of the web so that they do not interfere with subsequent manufacturing steps or with field assembly.

Abstract: The corner connector is used to attach a horizontal shelf above the horizontal cross-bar of a garment rack. The corner connector includes a body with a horizontal passageway formed therethrough and a vertical cylinder with a blind aperture. Arcuate arms terminating in clip portions extend upwardly from the body.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for mounting a spring to a connecting arm forming a portion of a vehicle wheel suspension in which the apparatus includes a connector affixed to the end of the spring and disposed on one side of the connecting arm, a lock disposed on the other side of the connecting arm, and fasteners extending through the connecting arm for attaching the connector to the lock.

Abstract: A clip for attachment to the end of a main beam for a grid in a suspended ceiling. The beam has an inverted T cross section. The clip engages an identical clip on the end of another main beam to form an end to end connection. The clip has a tongue and channel that engages with a tongue and channel in the other clip of the connection.

Abstract: A hook type assembly that interlocks a pair of intersecting cross-beams and a main beam in a grid for a suspended ceiling. A gapped ridge in a clip on each cross-beam engages the other gapped ridge in a vertical movement that is part of a hooking action while the assembly is formed. The assembly can be optionally made to provide for expansion during a tire.

Abstract: In an improved child security fence system or pool gate, pole adapters are used for locking together two panels of the fence or pool gate. The pole adaptors are inserted into the support poles of two adjacent fence panels. The two panels are then attached to one another by a lock that bridges the two pole adaptors. The pole adaptors and the lock all have holes drilled through them that align with each other when assembled. Tension clips are positioned inside each pole adaptor so that dimples or tabs extend from the clips and through the aligned holes. In order to disengage the lock, the dimples or tabs from the clips must be simultaneously depressed at four points of the locking assembly.

Abstract: An assembly (10) formed of two parts pressed together in cruciform arrangement comprises a cylindrical part (11) and a tubular part (12). The tubular part (12) has a transverse hole (14) bordered by rims (18) extending toward each other. A spacer (16) in the form of a ring is inserted between the walls (15) of the tubular part (12), surrounding the region where the hole is to be formed. The rims are then deflected toward each other into engagement with the interior of the ring, the ring having a height equal to the distance between the walls (15). Thus, the ring (16) braces the tubular part (12) internally around the hole (14).

Abstract: Load bearing panels and walls for habitable shelters are formed from relatively thin wall metallic tubing on widely spaced centers joined by a multiplicity of joint systems including shrink fit lap splicing, detent forming at standardized positional increments and frictional heat dissipation. The metallic tubing is arranged in rows along a line as well as intersecting rows along a second perpendicular line so as to form a load bearing panel with rows of tubes lying in a single plane. Tubing elements of one row intersecting and secured to the tubing elements of the second row without mechanical fasteners. Discreet interference fit tolerances facilitate the construction of a non-welded, stress distributing structure highly suitable for earthquake resistance and wildfire survival.

Abstract: An implement frame construction includes a fore-and-aft extending apertured tube with transversely extending tool mounting tubes with cross section matching the shape of the apertures. The tubes are inserted through the apertures to provide a mechanical connection not solely reliant on joint weld strength. The resulting joints are fillet welded on both sides of the fore-and-aft tube and provide more bending and torsional resistance than a butt-welded joint without need for gussets. The smaller tube runs continuously through the joint to reduce the number of components and welds necessary for a given frame configuration. The components themselves position the frame tubes relative to each other to simplify weld fixturing and increase resistance to parallelograming. Hinge areas are provided with welded tube-within-tube construction to prevent wall collapse and retain mounting bolt torque.

Abstract: A kit assembly for constructing an article of furniture and including a first plurality of vertically extending and elongate supports which are arranged in spaced apart fashion and a second plurality of horizontally extending and elongate cross members. Opposite ends of the elongate cross members are received within appropriately formed apertures in the vertically extending supports and additional apertures extend in cross wise and communicating fashion through the vertical supports as well as the inserted and aligning ends of the cross members. Bolt fasteners are inserted through the additional and cross wise extending apertures in both the selected vertical supports and cross members and an intermediate portion of each fastener includes an annular and outwardly angled step which, upon insertion of the bolt fastener, corresponds both in axial placement and annular dimension to an inward and angularly extending ledge of a spool shaped aperture in the cross member.

Abstract: A connection structure for connecting a column and cross beam includes a column, a first cross beam extending in a horizontal direction, a second cross beam extending in a horizontal direction, a first through hole formed in the column, a second through hole formed in the column having a common space with the first through hole, a first attachment bolt inserted into the first through hole, a second attachment bolt inserted into the second through hole, a connecting member having a connecting portion to connect with the first connecting portion of the first attachment bolt and a third supporting portion to support the first cross beam connected with the column, and an additional connecting member having a further connecting portion to connect with the second connecting portion of the second attachment bolt and a fourth supporting portion to support the second cross beam connected with the column.

Abstract: An assembly is formed of two parts sleeved together in a cruciform arrangement, namely an at least locally cylindrical part and a tubular part having a transverse hole into which the cylindrical part is forcibly inserted. To brace internally the wall of the tubular part on the side from which the cylindrical part is inserted, before such insertion a spacer is inserted into the tubular part through the hole in it and thereafter extends along a portion of the perimeter of the hole. Applications include the assembly of two parts.

Abstract: A grid framework for a suspended ceiling wherein reinforced cross members are allowed to expand; without collapsing or buckling, during a fire. Clips at the end of the members create barriers that are successfully overcome, in stages, to relieve any excess longitudinal compressive forces capable of being built up by the reinforced members.

Abstract: A method for obtaining a tight, secure connection between two relatively non-deformable members and the connection resulting therefrom. The method includes the steps of forming a recess in a first of said members, forming a second member with a portion that seats in the recess of the first member, molding a liner of thermoplastic to one of the members, which thermoplastic is deformable but not more than slightly compressible, and seating the portion of the second member in the recess of the first member with one of the members engaging the liner to displace a portion of the liner into a void space in one of the members to thus form a tightly gripping connection between the members. A composite knob and its connection to shaft made in accordance with this method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of making and erecting a framed structure, preferably single level, by milling standard pieces of lumber that are joined into a sturdy, rectangular frame is disclosed. Opposed Side Beams having dado cuts at their opposite ends are joined to opposed Face Beams having complementary dado cuts at their opposite ends. Floor joists connect opposed sidebeams and support subflooring or decking, and, to accommodate certain larger dimensional floorplans, Center Beams are built into the frame. The frame can rest on a periphery foundation or be erected over posts.

Abstract: An end connector structure for suspension ceiling grid systems provides a connector to connector lock on each side of the web of a through runner. The lock includes a lateral tear drop shaped protrusion providing a rearwardly facing exposed edge in combination with a lateral strap on an associated identical connector which also provides a rearwardly facing exposed edge. When tensile stresses are applied between the two connectors, the connector to connector lock is subjected to forces causing the associated rearwardly facing edges to engage and resist connector separation. The protrusion joins the adjacent portion of the connector material with bends having relatively large radius of curvature to reduce the weakening of the structure of the protrusion resulting from notch sensitivity. These large radius of curvatures result in substantially improved ultimate strength in the connector to connector lock when compared with protrusions formed with relatively sharp bends.

Abstract: A foldable, easily stored stand for supporting a leaf bag or the like, the stand comprising upper and lower bag retainer rings made up of tubular components. These tubular components are formed in such a manner that the bag retainer rings take on an essentially circular configuration. The bag retainer rings are interconnected at spaced apart locations by a pair of straight tubular components forming column members of equal length, with the opposite ends of one of the column members being hingedly connected to a first location on each of the bag retainer rings. The opposite ends of the other of the column members are hingedly connected to a second location on both of the bag retainer rings, with the second location on the bag retainer rings being at a substantially opposite position on the bag retainer rings with respect to the first location.

Abstract: An exoskeleton structure made up of a plurality of pairs of triangular units which are adjacent to each other and which are interconnected. Each triangular unit has a generally horizontal segment and a pair of upright diagonal segments connected to the respective ends of the respective horizontal segment. The segments of each structural unit are shell-like or transversely curved so that, when they mate with the segments of adjacent triangular units, the segments of the two units form frame elements having hollow interior spaces for receiving concrete which is directed into the hollow spaces after the structural units have been erected. The configuration of adjacent structural units is repeated throughout the entire extent of the structure so that the numerous triangular structural units form an exoskeleton structure having maximum strength and high resistance to lateral forces.

Abstract: A connector member for connection to a T-bar is in the form of a plate with a lug extending from one side. The T-bar has an aperture which snugly receives the lug when the plate is applied on the side of a web of the T-bar. The lug extends through the aperture and defines an opening with the side of the web opposite the side on which the plate is applied. The opening faces longitudinally of the T-bar. A keeper member is slidable longitudinally from a locking position in the opening in which it resists lateral withdrawal of the lug from the aperture to an unlocking position in which the keeper member disengages the lug and allows the plate to be separated from the T-bar web.

Abstract: A form supporting bracket for supporting a concrete form including an upright form supporting member, a lower prop leg connected to the upright member, an upper prop leg connected to the upright member at one end and a slidable member at its other end. The slidable member cooperates with the lower prop leg to slide therealong and includes a plurality of angle slots which mate with a plurality of oppositely angled slots on the lower prop leg. The angle slots are selectively fixed relative to one another by an elongated member which can be driven into the ground.

Abstract: A bedspread rack having a portion which is to be located between the bed spring and mattress and which is retractable from a use position for supporting a bedspread or blanket to a storage position in between the mattress and spring. The entire structure is constructed from PVC tubing so that it can be packaged in a tubular bundle and easily assembled without nuts, bolts, screws or other fasteners. The resulting rack is lightweight and inexpensive.

Abstract: A clamp 10 comprises a moulded plastics hollow member 11 for receiving a first elongate member 13. The member 11 has external bosses 22 on two opposed sides defining aligned apertures which receive a second elongate member 30 which extends through the member 13. The member 13 can be solid with a bore for member 30 or hollow with apertures in opposed sides. One wall of the member has external ribs 18 and a recess in its inner surface in which is a nut in threaded engagement with a stem 23 of a clamp knob 24 so that the member 30 can be clamped between the inner end of the stem 23 and edges of opposed walls of the member 13. The member 11 can have a through bore for member 13 so as to be movable along it.

Abstract: A picket fence assembly having upper and lower rails each with a plurality of non-circular holes receiving a plurality of vertical pickets through respective aligned holes and with the pickets having transverse through-holes in alignment and receiving a rigid transverse rod preventing rotations of the pickets.

Abstract: An adjustable hanger includes an arm having a suspension member, and having an opening for receiving a hanger support frame. A plunger is slidably mounted on the arm, and has a corresponding opening for receiving the hanger support frame. The plunger is slidable to an unlocked position in which the opening in the plunger is aligned with the opening in the arm to allow the arm and plunger to move freely along the hanger support frame through the aligned openings, and a biasing element is interposed between the arm and the plunger for biasing the plunger against the support frame for locking the adjustable hanger in a desired position.In a preferred embodiment, the plunger is coaxially movable within an axial cavity of the arm, and the plunger includes a button at one end thereof. The arm may include a finger tab, and the suspending member may be in the form of a hook which includes a finger support portion.

Abstract: A rest structure supported by support elements, with or without interposing mattresses and/or cushions, formed from a succession of hollow rod-shaped bodies disposed parallel to each other and sustained on cross-members which intersect them and to which they are removably connected by couplings inserted in said rod-shaped bodies.

Abstract: A hanger for suspending armored cable from a vertical wire holds the cable to one side of the wire and includes a sharp edge that engages the wire on the side opposite the cable; a force is applied to press the sharp edge against the wire to prevent the hanger from slipping down along the wire. In other aspects, the hanger is supported from only a single location on the wire; the hanger includes a slot into which the wire may be slipped to reach a position where the wire is grasped by the hanger; and the cable holding portion of the hanger includes a rib to seat in the helical groove of the armored cable.

Abstract: This is an improved fence system comprising a plurality of vertical support type fence posts with each post preferably having a pair of "saddle support" members to support a pair of preferably parallel tube members that are preferably fabricated of Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) commonly used in electrical installations, or of any other type of suitable material such as light weight galvanized tubing. The EMT can be coated with an enamel type paint, or any other type of suitable paint. The "saddle support" members serve as both a connecting link and support for the fence horizontal tube members or sections. The horizontal fence sections are easily attached by means of two metal screws that secure these sections to the post's "saddle support." The bottom portion of each fence post can be secured, for example, into a pool's cool deck for easy installation and removal, or it can be permanently attached to any suitable surface.

Abstract: A tubular structural system utilizes a plurality of graduated tubes, each having a plurality of apertures formed therein for receiving smaller tubes in a selectively locking configuration such that the tubes may be interlocked to form a structural framework.

Abstract: At least one post member of the assembly is receivable by the base member of the assembly through an opening in the top wall of the base member. Cam means are mounted on the inner surface of the outer wall of the base member in alignment with the opening for detachably connecting the post member to the base member when the post member extends through the opening to the bottom wall.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus having locking means for facilitating adjustable positioning of a portion thereof. The exercise apparatus may take the form of an exercise bicycle or other equipment. The locking means are adapted to have a component positioned within a tubular member of the exercise apparatus and receive an adjustable member passing therethrough. The locking means components are adapted to be moved in a path generally transverse to the axis of the adjustable member and are adapted to provide compressive locking action to the adjustable member in the desired position.

Abstract: A one-piece fence post is comprised of a rigid tubular member folded in a region between its ends to form first and second longitudinally abutting portions. A first pair of inwardly facing adjacent indentations are formed in the respective first and second portions in the region of the fold to define a transverse rail-receiving passage. One or more further pairs of inwardly facing adjacent indentations are formed in the respective first and second portions between the region and the ends of the member to define a corresponding one or more additional transverse rail-receiving passages. The first and second portions are joined together, as for example, by welding, preferably between each pair of rail-receiving passages. The posts are preferably made of metal, such as galvanized steel pipe, in which case they can be inexpensively fabricated by known metal-working techniques.

Abstract: A method for joining tubular members at right angles for use in the construction of a rail and pole metal fence, grating and the like, in which the poles are inserted in prepunched multi-sided clearance holes in the rails and are secured therein by means of set screws, serrated pins or nails.

Abstract: A bicycle having a pair of wheels and a frame formed of two crossing bars that are detachable from each other so as to form a separate unicycle and a pedal bike, one of which includes a handle bar at a top, and the other a seat at its top, while each has one wheel at a lower end.

Abstract: A joint connects an arm to a shaft. A split collar which clamps onto the shaft has a radial passage which registers with the transverse passage through the shaft and an end of the arm engages through the two passages. The split collar is clamped tightly onto the shaft and against the arm externally of the shaft.

Abstract: A known grid suspended ceiling has a removable panel. A clip will be captive on a ceiling member at the margin of the opening and will also hold an end of a panel ceiling member securely in position with proper location without requiring a tool for removing the panel. The clip has two securing portions which snap into openings in the margin ceiling member. The clip has jaws connected at their lower ends to wings which can be moved to open the jaws. The jaws have detent portions with horizontal upper surfaces. The panel is merely pushed up into the opening, the detent portion being cammed back and then snapping home into position. To remove the panel, the appropriate wing is pushed, withdrawing the detent portion and allowing the panel to drop down.

Abstract: Methods of forming joints between bars of materials such as mild steel are disclosed. In one method, the bars are arranged to lie in generally parallel planes but with their axes at an angle to one another, and a plastically-deformable tubular stub of round or square cross-section is disposed between the bars with its axis substantially intersecting the axes of the bars, which are then pressed together to deform the stub partially around the two bars. In a second method, a bar is arranged in a T-formation with a hollow member, two opposed regions at the end of the tubular member are deformed inwardly and back along the member axis, and the bar is then pressed into the groove so-formed at the end of the member, to deform the end portion partially around the bar. Heat may be used, in the former case on the stub and in the latter case on the tubular member, so that after completion of the joint the heated stub or tubular member will cool and contract, firmly to grip the or each bar.

Abstract: A suspension ceiling grid system is disclosed which provides intersections including through-runners and oppositely extending runner ends. The through-runner is provided with a connector opening and the runner ends are provided with identical end connectors. The end connectors are engaged and disengaged by lateral movement and provide spring means which resiliently urge the end connectors toward the locked position. The end connectors provide two locking systems, one of which provides a connection with the through-runner when only one connector is installed in the connector opening, and subsequently provides an improved strength functionally direct connection between the two end connectors when two end connectors are installed within the connector opening from opposite sides. The end connectors provide a second separate locking system which directly connects between the two end connectors. In one embodiment, a connector system is disclosed which allows easy removal of a runner within an assembled grid.