Providing Expansion Joint Patents (Class 404/74)
  • Patent number: 11572699
    Abstract: An improved manner of marking concrete is provided by an embedded concrete marking. The embedded concrete marking is made of concrete that is different than the concrete into which the marking is embedded. A method of creating an embedded concrete marking comprises identifying a location on the surface of concrete where an embedded concrete marking is to be created, cutting a trench into the surface of the concrete at the identified location, pouring a concrete mixture into the trench to a level where a float height of the concrete mixture is above the surface of the concrete, the concrete mixture being different when dry than the concrete into which the trench has been cut, letting the concrete mixture at least partially harden, and removing a portion of the hardened concrete mixture to create a top surface of the concrete mixture that will form an embedded concrete marking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Inventors: Chris Paisley, Kevin Paisley
  • Patent number: 11414856
    Abstract: A building deformation joint waterproofing system with a bonding-type built-in water stop structure and a method based thereon are provided, which relate to the technical field of building waterproof structures. The system includes: a concrete structure, on which a building deformation joint is disposed; a water stop structure, which is elastic or stretchable, and disposed in the building deformation joint; and a first bonding layer, disposed between the water stop structure and an inner wall of the building deformation joint. The waterproofing system using the foregoing technical solution bonds the water stop structure to the building deformation joint with an adhesive to form a seamless waterproof construction, thus greatly improving the waterproof ability of the building deformation joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Inventor: Zhaosheng Wu
  • Patent number: 11338472
    Abstract: A cutting apparatus is provided. The cutting apparatus includes a processing chamber, a chuck table, a transferring mechanism, and a cleaning member. The chuck table is disposed in the processing chamber and configured to hold a workpiece on a chuck surface of the chuck table during a cutting process. The transferring mechanism is configured to transfer the workpiece to the chuck surface before the cutting process or transfer the workpiece away from the chuck surface after the cutting process. The cleaning member is disposed in the processing chamber, and is configured to move across and clean the chuck surface, driven by the transferring mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD
    Inventor: Chih-Min Tseng
  • Patent number: 10695952
    Abstract: A cutting apparatus is provided. The cutting apparatus includes a processing chamber, a chuck table, a transferring mechanism, and a cleaning member. The chuck table is disposed in the processing chamber and configured to hold a workpiece on a chuck surface of the chuck table. The transferring mechanism is configured to transfer the workpiece to the chuck surface or transfer the workpiece away from the chuck surface. The cleaning member, which is disposed in the processing chamber, is configured to move across and clean the chuck surface before the workpiece is transferred to the chuck table and/or after the workpiece is transferred away from the chuck table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chih-Min Tseng
  • Patent number: 9010310
    Abstract: A saw apparatus for sawing paving slabs has a frame mounted on a ground contacting propulsion member such that the frame may move above a slab to be cut without touching the slab. A first saw support assembly disposes a blade of a saw in cutting engagement with the slab for a transverse cut. A second saw support assembly disposes a blade of another saw in cutting engagement with the slab for a longitudinal cut. The saws are mounted on the saw assemblies and the saw assemblies are mounted on the frame and the frame is mounted on the ground contact propulsion members such that no part of said frame need contact the slab during cutting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventors: Roger Bockes, Robert Bockes
  • Patent number: 8807866
    Abstract: A method of laying a finishing layer with a road finisher F having a screed B, whereby the screed, equipped with a tamper device T and a smoothing plate, at least compacts and superficially smoothes the finishing layer, and the stroke and/or the frequency of the tamper device T are remotely varied for laying a finishing layer with a paving thickness and/or laying rate V which vary over the pave width and transversely to the working direction R within the pave width. A road finisher having a screed suitable for implementing the method set forth above wherein the road finisher or screed has an adjustment device for the remotely actuated local variation of at least the stroke of the tamper device within the pave width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Joseph Vogele AG
    Inventors: Martin Buschmann, Roman Munz, Klaus Bertz, Ralf Weiser
  • Publication number: 20140205378
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to install contraction joints in concrete slabs. The method uses a device, which inserts a strip of plastic or paper tape into freshly laced concrete, as the device is driven across a concrete slab. The tape is folded immediately prior to being inserted into freshly placed concrete, and functions to weaken the slab at the contraction joint location for the purpose of causing a crack to form in the slab. Plastic tape can be used, which functions as a moisture vapor retarder, and thereby, protects floor coverings from moisture damage, such as mold and mildew, at contraction joint locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Harvey Hilbert Haynes
  • Publication number: 20140154008
    Abstract: An expansion joint formed within a channel between two adjacent road surfaces and a method of preparing an expansion joint. The joint is formed within a channel having sides each extending from an adjacent road surface to a bottom side of the channel. The joint construction may include at least one layer of a binder covering at least a portion of the sides of the channel, and one or more layers of aggregate chips and the binder covering the at least one binder layer so as to fill the channel to at least the top of the road surface. The cumulative surface area of the two channel sides may be greater than the cumulative surface area of two channel sides each planar and perpendicular to the bottom. The joint construction may include a plate on the bottom side of the channel. The joint construction may include a flexible sheeting between the plate and the at least one binder layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Dynamic Surface Applications, Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael F. Stachowicz, Richard P. Lee
  • Patent number: 8602678
    Abstract: A jointing structure comprising multiple steps provided face to face at the coaxially built traveling path ends with an expansion gap between, multiple elastic members respectively mounted inside the multiple steps, and a joint block mounted on the multiple elastic members across the expansion gap. Multiple supporting blocks and one or more than one intermediate joint block are mounted inside the multiple steps with the joint block between. The multiple supporting blocks, the joint block and the one or more than one intermediate joint block are of concrete. The elastic members are joined together across the expansion gap. The elastic member on one side is fixed to the inside of the step on one side and then subjected to deformation toward the bridge girder axis, and thereafter, the elastic member on the other side is fixed to the inside of the step on the other side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignees: Central Japan Railway Company, Abe Nikkokogyo Co., Ltd., JR Central Consultants Company, Japan Transportation Consultants, Inc.
    Inventors: Takashi Kawamoto, Takafumi Matsuda, Masaaki Miyamoto, Hironori Sadakane, Katsunori Yokokawa, Minoru Tsukahara, Junichi Kawaura, Yuki Motoyama
  • Patent number: 8578672
    Abstract: A backer rod adapted for forming a fire-resistant seal within a construction joint. The backer rod may include an elongated tube defining a total assembly volume and a hollow interior, and a core disposed within the hollow interior. The tube is formed of a combustible foam plastic which disintegrates when exposed to fire. The core material is expandable when exposed to fire, such that the core has an intumescent expansion factor sufficient to expand to a volume beyond the total assembly volume. The backer rod may be press fit into a void between two surfaces to a depth. A sealant layer may be formed within the void. When exposed to fire on a side opposite the sealant layer, the external shell disintegrates, the core expands within the void in a direction away from the sealant layer, and a fire-resistant barrier is formed within the void between the surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Tremco Incorporated
    Inventors: Timothy M. Mattox, Gregory P. Garwood
  • Patent number: 8556535
    Abstract: A frame for installing strips of expansion joint material in freshly-poured concrete has an elongated spine around which other elements of the frame are assembled. Spaced retainers are attached along a spine side. A flat side panel extends along another spine side. A space formed between panel and retainer receives a strip of expansion joint material. Notches are spaced along the bottom edge of side panel and serve as guides for spaced nails driven through the joint material. Spaced stakes are driven into the ground to hold the frame in place as concrete is poured around the frame. Handles are attached to the spine for removal of the frame after the concrete has been poured. The nails, immersed in the fresh concrete, hold the strip in place as the frame is lifted from the concrete and the strip remains in place within the concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Hazell Trent
  • Patent number: 8303210
    Abstract: A template for positioning a pocket former wherein the template positions the pocket former at a fixed depth with respect to the top of concrete formwork. The template comprises a support and a body. The support positions the template; the body comprises a positioner for locating a pocket former. A spacer that connects to the support according to the desired depth of the pocket former can also be included. The template thus provides a reliable and efficient way of ensuring that a pocket former is placed at the appropriate depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: Nigel Parkes, Russell Boxall
  • Publication number: 20120243937
    Abstract: A junction between successive flat pre-fabricated elements which comprises an elastic transverse insert (9), an approaching mechanism (10) in the form of tie beams (23) and tensioning mechanisms (19). The flat pre-fabricated elements (2) to be assembled each have a transverse channel (3) adapted so as to receive the insert along the end transverse edges (4, 5) thereof, which must face each other after assembly on the ground, and conduits (7) of the tie beams. Each pre-fabricated element is successively arranged, one after the other, and the transverse insert is introduced into the transverse housing (6) formed by transverse channels facing each other. The tie beams are introduced into the conduits, the ends thereof projecting outside the pre-fabricated elements. The tie beams are then tensioned by a tensioning mechanism, at each of the ends thereof, in order to immobilize the flat pre-fabricated elements and thereby connected by the tie beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: LOHR INDUSTRIE
    Inventors: Martin Klotz, Jean-Luc Andre
  • Publication number: 20120237295
    Abstract: A jointing structure comprising multiple steps provided face to face at the coaxially built traveling path ends with an expansion gap between, multiple elastic members respectively mounted inside the multiple steps, and a joint block mounted on the multiple elastic members across the expansion gap. Multiple supporting blocks and one or more than one intermediate joint block are mounted inside the multiple steps with the joint block between. The multiple supporting blocks, the joint block and the one or more than one intermediate joint block are of concrete. The elastic members are joined together across the expansion gap. The elastic member on one side is fixed to the inside of the step on one side and then subjected to deformation toward the bridge girder axis, and thereafter, the elastic member on the other side is fixed to the inside of the step on the other side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicants: CENTRAL JAPAN RAILWAY COMPANY, JAPAN TRANSPORTATION CONSULTANTS, INC., JR CENTRAL CONSULTANTS COMPANY, ABE NIKKOKOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takashi Kawamoto, Takafumi Matsuda, Masaaki Miyamoto, Hironori Sadakane, Katsunori Yokokawa, Minoru Tsukahara, Junichi Kawaura, Yuki Motoyama
  • Patent number: 8190401
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention recite a computer implemented method and system for creating a road model. In one embodiment, an identification of an intersection of a first road and a second road is received. At least one designated elevation is received at which the first road and the second road should merge. Finally a united layer is automatically created for the intersection wherein a first plurality of strings defining the first road and a second plurality of strings defining the second road intersect at the at least one designated elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Arnaud Boucherat, Matthew Lynn Jones
  • Publication number: 20120121327
    Abstract: Procedures and devices for the formation of retraction joints in works of concrete. The devices are made of a separating material of concrete and their configuration comprises: a) A vertical wall (15, 15?) in its top portion that is planned to be placed underneath the surface fissure line of the retraction joint on the top face of the concreted surface; b) Two prismatic surfaces (17, 17? equal on their bottom part deployed on alternate sides with respect of said vertical wall and configured for the formation of entries and exits imbricated between adjacent slabs forming the faces of support (21, 21?) of one slab over the other at angles of between 0° and ?10° with respect of the horizontal plane. The procedures are based on the insertion of said devices in fresh concrete in the position planned for each retraction joint using mechanical means for this purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: José Ramón Vázquez Ruíz Del Árbol
  • Patent number: 8029854
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process for repairing concrete involving filling one of a void, gap or seam in the concrete with a polyurethane sealant containing a silane terminated prepolymer (“STP”), and a catalyst, optionally, one or more of plasticizers, fillers, pigments, drying agents, light stabilizers, antioxidants. thixotropic agents and bonding agents and applying an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer containing polyurethane or polyurea coating to the silane terminated prepolymer polyurethane sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Bayer MaterialScience LLC
    Inventor: Jay A. Johnston
  • Patent number: 8007199
    Abstract: Disclosed are a concrete dowel placement devices and a method of utilizing the same. A metallic stud is driven, screwed, or otherwise attached to a form. The stud may be a unitary structure, or may be a hollow tube with conventional fastening means such as nails and screws extending through and holding the hollow tube to the form. A cover having an interior compartment substantially equal in diameter to the stud is slidably placed thereon, and a first enclosed area is developed with a plurality of forms. Concrete is poured into the first enclosed area, and upon curing, the form and the stud are removed, leaving the cover embedded in the concrete. A metallic dowel is inserted into the cover, and a second enclosed area is developed with like configured forms. The metallic dowel extends into the second enclosed area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Shaw & Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee A. Shaw, Ronald D. Shaw
  • Publication number: 20110135387
    Abstract: An expansion joint sealing system may be used to provide a continuous and seamless waterproof membrane across a gap in an expansion joint. The expansion joint sealing system includes sealing members that are provided with a keyway for accepting and interlocking a coating membrane. Also disclosed are an expansion joint including spaced apart structural members and the sealing system and a method for sealing a gap between two spaced apart structural members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Construction Research & Technology GmbH
    Inventors: James DERRIGAN, Dan Wald, Monty Guest, Don Starke
  • Publication number: 20110085857
    Abstract: Disclosed are a concrete dowel placement devices and a method of utilizing the same. A metallic stud is driven, screwed, or otherwise attached to a form. The stud may be a unitary structure, or may be a hollow tube with conventional fastening means such as nails and screws extending through and holding the hollow tube to the form. A cover having an interior compartment substantially equal in diameter to the stud is slidably placed thereon, and a first enclosed area is developed with a plurality of forms. Concrete is poured into the first enclosed area, and upon curing, the form and the stud are removed, leaving the cover embedded in the concrete. A metallic dowel is inserted into the cover, and a second enclosed area is developed with like configured forms. The metallic dowel extends into the second enclosed area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Lee A. Shaw, Ronald D. Shaw
  • Publication number: 20110044756
    Abstract: A pavement joint 101, 102 disposed between two contiguous pavement slabs 103, 104 and 105 incorporating a shear key (12, 13, 22 and 23) and at least one hinge (37, 38, 39 and 40). The shear key and the at least one hinge are operative when at least one of the slabs is subjected to out-of-plane action P with the shear key transferring shear between the slabs, and the at least one hinge accommodating angular displacement of the slabs relative to the joint axis in at least one direction. In one form, a joint member 10, 20, 40, 50 and 60 is disposed between the slabs to provide the shear key and hinge. A joint member and pavement slab for use in the joint is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: TRIPSTOP TECHNOLOGIES PTY LTD
    Inventors: Peter Charles McLean, Christopher Raymond McClelland
  • Publication number: 20100303547
    Abstract: A machine or apparatus for installing resilient or elastomeric strip seals of indefinite length in expansion joints in, for example, highways and bridges. The machine includes an open, upper frame connected to a lower frame supported at its four corners by four freely rotating wheels. A pair of clamping pistons on the lower frame includes rollers which are adjusted to engage one face of the expansion joint. A toothed wheel or blade rotates about an inclined axis and is powered by a motor through a speed reducing gearbox. The toothed wheel engages the seal and forces it into a channel on the side of the expansion joint opposite to the side engaged by the rollers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: THE D.S. BROWN COMPANY
    Inventor: Jesse S. Mathey
  • Publication number: 20100080653
    Abstract: The present invention provides a compressible seal for installation in joints in concrete pavement, the machine for installing the seal and the method of installation. The seal is a preformed, closed cell, elastomeric cylinder or rope. The seal defines a round cross section in its relaxed, i.e., uncompressed, state somewhat larger than the joint into which it will be installed. The installation machine is a wheeled, hand powered device having a first guide wheel which is received within the joint, an aligned installation wheel which installs the seal in the joint, a second guide wheel which ensures that the seal is at the proper depth in the joint and a pair of contra-circulating belts which feed the seal to the installation wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas H. Lewis, Eric I. Devine, Benjamin D. Jacobus, Jesse S. Mathey
  • Publication number: 20100061802
    Abstract: A frame for installing strips of expansion joint material in freshly-poured concrete has an elongated spine around which other elements of the frame are assembled. Spaced retainers are attached along a spine side. A flat side panel extends along another spine side. A space formed between panel and retainer receives a strip of expansion joint material. Notches are spaced along the bottom edge of side panel and serve as guides for spaced nails driven through the joint material. Spaced stakes are driven into the ground to hold the frame in place as concrete is poured around the frame. Handles are attached to the spine for removal of the frame after the concrete has been poured. The nails, immersed in the fresh concrete, hold the strip in place as the frame is lifted from the concrete and the strip remains in place within the concrete.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Hazell Trent
  • Patent number: 7637689
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an on-grade joint-stability system for on-grade concrete slabs. Embodiments of the system may include: a first on-grade concrete-slab portion; a second on-grade concrete-slab portion that is separated from the first on-grade concrete-slab portion by a joint; a first on-grade plate having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion of the first on-grade plate being positioned underneath, and connected to, the first concrete-slab portion, and the second portion of the first on-grade plate being positioned underneath the second concrete-slab portion; and a second on-grade plate having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion of the second on-grade plate being positioned underneath the first concrete-slab portion, and the second portion of the second on-grade plate being positioned underneath, and connected to, the second concrete-slab portion, such that height differentials across the joint are substantially prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventors: Russell Boxall, Nigel Parkes
  • Publication number: 20090035063
    Abstract: A load plate sleeve assembly for maintaining a load plate in position between adjacent concrete slabs and facilitating controlled lateral movement of the load plate includes a housing and an insert clip coupled to the housing. The housing includes a top wall, a bottom wall, opposing side walls extending between the top and bottom walls, and an end wall extending between the top and bottom walls, and between the side walls. The walls define an internal cavity, and the housing includes a cavity access opening. The insert clip includes a opposing side walls having a first end and a second end. The insert clip also includes an end wall extending between the side walls, a plurality of deformable centering fingers extending from the side walls, and a collapsible diamond shaped center support extending from the end wall. The insert clip is positioned inside the internal cavity of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Estes, James Vemmer
  • Publication number: 20080247822
    Abstract: In order to repair a bridge in the zone of an expansion joint initially at least the near-surface components of the bridging device that is to be replaced are dismounted and the existing lane structure in the zones bordering the bridging device that is to be replaced is removed in the areas facing the abutment and the superstructure so as to form recesses placed at a lower level than the lane surface, whereupon a temporary bridging element located at the ground level is removably mounted. In order to entirely dismount one section of the bridging device that is to be replaced after another and perform preparatory work for assembling a new permanent bridging device, at least the bridging plate is repeatedly removed and re-assembled as required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: MAGEBA S.A.
    Inventors: Gianni Moor, Bernd Urich, Eduard Schiebelbein, Ernst-Peter Laich
  • Patent number: 7297720
    Abstract: Composite mixture materials made of recycled plastic, glass and rubber, and optionally, sand, gravel, coal combustion by-product and metal, and containing no petroleum distillates (unless a fire retardant or recycled asphalt pavement is used) are disclosed. Methods of using the composite mixture materials include making expansion joints in pavement, filling manhole cover recesses, filling potholes in pavement, making new pavements, and making panels, walls, blocks, impact protection walls, and other such structures. Methods of making the composite mixture materials include heating the components of the material in an inert gas environmentally friendly manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Ace Tire & Parts, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Meyers, III, John H. Swartz, Nathaniel G. Kurczewski, Matthew J. Kurczewski
  • Publication number: 20040258480
    Abstract: A tubing installation system and method having a length of flexible tubing, a handle having a first end and second end and at least one wheel rotatably mounted to the first end. The at least one wheel has a circumferential portion with a complimentary shape to at least a portion of the tubing and an axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the handle. The circumferential portion is used to urge the tubing into a tubing recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: James V. Prisby
  • Patent number: 6775952
    Abstract: An improved joint edge assembly, of the type used in the construction of concrete slabs, is disclosed. The assembly comprises a longitudinal joint rail, preferably of steel, which is supported off the ground by temporary formwork. The joint rail is secured to the formwork by mounting brackets. The joint rail comprises first and second joint edge members that are connected to each other by connectors with self-release elements. A plurality of studs extends downward and outward from each of the joint edge members into the concrete slabs provide a positive mechanical connection between the slab and the joint rail. As the concrete shrinks during hardening, the self-release elements of the connectors allow the joint to freely open. The joint edge assembly thus provides a self-releasing expandable joint between adjacent slab sections, and protects the edges of the adjacent slab sections from damage. A dowel aligner may also be integrated into the assembly, to allow proper positioning of dowels within the slab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Permaban North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell Boxall, Nigel A. Parkes, Patrick Harrison
  • Patent number: 6745532
    Abstract: The invention relates to the articulated imbrication of concrete slabs i(in situ) wherein joints are formed by laying i(in situ), along joint lines, a simple armored mesh device with a cut and fold pattern which has been already prepared in the workshop. Advantage is taken from the retraction phenomenon in order to achieve an alternative indentation along the joints of adjacent slabs of continuous cast concrete, susceptible of forming satisfactorily a knee—or gimbal-joint connection between the joints. The process is complemented with a concrete separator element which facilitates the formation of the crack and prevents water from reaching the platform, and which can be fixed to said device. The invention applies to concrete surface roads, highways and harbour zones of goods warehouses and enables to design and make road surfaces without bases and subbases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Jose Ramon Vazquez Ruiz del Arbol
  • Patent number: 6692184
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of providing a retrofit dowel to maintain adjacent concrete structures in alignment. The dowel is received in a longitudinal groove cut across the structures, and supported in spaced relationship to the bottom of the groove by feet on caps engaged over the ends of the dowel. The feet are positioned so as to be disposed to either side of the dowel. Wings extending laterally of the end caps engage the sides of the groove to center the dowel within the groove and secure it in place. The end caps include structure to secure them from inadvertent displacement from the dowel and stops to provide expansion space to the ends of the dowel, and are translucent to enable the position of a dowel received therein to be visually observed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Meadow Burke Products
    Inventors: David L. Kelly, Richard W. Schutte, Michael Recker
  • Patent number: 6681540
    Abstract: Disclosed is a unitary resilient insert member for filing an expansion joint gap formed between adjacent concrete slabs, floor tiles, or the like wherein the insert member consisting essentially of a preassembled wedge shape form. Also disclosed is a method for sealing the gap located between adjacent flooring or structural members by filling the said gap with a sealing material insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: E. Wayne Richardson
  • Patent number: 6682260
    Abstract: A roller compacted concrete paving sealing method which includes the steps of paving a first area with roller compacted concrete paving, paving a second area with roller compacted concrete paving adjacent to the first paved area, forming a cold joint between the first area and the second area, rolling the cold joint, allowing the rolled cold joint to cure, milling the cold joint and removing any milled material, applying primer to the milled cold joint, filling the milled joint with hot poured filler and finishing the filled joint. The method is done with asphalt paving equipment and specialty milling and hot poured filler equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald L. Peltz
  • Patent number: 6666618
    Abstract: A system for sealing joints in roadways wherein nose plates are attached to each side of the joint to form a gap between the nose plates. A lower seal element is located in the gap between the nose plates. A vapor barrier is provided that extends between the top portions of the two nose plates. The vapor barrier includes edges that are attached to the tops of the nose plates utilizing anchor caps. An upper seal may be included that is located on top of the lower seal element. The upper seal is formed by applying a liquid sealant over the lower seal element and vapor barrier or by installing a preformed gasket that is anchored to the nose plates using the anchor caps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventors: Richard James Anaya, James Beaubien
  • Patent number: 6619879
    Abstract: A method for the waterproofing of joints and/or cracks in the upstream face of dams, other hydraulic works and concrete or masonry structures. A waterproofing membrane includes a strip of elastically yielding synthetic material that is fastened to the surface to be protected along the whole joint and/or crack. Prior to positioning the waterproofing membrane, sliding elements are positioned onto the surface to support the membrane. A protection and sliding substrate is properly fastened independently from the waterproofing membrane so that the waterproofing membrane is allowed to freely elongate and follow the movements of the joint and/or the crack while maintaining a water tightening condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Capri Tech Italia S.R.L.
    Inventor: Albert Scuero
  • Patent number: 6612585
    Abstract: An elastomeric strand-shaped sealing profile including at least one continuous transverse beam located in a region between the base and rear side surfaces of the profile and having two sidewise projecting cantilever arms, two sealing lips provided on the respective lateral side surfaces of the profile adjacent to the regions of the corners between the base surface and the respective lateral side surfaces and extending sidewise of the base body, two webs extending from corners formed by the rear side surface and respective lateral side surface and toward each other, and forming, together with a rear side surface-forming web, a triangular structure, and a further web extending from a tip of the triangular structure and toward the base surface and forming with the two webs a Y-shaped structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Däwyler AG Schweizerische Kabel - Gummi-und Kunststoffwerke
    Inventor: Werner Grabe
  • Publication number: 20030159388
    Abstract: Disclosed is a unitary resilient insert member for filing an expansion joint gap formed between adjacent concrete slabs, floor tiles, or the like wherein the insert member consisting essentially of a preassembled wedge shape form. Also disclosed is a method for sealing the gap located between adjacent flooring or structural members by filling the said gap with a sealing material insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: E. Wayne Richardson
  • Patent number: 6592289
    Abstract: To make a concrete roadway; a continuous section of concrete is poured and cut at an angle of between 5 degrees and 45 degrees downwardly in the direction of traffic flow, to form an angled cut with an overlying surface that can be pressed downwardly by a vehicle to reduce movement of the concrete with respect to the sections on either side of a joint in the pavement. With this cut, vehicles will press a top layer downwardly against a bottom layer. A rotary saw blade mounted at an angle to the roadway is used to cut the concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Leonard A. Weander
  • Patent number: 6561728
    Abstract: The joint is installed between two sections of roadway respectively supported by two contiguous structural elements. A driving surface is formed by a surface covering applied on top of the elements and interrupted above the gap separating them to form a trench. A closure member is placed in the base of the trench covering the gap, after which granulates and a binder which form a flexible material on curing are poured in. Before pouring in the granulates and binder, reinforcements are laid in the trench which are attached to the two structural elements at either end of the closure member. These reinforcements are perforated to allow the granulates to pass through. They therefore provide reinforcement for the joint in areas where there is a risk of tearing due to traction forces which tend to move the elements apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Freyssinet International (STUP)
    Inventor: Jacky Seantier
  • Patent number: 6491472
    Abstract: A process is designed to finish all slits of the surface layer of an airplane runway. The process involves a first step in which a slit is heated such that the surface of the slit is dry, and that the capillary holes of the slit are opened up. The surface of the slit is then provided with a coating of an asphalt synthetic agent. The coating is subsequently heated to cause the molecules of the asphalt synthetic agent to diffuse into the capillary holes of the slit, thereby preventing the water from finding its way into the gradation layer of the runway. In the meantime, the slit is provided with a soft interface capable of preventing the water from finding its way into the slits of the surface layer of the runway. The soft interface is securely attached to the slits regardless of the climatic changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Chia Lung Lu
  • Patent number: 6385913
    Abstract: A steel manhole is provided which includes a steel box having a hole having a bolt hole and formed at an upper portion of the same, a height control pipe having a vertical longitudinal hole inserted into an inner diameter portion of the hole, a multi-hole lid for covering an upper portion of the height control pipe, a male screw formed at left and right portions of the steel box and having a male screw portion, and a female screw having a thread portion for being threaded with the male screw pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Byung Moo Ahn
  • Patent number: 6354053
    Abstract: The joint includes at least two profile elements having such a shape as to enable mutual engagement thereof as a male part and at least a female part, each being integral with one of the edges of two adjacent slabs. One edge of the slab is provided with a substantially L-shaped female profile, whose vertical stem extends all along the edge up to the sharp edge of the upper surface of the slab, and whose base stem extends towards the inner part of the slab and is downwardly folded to form a further stem, extending parallel to the base stem and forming a small space therebetween, for possible engagement of a part of the male profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Eurosteel S.A.
    Inventor: Pierre Raymond Kerrels
  • Patent number: 6272806
    Abstract: A joint insert is provided as well as a system and method for using same in the finishing of a surface's joint. The joint insert is a strip of material having a central longitudinal axis dividing the strip into first and second halves that are mirror-images about the central longitudinal axis. The strip is folded along the central longitudinal axis so that when the strip is positioned in the joint, the strip's central longitudinal axis and portions of the strip's first and second halves extend out of the joint. Gaps are formed between the joint and portions of the strip within the confines of the joint. A filler material is used to fill the gaps. As a final step in the finishing process, any of the strip and filler material extending above the plane of the surface over the joint is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: S. Allen Face, III
  • Patent number: 6113308
    Abstract: A device for cutting filler material from concrete joints comprises a blate attached to the front of an elongated arm, the elongated arm is pivotably joined to a mounting plate. The elongated arm is limited in its movement by a retention bar located on a front edge of the mounting plate and a spring which biases the elongated arm toward the center of the mounting plate. An attachment lip is provided on the front edge of the mounting plate to assist in securing the mounting plate to a bucket of a power machine such as a front end loader. Bolts extending through the mounting plate and a rear turnbuckle also assist in securing the device to the bucket. Mounting is accomplished by placing the mounting plate in the bucket and hooking the lip around the front edge and under the bottom of the bucket. The rear turnbuckle includes a V-plate that engages the top rear of the bucket along the top rear edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: David R. Johnson, II
  • Patent number: 6047520
    Abstract: The Tile Holder, Spacer, and Setter; and Table is an apparatus used for tiling floors. The apparatus holds tiles, spaces them adjacent tiles, and sets them to a consistent depth. The apparatus allows the user to stand erect without putting stress on their knees and back throughout. The invention also includes a table that is to be used along with the apparatus. The table makes adding adhesive to floor tiles easier and cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Abelardo Caraballo
  • Patent number: 6039503
    Abstract: A method to produce an expansion joint for adjacent roadway slabs having an expansion gap therebetween. A recess is cut or formed into the surface of each adjacent roadway slab to create a pair of recesses parallel to and adjacent the expansion gap. The recesses are cleaned to a sound, dust-free and rust-free surface. A temporary form is inserted in the expansion gap between the adjacent roadway slabs. A mortar mixture of a slightly resilient polymer and aggregate is installed in each recess to form a pair of parallel nosings adjacent the expansion gap. High-strength filler blocks are encapsulated within the mortar mixture to reduce the volume of the mortar mixture and to thereby reduce the cost of the nosings. A temporary backing is inserted in the expansion gap between the nosings. An initially liquid sealant is installed between the nosings and on top of the temporary backing which will cure to form a flexible seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Silicone Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe Ray Cathey
  • Patent number: 5980152
    Abstract: A highway coupling apparatus includes an expansion joint template, a plurality of rods, and a plurality of pipes. The template is positioned between longitudinal forms of a highway lane, creating two sections. After positioning the reinforcement bar in each section, the rods are extended through the expansion joint template and movably coupled to the pipes located in the second section. The highway coupling apparatus also includes a movement joint to couple adjacent lanes of the highway. The movement joint includes a plurality of eye bolts, L-bolts, movement joint templates, and a movement joint form. The eye bolts and L-bolts partially extend from the respective first and second lanes into the movement joint templates and are coupled. The movement joint templates are coupled to the movement joint form and prevent concrete from entering the eye bolt eyes during fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Amos Rehberger
  • Patent number: 5971656
    Abstract: A hot-mix motorized paver is used to deliver fresh pervious pavement mix to form one or more lanes of pavement. The paver is supported on ski-type support runners on parallel side forms. A compacting roller is connected to the paver and rolls along the top of each side form to compact the fresh pavement down to the top of the forms. Indentations are cut into the fresh compacted pavement by rolling a hand powered roller, containing a pointed hoop, across the fresh pavement at select locations to form expansion joints. The pavement is covered with polyethylene sheeting within 20 minutes after completion of placement and finishing, the sheeting is removed after a curing time of approximately seven days, and a concrete saw is used to remove excess pervious pavement that extends beyond the desired paved area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas Edward Kitsmiller
  • Patent number: 5934821
    Abstract: A concrete dowel placement apparatus comprising a base member and an elongate, tubular dowel receiving sheath which is connectible to the base member. The base member comprises an outer sleeve having first and second ends and a flange portion which extends about the first end of the outer sleeve and defines front and back surfaces and a peripheral edge. The base member further comprises an inner sleeve which is disposed within the outer sleeve and defines an aperture extending longitudinally therethrough to the back surface of the flange portion. Extending between the inner and outer sleeves is at least one reinforcement wall. The sheath has an open proximal end, a closed distal end, and a hollow interior compartment extending longitudinally therein. The open proximal end of the sheath is extensible over the outer sleeve such that at least a portion of the outer sleeve resides within the interior compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventors: Lee A. Shaw, Ronald D. Shaw