Abstract: A gate may include a first supporting arm and an adjustable arm. The first supporting arm may include an interior surface and an interior cavity. The adjustable arm may include an insertable end, an adjustable compression member and a compression fitting. The insertable end may be configured to be inserted into the interior cavity of the first supporting arm. The adjustable compression member may be disposed at the insertable end. The compressing fitting may be configured to adjust the adjustable compression member. When the insertable end is inserted into the interior cavity of the first supporting arm, the adjustable compression member is adjusted to compress against the interior surface so that the adjustable arm is fixed relative to the first supporting arm.

Abstract: A revolving security door includes a drum defining a secure zone between door openings controlled by a revolving door disposed within the drum and wherein light curtain sensors and active infrared sensors may detect an intruder moving from a non-secure side of the doorway to the secure side and detect objects left behind in a secure zone. Methods of operation prevent persons or objects from passing from the non-secure side to the secure side of the doorway.

Abstract: A method of surface sealing a porous fibrous substrate is provided. According to the method, a porous fibrous substrate possessing a moisture content and a surface with pores is provided. A sealant composition is applied to a surface of the porous fibrous substrate and permitted to penetrate the surface pores of the porous fibrous substrate and undergo cure while participating in a foaming reaction with the moisture content to establish a water-resistant polymeric foam sealant impregnated into the porous fibrous substrate. The water-resistant polymeric foam sealant contains a polyurethane and/or polyurea.

Abstract: A louver assembly includes a rail including a first rail portion configured to connect to a mounting structure and a second rail portion coupled to a bracket configured to hold a louver. The second rail portion can couple to the first rail portion in different positions, each having a different distance between the bracket and the mounting structure connected to the first rail portion.

Abstract: An impact plate that is able to lie flat when not attached to a door and bowed when attached that provides greater protection and easier installation than known approaches.

Abstract: A window system for a vehicle includes a glazing assembly, a frame member having a portion for receiving the glazing assembly, and a mounting clip having a body and an extension that extends outwardly from the body of the mounting clip. The body of the mounting clip is configured to be attached to a body portion of a vehicle and the extension is configured to be attached to the frame member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for opening a reaction vessel having a body forming a volume for liquid, and a lid. In the method at least one reaction vessel is placed on a transport vehicle and the reaction vessel is positioned on the vehicle so that the vessel's rotation about its own axis is prevented. Then, the at least one reaction vessel is transferred on the vehicle and a guide rod, attached to the lid that is attached by a hinge to the reaction vessel, is pushed by the movement of the vehicle against a guide surface that forces the lid to turn on the hinge so that the lid is at least partially opened.

Abstract: A procedure for the application of a seal (3) onto a surface of a device housing (1,2) for a motor vehicle, especially a motor vehicle door lock housing surface, comprising the following procedural steps: the surface is at least partially cleaned and/or micro structured by a heat source (4) restricted in area; and a sealant is applied to areas of the surface treated in such a way.

Abstract: A door facing is provided. The door facing includes a body portion, and male and female alignment members protruding from a main surface area of the body portion. Also provided are door assemblies including the door facing and methods of making the door facing and the door assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a door facing blank having a first major surface with a design element formed therein, and an opposite second major surface. At least three longitudinally extending spaced stile receiving areas are disposed on the second major surface. Two of the stile receiving areas define a first width, and three of the stile receiving areas define a second width greater than the first width. The door facing blank may be trimmed to form a door facing having a selected width. A method of forming a door facing blank, and a mold press for forming a door facing blank are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a closure element, in particular to a cover or door, for a refrigerator unit and/or freezer unit, wherein the closure element has at least one blocking means or is connected thereto, which blocking means is movable into a release position and into a locked position, wherein the blocking means is arranged such that the closure element or a part of the closure element cannot be opened in the locked position of the blocking means, wherein at least one displaceably arranged covering is provided which is movable into different positions, and wherein the covering covers the blocking means or an opening leading to the blocking means in a first position and releases it for use in a second position.

Abstract: A temporary window has at least two sheets of thin plastic resin correspondingly comprising a center surrounded by at least one perimeter edge. The centers of the sheets are bonded to one another while the perimeters are not. Each of the perimeter edges of the sheets has an inner surface with an adhesive coating substantially thereon. The perimeters are arranged in relation to one another so that the adhesive inner sides create a v-shaped ravine adapted to adhere to a structure contiguous with an opening. The temporary window is especially suited to temporarily cover a window opening when the window glass is broken or otherwise non-functional. Uses include temporary windows for land vehicles, such as cars and trucks, marine craft, such as boats and the like, as well as windows in a residential or business establishment. The temporary window optionally includes a gap for fresh air in a vehicle's passenger compartment.

Abstract: A hinge set (and associated methodology and resultant hung doors or windows) where the leaf of each hinge sleeved component is, or is to be, leafwise received in, and is, or to be, screwed into, a different cavity, yet allowing aligned sleeve meshing for pin insertion. Its use allows the leaf to be largely concealed even when the doors or windows are open.

Abstract: A barrier control apparatus and method for controlling movement of a barrier are provided to allow a user the ability to move a barrier without physically contacting the barrier. For example, the barrier control apparatus maintains a defined distance between an object such as a hand and a defined location relative to the barrier such that movement of the barrier follows movement of the object. In this way, a user is able to maintain control of the movement of the barrier throughout the opening and closing process. The barrier control apparatus is further able to detect gestures made by the user and can control movement of the barrier accordingly.

Abstract: A system and method for mounting a coil spring to a brake shoe in a guide track of a window frame. A brake shoe and coil spring are provided. A housing is provided to hold the coil spring. A stop mount is also provided for limiting the movement of the housing in the guide track. The housing and the stop mount are temporarily joined into a common assembly. The coil spring is placed in the housing. The stop mount is mounted in the guide track at a fixed position, wherein the housing is positioned above the stop mount. The free end of the coil spring is connected to the brake shoe below the stop mount The stop mount is then detached from the housing. This enables the housing to move freely within the guide track independently of the stop mount.

Abstract: A sliding door with a sliding panel and a fixed panel allows for the sliding panel to pivot with respect to the fixed panel regardless of the position of the sliding panel and allows both the sliding panel and fixed panel to pivot with respect to an outer frame in which the panels are mounted when the sliding panel is fully open or nearly fully open without requiring a floor track. The sliding panel may move linearly with respect to the fixed panel and outer frame along the length of a header, and a guide bracket cooperatively engaged with the sliding panel may be partially positioned in a guide track formed in the fixed panel bottom rail. A floor plate may be secured to the floor surface adjacent the bottom end of a first jamb to provide support/stability to the panels.

Abstract: Composite bi-fold doors and other composite closures having improved assemblies are described, wherein the assemblies provide enhanced strength and durability of the doors and their construction while simultaneously maintaining their aesthetics. Additional improved bi-fold door and semi-solid door assemblies are also provided, which allow for the dimensional adjustment of the height of the doors by the installer as necessary, while simultaneously maintaining the structural integrity of the doors following the height adjustment.

Abstract: A composite blast door, when used as an exterior door of a protected structure, can significantly decrease the risk of life threatening hazards to interior occupants. The composite blast door is composed of outer sheets of steel, intermediate sheets of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP), and a filled core of vaporized aluminum. Rubber gaskets may be used as a buffer layer between the FRP and vaporized aluminum core. Fabrication begins with a door skeleton created from steel framing elements, either hollow structural steel members or channels. Afterwards, the rear panels are attached to the door skeleton in inward order: beginning with the outer steel plate, then the FRP sheet and lastly the optional rubber gasket. The door can now be used as a form to receive the vaporized aluminum filling. After filling, the front panels are attached in the reverse order as the rear panels; rubber first, then FRP, then steel.

Abstract: An apparatus automatically closes and opens a door in a frame. The door is controlled by a controller providing a safety mode for retaining the door in an open state and, if need be, a door reopening mode if an obstacle blocks the closure of the door. A camera having a vision axis intersecting a plane of the frame, provides an image of a space divided by the plane of the frame. An image analysis unit isolates the regions of interest of an obstacle in the space. A calculator extracts a geometrical characteristic of each region of interest, for classifying the same into a closest category of different safety scenarios of known characteristics, and for outputting, to the controller, a safety signal which activates the safety mode and which is dependent on the evaluation of a safety alarm value calculated by a formula, in accordance with the category.

Abstract: A window has a frame and a movable sash mounted within the frame. The sash is formed from interconnected lineals bounding a glazing unit with at least one of the lineals being a sash rail made of a substantially hollow extrusion. A sash lock is mounted to the sash rail by means of a pair of toggle anchors projecting from the sash lock into the sash rail. A corresponding pair of lock screws is driven through the toggle anchors causing them to spread apart within the rail to form a mechanical lock that fixes the sash lock securely to the sash rail. More broadly, a component is anchored to an extrusion, which may be substantially hollow, with toggle anchors extending through holes in the extrusion and being spread apart within the holes by a screw.

Abstract: A variable size sill pan can be adapted to various widths, lengths, and heights of framed door or window openings. The sill pan assembly includes an extruded base which is typically inclined, window or door supports which can be extruded as part of the base unit, and molded corner elements. Grooves are provided on the front flange of the sill pan base to permit the front flange to be cut to a desired length. Grooves are provided on the rear sill pan wall permit the rear sill pan wall to be cut to a desired length. Grooves or markings are provided on a base and on end cap sections to permit the pieces to the cut to a desired width. An assembled sill pan is formed by attaching the adjusted pieces together, or by snapping and gluing the adjusted pieces together.

Abstract: A door device for a household appliance includes a door having in particular a first vertical longitudinal side, a second vertical longitudinal side disposed opposite the first longitudinal side, and a top side extending between the longitudinal sides The door device further includes a door opening device for automatically opening the door, wherein a handle element is designed in particular on the second longitudinal side and/or a handle element is designed in particular on the top side. The door has at least one detection sensor, which is designed to detect a finger in a detection region around or on the handle element, and a control unit, which is designed to control the door opening device in response to information received from the detection sensor.

Abstract: A shutter is disclosed having plural substantially similar louvers, including a first louver having a first louver end, with a first end cap molded with a first gear projecting away from the louver. The louver includes a second louver end, widthwise opposing the first end, having a retractable boss projecting away from the louver. A frame includes a first stile and a widthwise opposing second stile, a top rail and a height-wise opposing bottom rail, defining a shutter fenestration. The first stile has a first widthwise inner-facing wall, which has plural height-wise spaced gear openings, each releasably receiving one gear and having a diameter that is at least as large as an addendum circle for the gear. The second stile has a second widthwise inner-facing wall, which has plural height-wise spaced boss openings for releasably receiving one retractable boss. Accordingly, the louvers are removably disposed in the shutter fenestration.

Abstract: A finger guard device is designed to be inserted into a gap between a hinged door and a doorjamb that is created when the door is at least partially open. The finger guard device includes a wedge and a protuberance from the wedge that is shaped and sized to hook over a hinge of the door. The finger guard device is placed to straddle a hinge so that the wedge extends down one side of a hinge and the protuberance hooks over the other side of the hinge. When the finger guard is so placed, the door can not be completely closed and a gap remains between the door and the doorjamb. This gap prevents injury caused by fingers being pinched in doorjambs.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a security cover for a door viewer such as a peephole. The security cover includes a housing having a forward opening configured to align with the peephole, a rearward viewing port, and an eyecup. The security cover further includes a shutter mechanism that is manually repositionable from a closed position to an opened position via engagement of an actuator. In operation, the security cover is coupled to a door such that it covers the door viewer.

Abstract: A vehicle door may include a door outer panel defining an exterior surface of the vehicle door; a common door inner panel located inboard of the door outer panel and configured to mount door hardware, with the common door inner panel having a periphery; and a panel extension extending around essentially all of the periphery of the common door inner panel, the panel extension being attached to the periphery of the common door inner panel and attached to the door outer panel to secure the common door inner panel to the door outer panel.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a security cover for a door viewer such as a peephole. The security cover includes a housing having a forward opening configured to align with the peephole, a rearward viewing port, and an eyecup. The security cover further includes a shutter mechanism that is manually repositionable from a closed position to an opened position via engagement of an actuator. In operation, the security cover is coupled to a door such that it covers the door viewer.

Abstract: A gate assembly is provided including frame means for positioning in an opening through which selective entry is required. Barrier means are mountable on the frame means via hinge means and the barrier means are movable relative to the frame means between a closed position, wherein the opening is closed, to an open position, wherein the opening is open. An automatic closure mechanism is provided for moving the barrier means from the open position to the closed position without user intervention. The automatic closure mechanism is associated with the hinge means and includes at least one ramp or inclined surface on which at least part of the gate travels when moving between the open and closed positions.

Abstract: A door opening spring assistance apparatus is set forth that will automatically apply a door opening assistance force using a combination of rods and coil springs. The release of the rods by the coil springs reduces the force required to set the door in motion.

Abstract: A system to prevent the improper installation of a safety circuit used to keep an automatic door from closing on an obstruction includes an automatic door operator for opening and closing the automatic door. A sensor system is provided for allowing the automatic door operator to close the automatic door whenever no obstruction is under the automatic door. The sensor system further prevents the automatic door operator from closing the automatic door whenever an obstruction is under the automatic door. Further, the sensor system prevents the automatic door operator from closing the automatic door when the sensor system is improperly installed such that an obstruction under the automatic door is undetectable.

Abstract: An assembly and method for securely enclosing a door opening defined by a building structure comprising: a frame disposed about the opening engaging one side of the structure; a door or other panel substantially covering the opening, the panel being pivotally secured to the frame and pivotable between an open position and a closed position; an installation bar engageable with the frame to secure the frame to the structure such that the frame and the panel are disposed substantially on one side of the structure and the frame engages the one side of the structure, and the installation bar is disposed substantially on an other side of the structure and engages the other side of the structure, the length of the installation bar exceeding a dimension of the opening; and locking means for selectively locking the panel to the frame in the closed position and for unlocking the door.

Abstract: A door assembly for an instrument cabinet includes a door element having a first side edge and a second side edge opposite the first side edge adapted for installation in a predetermined orientation, at least two first withdrawable pins in a region of the first side edge and at least two second pins which form a pivot axis in a region of the second side edge, wherein, in an extended condition, the first pins are in communication with a first depression in the instrument cabinet to prevent the door element pivoting about the pivot axis and, in a withdrawn condition, extend out of the first depression to permit the door element to pivot about the pivot axis, at least one handle element having a fixed part that secures to a front side of the door element and a movable part that mechanically couples to the two first pins, wherein actuation of the movable part allows the first pins which are coupled thereto, to move into a retracted condition, wherein the door element and/or the handle element are of symmetrical c

Abstract: A method for installing a retrofit conversion kit for converting a door operating apparatus from overhead use to underground use and for operating a swinging door while protecting the door apparatus against moisture and dust encroachment within its underground location. A seal arrangement provides this contamination encroachment protection.

Abstract: A double-hung window having a uniform interior wood appearance is disclosed. The window has a head jamb and side jambs. The window has an upper and lower sash, each having a wood frame. The upper and lower sashes are held in the window by the side jambs. Lock-pins are extendable from each side of the lower sash. A concealed jamb liner cover for selective engagement with each upper side jamb is provided which has an exposed wood surface and a channel for receiving the lock-pin of the lower sash. An upper sash lock housing attached to an upper portion of the wood frame of the upper sash, is provided which holds an upper sash lock-pin for each side of the upper sash. A wooden interior upper parting stop connected to the head jamb conceals the upper sash lock housing when the window is closed.

Abstract: A sliding door panel assembly comprises at least one movable door panel and a roller assembly. The roller assembly includes at least one roller mounted on an axle and at least one roller clamping plate receiving the axle. The vertical load of the door panel is substantially borne by the at least one roller. A track may be disposed beneath the roller assembly, and the roller is movable along the track. The door panel is movable by moving the roller along the track.

Abstract: A system and methods for controlling operation of hydraulic cylinders includes monitoring position of the cylinders relative to one another, and correction of misalignment of the cylinders should they become misaligned. Further, monitoring can be of a swing-type door operated using the cylinders, which can operate the door at different speeds. Further, as the door creeps open from a closed position or closed from an open position, correction is also made.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a metal door. The door includes a pair of sheet metal door panels. Each of the door panels includes a central body portion with top, bottom and opposing side edges. The doors include an integral flange along each side edge of each panel. The integral flange extends generally perpendicular to the central body portion. An integral inturned lip can be located along each flange and extend substantially parallel to the central body portion. The door panels are positioned such that the central body portions are in an opposing spaced apart relation to one another with the flanges adjacent to and aligned with one another. The inturned lips are positioned in contacting face-to-face relation. The metal door also includes an elongate connector overlying and clamping together each face-to-face pair of inturned lips to maintain the door panels in assembled relation.

Abstract: A mortise lock comprising: a case having opposite inner and outer sides which are horizontally spaced when the mortise lock is mounted on a door; a latchbolt supported by the case for movement between extended and retracted positions, the latchbolt extending from the outer side of the case; an element configured to be operably connected to a latch adjacent a top or a bottom of the door, the element being movably supported by the case and partially extending from the inner side of the case; and a latchbolt bar movably supported by the case, the latchbolt bar having an outer end operably connected to the latchbolt for moving the latchbolt between the extended and retracted positions, and the latchbolt bar having an inner end operably connected to the element for moving the element when the latchbolt bar moves the latchbolt.

Abstract: A method of controlling the operation of a vehicle's dual hinged door assembly is provided, where the dual hinged door assembly includes a first door portion hingeably coupled to a structural member within the vehicle's roof such that it pivots about a primary axis formed by its juncture with the structural roof member, a second door portion hingeably coupled to the first door portion such that it pivots about a secondary axis formed by its juncture with the first door portion, a primary drive system providing powered motion for the first door portion about the primary axis, a secondary drive system providing powered motion for the second door portion about the secondary axis, and a controller coupled to the drive systems that provides independent motion control of the first and second door portions via the primary and secondary drive systems.

Abstract: A method for constructing a horizontal section of an overhead garage door begins by providing a previously manufactured metal door section. A sheet of moldable material is shaped by heating and vacuum forming in order to produce a decorative overlay panel. The overlay panel has a front exposed surface which forms a front face for the door section of the garage door when overlaid on the door section. The overlay panel is mounted on the horizontal door section to provide a decorative appearance to the door section. A number of the door sections so overlaid are assembled to produce the resulting hinged overhead garage door.

Abstract: A receptacle suspended from a support member having a hollow housing and a lid to enclose the interior thereof. A cable secured to the housing extending though a locking mechanism affixed atop the lid so that the lid may be moved from a closed to an open position.

Abstract: A snap lock balance shoe and system to be incorporated in pivotable double hung windows. In one embodiment, the snap lock balance shoe includes a pair of retractable tabs that partially extend through openings within an inverted window balance. Embodiments of methods for installing the system include inserting a frame of the balance shoe within a jamb track of the window jamb, rotating the frame 90 degrees about a first axis, and rotating the frame 90 degrees about a second axis such that the frame is substantially fully disposed within the jamb track.

Abstract: Chain tensioner devices for use with movable partition systems include endplates configured to be mounted on opposing sides or ends of a movable partition. At least one of the endplates includes a bracket configured for attachment to an end of a chain. The bracket is movable relative to the endplate. The endplate having the bracket also includes an adjustment mechanism located on a common side of the endplate with the bracket, and is operably coupled with the bracket. The adjustment mechanism is configured for adjusting a distance separating the bracket from the endplate. Movable partition systems include such chain tensioner devices. Methods of adjusting a tension in a chain of a movable partition system involve the use of such a chain tensioner device. Methods of installing movable partition systems within structures include the installation of such chain tensioner devices.

Abstract: A system and method using a skylight panel within a skylight frame attached to a flexible actuator. In an embodiment, the system provides for automated opening and closing of a remotely located skylight or window. The system may also include a solar panel coupled to a rechargeable battery pack that provides power to an electric motor that controls the actuation of the actuator. Such control may be realized through a gear train with a sprocket wheel that drives a flexible chain-like actuator that is coupled to the skylight panel. The system may further include a control circuit for controlling the above-described operation wherein the control circuit is also operable to communicate with a remote control device having two-way communication between them.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a weatherstrip assembly for sealing between a frame and a closure member of a vehicle. The weatherstrip assembly includes a body having an exterior surface and an interior surface defining a channel. The body has a plurality of retaining lips extending into the channel. A seal extends from the exterior surface. A locking fin has a first end and a second end. The first end of the locking fin is mounted to one of the interior surface and the exterior surface and the second end of the locking fin disposed within the channel. A shim extends from the second end of the locking fin. The shim engages the interior surface and supports the locking fin within the channel. The retaining lips and the locking fin at least partially define a slot for sandwiching the frame between the retaining lips and the locking fin within the slot.

Abstract: An active grille shutter system comprising a controller, a sensor provides a freeze signal to the controller when a temperature is near or below freezing, and an electric motor that opens and closes a plurality of vanes. The motor receives a low current signal from the controller to operate the system at a first torque level and receives a high current signal to operate the system at a second torque level when the controller receives the freeze signal. A precipitation signal from the windshield wiper system of the vehicle is provided to the controller to provide an indication that there is precipitation present in the vehicle environment. The controller may provide the high current signal to the motor only when the freeze signal and the precipitation signal are provided to the controller. A method is also provided for operating the system.

Abstract: A vehicle door assembly comprises an inner panel integrally formed by upper and lower horizontal beams interconnected by front and rear upright beams, and an outer panel bonded to the inner panel. The frame portion comprises opposite front and rear U-shaped side frame members non-detachably attached to each other by upper and lower intermediate frame members so as to form a continuous perimeter. The side frame members are made of a first steel material and the intermediate frame members made of a second steel material, which is different from the first steel material. A method for manufacturing the inner panel comprises the steps: providing U-shaped sheets of the first steel material, providing top and bottom sheets of the second steel material, non-detachably connecting the U-shaped sheets to the top and bottom sheets so as to form a blank, and stamping the blank into the frame portion.

Abstract: A safety guard or gate for placement in a frame of an opening to prevent a child or pet from passing though the opening. The present invention includes an adjustable means for adjusting the guard to fit the width of the frame, wherein the adjustable means has a first end and a second end to form an axis along which the means can be adjusted. The invention further includes an attachment means for securing the guard to the frame; and a securing means for securing the adjustable means to the attachment means. The securing means prevents the adjustable means from disengaging from the attachment means along the axis when in a locked position, and allows disengagement and reengagement of the adjustable means in direction that transects the axis when the securing means is in an unlocked position. The present invention further includes methods for using the safety guard, and systems that include elements of the safety guard.

Abstract: In a refrigerator door in which a decoration member is mounted to a door frame using a foam material, the foam material fills a space formed between the decoration member mounted to a front side of the door frame and a rear panel mounted to a rear side of the door frame. Accordingly, the decoration member can be fixed to the door frame through direct contact with the foam material.

Abstract: A safety tool is specifically adapted to aid in opening hinged rear doors of industrial containers safely, while also ensuring that the operator of the safety tool remain outside the potential zone of danger whenever the rear door has the potential to swing open. The present safety tool not only provides convenience and leverage for commonly performed door opening procedures, but also ensures that the operator's body and hands remain safely distanced from the direction of door travel and the potential discharge path of material contained within the cargo box. In addition, the present safety tool is lightweight and compact, allowing the tool to be easily stowed in or around a cargo box and/or truck to and thereby ensure that the safety tool is available whenever it may be needed to aid in opening and/or closing the cargo box door.