Position Adjusting Means; E.g., Leveling Patents (Class 52/126.1)
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Patent number: 12065832Abstract: A tubular beam with mechanically fastened end plates preferably includes a tubular member and at least one end plate. At least one cross plate may be secured within the tubular member with fasteners to strengthen thereof. The tubular member may have any suitable cross section including, square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular or the like. A plurality of hand access openings, a plurality of beam fastening holes and a plurality of fastener holes are formed through a side wall of the tubular member. The end plate is attached to an end of the tubular beam with a plurality of fasteners. A fastener gusset may be formed in inside corners of the tubular member to accommodate a blind fastener hole for attaching the at least one end plate. Each end plate preferably includes a hand access opening, a plurality of plate fastening holes, and a plurality of blind fastener holes and/or fastener holes.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2022Date of Patent: August 20, 2024Inventor: Patrick J. Santini
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Patent number: 11674316Abstract: A facade support system for supporting a veneer on a structure includes a bracket configured to be attached to the structure. The bracket includes a back panel having opposite front and rear faces and a connecting member extending from the back panel in a generally forward direction. The connecting member defines a recess adjacent a front end of the connecting member. The bracket includes a support attachment member at least partially disposed within the recess. The facade support system includes a veneer support constructed to be attached to the bracket by the support attachment member. The veneer support is constructed to be disposed in a mortar bed joint of the veneer.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2021Date of Patent: June 13, 2023Assignee: Hohmann & Barnard, Inc.Inventors: Richard Osmanski, Christopher Mason
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Patent number: 11542713Abstract: A joist support and joist assembly for use in a decking structure, the joist support and joist being adapted to be fitted together in an assembled position, the joist support including a support body which includes a base wall having a bottom side and a top side, two spaced apart side walls extending from the base wall away from the top side thereof so as to provide a channel having an open top and opposed spaced apart open ends, the channel when in use being configured so as to at least partially receive a joist therein such that an outer side of a bottom wall of the joist lies adjacent the top side of the base wall of the joist support.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2020Date of Patent: January 3, 2023Assignee: Klevaklip Systems Pty LtdInventor: Greg James Doupe
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Patent number: 11236727Abstract: A method of forming a wind turbine foundation includes providing an anchor cage in an excavation pit, the anchor cage including an upper flange, a lower flange, and a plurality of anchor bolts extending therebetween. A first cementitious material is directed into the excavation pit so that the anchor cage becomes at least partially embedded in the material, which is allowed to cure to form a rigid body. A connecting element is selectively engaged with the upper flange and an actuating element is positioned in operative relation with the connecting element, the connecting and actuating elements positioned in non-contact relation with the anchor bolts. The actuating element is actuated relative to the connecting element to raise the upper flange from the rigid body into a leveled position. A second cementitious material is directed into a space beneath the raised upper flange and is allowed to cure to form a support layer.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2016Date of Patent: February 1, 2022Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/SInventors: Anders Brohm, Søren P. Jensen, Børge Øllgaard
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Patent number: 11105093Abstract: Disclosed is a support structure on which a floor panel is seated. The support structure includes a beam element disposed along an axis, a post supporting the beam element, a beam element bracket seated on top of the beam element, a seat pad seated on top of the beam element bracket, and supporting the floor panel, and a seat pad connection member connecting the beam element bracket and the seat pad to each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2020Date of Patent: August 31, 2021Inventor: Myunsoo Kim
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Patent number: 10544559Abstract: A method of retrofitting a pier/mat foundation and assemblies for same. Retrofitting includes attaching fortification brackets around an outside of a pier of a pier/mat foundation of a wind turbine structure. Fortification rod bottom ends are secured to the mat outside of the pier and near a location under an outer portion of each installed fortification bracket. Fortification rod top ends are attached to openings in outer portions of the fortification brackets. A retrofitting foundation fortification assembly includes a top bracket with at least one hole to receive a foundation anchor holding a wind turbine tower to a pier/mat foundation; a vertical portion dependent from the top bracket near a vertical face of the pier when the at least one hole receives foundation anchors; and a fortification rod hole located outside of the pier when the at least one hole receives the foundation anchors.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2017Date of Patent: January 28, 2020Assignee: Inventus Holdings, LLCInventors: Gary M. Garcia, Robert W. Gallaher, Norman Jeffrey Hammitt, Daniel M. Brake, Craig W. Arcari
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Patent number: 10526791Abstract: In certain embodiments, a system includes a curtain wall member and a first curtain wall member mounting apparatus coupled to a first end of the curtain wall member. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus includes a mounting plate and an arm having one or more projections. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus engages with a first curtain wall member supporting channel having a vertically-disposed member and a horizontally-disposed supporting member having a receiving-and-retaining member extending from an end opposite the vertically-disposed member. The receiving-and-retaining member engages with a channel adjacent to one or more projections of the first curtain wall member mounting apparatus. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus is adapted to be rotated into position such that a connection mechanism at a second end of the curtain wall member engages with a second curtain wall member supporting channel to retain the curtain wall member in position.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2017Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: Stephen N. Loyd Irrevocable Family TrustInventor: Stephen N. Loyd
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Patent number: 10250181Abstract: A support device for supporting a solar panel above a base surface includes a body having an upper mounting surface, a lower base surface, and integral ballast. The upper mounting surface is sloped relative to the lower base surface. The support device further includes at least one mounting element projecting upwardly from the upper mounting surface and configured to support a solar panel. A solar panel support system includes first and second support devices spaced apart from one another, each including a body having an upper mounting surface, a lower base surface, and integral ballast, the upper mounting surface being sloped relative to the lower base surface. Each support device further includes first and second mounting elements projecting upwardly from the upper mounting surface and configured to support solar panels. First and second purlins are supported by and extend between the first and second support devices, and are configured to support the solar panels.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2016Date of Patent: April 2, 2019Assignee: RBI Solar, Inc.Inventors: William L. Vietas, Ben Urbanek, Mike Freshwater, Nick Allen
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Patent number: 10227211Abstract: A stairway (1) comprising a plurality of steps (2) each defining a top surface or tread (3) is converted into a lift platform by employing a mechanism concealed beneath an envelope defined by the treads of all of the steps to guide each step of the plurality vertically from a stairway configuration in which the steps form a stairway enabling access from a lower (7) level to an upper level (8) to a flat configuration in which the top edge of each step is substantially in a horizontal plane level with one of the lower and upper levels from which a wheelchair user may wish to travel to the other of the lower and upper levels. As a result, a wheelchair user may move horizontally from the said one of the lower and upper levels on to a platform defined by the top edges of the plurality of steps in the flat configuration. The stairway and flat configurations occupy the same footprint.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 12, 2019Inventors: Steven James Lyons, Charles Thomas Lyons
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Patent number: 10113320Abstract: A restraint system for an elevated building surface assembly including restraint members that are receivable in gaps adjacent outer edge segments of flooring units to secure the flooring units to an underlying support structure. The restraint members may be readily manipulated to allow for the selective removal of one or more of the flooring units for replacement thereof, access to the support structure, and/or the like.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2018Date of Patent: October 30, 2018Assignee: United Construction Products, Inc.Inventors: Francesco Cataldi, William R. Heimbuch, William E. Kugler, Lisa K. von-Gunten
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Patent number: 9963884Abstract: A building construction system of includes a prefinished exterior weather-tight insulating skin (panel), a cavity and structural zone where electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, data/audio systems can run freely and be modified, and a prefinished interior wall panel which is easily removable allowing access to the cavity and structural zone. The exterior and interior panels are mounted to structural components and create the cavity therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2017Date of Patent: May 8, 2018Inventor: George A. Clemens
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Patent number: 9655259Abstract: A data processing equipment structure includes a plurality of sidewalls and a ceiling panel, which, together, define an enclosed space. The structure further includes at least one equipment enclosure and at least one cooling unit arranged in side-to-side relationship in a row within the enclosed space. At least one separation panel divides the enclosed space into a front plenum at a front side of the row and a rear plenum at a rear side of the row. Cool air in the front plenum is isolated from heated exhaust air in the rear plenum.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2012Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: Chatsworth Products, Inc.Inventors: Travis North, Steven Bornfield, Samuel Rodriguez
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Patent number: 9431997Abstract: An interfering signal canceller for cancelling an interfering signal component of an input signal includes a voltage sensor element disposed in a primary path and fed by the input signal, a coupler disposed in the primary path and fed by the voltage sensor element, a Hartley image-reject element disposed in an auxiliary path and fed by the input signal for converting the input signal to an intermediate or baseband frequency signal, a phase slope compensator disposed in the auxiliary path after the Hartley image-reject element to allow broadband phase adjustment of the interfering signal component of a converted input signal, and an inverse Hartley image-reject element disposed in the auxiliary path after the phase phase slope compensator to convert the passed the interfering signal component to the predetermined band of frequencies and having an output fed to the coupler.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2015Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANYInventors: Jonathan P. Comeau, Robert G. Egri
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Patent number: 9413286Abstract: A leveler for a solar module can include a base, a rotatable adjuster, and a follower. The rotatable adjuster can be mounted to the base with a swaging process, or other techniques. The follower can be embedded within a coupler configured to be connectable to solar modules. Turning the rotatable height adjuster changes the relative spacing between the solar module and the base.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2015Date of Patent: August 9, 2016Assignee: SUNPOWER CORPORATIONInventor: Matthew G. Danning
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Patent number: 9222276Abstract: A seismic isolation building system, and method thereof, for buildings and other structures that is well suited to protect lightweight low rise buildings including houses against earthquakes, particularly where the structure is located in low lying wet regions subject to liquefaction. The system utilizes a platform with piles extending from the platform into a ground, wherein the piles are connected to the platform via at least one shear bolt that links a platform plate to a pile. The shear bolt or bolts are designed to shear in an event of a predetermined level of seismic activity freeing the platform and structure on the platform to move independent of the piles. Post seismic activity, the platform and structure are moved, repositioned and/or re-fixed to new or existing piles thereby minimizing damage to the structure and hence repair costs.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2015Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Inventor: Larry Ellsworth Stenswick
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Patent number: 9045911Abstract: A tile aligning and lippage tuning system that uses an under tile base interstitial strap, which is connected to said under tile base, a shim shell cap configured to slip over the connecting tab. A bottom tile mating shim and a top shim.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2014Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: New Standards Manufacturing Co.Inventors: James P. Hoffman, Ernest L. Perry, IV, Michele Volponi
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Publication number: 20150135608Abstract: A solar panel mounting for installing a solar cell panel on a folded-plate roof. The mounting includes a metal foundation fixedly attachable to a ridge of the folded-plate roof, a plurality of first brackets including a foundation-side-bracket and a panel-side-bracket, a base of elongated shape, and a mounting bracket to mount the foundation-side-bracket and the panel-side-bracket on the base. The first brackets each include a first coupling portion and a first triangular portion. The first triangular portion is of generally triangular shape including a hypotenuse portion and extends perpendicularly from the first coupling portion. The first coupling portion of the foundation-side-bracket is coupled to the metal foundation. The first coupling portion of the panel-side-bracket is configured to support a solar cell panel. The foundation-side-brackets and the panel-side-brackets are located on top of the metal foundation such that the hypotenuse portions are in contact with each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2012Publication date: May 21, 2015Applicant: NISSEI METALS CO., LTD.Inventors: Haruhiro Shibata, Takashi Aotani, Yoshihito Nakajima
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Patent number: 9016005Abstract: The invention describes a process and a unit, both enabling to attach a wind turbine tower to a foundation, as well as describes also a wind turbine incorporating the unit. The process features a stage of installation of a support element for the transmission of stresses from the tower to the foundation, followed by a stage of levelling the support element and pouring foundation concrete up to the support element's lower side so that the lower side is adhered to the poured concrete once it has set. The unit comprises at least one support element.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Acciona Windpower, S.A.Inventors: Iván García Maestre, Eduardo Azanza Ladrón, Koldo Larumbe Fernandino, Carlos Cerdán Martínez, Teresa Arlabán Gabeiras, Javier Ciáurriz Martín, Javier Fernández De Manzanos, José Miguel García Sayés, Miguel Nuñez Polo
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Patent number: 9003721Abstract: Provided is a leveling arrangement for a tower, which leveling arrangement comprises a leveling ring realized for placement between a tower foundation and the tower; and a leveling apparatus, which leveling apparatus comprises a connection means for detachably connecting the leveling apparatus to the leveling ring during a leveling procedure; and a number of adjustment legs, wherein an adjustment leg is realized to effect a displacement of the leveling ring relative to the tower foundation during the leveling procedure; along with a method of providing a level mounting interface for a tower; and a method of erecting a wind turbine tower; and a wind turbine tower assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2013Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Martin Johan Smith Jensen
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Patent number: 9003720Abstract: A lifting apparatus to be embedded within a precast concrete panel or slab to enable the panel to be lifted, positioned atop a road bed, and elevated above the road bed. A lifting apparatus is located at each corner of the panel. Each lifting apparatus has a threaded sleeve extending through the panel to receive a removable threaded lifting bolt by which to establish a lifting point at which a lifting force is applied to lift and position the panel. When the threaded lifting bolt is rotated completely through the threaded sleeve, a pushing force is applied against a base plate, whereby to elevate the panel above the road bed as is necessary to make the panel level with adjacent panels during the construction or repair of a roadway. Grout is pumped through the panel to fill the space between the panel and the road bed.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2014Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Inventor: Baltazar J. Siqueiros
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Patent number: 8973311Abstract: A mobile elevated building assembly is configured to be compactly transportable in a transportation mode yet readily reconfigured to an installed mode after set-up with a building held many meters off of the ground by a tower supported off of the ground by outriggers. A flat-bed trailer is used to transport the assembly while in its transportation mode, and the trailer can optionally remain attached to the bottom of the tower in the installed mode. A foldable stairway and top-of-stairs platform can form a subassembly that can be pivotally attached where they connect to one-another, and this connection can be supported by a horizontal upper member of the tower. The platform can include one of at least two horizontal support members for holding the building on top of the tower. Methods are provided for reconfiguring the assembly and subassemblies between their transportation mode and their installed mode.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2014Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Kontek Industries, Inc.Inventors: Roger Allen Nolte, Adam D. Baird
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Patent number: 8966835Abstract: A tile aligning and lippage tuning system that uses an under tile base interstitial strap, which is connected to said under tile base, a shim shell cap configured to slip over the connecting tab. A bottom tile mating shim and a top shim.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: New Standards Manufacturing Co.Inventors: James P. Hoffman, Ernest L. Perry, IV, Michele Volponi
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Patent number: 8960620Abstract: An adjustable air conditioner curb includes a curb base having reinforcement members connected thereto and a curb frame adjustably positionable relative to the curb base and positionable between the curb base and the reinforcement members and connected thereto to maintain the curb frame in fixed position.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Uni-Products, Inc.Inventor: Mark Ray Merideth
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Publication number: 20150047271Abstract: The invention is an Offset Adjustable Foundation Leg that provides support and tie down for structural insulated composite panel buildings. It is a telescoping leg made up of outside steel or aluminum round or rectangular tube and an inside steel or aluminum round or rectangular tube with the tubes provided with a series of holes for through bolting together which is placed on a bearing plate. Further adjustment and hold down means is provided by an adjustment means and nuts.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2013Publication date: February 19, 2015Applicant: World Housing SolutionInventors: Chip Davis, Kent Davis
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Patent number: 8943765Abstract: A brace for connecting the frames of adjacent solar modules can include one or more lower lips and one or more upper lips configured to capture an outer edge of a solar module frame. The brace can include a removable top so as to facilitate connection and disconnection of the couplers and solar modules. Additionally, the brace can be configured to allow a solar module to be engaged and disengaged by hooking the frame onto the brace then tilting the frame relative to the brace. The brace can include features for achieving a snap fit with solar module frames.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2012Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: SunPower CorporationInventors: Matthew G. Danning, Wayman Lee
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Patent number: 8931219Abstract: A foundation system includes a security boot selectively coupled to a pier having a notched upper end. The security boot includes first, second, and third portions complementary to the pier upper end. The security boot third portion includes a configuration complementary to a foundation sill plate and is selectively coupled thereto. The foundation system includes a sleeve configured to be received on a pier, the security boot configured to surround the sleeve and be slidable therealong. The system includes at least one lifting device having a base member and rod configured to engage the sill plate and is movable between a retracted configuration not urging movement of the sill plate and an extended configuration urging the sill plate upwardly. In a method of using the foundation system, the lifting devices may be actuated to lift an entire foundation upwardly from the piers, the security sliding upwardly along an associated sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2012Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Inventor: Russell E. Benet
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Patent number: 8915036Abstract: An interlocking panel system for top-down or bottom-up installation on an underlying structure including a plurality of panels, with an uphill course and a downhill course where each panel is generally rectangular, having an uphill edge and opposing downhill edge. An interlocking member is disposed along the uphill edge, and a receiving member adapted to receive the interlocking member and a joining flange are disposed along the downhill edge. A first panel is positioned on an underlying structure. In top-down installation, a clip is disposed along the downhill edge of the first panel and affixed to the underlying structure, and a second panel is engaged with the receiving member of the first panel. In bottom-up installation, the first panel is affixed to the underlying structure, and a second panel is engaged with the interlocking member of the first panel, and then affixed to the underlying structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2013Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignee: Quality Edge, Inc.Inventors: Paul W. Vander Laan, Mike Moerler, Todd Alexander
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Patent number: 8910432Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally relate a method and apparatus for a tower structure. In one embodiment, the tower structure comprises a first base plate comprising a first hinge device, a first structural section having a first side and a second side, the first structural section coupled to a second base plate comprising a second hinge device, a second structural section coupled to the first structural section, and an aerial component coupled to the second structural section, wherein the first structural section is rotatable relative to the first base plate in a first rotational axis, the second structural section is rotatable relative to the first structural section in a second rotational axis, and at least a portion of the second structural section is received in a channel formed in the first side of the first structural section when the first structural section and the second structural section are substantially parallel.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2011Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Electro Mechanical Industries, Inc.Inventors: Fallon M. Egan, Claudio J. Gutierrez, Christoval Sanchez, Patrick M. Weisbrod
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Patent number: 8893444Abstract: A post securing system that secures a post in the ground, while allowing for a full range of vertical adjustment via a coupling assembly that includes an articulating ball joint element that is connected to a post support element secured within two clamp assemblies. The clamp assemblies each include an anchor assembly which, when assembled, secures at least three stake elements at a predetermined angle. The post securing kit includes both the coupling assembly and the anchor assembly to allow securing a post into a non-horizontal ground, while maintaining the desired vertical alignment of the post held therewithin.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2012Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Imagine TF, LLCInventor: Brian Edward Richardson
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Patent number: 8875471Abstract: A lifting apparatus to be embedded within a precast concrete panel or slab to enable the panel to be lifted, positioned atop a road bed, and elevated above the road bed. A lifting apparatus is located at each corner of the panel. Each lifting apparatus has a threaded sleeve extending through the panel to receive a removable threaded lifting bolt by which to establish a lifting point at which a lifting force is applied to lift and position the panel. When the threaded lifting bolt is rotated completely through the threaded sleeve, a pushing force is applied against a base plate, whereby to elevate the panel above the road bed as is necessary to make the panel level with adjacent panels during the construction or repair of a roadway. Grout is pumped through the panel to fill the space between the panel and the road bed.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Inventor: Baltazar Siqueiros
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Patent number: 8864421Abstract: A method of lifting a structure using one or more inflatable hoses is described. In one embodiment, a method of lifting a structure resting on the ground includes attaching a lift apparatus to the structure to the raised. An inflatable hose is introduced underneath the lift apparatus, with the inflatable hose being disposed between a bottom surface of the lift apparatus and the ground. The structure is then lifted by inflating the hose with pressurized media so that the hose increases in volume to impose an upward force on the lift apparatus which in turn lifts the structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2013Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Inventor: Charles L. Asplin
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Publication number: 20140298736Abstract: A device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles are disclosed. In one embodiment, the leveling device includes a body and two spaced and parallel strip members extending transversely from the body. Each of the spaced and parallel strip members extend to the front and rear of the body. Two opposing lateral open windows are formed in the body. A breakaway section is defined along the body. A wedge device is provided for penetrating one or more of the two opposing lateral open windows and exerting a force on the tiles for leveling them relative to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2013Publication date: October 9, 2014Inventors: Clinton D. Bunch, Joshua A. Bunch
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Publication number: 20140259988Abstract: A support tile includes a tile main body, a support portion that is formed on a main body upper surface of the tile main body and supports a roof-installed object, an inclination adjusting portion that includes a through-hole portion and an inclination adjusting bolt, adjusts inclination of the tile main body, and a plurality of nail hole portions that penetrates through the tile main body and through which securing nails for securing the tile main body onto the roof surface are capable of being inserted, wherein the through-hole portion of the inclination adjusting portion penetrates through the tile main body and has an internal thread formed therein, and the inclination adjusting bolt of the inclination adjusting portion includes a bolt shaft which has an external thread, and a nail insertion hole which penetrates through the bolt shaft and through which a securing nail is capable of being inserted.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: YANEGIJUTSUKENKYUJO CO., LTD.Inventors: Shuichi KOBAYASHI, Takayoshi YAMANAKA
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Publication number: 20140237911Abstract: The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: Tower Solutions, LLCInventor: Steven A. Olsen
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Patent number: 8813430Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a platform. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a set of support members associated with the structure, and a set of adjustment members. An adjustment member in the set of adjustment members is associated with a corresponding support member in the set of support members. The adjustment member is configured to adjust an angle between the corresponding support member and the structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Joseph W. Rees, Robert Erik Grip, Christopher K. Droney, Deborah Ann Beron-Rawdon
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Patent number: 8813437Abstract: The integral shim-pack (50) includes a wedge-shaped male shim (52) having a pull tang (68) extending from a thin end (56) of the male shim (52) and into a tang groove (82) and through a tang passage (90) between a bridge (88) and a tang groove (82) of a wedge-shaped female shim (72) to extend beyond a thick end (74) of the female shim (72). Pulling the adjustment pull tang (68) away from the thick end (74) of the female shim (72) moves a thick end (54) of the male shim (52) toward the thick end (74) of the female shim (72) to increase a distance between a base surface (58) of the male shim and a base surface (78) of the female shim (72).Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Inventor: Charles J. Spofford
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Patent number: 8814400Abstract: A fixture having a cylindrical body, said body having an internal cavity extending from a first end to a second end, and said body having an exterior threaded portion, a flange affixed to the first end of the body, a portion of said flange extending past the circumference of the cylindrical body, said flange formed for receiving an electrical component, and a fastener complementary to the threaded portion, wherein the fastener and the flange are operable to secure the cylindrical body to a structure. An electrical component such as a luminaire, a switch or an electrical receptacle may be mounted into the flange portion of the fixture. A retainer may also be employed to distribute the load on the cylindrical body when positioned over the body and secured by the fastener.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2010Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Vode Lighting LLCInventors: Thomas Warton, Scott Yu
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Patent number: 8806812Abstract: The present disclosure includes an adjustable door frame assembly and method for framing a door opening. The adjustable door frame assembly comprises first and second alignment members providing a first securing structure to a door opening, one of the first and second alignment members being rotatably connected to a door during installation. The adjustable door frame assembly further comprises an alignment header connecting the first and second alignment members along an upper end of the alignment members and an alignment assembly located within at least one of the first and second alignment members. The alignment assembly comprises an adjustable stop for locating the adjustable door frame assembly about the door opening. The adjustable door frame assembly also comprises first and second cover members providing a second securing structure to the door opening independently of the first securing structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2010Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Black Mountain Door, LLCInventors: Michael A. Kolovich, Daniel Perry, Scott Willson, Eric E. Hunt, Fredrick John Bloom, III
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Patent number: 8776452Abstract: A floor panel assembly (used as replacement floor panel or in a new installation) includes universal quick-attach corners that mates with support stands and stringers of an existing raised floor system to provide leveling. The panel assembly includes a top plate (apertured or not) with corner structures including a post retainer and interconnected down flanges that support the top plate inboard of its perimeter. In one form, the universal quick corners each includes an arrow-shaped extension plate attached to the post retainer and extending toward the top plate's perimeter, and includes a body with multiple thickness pads selectable to support the extension plate at selected height. Thus, the quick corner holds an upper surface of the top plate level with an upper surface of adjacent existing floor panels of the existing raised floor system. In another aspect, only the body is used at each corner (without the extension plate).Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Opstock, Inc.Inventor: Mark O. DeJonge
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Patent number: 8763329Abstract: A frame for precise casting of concrete comprises a first fascia plate having a score line in a first predetermined location, a second fascia plate having a score line at a second predetermined location a third fascia plate having a score line at a third predetermined location and a fourth fascia plate having a score line at a fourth predetermined location. A precise concrete screed is disposed in a position relative to an upper margin of the fascia plates and allows for formation of a foundation within 2 millimeters in terms of height, position, and levelness.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventor: Kai N. Moseid
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Publication number: 20140157688Abstract: A pier for a modular, portable, interlocking decking system, the pier having a generally planar plate with a bottom surface and a top surface and a plurality of receiver blocks extending from the top surface of the plate. Each receiver block has a generally dome-shaped load-bearing surface. A plurality of piers is used in a decking system along with at least one surface pad, the surface pad having a generally planar, horizontal upper surface, and a lower portion including a plurality of block receptacles. The bottom surface of the plate of each structural pier rests upon a supporting surface, and the block receptacles of the surface pad each engage the generally dome-shaped load-bearing surface of a corresponding structural pier.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2013Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: UDECX, LLCInventors: Patrick J. Bertke, John Murray Van Leeuwen, Robert Gerald States III, Patrick Andrew Harrell
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Patent number: 8726584Abstract: A mobile elevated building assembly is configured to be compactly transportable in a transportation mode yet readily reconfigured to an installed mode after set-up with a building held many meters off of the ground by a tower supported off of the ground by outriggers. A flat-bed trailer is used to transport the assembly while in its transportation mode, and the trailer can optionally remain attached to the bottom of the tower in the installed mode. A foldable stairway and top-of-stairs platform can form a subassembly that can be pivotally attached where they connect to one-another, and this connection can be supported by a horizontal upper member of the tower. The platform can include one of at least two horizontal support members for holding the building on top of the tower. Methods are provided for reconfiguring the assembly and subassemblies between their transportation mode and their installed mode.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Kontek Industries, Inc.Inventors: Roger Allen Nolte, Adam D. Baird
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Patent number: 8726583Abstract: In one embodiment, a modular dwelling comprises a beam connector comprising a body and multiple arms that extend out from the body, structural beams comprising outer sides that define elongated channels that extend along a length of the beams, each beam being connected to an arm of the beam connector, a locking means that secure the structural beams to their associated beam connector arms, and a structural panel that comprises multiple edges, at least one edge of the panel being received by a channel of at least one structural beam.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2011Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: University of South Florida (A Flordia Non-Profit Corporation)Inventors: Sean Carlos Verdecia, Jason Michael Ross
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Patent number: 8720157Abstract: An assembly for a levelable rail gauge leveling tie and associated methods of preparing a railway bed for the laying of a railway track and laying railroad track employing the assembly. The assembly includes a longitudinally elongated U-shaped rail gauge leveling tie, and first and second leveling studs. The leveling tie has first and second transversely extending orifices proximate the longitudinal ends. The leveling studs are operable for threaded engagement within a corresponding orifice through the leveling tie whereby rotation of a leveling stud within the corresponding orifice effects a change in the transverse distance between the distal end of the rotated leveling stud and the central portion of the leveling tie.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Astro Engineering & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: George H. Ross, Jacob E. Corder
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Publication number: 20140115978Abstract: A support assembly includes a plurality of support arms coupled to a pole or tower structure. The plurality of support arms project radially from the pole or tower structure in a spaced relationship. A plurality of adjustable foot assemblies are coupled to respective distal ends of the plurality of support arms. Each of the plurality of adjustable foot assemblies is configured for coupling to an embedded helical pier. Each of the plurality of adjustable foot assemblies is capable of movement in each of three dimensions relative to the respective support arm to which it is coupled during installation of the support assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2013Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.Inventor: Mark H. Fairbairn
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Patent number: 8695288Abstract: A system for assembling a building surface and a building surface assembly that include surface tiles and stability members disposed between the surface tiles to restrict relative movement therebetween. The stability members may advantageously be placed between outer edge segments of the building surface tiles to restrict relative movement of adjacent surface tiles, such as due to seismic activity, vibrations, or high winds. The building surface tiles may include structures such as engagement channels for receiving and engaging the stability members.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: United Construction Products, Inc.Inventors: William E. Kugler, Stephen J. Knight, III
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Publication number: 20140083025Abstract: A post securing system that secures a post in the ground, while allowing for a full range of vertical adjustment via a coupling assembly that includes an articulating ball joint element that is connected to a post support element secured within two clamp assemblies. The clamp assemblies each include an anchor assembly which, when assembled, secures at least three stake elements at a predetermined angle. The post securing kit includes both the coupling assembly and the anchor assembly to allow securing a post into a non-horizontal ground, while maintaining the desired vertical alignment of the post held therewithin.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2012Publication date: March 27, 2014Inventor: Brian Edward Richardson
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Patent number: 8671628Abstract: An intake manifold (2) of comburent air is presented for an internal combustion engine (1) provided with a recirculating conduit (60) of exhaust gases. The intake manifold (2) includes a first inlet mouth (213) of the comburent air, a second inlet mouth (214) in communication with the recirculating conduit (60) of the exhaust gases, and a plurality of outlet mouths (201), having a wall (7) positioned in front of each of the outlet mouths (201) and configured for dividing the internal volume of the intake manifold (2) into two chambers (215, 204), the first chamber (215) being placed in communication with the first inlet mouth (213) and the second inlet mouth (214) and the second chamber (204) being placed in communication with the outlet mouths (201), the wall (7) defining an opening (70) adapted for placing the first chamber (215) and the second chamber (204) in communication.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2012Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Raimondi S.p.A.Inventor: Giorgio Sighinolfi
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Patent number: 8642150Abstract: A shim set comprising at least two shims of different thickness, the shims of the set being integrally formed as a one-piece plastic moulding, the shims of the set being connected in adjacent relationship by a connection which permits an individual shim to be separated from the set but which is flexible to permit a shim while connected to an adjacent shim to be folded over so that the two shims lie in face-to-face relation and thereby form a shim combination of increased thickness.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Robert Urquhart Connell
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Patent number: 8635815Abstract: A leveling spacer for laying wall tiles, paving tiles and the like with the interposition of gaps, which comprises a base with spacing protrusions for the abutment of the edges of corresponding tiles so as to define the width of the gaps, a threaded stem, which is fixed at right angles to the base in at least one easily breakable point, a knob for clamping and removing the threaded stem, which comprises a female threaded portion adapted to be screwed to the threaded stem.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2012Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Progress Profiles SpAInventor: Lino Bordin