Abstract: A system, elements of the system and a method of forming scalable, compatible and resilient building structures. Preferably, one or more of (i) standard intermodal containers or racks (steel cuboidal versions as well as flat racks typically used on cargo ships); (ii) pallet racks (steel frame versions typically used in warehouses), and/or (iii) boat storage racks (steel frame versions typically used in marinas) are utilized to form a main structure/assembly (e.g., outer shell or frame) of a building structure that is easily assembled with width ranges from, for example, 24 feet wide to 40 feet wide, a length of 40 feet or longer and multiple stories or levels (e.g., 2 to 4 stories or levels). Preferably, existing portions of containers and associated racks are used to interconnect these members/elements (e.g., casting corners or fork-lift receiving channels/sections/portions) to form scalable, compatible and resilient building structures.

Abstract: A containers shelter is formed from a base array of 20 ft containers, having a sheltered inner area therebetween, and, from a second floor of 40 ft containers that are connected to the base array of containers and cover entirely the sheltered inner area. The containers are filled with a filling material. The base array comprises an entrance container having an inner opening that is transversely directed to an outer opening.

Abstract: A system for locating RFID tags in an area includes a platform and an RFID reader head associated with the platform. At least one support extends between the platform and an anchor position within an area. Separate support adjustment devices are associated with each support, with each support adjustment device being operable to adjust the length of the associated support between the platform and the anchor position associated with the support. So adjusting the length of the support varies the location of the RFID reader head in the area, thereby allowing an RFID reader associated with the RFID reader head to monitor a larger area than would otherwise be possible if the RFID reader were to remain in a fixed location. The RFID reader head itself may be movable with respect to the platform for finer adjustment of the position of the RFID reader.

Abstract: A system for setting and securing metal plate on an outer wall of concrete masonry, includes upper and lower masonry blocks with side walls and end walls forming an inner grout cavity. The metal plate has Nelson studs extending from it, each having a head on its outer end The studs extend from the plate, through a masonry side wall, into the grout cavity. A spring clip in the grout cavity compressed between a masonry block side wall and the stud head urges the stud and plate inward to secure the plate against the masonry as the grout cavity is filled with grout.

Abstract: Novel joint devices and systems are disclosed. In one aspect, a joint member for an exterior floor covering can include a body portion, at least one tongue portion extending from the body portion, and at least one opening extending through the body portion.

Abstract: Novel devices, systems, and methods for providing exterior flooring that can be installed over existing exterior surfaces, such as surfaces of an outdoor deck, are provided herein. In some aspects, a joint device or joint member for an exterior floor covering can include a body portion and at least one tongue portion extending from the body portion. The joint device can be adapted to connect adjacent floor panels and secure the floor panels to an underlying surface. The joint device can, but is not required to pass liquid therebetween. The joint device and adjacent floor panels can be made of water resistant materials. The joint device can further include an optional opening adapted to receive an attachment member for attaching portions of the joint member to an underlying surface.

Abstract: An interlocking support structure has an array of rectangular cells arranged in at least one layer, each cell having four sides, opposite ends, and eight corners, and sharing common sides and corners with any adjacent cells. The cells are formed by sets of spaced, parallel elongate members extending in x, y and z directions, with the x, y and z members interlocked with one another at the corners of the cells to form interlocking corner joints. Each structural member is hollow at least in the vicinity of each corner joint with which it intersects, and communicates with the other structural members at the respective corner joints. A plug of hardened, initially flowable material fills the hollow interior of the interlocking structural members at least at the corner joints and adheres to the internal surfaces of the members at the corner joints to secure the members together at each corner in the rectangular array.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for locating anchor points embedded within building structures are presented. Anchor points within a building structure (e.g., column, pillar, floor, wall, etc.) can be covered by an anchor point cover to prevent the anchor point from becoming contaminated by poured concrete used to form the building structure. The anchor point cover can be placed so that a top portion of cover is just beneath the surface of the concrete building structure. In addition, an anchor point locator can be placed near the anchor point. Once the poured concrete hardens, the anchor point can be located by detecting a signal originating from the anchor point locator. One can remove hardened covering material and the anchor point cover to reveal the anchor point.

Abstract: A concrete form comprises cross members, plywood, and metal studs. The studs include a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls, the walls arranged to form a generally rectangular cross-section. A pair of inner walls extends between and perpendicular to the pair of side walls. A pair of flanges extends from the side walls. The flanges are aligned with each other and positioned between the front wall and the pair of inner walls. A portion of each stud is adapted for complementary engagement with the cross members. The cross members are attached to at least one of the inner walls and the flanges of the cut portion of the studs, and the plywood is mounted to the rear wall.

Abstract: A coupling system that can be placed into the existing drain and over the existing drain pipe to effect a repair without removal of an existing tub, shower or similar receptacle. The drain coupling system is self-sealing and can be locked into place from above. After ensuring that the proper seal is obtained between the invention and the drain pipe, the body of the invention is pushed downward until the upper collar lip engages the floor surrounding the drain opening. The system is then secured in position from above by the plurality of hex head set screws provided. The hex head set screws extend downward from the upper most surface of the invention. The coupling system is supplied with locking tabs. When the present invention is in the proper position within the drain opening, the rotation of the screws forces the wings of the locking tabs to rotate in a lateral fashion. The rotation of the locking tab continues until the wings contact the walls of the drain opening.