Abstract: A flexible fencing system capable of negotiating topographical variations of surfaces without any negative effect on the strength of the fencing system and comprised of an initial post, at least one intermediary post and an end post. Each of the initial and end posts includes a plate extending distally from the posts. The intermediary posts include two plates extending distally from the intermediary posts where the angle between the distally extending plates is 180°. Braces having plates at each end are located between and connect to the posts at connection points formed by the plates of the braces secured to the plates of the posts. The connection points form a hinge providing flexibility to either incline or decline the brace relative to the preceding post, the variation of the brace inclination or declination determined by the topographical variations of a surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a sheet of rigid support material at a hole formed therein through a thickness of the sheet to provide an anchoring point at a proximal face of the sheet for anchoring an object thereto comprises a frame member supporting a face-engagement member for engaging a distal face of the sheet which is spaced from the proximal face by the thickness of the sheet, so as to resist removal from within the hole by the object anchored to the apparatus, and a buttress member also supported on the frame member for buttingly engaging a peripheral wall of the hole so as to resist movement transversely to a thickness direction of the sheet.

Abstract: A mast is erected to support a load. At least one stay cable supports the mast. The stay cable is oriented to the mast within a radial distance of the blade from the mast. The stay cable is stressed to support the mast while the wind drives the blade without collision of the stay cable.

Abstract: A fence post leveling bracket assembly and system and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment of the vertically supporting assembly, an upper fence post bracket and a lower fence post bracket having a reference placement where an upper base plate of the upper fence post bracket is parallel to a lower base plate of the lower fence post bracket. The upper fence post bracket and the lower fence post bracket also have deviated placements where the upper base plate is nonparallel to the lower base plate. In both the reference placement and the deviated placements, adjustable vertical drift rods span a cavity between the upper base plate and the lower base plate. Lean in a fence may be corrected by selectively adjusting the adjustable vertical drift rods.

Abstract: A support for positioning a marking pole relative to a driving surface and a method of using the same is disclosed. The support includes a shaft member extending between a first end and a second end and an intermediate portion between the first end and the second end. A first anchor extends from the second end of the shaft member. A second anchor extends from an area of the shaft member between first end and the second end of the shaft member. The shaft member defines a cantilevered section between the first end and the intersection of anchor. A receiver is at the first end of the shaft and configured to receive a marking pole.

Abstract: The present invention is a roof securing system with fewer components and easy-to install and maintain securing methods for providing additionally strength to a roof of a building during adverse climatic conditions. Roof securing system of the present invention includes a plurality of securing sets positioned at pre-determined distances on rooftop. More closely adjacently disposed securing sets are positioned more secured roof securing system will be. Each securing set include a strap that sits on rooftop, wall mounting fixtures and at least one anchor fasteners. Each wall mounting fixture holds strap and are tightly secured to side walls of building by using anchor fastener(s). Holding of strap enables strap to grip rooftop with remaining building structure and hence enable roof to maintain its position during adverse climatic condition.

Abstract: A device for anchoring a post to a supporting surface is disclosed. In one embodiment, the device comprises a base member and post mounting plate, the post mounting plate comprising a post-facing seat, the base member and post mounting plate comprising a plurality of first openings, each such first opening for accepting and accommodating a fastener for attaching the device to a post, and a plurality of second openings, each such second opening for accepting and accommodating a fastener for attaching the device to a supporting surface. Each first opening is disposed to accept a fastener, such as a screw, at an upwardly inclined angle and, further, at a laterally displaced offset angle. The device orients and positions a plurality of fasteners within the post in a configuration wherein the fasteners are disposed angularly about, and offset from, a central, vertical axis in a preferably non-intersecting arrangement.

Abstract: Systems and methods for supporting a solar panel array are disclosed, with embodiments specifically directed to spanning bodies of water such as aqueducts, canals, or other waterways. Cable truss assemblies are used to support panel receivers and solar panels mounted over the panel receivers. The cable truss assemblies are supported on groups of columns or other vertically extending support members anchored in the ground. Cable anchor lines may supplement anchoring and support of the installed solar panel array. Embodiments of the system include various combinations of supporting cables making up the cable truss assemblies. A method is also provided for construction of the solar panel array. Lengthy and continuous spans of the solar panel array can be installed over waterways by use of the cable truss assemblies. The solar panel arrays produce power, and simultaneously reduce evaporation from the waterways, resulting in conservation of water.

Abstract: An anchoring device for panel supporting structures, which comprises at least one tension element (6) which is adapted to act on a supporting frame (2), which supports at least one panel (3) and rests on a resting surface (4). Means being further provided for tensioning the tension element (6) and means (7) for connecting the tension element (6) to the supporting frame (2) adapted to transmit at least partially the tension forces of the tension element (6) to the supporting frame (2) along a direction that has at least one component substantially perpendicular to the resting surface (4).

Abstract: An integrated railroad signal bungalow assembly where a railroad signal bungalow is surrounded by an external frame, which supports a walkway structure assembly. The walkway structure assembly, in turn, supports one or more solar panels and a wind turbine. The solar panels and wind turbine supply power to equipment in the railroad signal bungalow.

Abstract: Systems and methods for supporting a solar panel array are disclosed, with embodiments specifically directed to spanning bodies of water such as aqueducts, canals, or other waterways. Cable truss assemblies are used to support panel receivers and solar panels mounted over the panel receivers. The cable truss assemblies are supported on groups of columns or other vertically extending support members anchored in the ground. Cable anchor lines may supplement anchoring and support of the installed solar panel array. Embodiments of the system include various combinations of supporting cables making up the cable truss assemblies. A method is also provided for construction of the solar panel array. Lengthy and continuous spans of the solar panel array can be installed over waterways by use of the cable truss assemblies. The solar panel arrays produce power, and simultaneously reduce evaporation from the waterways, resulting in conservation of water.

Abstract: A guy adapter includes a main body having first and second ends. A socket member is connected to the first end. An eye member is connected to the second end. A non-integral pulling eye is slidably mounted on the main body. The socket member is forged to the first end of the main body. A pulling eye is slidably disposed on the main body. The eye member is forged to the second end of the main body. Accordingly, the guy adapter is formed having a non-integral pulling eye slidably mounted thereon.

Abstract: A column-base, ground-moveable stand for stabilizing an elongate upright building-frame column, or the like, in a manner which creates and enables adjustable verticality for such a column's long axis. The stand includes (a) spaced, upper and lower, selectively openable/closeable clamping collar structures which are operable to grip the base of such a column at vertically spaced locations along the base of the column, with the collar structures, with respect to a gripped column, defining the disposition in space of the column's long axis, and (b) tilt-adjustable, load-spreading, ground-engaging, outrigger leg structures supportably joined to the collar structures.

Abstract: A mast is erected to support a load. At least one stay cable supports the mast. The stay cable has an end and an opposite end. The end of the stay cable attaches to an upper region of the mast. The opposite end of the stay cable anchors at earth. The stay cable is oriented at an angle not exceeding ten degrees.

Abstract: A pipe handling apparatus has a frame, a boom pivotally connected to the frame so as to be movable between a first position and a second position, an arm extending outwardly of the boom when the boom is in the second position, a gripper affixed to the end of the arm opposite the boom, a first line having a first end affixed to the boom, a second line interconnected to an opposite end of the first line and connected to the frame, and an actuator interconnected to the first and second lines. The actuator changes an angular relationship of the first and second lines so as to selectively tension the lines. The second line includes a first cable offset from linear alignment with the first line and a second cable extending in angular relationship with the first cable.

Abstract: A small, easily transportable wind turbine system has a square rail base secured to the ground by stakes and by its own weight. Slanted vertical legs connect a smaller square upper support perimeter to the base. A three-section telescoping mast is attached to the base and to the upper support. Winches and guy wires raise the second mast. As the second mast is raised, static guy wires raise the third mast. A wind generating turbine is attached to the top of the third mast. A controller senses the maximum output of the turbine and raises or lowers the height of the masts such that the minimum wind speed necessary to produce the maximum electric output is produced. The controller also feeds energy to a battery storage system and directly to a utility panel.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a system for adjusting the length and tension of a cable that is used to support another structure, such as bay and bow windows and, more particularly, to such a system that is easily micro-adjustable as well as macro-adjustable.

Abstract: A telescopically adjustable support brace includes a first member and a second member operably moveable with respect to the first member in a telescopic manner. The first and second members are adapted to be positioned across two objects for maintaining a fixed distance therebetween. A quick-clamping device includes a collar moveably engaged in the first member and a quick-release device for selectively clutching the collar to the second member. When the collar is clutched to the second member, the second member is adapted to be moved with respect to the first member by the collar. Further, an adjusting device is operable to move the collar with respect to the first member, and the collar is thereafter adapted to move the second member with respect to the first member.

Abstract: A structural support for supporting equipment on a rooftop, which is connected to a frame and to equipment to be supported, comprises a mechanism connecting a base cap and a base connector of the structural support. One of the base cap and the base connector includes at least one plate and the other of the base cap and the base connector includes a pair of plates that receives the at least one plate allowing for pivoting adjustments of the base connector about the base cap when the at least one plate is received within an opening between the pair of plates to achieve desired positioning of the base connector. In one example, a pair of base cap plates is received by a pair of inwardly biased base connector plates. Once a desired position is achieved, a fastening assembly secures the position of the base connector. The structural mounting may also include, for example, a base support, a base flashing, and a rubber base gasket.

Abstract: An antenna mast system includes an antenna mast and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart upper cable tensioning arms each coupled at one end proximate the top of the mast. A plurality of circumferentially spaced apart lower cable tensioning arms are each coupled at one end to the mast at a selected distance below the upper cable tensioning arms. A plurality of stay cables are each coupled at one end to one of the upper cable tensioning arms and at the other end to an anchor affixed to the ground. The stay cables are each coupled to a respective one of the lower tensioning arms. The system includes means for tensioning the stay cables.

Abstract: Systems and methods for repairing walls are provided used to repair foundational and veneer walls that have bowed or shifted. A system can include a wall support member disposed proximate a wall; an anchor disposed below the wall support member (the anchor can be affixed to a bottom portion or component of the wall (e.g., a foundational pier)); a tension member (e.g., a chain) affixed to the anchor and the wall support member; a brace affixed to the wall support member at a first end; and a stake in operable communication with a second end of the brace operable to prevent movement of the second end of the brace. Increasing tension on the tension member between the anchor and the wall support member (with a jack, for example) causes the wall to be shifted (e.g., horizontally and vertically) for repositioning the settled wall. The wall can then be re-anchored and re-attached to the structure to aid in preventing future movement of the wall. Other embodiments are also claimed and described.

Abstract: A device to aid the unloading of support elements, the support elements comprising a lower shaft and an upper shaft telescopically coupled to each other. The device includes annular first and second bodies coaxially couplable with each other. Each annular body is provided with a through-hole that allow the upper shaft to extend through the through holes. The upper shaft is also supported by the first annular body using a transversely extending member. The second annular body rests on the lower shaft. An intermediate unloading wedge is positioned between the first and the second annular bodies coupled together, and is able to slide transversally with respect thereto. The sliding of the unloading wedge causes the first annular body and the second annular body to come together or move apart in the longitudinal direction and, therefore, reduce or increase, respectively, the total length of the support element.

Abstract: A method of employing an adjustable apparatus for bracing one or both sides of a wall being fabricated from masonry blocks, with said wall having an opening near the base of the block wall. Bracing system includes strong rigid members assembled in the form of a right angle brace set having stiff vertical, horizontal and diagonal members, a connector having a length sufficient to extend through the opening affixed at a right angle location of one or both of the brace sets. A pair of such braces—back to back, and spaced on opposite sides of a wall—are interconnected together via this connector. Selected brace members telescope to accommodate increases in wall height and a manually adjustable outrigger screwjack at the remote end of the horizontal member eliminates reliance on prior art deadmen.

Abstract: A ground anchor which is suitable for anchoring a winch in the extrication of an ATV or other vehicle from mud or other loose soil is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the ground anchor includes a generally elongated anchor stake, a stake slot provided in the anchor stake, an elongated stabilizing arm pivotally attached to the anchor stake and extendable from the stake slot and an attachment arm pivotally attached to the stabilizing arm and slidably engaging the stake slot.

Abstract: A bracing system for use with associated substantially parallel spaced first and second substantially vertical members of a building which includes a first cable attached to the associated first substantially vertical member at a first elevation and attached to the second associated vertical member at a second elevation that is higher than the first elevation. A second cable is attached to the associated first substantially vertical member at substantially the second elevation and to the second substantially vertical member at substantially the first elevation. The first and second cables are disposed in tension.

Abstract: The breakaway support for overhead lines is a coordinated failure control device. The breakaway support for overhead lines sacrifices itself to ensure that the supporting structure is not damaged. The device has an intentional weak link. The breakaway support for overhead lines will release when the overhead line it is supporting receives a stress that exceeds the tensile strength of the weak link in the breakaway support for overhead lines. The stress causes the weak link to fail. The structure is not damaged and a repair crew can quickly affect repairs. It is much cheaper and easier to reconnect an overhead line than it is to replace or repair a structure and then reconnect the overhead line.

Abstract: A brace for securing concrete form members to a casting surface. First and second leg members are spaced to form an angle. A bridging member extends between opposing ends of the leg members and a strut extends between the joined ends of the leg members and the bridging member. The bridging member and strut form a truss, together with raised ribs along the legs and bridging member. The brace may be molded from plastic as a one-piece structure.

Abstract: The within invention concerns a telescopic boom of a crane with a pivot section, telescoping sections that telescope out of the pivot section, and bracing that has at least one guy support housed on one of the sections and a guy cable supported on one of these guy supports. According to the invention, the telescopic crane is characterized by the presence of a guy cable running from the guy support and a cable lock that can be locked to said guy cable, in which the cable lock can be moved by means of an actuator, particularly an hydraulic cylinder, in the longitudinal direction of the guy and the guy cable can be pre-stressed by moving the cable lock.

Abstract: A frame clamp (40) for connecting a ground anchor strap (30) to I-beam (75) of manufactured home (70) includes top jaw (42), bottom jaw (52) and fastening means (60) therebetween. Top jaw (42) has engaging portion (47) on distal end (46) including arcuate bearing surface (49) for bearing against I-beam top flange distal edge (81) responsive to tension in anchor strap (30) such that clamp (40) aligns with anchor strap (30) when anchor strap (30) is not perpendicular to longitudinal axis (79) of flange distal edge (81). Strap (30) attaches to bottom jaw (52) which clamps clamp (40) to I-beam flange (76).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the controlled release of guy wires includes a clamping device that grips and releases each wire and a control system so that individual guy wires can be selectively released at controlled times.

Abstract: A brace for stabilizing a vehicle is provided. The brace includes a main tube including a first end and a second end and defining at least one first set of orifices. An extension tube is disposed in the main tube from the first end and defines at least one second set of orifices. The position of the extension tube is set by selectively aligning at least one set of orifices from the first set and at least one set of orifices from the second set and inserting a fastener through the aligned orifices. A vehicle anchor is removably connected to the extension tube and a footer is removably connected to the second end of the main tube. A method for using a brace to stabilize a vehicle is also provided.

Abstract: A method or the realisation and the maintenance of overhead line plants for telecommunications, in which the anchor or “mooring” device of the self-gripping two-way supports of the cables, is made integral with a movable structure free to move along the supporting post. The structure includes a chain allowing lowering of the line from span level to ground level, and its successive lifting to the predetermined operative height at the end of the maintenance intervention. The lowering of the line to the ground level is achieved by exploiting the gravity force acting on the line itself, and the successive lifting, by pulling this anchor chain. The movable structures are provided according to different configurations, depending on the characteristics of the posts where these structures are used.

Abstract: An adjustable post stabilization support device that includes a multiple sided post receiving sleeve having oppositely disposed pairs of extensible ground engagement leg assemblies thereon. Locking cam levers securing the sleeves on said posts with the extensible leg assemblies being hinged to the bottom of the sleeve. Each of the leg assemblies is independently adjustable and has a ground engagement foot on its extensible portion. Vertical orientation provided for alignment of the sleeve and associated post by two horizontal planes.

Abstract: Walls of expanded polystyrene, concrete-receiving forms (referred to as insulated or insulating concrete forms or ICFs) need to be vertical while they are being filled with concrete and while the concrete is curing. An apparatus with a vertical member and a brace member is such that one person can erect it and use it to adjust walls of ICFs so as to be vertical or plumb. The apparatus is capable of being readily used with the forms of any manufacturer by being provided with asymmetrical brackets for detachably attaching the vertical member to a wall firmly, but not rigidly. The apparatus provides a support for a platform, or scaffold, for a person to stand on while guiding the concrete pouring and while plumbing the wall. The vertical member extends upward from the ground and is held firmly against the wall with asymmetrical brackets. The brace member extends from the vertical member at a pivot with the other end of the brace member attached to the ground or floor.

Abstract: An adjustable support bracing system for an upright structure includes a substantially vertical main frame and a support plate member pivotally secured to the main frame. The support plate extends on a first side of the main frame and provides supporting engagement of the upright structure. An adjustment device is connected to the main frame and bears on the support plate for selectively pivoting the support plate to a desired support angle. An adjustable length leg extends on a second side of the main frame opposite the first side.

Abstract: A connector brace comprises at least two telescoping sections of tubular steel that fit together. One end of the connector brace is bolted to the frame of a modular building, and the other to an anchor buried in the ground. Once the two ends are bolted in place, the telescoping sections are drilled for a locking bolt. The connector brace secures the foundation of the modular building with a rigid strut arm thus formed. The anchor comprises a heavy steel rod with several inches of machine threading at a back end, and an arrowhead with a pair of wedge-shaped wings at a front end. The wedge-shaped wings are welded to the steel rod from the tips and halfway down to the trailing edges of the arrowhead wings. A pivotable fluke is hinged to the shaft with lateral pin. The whole unit is driven into the soil with an pneumatic jack-hammer until the threads at the back end are almost completely buried. A stabilizer vane and interlocking cap are then placed over the end flat on the ground.

Abstract: A deadman ground-anchor comprises a heavy steel rod with several inches of machine threading at a back end, and an arrowhead with a pair of wedge-shaped wings at a front end. The wedge-shaped wings are welded to the steel rod. A pivotable fluke is hinged to the shaft with a lateral pin. The whole unit is driven into the soil, e.g., with a jack-hammer, until the threads at the back end are almost completely buried. A stabilizer vane and interlocking cap are then placed over the end flat on the ground. Nuts are put over the threaded end and tightened so that the whole unit is drawn back out a few inches. The fluke folds out perpendicular to the shaft and locks compacted soil between it and the cap. The stabilizing vane braces the top end of the anchor against lateral forces.

Abstract: A moveable structural reinforcement system is described including a moveable panel adapted to substantially close a building opening, the panel including variable shear load resistance means for regulating the shear stiffness of the building when the panel is in a closed position.

Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus for gymnastic bar assemblies has an elongated floor plate with outer and inner ends. A vertical post having upper and lower ends is pivotally secured by its lower end to the outer end of the floor plate. A length adjustable bar having opposite ends extends between the upper end of the post and the inner end of the floor plate. The bar has opposite ends which are pivotally secured to the upper end of the post and the inner end of the plate. A pulley assembly is secured to the upper end of the post.

Abstract: An adjustable bracing system is configured for supporting poured concrete wall systems and includes a vertical brace for engaging the wall. A slider slides vertically along a channel of the vertical brace. An adjustable length leg member connects at an upper end to the slider and extends outward away from the brace and connects at a lower end to a foot member. The leg is rotatably mounted at one end to a threaded member, wherein rotation of the leg in a first direction extends the threaded member and the length of the leg member, and rotation in a second opposite direction retracts the threaded member and shortens the length of the leg member. When needed, scaffolding framework mounts along a first edge to the slider.

Abstract: A moveable structural reinforcement system is described including a moveable panel, a metal frame structure connectable to the frame structure of a building opening, the frame structure including a top support member and lateral supports connected on a first end to the top support member, upper load members disposed on the top support member proximate the lateral supports, bottom load members disposed on the second ends of the lateral supports, and load transfer members disposed substantially diagonally on said panel and adapted to releasably engage the upper and lower load members. The load transfer members providing a substantially continuous load path when the panel is in a closed position and the building or structure is subjected to a lateral force.

Abstract: A weakened building member, having a building component running through an opening in it, is strengthened by reinforcing members attached to the building member that accommodate the presence of the building component. The reinforcing members are attached to the building member by fasteners or adhesives. The reinforcing members attach to at least one side of the building member. They extend from areas above the opening in the building member to areas below it, and pass around opposite sides of the building component. The reinforcing members can be positioned relative to each other prior to installation in such a manner as to allow the reinforcing members to slide around a building component that has already been run through the building member near their point of attachment to the building member.

Abstract: Relatively heavy electrical equipment, such as a computer mainframe or server unit, is provided with a mechanism which prevents and/or mitigates damage to the equipment caused by seismological or other activity. In particular, the mechanism comprises a turnbuckle having threaded yokes disposed at opposite ends of the turnbuckle together with eyebolts disposed within the yoke portions of the threaded yokes as a means for providing a retention device for anchoring relatively heavy computer and/or other equipment in position during seismological events. The electrical equipment is disposed within a frame which preferably includes a plurality of metal plates disposed at the bottom thereof. The frame is also provided with casters which permit the equipment to be rolled conveniently into place and then anchored firmly into position using a small number of pins which extend through the threaded yokes and eyebolts.

Abstract: A turnbuckle mechanism having threaded yokes disposed at opposite ends of the turnbuckle is employed together with eyebolts disposed within the yoke portions of the threaded yokes as a means for providing a retention device for anchoring relatively heavy computer and/or other equipment in position during seismological events. The electrical equipment is disposed within a frame which preferably includes a plurality of metal plates disposed at the bottom thereof. The frame is also provided with casters which permit the equipment to be rolled conveniently into place and then anchored firmly into position using a small number of pins which extend through the threaded yokes and eyebolts. There is provided an easily assemblable and economical apparatus which preferably includes a multiplicity of energy absorption points which help to prevent damage to the expensive computer frame and which further assists in maintaining computer operations at peak levels even during certain seismological activity.

Abstract: A foldable and portable support brace is provided for supporting masonry walls during construction. The brace includes a main frame, an optional ledge, and a support leg member. The ledge is a fold down ledge which is attached to a swinging ledge support. The support leg member includes a top section and a bottom section where the bottom section is attached to a length adjusting device. The length adjusting device has foldable periscope-type handles attached to an internally threaded fastener which rotates around a threaded screw. The threaded screw is pivotally connected to a footer base, which rests on the ground during use. The handle allows for easy lengthening and shortening of the support leg member, while also being foldable when not in use. The leg portion and ledge are collapsible into the main frame when the main frame is to be transported to another area or another site. Optionally, the main frame has an integral level.

Abstract: Relatively heavy electrical equipment, such as a computer mainframe or server unit, is provided with a mechanism which prevents and/or mitigates damage to the equipment caused by seismological or other activity. In particular, the mechanism comprises a turnbuckle having threaded yokes disposed at opposite ends of the turnbuckle together with eyebolts disposed within the yoke portions of the threaded yokes as a means for providing a retention device for anchoring relatively heavy computer and/or other equipment in position during seismological events. The electrical equipment is disposed within a frame which preferably includes a plurality of metal plates disposed at the bottom thereof. The frame is also provided with casters which permit the equipment to be rolled conveniently into place and then anchored firmly into position using a small number of pins which extend through the threaded yokes and eyebolts.

Abstract: An adjustable brace for a wall constructed from concrete masonry units or brick or precast. The brace has a inner member with a first section, a second section, and a center section connecting the first and second sections and having a connection for attaching the inner member to the wall. The brace also has a outer member, having a first section, a second section, and a center section connecting the first and second sections of the outer member and a connection for attaching the outer member to the inner member. The center section of said inner member and the center section of the outer member are connected to the wall such that the inner member and the outer member may rotate independent of each other about the connection. When the outer member is attached to the inner member, the first and second sections of the outer member are also placed directly against the wall.

Abstract: A kit of readily assemblable parts to protect computer equipment and the like against destructive seismological motions. In particular, a turnbuckle mechanism having threaded yokes disposed at opposite ends of the turnbuckle is employed together with eyebolts disposed within the yoke portions of the threaded yokes as a means for providing a retention device for anchoring relatively heavy computer and/or other equipment in position during seismological events. The electrical equipment is disposed within a frame which preferably includes a plurality of metal plates disposed at the bottom thereof. The frame is also provided with casters which permit the equipment to be rolled conveniently into place and then anchored firmly into position using a small number of pins which extend through the threaded yokes and eyebolts.

Abstract: A bracing apparatus for use with a partially or fully built wall. The wall extends upward from a base surface and has a top surface, a first face and a second face. The wall is constructed from a plurality of stacked masonry forms. The bracing apparatus includes first and second support members, a lock and a base securing mechanism. The first support member rests on the top surface of the wall and has a first brace extending downward adjacent the first face. The second support member is movably connected to the first support member and has a second brace extending downward adjacent the second face. The lock is connected to the first and second support members and is capable of securing the first and second support members in a position substantially equal to the width of at least one of the masonry forms. The ground securing mechanism is connected to at least one of the first and second support members and the base surface.

Abstract: Expandable thermoplastic polymers in particle form comprising a) at least one organic boron-silicon compound, b) at least one thermoplastic polymer and c) a blowing agent, a process for their preparation, and the foams produced using these expandable thermoplastic polymers.