Abstract: A wind turbine system for safe and reliable installation in a building. The Wind Turbine System generally includes of a tower pole having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of the tower pole includes a wind turbine which extends through the roof through a hole. The lower end of the tower pole includes a tower base which is installed underground in the base of a building. The tower base may be anchored in the ground with a concrete footing. The tower pole is connected to a building support member by a clamp member. An anti-vibration ring surrounds the tower pole at its interface with the building support member to dampen vibrations. A tower-roof seal surrounds the interface between tower pole and roof at the hole. In this manner, wind power can be provided to a building without the use of guyed wires and without damaging the structure of the building.

Abstract: Building accessible for persons, in particular a garage, comprising a load bearing structure, wherein at least a part of a facade of said building is formed by a textile, wherein at least 30% of the total surface area of the facade is open to air. Preferably the textile has a coarseness such that at least 30% of the total surface of said textile is open to air.

Abstract: A gabion includes panels of metal meshes that can be assembled so as to form a casing for receiving a bulk of filler material such as pebbles, natural rock fragments, wood chips or the like and/or a mixture of said materials. The gabion further includes at least one flexible sealed pouch provided with gripping members and configured to be inserted between the assembled panels.

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 microclimate cooling system for an indoor/outdoor stadium includes a partially rotatable roof, the rotatable roof having a first position environmentally sealing an interior of the stadium. and a second position exposing a portion of the interior to the atmosphere, a field surrounded by the stadium, and a tiered seating positioned adjacent a first side of the field. The system further includes a raised concrete barrier adjacent a second side of the pitch opposing the first side of the field, a first wall adjacent a third side of the field, and a second wall adjacent a fourth side of the field, the first and second walls perpendicular to the tiered seating extending between at least a portion of the tiered seating and the raised concrete barrier. The system further includes a plurality of air handling units for supplying cooling air to the tiered seating.

Abstract: A passive indoor/outdoor stadium structure configured to reduce energy demands from the stadium structure includes a moveable roofing system and a micro-climate cooling system. The moveable roofing system covers an interior space of the stadium and has an open position and a closed position. The roofing system includes a fixed half-dome roof and a revolving half dome roof retractable beneath the fixed half dome roof, both the fixed half dome roof and the revolving half dome roof having an outer half dome clad with a plurality of solar hoods positioned in an overlapping arrangement. The micro-climate cooling system for cooling the indoor/outdoor stadium includes a full circulation mode for cooling a stadium volume when the roofing system is in the closed position, and a micro-climate mode for cooling a portion of the stadium volume when the roofing system is in the open position.

Abstract: A system for providing electrical energy to heating and cooling units associated with a building. Conduits are positioned within the building, such that the end portions are open to exterior wall surfaces of the building. Wind deflector mechanisms positioned at the end portions of the conduits direct wind from the exterior wall surfaces into the conduits, impacting venturi elements and wind collector devices positioned within the conduits. The venturi elements are pivotally mounted within the conduits to accelerate the wind towards the wind collectors regardless of in which direction the wind flows, rotating the wind collectors operatively associated with a wind turbine device. The wind turbine device converts mechanical energy to electrical energy which is provided to heating and cooling units.

Abstract: A parapet protector is disclosed which generally discourages birds, small mammals, and other nuisance animals from the rooftops of buildings. The parapet protector includes a first insulator detachably attached to a surface of a building; a first suspension eye coupled to the first insulator, the first suspension eye extending outwardly from the first insulator in a direction that is perpendicular to a plane defined by the surface of the building; a first spring that is detachably attached to a distal end of the first suspension eye; a wire that that connects the first spring to a second spring located on a second suspension eye coupled to a second insulator; and an electrical input that is configured to electrify the wire.

Abstract: Apparatuses for forming at least a partial seal between an open end of a truck, trailer, or other vehicle and an opening in a building are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus for forming at least a partial seal includes a first side pad configured to extend vertically adjacent to a first side portion of an opening, a second side pad configured to extend vertically adjacent to a second side portion of the opening, and a head pad assembly configured to extend horizontally adjacent to a top portion of the opening between the first and second side pads. The head pad assembly can include replaceable corner pads positioned on either end of a center pad. The corner pads can be independently attached to the wall of the building and separately removed if replacement is needed.

Abstract: A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.

Abstract: A cam-actuated connection device joins rail mounting members of a photovoltaic panel array. The connection device slides within channels of mounting members until the members are in a properly positioned grid. When in position, the connection device is rotated to lock the mounting members in a rigid grid network. The connecting device can be subsequently loosened, repositioned and locked into position. The rail-mounting members create a grid for installation of multiple PV panels. The mounting rail allows the unit to remain relatively compact in nature but still covers a wide range of PV panel thicknesses. The rail system has a hinged connection with the mounting rail that allows an installer to assemble the module in a near perpendicular fashion to the mounting rail, make the required electrical connections and then lower the PV module into its working position. The unit is then locked into its working position.

Abstract: An off-the-grid prefabricated structure that is configured to be shipped in a standard shipping container in collapsed state and then be assembled into an expanded state at its final destination. The prefabricated structure includes its own internal power and water sources. The power source may be a low voltage direct current power source that provides power to common appliances and fixtures that operate at low voltage. Additionally or alternatively, solar energy collection devices may be integrated into the prefabricated structure to supply the internal power source. The water source may be a liquid tight flexible bag that is stored within one or more access spaces in the prefabricated structure.

Abstract: A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.

Abstract: An electrical service assembly is secured to a framework of a panel of an office partition system and includes at least one bracket to which at least one electrical outlet module is mounted, the module having at least a pair of electrical outlets such that electrical outlets may be positioned in a back-to-back configuration. In this manner, the electrical service assembly provides service to opposite sides of a panel that face opposite work spaces. Also, the electrical outlet modules may be associated with separate circuits to prevent overload of the electrical service assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to support structures including truss assemblies and purlins, the truss assemblies including struts, wherein utilities such as pipes and cables can be contained within the purlins, and can pass through openings in the struts, to thereby be retained by the support structures so as to be hidden from view.

Abstract: Support structures and systems for electrical panels, such as solar panels or collectors, and other materials and devices are described. The structures are relatively strong and lightweight and include cable management features.

Abstract: A wind mitigation system is disclosed, including a panel engageable with a drain channel of a roof, the panel dimensioned to extend above a top edge defined by the drain channel, wherein the panel defines a plurality of openings; and a structural support member coupled to the panel, the structural support member providing increased rigidity of the panel.

Abstract: A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.

Abstract: A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.

Abstract: An improved shelter of the type having a front wall, a back wall, two opposing side walls, a bottom and a top defining a substantially rectangular box with an opening defined in the top, a flat lid adapted to cover the opening, a roller means for alternatively rolling the lid to expose or close the open top, the improvement comprising: substantially, the entire top of the box defining an opening; the lid adapted to be substantially flush with the surrounding ground level in a closed position; and a roller means for allowing the lid to slide above the ground level, exposing more than half of the top when in an open position. The shelter alternatively including stairs rotatably affixed to the front wall and a stair support means releasably supporting the stair in position to be used as a stepping entrance into the shelter, whereby the stair can be rotated against the front wall when not in use or rotated and fixed in place by the stair support means to serve as a stepping surface.

Abstract: A roof mount assembly mounts a structure to a roof having a rafter and a substrate supported by the rafter. The roof mount assembly includes a piece of flashing positioned on the substrate. The flashing includes a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface and an aperture extending through the flashing. A fastener extends through the flashing aperture. A bracket is connected to the flashing via the fastener, and the bracket is sized to support at least one roof-mounted structure on the roof. A seal is positioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener. The seal is sized to form a water-tight seal with the aperture to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion, in which the first portion is positioned to abut the flashing first surface and the second portion is positioned to extend through the aperture.

Abstract: A mobile, modular, cleanroom facility is made from one or more pre-assembled modules, transportable in their pre-assembled form. Each pre-assembled module includes an air filtration system including a ceiling plenum for providing clean air to the interior of the module. The air filtration system provides air cleaned to at least an ISO 8 classification. When the mobile, modular cleanroom facility is made of two or more modules, each of the modules is pre-assembled, and is transportable in its pre-assembled form. Each of the modules also includes an air filtrations system having a ceiling plenum for providing clean air to the interior of the module. Most preferably, the modules are connected by a connection assembly effective for providing a seamless transition from one module to the other while maintaining the appropriate clean air classification in the transition space.

Abstract: Among other things, a communication line is attached along a target surface of a building by laying out the line from a tool. An outer surface of the line is in a temporarily tacky condition as the line is laid out along the surface. The line is in the temporarily tacky condition based at least in part on an adhesive component having been pre-applied to the outer surface of the line. The line becomes non-tacky after it has been attached.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for installing heat transfer panels (typically of metal) on a roof. Panels are applied to the roof such that the panels have an interlocking relationship at interlocking interfaces between adjacent panels. An energy conducting element is laid among the panels such that the energy conducting element extends along the interlocking interfaces such that of the energy conducting element emits heat in all directions, preferably by contact 42 heat exchange panels. A roofing material is then applied over the panels and energy conducting element. The panels each have a first interlocking member positioned along one first lateral side and a second interlocking member positioned along a second lateral side. The second interlocking member is sized to receive the first interlocking member of an adjacent panel and a portion of the energy conducting element.

Abstract: An inflatable insulator covers an associated attic access hatch to prevent a transfer of heat from a first indoor environment maintaining temperature control and a second indoor environment not maintaining temperature control. The insulator includes at least one air chamber adapted to contain a volume of stationary air. Impermeable layers define the air chamber. Sidewalls extending from a generally planar top wall to remove the impermeable layers from a direct contact with the access hatch.

Abstract: A system for converting wind energy to electrical energy for use in a building. Conduits positioned within the building have end portions open to exterior wall surfaces of the building. Wind deflector mechanisms positioned at the end portions of the conduits direct wind from the exterior wall surfaces of the building into the conduits and allow wind to exit the conduits. Wind flowing through the conduits impacts venturi elements and wind collector devices positioned within the conduits. The venturi elements are pivotally mounted within the conduits to accelerate the wind towards the wind collectors regardless of in which direction the wind flows, thereby causing the wind collectors operatively associated with a wind turbine device to rotate. Wind collector rotation produces mechanical energy that the wind turbine device converts to electrical energy for the building.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tower for a wind power installation, wherein the walls of the tower are at least partially produced from individual wall sections which are connected to one another by means of connection means. The object of the invention is therefore to provide a tower which can be assembled with a sufficient degree of precision. It is also the object of the invention to provide a method for erecting a tower of this kind. The object according to the invention in respect of a tower of this kind is achieved in that an empty framework is at least partially provided in the interior of the tower and the wall sections are retentively connected to said empty framework.

Abstract: The drywall repair system comprises at least one drywall patch template. The drywall patch template comprises a square made of gypsum plaster as cut to a pre-determined repair-area-size, which is pressed between a first and a second paper boundary sheet layer. The first paper boundary sheet layer extends outwardly from the outer edge of the square made of gypsum plaster thereby creating a perimeter frame and comprises an area larger than the second paper boundary sheet layer which does not extend outwardly from the outer edge of the square made of gypsum plaster. The first paper boundary sheet layer, when the drywall patch template is installed, comprises tier which is located in front of the drywall wall and the square made of gypsum plaster is located within and adjacent the pre-cut hole in the drywall wall.

Abstract: A solar energy rain gutter system includes a solar panel connectable to a gutter. One or a multitude of solar panels can be connected in series along the length of the gutter to power various electrical devices. The solar panel can be angularly adjusted to collect a maximum amount of light while also allowing rain water to still flow within the gutter. The solar panels can be controlled from a control box including a rechargeable battery and control logic, such as a timer for automatically activating and deactivating various devices at night or during the day.

Abstract: A load bearing member comprising: a first rigid portion (12) adapted to bear a load until the load reaches a predetermined load and thereafter have a reduced or substantially no load bearing capacity; and a second flexible portion (14) adapted to bear the load after the predetermined load is reached, wherein the first rigid portion and the second flexible portion cooperate to bear the load such that the load bearing member is enabled to transform from rigidly to flexibly bearing the load when the predetermined load is reached.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention are directed to floating floor systems and to methods of making and using the floor systems. The floating floor systems generally include a floating flooring unit (704) and a mechanical-energy-harvesting device (710). The mechanical-energy-harvesting device can be incorporated into the flooring unit component at a variety of locations. The floor systems can further include an energy storage device (712) and/or an electronic component that will be actuated or driven by the electricity generated.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prefabricated wall element for a tower construction, essentially of concrete, arranged to form one of several wall portions of a building formed by circumferential shell portions of one of several shell portions stacked on each other, wherein the wall element is constituted by a substantially flat sheet portion comprising a pair of opposite sides intended to run substantially horizontally in the building and a pair of opposite sides intended to run in a direction forming a predetermined angle to the horizontal plane in the building, and along which sides the wall element includes compressive and tensile load absorbing pillar portions and is intended to be connected to adjacent wall elements. The invention also relates to a tower construction, a mobile antenna system and a wind power plant.

Abstract: A floor type multi-display apparatus includes a multi-display, transparent panels, and a plurality of support members. The multi-display includes a plurality of displays. The support members include first support members disposed between adjacent ones of the displays in a scattered fashion, and second support members disposed around the multi-display. The support members have respective plate portions positioned along and closely to edges of the displays. The support portion and the base portion of each of the first support members project toward two displays located closely thereto from the plate portion of the first support member. The support portion and the base portion of each of the second support members project toward only one display located closely thereto from the plate portion of the second support member.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for constructing a tower for a wind power installation and to a tower for a wind power installation. In this case, a coating is applied at least partially onto the exterior surface of the tower, wherein the coating is applied such that the coating absorbs tensile stresses which act on the exterior surface of the tower, and that the coating seals the exterior surface of the tower against environmental influences, in particular moisture, which act on the surface from the outside.

Abstract: Floating floor structure, comprising bearing pillars (1) with a revolving ball (3) constrained in the head (2), projecting on the floor surface (10), supported by a grid of crosspieces (7) suspended between the bearing pillars (1) and made up of material suitable to prevent the generation of sparks due to friction or impact and avoid the accumulation of electrostatic energy, the entirety being used for making floors particularly for rooms intended for storing explosives, ammunitions, arms and the like, such a manner that the pallets of the respective support may be easily translated and moved manually on the floating floor rolling on the heads of the pillars in a safe manner.

Abstract: This loading bay comprises a compact structure carrying at least one fold-away ramp and a shelter for closing off the space between the shed and the truck box body at the side and at the top during loading or unloading operations. Said compact structure adjoins the wall (P) of the shed on the outside and is set up with the possibility of being removed longitudinally on guide means for positioning the movable assembly in a position opposite any one of the openings (H) providing access to the shed. The loading bay comprises, additionally, motorized actuating means, at least one bar of sensors for detecting the position of the truck while said truck is being moved closer into position, a light-signalling device and a light and/or acoustic signal warning of the approach of a truck.

Abstract: Segmented dock seals for truck loading docks are described herein. An elongate, compressible pad member for use with a loading dock seal is positioned to compliantly conform to an aft end of a trailer positioned proximate to an opening in a building. The pad member includes a body portion having a front side and a back side. The body portion is composed of a compressible foam material. The pad member further includes a plurality of individual fingers projecting away from the front side of the body portion. The individual fingers are integral with the body portion and are spaced apart from each other.

Abstract: A dynamically adjustable floor tile for a data center including a plurality of perforations; and a dynamically adjustable aperture, wherein opening the aperture exposes one or more of the perforations to airflow through the floor tile and closing the aperture blocks one or more of the apertures to airflow through the floor tile.

Abstract: A rigid rectangular construction panel, such as a floor panel, has quick release connections along its edges. The panel is made from composite materials in a single work piece. The base of the panel is made up of pillars to separate the body of the panel from the underlying construction surface, such as a concrete slab or wall. The base defines a fluid flow field to permit drainage and drying of the underlying construction surface. An impermeable moisture barrier may be provided to prevent migration of moisture into or through the panel. The panel may be provided with an added, removable surface layer which may be selectively removed and replaced without removing the underlying panel from an installation area. The core of the panel may be provided with a temperature modification element which may interconnect with similar elements in neighboring panels.

Abstract: A turbine assembly (10, 90, 100, 200) comprising, a rotor (20) having a plurality of blades (30), and a shroud (40) at least partially enclosing the rotor (20) and adapted to expose a portion of the rotor (20).

Abstract: An improved handrail for a staircase or ramp. In one embodiment, the handrail includes an elongated member such as a cylinder or bar that spans the length of the staircase or ramp and a riser barrier. The riser barrier has an extender portion and a riser portion. The extender portion of the riser barrier keeps the elongated member a sufficient distance horizontally from the riser portion that a person can slide his or her hand on the rail without interference. The riser portion projects vertically a sufficient distance above the elongated member to deter sliding down the elongated member. Thus, sliding on the member is deterred, while the function of the cylinder as a handrail is preserved.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a metal framing member having improved sound attenuating properties to reduce the sound transmission through a partition wall constructed utilizing the framing members. The framing members have a central web which bridges the interior of a partition wall, attached to either edge of the central wall are upstanding side walls to which the covering material would be attached. The central web is provided a plurality of paired rows of elongated slits oriented along the longitudinal direction of the central web such that there is no uninterrupted line of metal bridging the web from one edge of the web to the other in any transverse direction.

Abstract: Inflatable protective structures for sleeping, privacy and or containment are disclosed. A certain defined area that will consist of an inflatable sitting or sleeping area as well as a non inflatable area for such use as storage or changing. Said area to be enclosed by inflatable walls at two ends that are higher than the sleeping area high enough for a person to sit. Inflatable walls at each end act as support for a roof. Roof consisting of a light cloth like material which would enclose top, front and back and sides and bottom. Front and back of structure may include windows and a door for easy access. Alternatively cloth material could be partially removed with roof or walls only remaining. These Additional uses could be as a child or pet play pen and sleeping area. Unit could also be used without tent like covering.

Abstract: A method for erecting an off-shore wind turbine includes providing a wind turbine tower socket segment that includes a basin positioned at one end of the wind turbine tower socket segment. The basin is filled with water. A wind turbine tower plug segment, which has a closed surface at one end of the wind turbine tower plug segment, is brought in connection with the wind turbine tower socket segment. Further, a wind turbine tower socket segment for off-shore wind turbines is provided that includes a basin adapted for receiving water on one side of the segment. The socket segment is adapted for receiving a wind turbine tower plug segment. Further, a wind turbine tower plug segment adapted for being plugged into a wind turbine tower socket segment is provided. The wind turbine tower plug segment includes a closed surface at one end of the segment. Further, a wind turbine is provided.

Abstract: The system and apparatus according to the invention includes a panel of material which is made up of a body of open cell, reticulated, porous material (e.g., polyurethane foam) surrounded on the sides and bottom by a barrier of waterproof material. A layer of highly reflective, water permeable material is positioned on top of and covers substantially all of the top surface of the body of porous material. A drain can be positioned at the bottom of the panel to provide a slow, gravity feed to release water from the panel.

Abstract: A theater (54) can be divided into a plurality of booths (64) by booth partition walls (68). By moving the booth partition walls (68), the plurality of booths (64) are combined to form a combined theater (66). When the theater (54) is divided in the plurality of booths (64), each booth (64) provides a booth picture in which images of visitors seated in the booth (64) are incorporated as characters. The combined theater (66) provides a combined-theater picture with the use of screens (70) of all the booths (64). Each booth (64) provides a default picture when a fault occurs in the function of generating a booth picture.

Abstract: An article for applying to a floor substrate for preparing the floor substrate for laying of ceramic tiles by bonding ceramic tiles to the article. The article comprises a tile backer board for application to a floor substrate and a sheet bonded to the backer board for bonding of ceramic tiles to the sheet. The sheet comprises a plurality of layers bonded together wherein separation of the sheet along layers thereof is effected for removal of laid ceramic tiles from the backer board. Alternatively, the sheet is bonded to a floor substrate, and the ceramic tiles are bonded thereto. Alternatively, the article is a tape with releasable adhesive thereon. The adhesive releasably adheres to the floor substrate, and the ceramic tiles are bonded to the tape. Alternatively, the article comprises sheets which lie on the floor substrate and which float on the floor substrate and to which are bonded the ceramic tiles.

Abstract: A protection system for a structural element is provided. The protection system employs a shield assembly comprising two parts formed of one or more materials configured to provide protection from a threat, such as a blast, projectiles, cutting, or a fire. At least one bracket assembly attaches to the structural element. The shield assembly is hingedly attached to the bracket assembly, so that the two parts of the shield assembly can be moved away from the structural element while remaining attached to the structural element.

Abstract: An exemplary elevator door frame includes a sill member and a header member. A plurality of jamb members are generally perpendicular to the sill member and the header member. A plurality of guide rail brackets are supported on at least one of the sill member, the header member or one of the jamb members. The guide rail brackets are configured to receive a portion of a guide rail.

Abstract: An exemplary door frame assembly that is useful in an elevator system includes a plurality of door frame members including a header, a sill and a plurality of jambs. The door frame members are configured to be secured into a desired position along a hoistway. At least one guide rail bracket is supported by at least one of the door frame members. The guide rail bracket is moveable relative to the door frame member between a handling position in which the guide rail bracket is generally parallel to at least one of the header or the sill and a deployed position in which the guide rail bracket is generally perpendicular to the at least one of the header or sill.