Abstract: An apparatus and system utilized in a storm shelter to notify rescue personnel that a person is in the storm shelter and needs assistance to get out. The apparatus comprises a tubular member, a cap at the upper end of the tubular member, a mechanism at the upper end of the tubing to signal rescue personnel and a mechanism to move the tubular member upward. The signaling mechanism is a light source with apertures in the tubing to allow light to emanate outward, reflective material, florescent paint and/or an audible source. The moving mechanism comprises a threaded rod vertically supported by a base with a threaded nut that rotates on the rod to raise the tubular member or it comprises a lifting mechanism that raises the tubular member. The system has an opening in the upper wall of the shelter and a removable plug apparatus that plugs the opening.

Abstract: A cover device for use with an aperture disposed through a surface and having an inner perimeter surface includes a cover plate having a body portion with inner and outer surfaces and at least one elongated channel disposed therethrough. The cover plate includes a plurality of retention members extending inwardly into the at least one elongated channel. At least one engagement feature is operably coupled to the cover plate at the at least one elongated channel and slidably disposed along the at least one elongated channel between retracted and deployed positions. The at least one engagement feature includes at least one engagement member disposed below the inner surface of the cover plate that engages the inner perimeter surface of the aperture when the at least one engagement feature is in the deployed position when the cover plate is positioned over the aperture.

Abstract: A stirring or mixing device is configured to optionally receive a cooking thermometer along a vertical edge such that acts of mixing, stirring, and/or even scraping foodstuff within a food preparation receptacle may be performed simultaneously with measuring temperature of such foodstuff. The device comprises a handle and stirring or mixing head defining a receiving channel configured to elastically retain an elongated thermometer probe. In addition, the device may define cutouts operative to expose portions of a retained probe to direct contact with foodstuff.

Abstract: A system for a multi-directional roof cover system includes a vehicle comprising an opening in the top of the vehicle and a cover movably coupled to selectively cover the opening. The cover has a first end proximate a first end of the vehicle, a second end proximate a second end of the vehicle, lateral edges connecting the first end and the second end, and linkages coupling the lateral edges to the vehicle. The cover is actuatable, based on one or more conditions, between a first position in which the cover is closed and covers the opening, a second position in which the cover is open and the first end of the cover is raised relative to the second end of the cover, and a third position in which the cover is open and the second end of the cover is raised relative to the first end of the cover.

Abstract: A manhole assembly including a base, riser, and cap. The base having an upper surface forming a bench, a bottom surface, and a radially outward surface with penetrations there through; and a radial spigot in the radially outward upper edge of the base. The base having a corrosive-resistant layer covering the channels, bench, and radial spigot. Also disclosed is a riser comprised of a corrosive-resistant polymer pipe having a radially outward surface, an inner surface and a bottom surface in contact with, supported by, and sealed to the radial spigot. The cap having a radial spigot, and access hole; the radial spigot in the radially outward bottom edge of the cap resting upon and sealed to an upper edge of the riser. The radially outward surface of the cap and base are aligned with the radially outward surface of the riser.

Abstract: A liner for a manhole cover is made up of stackable sections. Each stackable section is formed of a plurality (e.g. 4) pieces. Each piece comprises a first arm and a second arm which are substantially perpendicular to one another, the first arm being longer than the second arm, and both arms comprising connection means to allow the pieces to be connected together. The respective dimensions of the first arm and the second arm are chosen such that, when the piece is incorporated into a stackable section comprising three other corresponding pieces that are connected to each other in a sequence of a second arm of one piece connected to the first arm of an adjacent piece to form a quadrilateral stackable section, a further corresponding piece can fit within the stackable section along an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first arm.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an electronically controlled hatch system for safe ingress, egress, hazard detection, and methods thereof are provided to reduce or eliminate hazards to personnel, including protection of people above and below a scuttle hatch, access port, skylight or elevated deck. Said hatch system reduces the risk of falls while ascending or descending a ladder through an access port. In certain embodiments, severe weather, hazard, security, and other safety information are detected and transmitted to a central control unit for processing and regulating the opening and closing of a hatch covering the access port and/or raising and lowering a safety railing system based on said information and/or user input. Said hatch system may include an actuator and guides for automatically locking/unlocking and opening/closing a hatch, an actuator and guides for automatically raising/lowering a railing system, safety monitoring detectors/apparatuses, and a centralized controller.

Abstract: A manhole cover assembly includes a manhole structure, a manhole frame carried by the manhole structure and a manhole frame grout cementing the manhole frame to the manhole structure. The manhole frame grout includes a grout mixture having an epoxy resin, a curing agent and an aggregate. The epoxy resin and the aggregate are present in the grout mixture in an epoxy resin:aggregate weight ratio of about 0.09. A removable manhole cover is carried by the manhole frame. A manhole cover assembly fabrication method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A The manhole cover is described with a supporting structure device comprising force distribution ribs for supporting a top surface of the manhole cover which can be driven over, and a hollow force distribution cylinder arranged substantially centrally, in particular a circular force distribution cylinder, for supporting the force distribution ribs, characterised by a force distribution plate to relieve the load on the force distribution cylinder, wherein the force distribution plate at least substantially completely covers an underside of the force distribution cylinder in relation to the top surface, and wherein the force distribution ribs transform smoothly into the force distribution plate.

Abstract: The street ironwork according to the invention includes a frame (4), a manhole cover (6), a hinge (10) for pivotably connecting the covering element relative to the frame between a closed position and an open position, the hinge including a frame knuckle (20) and a covering element knuckle (22). The street ironwork includes a locking element (40) attached to the covering element knuckle and suitable for preventing the covering element knuckle from being released from the frame knuckle in at least one of the open positions of the covering element relative to the frame or in the closed position.

Abstract: An attic stairway insulator assembly configured for placement within a building scuttle is provided. The building scuttle has a length and a width. The attic stairway insulator assembly includes a base configured to cover the building scuttle. The base has a length and a width corresponding generally to the length and the width of the building scuttle. A bag is seated on the base and has insulative material within a jacket. The bag has a length that is longer than the length of the base and a width that is wider than the width of the base such that portions of the bag having the insulative material drape over portions of the base.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an electronically controlled hatch system for safe ingress, egress, hazard detection, and methods thereof are provided to reduce or eliminate hazards to personnel, including protection of people above and below a scuttle hatch, access port, skylight or elevated deck. Said hatch system reduces the risk of falls while ascending or descending a ladder through an access port. In certain embodiments, severe weather, hazard, security, and other safety information are detected and transmitted to a central control unit for processing and regulating the opening and closing of a hatch covering the access port and/or raising and lowering a safety railing system based on said information and/or user input. Said hatch system may include an actuator and guides for automatically locking/unlocking and opening/closing a hatch, an actuator and guides for automatically raising/lowering a railing system, safety monitoring detectors/apparatuses, and a centralized controller.

Abstract: A hinge member providing a pivotal connection between a utility vault hatch and a utility vault frame that provides an adjustable torsion lift system with one-way bias. Hinge member comprises a fixed end socket, a floating end socket, a torsion bar member, and a collar member. Fixed end socket and floating end socket are rigid cylindrical members with a cylindrical exterior surface and a polygonal socket at in its interior. Torsion bar member is an oblong rod or bar with an external polygonal shape that fits the polygonal sockets on the fixed end socket and the floating end socket. Collar member is a rigid cylindrical member with a cylindrical exterior surface and a hollow cylindrical center. Collar member has a T-slot void cut into its cylindrical exterior surface. Floating end socket further comprises an ear member, which is inserted into the T-slot of collar member.

Abstract: A cover for closing an access opening that leads to an infrequently used space within a building, such as an attic, provides thermal and acoustic insulation at the access opening. The cover may be in one or two portions, including a closure alone or a closure and a frame having an aperture that can be closed by engagement between the closure and the frame. When the cover is used alone it engages a frame or a wall circumscribing the access opening. The cover is sized and shaped to close a hatch, a stairwell, the opening at one end of a stairway, or an opening in a generally vertical wall that is not necessarily associated with a stairway. The closure and frame are each made of one or more components.

Abstract: A cover assembly for a utility chamber, comprising a frame with side walls defining a chamber opening and a seating interface, and a cover that closes the opening and seats with the seating interface, a portion of the cover sidewalls profiled to engage with complimentary profiled portions in the frame sidewalls to position and stabilise the cover relative to the frame. The assembly also preferably has a retainer or retainers which engage to secure the cover to the frame. A subsurface utility chamber, comprising a main housing with a base and walls, a frame having a central aperture for chamber access, a cover to close the aperture, and an extension section located between the main housing and the frame, the frame, extension section, and housing releasably and adjustably connected together so as to allow a gap to be established between at least part of the frame and the extension section.

Abstract: A support apparatus for a frame of a utility access cover comprises an inner support member and an outer support member in telescopic engagement with the inner support member. The height and inclination of the support apparatus is adjustable by selectively positioning the first support member relative to the second support member and securing the first support member to the second support member with the fasteners.

Abstract: A hatch useful for forming a portal to a sub-surface facility has a cover plate with a plurality of fasteners around its perimeter. These fasteners apply an adjustable compressive force on the cover plate. A compressible material is affixed to the cover plate inward from the perimeter adjacent to the fasteners. A first vertical portion of a rectangular channel has a first end penetrating the compressive material to form a water barrier with the penetration distance being determined by the compressive force. A mechanical stop determines a maximum penetration depth.

Abstract: A manhole cover venting and rain guarding device for a manhole cover having an exterior manhole cover surface and an interior manhole cover surface includes a device housing adapted for attachment to the manhole cover. The device housing includes manhole cover venting and precipitation guarding device includes a device housing adapted for attachment to the manhole cover, the device housing including a head portion having a head portion surface adapted to protrude beyond an entire plane of the exterior manhole cover surface and a device bore extending through the head portion and adapted to communicate with the interior manhole cover surface of the manhole cover.

Abstract: Disclosed is a latching mechanism for a access door. More specifically, the disclosure relates to an access door that can be pivoted between opened and closed orientations and secured in the open position with the aid of a hold open arm. A latching lever, in turn, pivotally engages the hold open arm to selectively secure the access door in an opened orientation. A grip upon the hold open arm can thereafter be used in conjunction with the latching lever to release the access door and permit it to be closed.

Abstract: A concrete lid for an in-ground utilities box includes a plastic reinforcement structure filled with concrete. The plastic reinforcement structure includes one or more plastic sidewalls that protect the edges of the lid from damage. The upper and lower surfaces of the lid are exposed concrete (with the exception of the upper and lower edges of the one or more plastic sidewalls). The one or more plastic sidewalls laterally surround a plastic reinforcement grid, which is centrally located between the upper and lower edges of the one or more plastic sidewalls. The one or more plastic sidewalls can be integrally formed with the plastic reinforcement grid. The plastic reinforcement grid reinforces the concrete lid, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement material. Support struts can be used to support the plastic reinforcement grid while wet concrete is being poured into the plastic reinforcing structure.

Abstract: An emergency storm shelter assembly extends from a wall of a structure to establish, a shelter space resistant to collapse in the event the structure collapses on the assembly. The assembly includes a first panel and a second panel. A pivotable anchor is coupled to a base edge of the first panel such that the first panel is selectively positionable parallel to a wall of the building structure. An upper edge of the second panel is pivotably coupled to a top edge of the first panel. A holding mechanism is coupled to the first panel and the second panel securing the first panel and the second panel in a fully extended static position defining a sheltered space.

Abstract: Resin-based structures for use in corrosive environments. The resin-based structures may include a mixture of resin and aggregate. The resin-based structures may be formed in a mold by placing aggregate and resin into the mold. The resin-based structures may have thin wall design with high compression and tension strength.

Abstract: A locking core plug includes an upper plate, an insertion portion extending outward from the upper plate and forming an outer perimeter, and a locking mechanism positioned within the outer perimeter of the insertion portion. The locking mechanism includes a rotating member, a plurality of locking arms having a first end connected to the rotating member and a second end extending outward toward holes in the outer perimeter, and a plurality of guides fixedly mounted to the upper plate. Each guide engages a corresponding locking arm to convert the circular movement of the first end of the arm as rotating member rotates into a generally linear movement of the second end between a release position retracted toward or within the outer perimeter of the insertion portion and a locking position extended outward from the outer perimeter of the insertion portion.

Abstract: A cover for closing an access opening that leads to an infrequently used space within a building, such as an attic, that generally provides an air seal, thermal insulation and/or acoustic insulation at the access opening. The cover may be in one or two portions, including a closure alone or a closure and a frame having an aperture that can be closed by engagement between the closure and the frame. When the cover is used alone it engages a frame or a wall circumscribing the access opening. The cover is sized and shaped to close a stairwell, or the opening at one end of a stairway, an opening in a generally vertical wall, a hatch, or a pull down ladder. The closure and frame are each made of one or more components.

Abstract: The invention relates to a top part for a shaft, having an access part and a shaft cone which is connected to an access part and, with a connecting element on that side of the shaft cone that lies opposite the access part, can be mounted onto a further shaft element, the shaft cone having a substantially convex basic shape, characterized in that, in the region of the shaft dome, stiffening structures are disposed on the inner surface of this shaft dome, which extend substantially radially or parallelly, angularly or concentrically from one or more imaginary points or lines within or outside the dome downwards over the curved shape of the shaft cone.

Abstract: An indoor security barricade designed to create a temporary blockade between a home's inhabitants and any intruders. The indoor security barricade can be deployed either by manual or mechanical means and then locked into position during periods of danger or increased vulnerability. It can also be used in offices, schools, or government buildings in order to isolate active shooters or other hostile intruders. The security barricade is envisioned as a hallway barricade, entrance barricade, and stairwell barricade, although other embodiments may also be possible.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an electronically controlled hatch system for safe ingress, egress, hazard detection, and methods thereof are provided to reduce or eliminate hazards to personnel, including protection of people above and below a scuttle hatch, access port, skylight or elevated deck. Said hatch system reduces the risk of falls while ascending or descending a ladder through an access port. In certain embodiments, severe weather, hazard, security, and other safety information are detected and transmitted to a central control unit for processing and regulating the opening and closing of a hatch covering the access port and/or raising and lowering a safety railing system based on said information and/or user input. Said hatch system may include an actuator and guides for automatically locking/unlocking and opening/closing a hatch, an actuator and guides for automatically raising/lowering a railing system, safety monitoring detectors/apparatuses, and a centralized controller.

Abstract: A riser section having a generally tapered, e.g., frustoconical wall, the riser section having a first connector assembly at one end of the riser section and a second connector assembly at the other end of the riser section.

Abstract: A building connecting apparatus for receiving structural members including frames and panels. The apparatus includes a main body having a central opening for receiving an extension member attached to a slot plate. Receiving plates can be coupled to the apparatus for receiving the structural members with the extension member capable of guiding and aligning the structural members.

Abstract: An insulated scuttle cover configured for placement within a building scuttle opening is provided. The insulated scuttle cover includes a scuttle panel configured to cover the building scuttle opening. The scuttle panel is further configured to be supported when positioned within the building scuttle opening. An insulated pouch assembly is positioned adjacent to the scuttle panel. The insulated pouch assembly includes insulation material sealed within a flexible pouch. The insulated pouch assembly is positioned on an attic side of the scuttle panel. The insulated scuttle cover is configured to prevent or substantially retard the flow of air passing through the building scuttle opening.

Abstract: A support apparatus for a frame of a utility access cover comprises an inner support member and an outer support member in telescopic engagement with the inner support member. The height and inclination of the support apparatus is adjustable by selectively positioning the first support member relative to the second support member and securing the first support member to the second support member with the fasteners.

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 deck panel assembly that includes a deck panel having an upper surface and a bottom surface and includes a first section, a second section, and an intermediate section defined between the first section and the second section. Each section includes at least one longitudinal extending rib portion. A pair of spaced apart support members connects the first section, the intermediate section, and the second section to each other, wherein the intermediate section is adapted to be removed from between the first section and the second section of said deck panel and from between the spaced apart support members, thereby defining an access port therein.

Abstract: A window well cover jack is disclosed. The window well cover jack has three arms: a base arm, a support arm and an actuator handle, all connected to aid in the lifting of a window well cover and to allow egress. In one embodiment, the jack is lockable in a stowed position. It is also possible to add a spring assist to aid in the lifting of a window well cover. Ideally, the window well cover jack is also lockable in a deployed position to aid in holding an ajar window well cover so as to facilitate escape. A simple link, which is easily broken by emergency crews with the proper tools but secure against intruders without said tools, connects the window well cover jack to a window well cover.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an electronically controlled hatch system for safe ingress, egress, hazard detection, and methods thereof are provided to reduce or eliminate hazards to personnel, including protection of people above and below a scuttle hatch, access port, skylight or elevated deck. Said hatch system reduces the risk of falls while ascending or descending a ladder through an access port. In certain embodiments, severe weather, hazard, security, and other safety information are detected and transmitted to a central control unit for processing and regulating the opening and closing of a hatch covering the access port and/or raising and lowering a safety railing system based on said information and/or user input.

Abstract: A roof hatch including a vibration resistant latch design that can accommodate stresses applied to the roof hatch during hurricane conditions. The roof hatch can comprise a latch assembly including a biasing portion, a linkage member and a latch portion. The biasing portion can include a first latch incorporating a spring returned handle. The latch portion can include a single point, rotatable slam latch that engages an engagable locking member adapted to prevent spring driven rotary arms from disengaging from the engagable locking member. The linkage member includes a projecting end that is designed to provide a delay between actuation of the biasing portion and engagement of the latch portion. Using the vibration resistant latch design, engagable locking member and the rotatable slam latch, the roof hatch is rated to withstand internal and external pressure of 100 pounds per square foot with a design safety factor up to 200 pounds per square foot.

Abstract: The window well cover and accessory for use there with includes a cover that is hingedly attached top of a window well. The window well cover includes height-adjusting means to tilt the window well to a particular orientation with respect to the window well. The window well cover includes an accessory that is secured to a top surface of the window well cover, and which provides a decorative feature to an adjacent home as well as a weighting means for maintaining the window well cover atop of the window well. The window well cover is constructed of a transparent material to enable light to penetrate down into the window well. The window well cover is capable of rotating outwardly and away from the respective home in order to provide ingress and egress with respect to the window well.

Abstract: A manhole cover assembly includes a frame that includes a central opening and a safety stop portion, and a cover hingedly attached to the frame such that the cover is pivotable between a closed position covering the central opening and an open position providing access to the central opening. A safety device is connected to the frame and the cover for locking the cover in the open position. Movement of the cover to the open position automatically moves the safety device to a locked position in which said safety device engages the safety stop portion and prevents movement of the cover to the closed position. When the cover is open, the safety device is manually movable between the locked position and an unlocked position in which the safety device is disengaged from the safety stop and permits movement of the cover to the closed position.

Abstract: Insulated scuttle covers configured for placement within a building scuttle opening are provided. The insulated scuttle cover includes a scuttle panel configured to cover the building scuttle opening and further configured to be supported when positioned within the building scuttle opening. An insulative assembly is attached to the scuttle panel. The insulative assembly includes insulation material encapsulated by a jacket. The insulated scuttle cover is configured to prevent or substantially retard the flow of air passing through the building scuttle opening.

Abstract: Covers for attic trap doors and pull down attic stairs or ladders are described each of which is formed of an insulating material. The covers are structured to effectively seal a ceiling access opening. In some embodiments, a closure member constructed of insulating material is cooperatively and frictionally received within a frame formed of the same material to form an airtight seal therebetween.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is described for providing a water impenetrable barrier between a cone and support frame of a manhole system. The apparatus includes a barrier, cap, and seal that restricts the inflow and infiltration of water or other debris into the interior of the manhole system. The cap and seal barrier may be implemented in a sanitary sewer, catch basin or other manhole system.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for sealing containment sumps used in connection with underground storage tanks. A sump cover sealing system includes an expansion ring assembly adapted to affix to the interior of the sump, and to fastenably attach with the sump cover to removably seal the sump cover to the sump. A contraction band assembly is also provided to affix to the exterior of the sump opposite the expansion ring assembly. Methods of using the system are described. A sump cover with an observation portal is provided.

Abstract: Described is a building connecting apparatus for receiving structural members including frames and panels. The apparatus includes a main body having a central opening for receiving an extension member attached to a slot plate. Receiving plates can be coupled to the apparatus for receiving the structural members with the extension member capable of guiding and aligning the structural members.

Abstract: A safety hatch and safety railing assembly in unitary form which incorporates the fabrication of a roof or deck scuttle with safety guard rails as required by the Occupation Safety Hazards Act (OSHA) around the roof or deck opening of a building. The safety hatch or safety hatch and safety railing assembly of the present invention preferably employs safety railing mounting bracket components that are welded to hatch flashing or to bracket hanger members and are designed to receive and provide for safe and efficient mounting of vertical posts and rails of a safety railing assembly around a roof or deck access opening. The safety hatch and safety railing assembly provides an improved base flashing that additionally functions to hold the roofing membrane to the scuttle curb.

Abstract: In areas with propensity for tornados, for example in the central part of the country, the plain states, the mid-west, and also in Florida, it is customary to have some form of storm shelter in which the occupants of commercial and residential buildings can seek refuge in the event of a tornado. The safest type of storm shelter is a so-called in-ground storm shelter. The embodiments of the In-Ground Storm Shelter are comprised of a bottom, a left side and a right side. The In-Ground Storm Shelter is further comprised of a front side and a back side, and a top side. The top side is further comprised of a removable back door, a sliding door, a top left shoulder and a top right shoulder.

Abstract: A window well cover that is universal to the extent that it will work on different sizes and shapes of window wells within a certain range for each size of window well cover produced.

Abstract: A riser formed from a plurality of curved cylindrical segments with vertical side edges having mating vertically tapered projections and slots brought into interlocking engagement to pull confronting surfaces together as the tapered elements become increasingly mechanically engaged. The segments are assembled by a sliding engagement of the protruding mating element of one segment into the vertically tapered slot of an adjacent segment. When sufficient segments are joined together horizontally to complete a ring except for a last adjacent pair of vertical side edges, the ring is warped to align the protruding mating element of the last adjacent pair of vertical side edges with an opposite end of the adjacent tapered slot. Thus aligned, the final protruding mating element and tapered slot are then slipped together while un-warping the joined segments forming the remainder of the ring until the top and bottom ends of all the segments are aligned.

Abstract: A grate access floor panel comprising a support frame and a plurality of vanes supported by the frame, each of the plurality of vanes having an upstream end and a downstream end with respect to a direction of airflow across the plurality of vanes and faces that extend between the upstream and downstream ends, wherein at least some of the vanes have openings that extend through the faces thereof and have angled tips.

Abstract: An end connector for use in forming a conduit in a poured concrete member is provided. The end connector is adapted to be secured to a wall of a concrete member pouring form, the end connector having a surface feature to achieve a substantially fluid tight seal upon receiving an end of a tube that extends between opposite walls of the pouring form to form a conduit in the poured structural member. The end connector has a geometry capable of nesting with at least one other end connector to minimize a container size required to transport the end connectors.

Abstract: A rubber manhole cover, suitable for attaching to a top of a metal manhole lid, includes at least two bonded layers of rubber material of differing properties, including a bottom layer of a first rubber material, and a top layer of vulcanized rubber material, the top and bottom layers functioning as a single unit.