Retaining Feature Between Frame And Reveal Patents (Class 52/213)
  • Patent number: 5890297
    Abstract: A small expendable device for accurately and very quickly adjusting the verticality of door jambs without shingles or other shims. The device includes a body member which is attached to the rough wall opening and a carriage member which is attached to the door jamb and which is slideable in tracks across the body member. A Phillips screwdriver is placed in a tapered hole in the body between the tracks and its blades mate with a toothed edge of the carriage so that rotation of the screwdriver will force out or draw in the carriage. When locked, the door casing is applied over the door set device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Quentin Frasheski
  • Patent number: 5881510
    Abstract: A window frame device is disclosed for permitting the adjustable setting of a window frame adjacent to a foundation form. The device includes a window frame which has a head having a first and a second side, the first and second sides defining respectively a first and a second slot. A sill has a first and a second extremity, the first and second extremities defining respectively a first and a second channel. A first jamb extends between the first side of the head and the first extremity of the sill and a second jamb extends between the second side of the head and the second extremity of the sill. A first tie adapter has a first and a second end, the first end defining a tenon which cooperates with the first slot, the second end defining a tab which cooperates with the first channel. A second tie adapter has a first and a second edge, the first edge defining a further tenon which cooperates with the second slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: The Kewanee Corporation
    Inventor: James Ole
  • Patent number: 5839234
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved window frames and window frame systems for containing slideably mounted window sash systems. The present invention includes guides in upper horizontally oriented window frame heads which are of different depths on left and right horizontal sides, so that window sash systems present can-be slid into a closed position under a shallower guide means wherein they can not be pried upward. The improved window frames and window frame systems can provide self contained wall trim, provide structural integrity, provide improved thermal control, and are easy to install by a convenient, described method. A prefered present invention window frame is of single piece construction and is fabricated by a resin transfer process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Howard E. Mayer
  • Patent number: 5836118
    Abstract: A protective door jamb system integrally connected to a door frame. The door jamb system of the present invention includes both a door stop and jamb cladding each manufactured from an extruded plastic product such as hollow rigid plastic, cellular plastic, granular filled plastic or fiber filled plastic. The door stop and jamb clad are each designed to attach to a door jamb substrate through compression deflected fingers. The door jamb system of the present invention may also include a weather strip to ensure a weather-tight seal of a door when the door is closed into the frame. The jamb clad of the present invention covers the recessed portion of the door jamb substrate adjacent the jamb to completely cover the substrate and thereby increase both the structural and aesthetic integrity of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: The Standard Products Company
    Inventors: James D. Thornton, Philip A. Wortman, Larry J. Schlicht
  • Patent number: 5832681
    Abstract: A mull post having an edge surface, a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface with the mull post including a plurality of pocket holes and a plurality of fastener guide passages of sufficient integrity to maintain the axial orientation of a rigid fastener as the fastener is driven at a shallow angle into a frame abutting the mull post to secure the mull post to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Flintwood Products
    Inventor: Flint Scott Johnson
  • Patent number: 5791104
    Abstract: A window unit (20) including a jamb extension assembly (28) is provided for use with fenestration products. The jamb extension assembly (28) includes a frame member (30) having structure to permit installation of the window unit (20) in a building wall rough opening. The frame member (30) presents inner, outer, rearward and forward portions (62, 64, 66, 68), and includes a jamb extender receiving slot (70) extending and opening rearwardly from the rearward portion (66) of the frame member (30). An elongated jamb extender (32) is provided and includes a transverse, extender flange (88) extending forwardly from an extender corner, and a trim flange (92) extending outwardly from the corner. The extender flange (88) is configured to slide in the slot (70). The extender flange (88) includes structure defining a plurality of longitudinally disposed lines of weakness being in the form of scores (94) disposed on an outer flange surface (96) to permit the length adjustment of the extender flange (88).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Pella Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce Baier, Dave Cody, Gene De Boef, Mearl J. Minter, Merlan Rolffs
  • Patent number: 5771644
    Abstract: An anchoring clip for the installation of a hollow door or window frame in stud or masonry walls that minimizes the need for additional hardware when installing a hollow door or window frame because the clip can be used along the entire height of either the strike jamb or the hinge jamb of the door frame, across the header of the door frame or at the base of the door frame for secure attachment to both the wall and the floor surrounding the door opening. Furthermore, the anchoring clip can be used for new construction or existing walls without marring the wall finishes or cutting a hole in the walls for the installation of the door frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Duane L. Kidd
  • Patent number: 5761852
    Abstract: A shielding device including an inflatable frame structure, and a covering covered over the inflatable frame structure, the inflatable frame structure including a plurality of inflatable purlins, and a plurality of inflatable rafters connected in parallel by the inflatable purlins, the inflatable purlins and the inflatable rafters having a respective air valve, each inflatable rafter having a plurality of coupling portions adapted for coupling to the inflatable purlins, each coupling portion defining a coupling hole through which one inflatable purlin is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Chang Hsiung Liu
  • Patent number: 5746027
    Abstract: A device and method for removing ice and snow from roofs whereby a flexible sleeve attached to the lower part of a roof is remotely inflated, thereby shattering the ice in a controlled and safe manner. In the preferred embodiment, a mounting frame is sealingly attached to the roof surface and is configured to removably retain the flexible, inflatable sleeve in position on the roof. A number of retention means are disclosed. However, the preferred means is a zipper assembly, which is easy to operate and retains the overall flexibility of the inflatable sleeve to allow it to be rolled up for easy storage when it is removed from a roof. The lower end of the inflatable sleeve extends beyond the lower edge of the roof surface where it is movably secured to the edge of the roof. An operator realizing the need to remove ice from a roof remotely inflates the sleeve with a low pressure air supply. The expansion of the sleeve attached to the roof shatters the brittle ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Timothy C. Bonerb
  • Patent number: 5746033
    Abstract: A construction method for one-step grout fixed window frames on external walls of a concrete-structured building includes the following steps. A window frame including vertical and horizontal sections is fixed with vertical lining boards to the inner side of its vertical sections to form a window frame assembly, and is then supported on an upper supporting board which has been securely attached to a concrete template of an external wall of the building. Template sealing strips are separately attached to an exterior edge and an interior edge of the vertical sections and the upper horizontal section of the window frame assembly, so that a complete molding cavity is formed. Into this molding cavity the grouting concrete is grouted and the window frame is inlaid in the concrete after the concrete is set and the concrete templates are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Yung-Chuan Chuang
  • Patent number: 5735083
    Abstract: An air beam made up of a cylindrical braid and lined with a gas-retaining bladder is improved in its resistance to wrinkling or buckling by incorporating linear bundles of fibers extending parallel to the axis of the cylindrical braid within the cylindrical weave and spaced around the circumference of the cylindrical weave. Another implementation is used when the required strength of the axial bundles implies that they will not fit within the braid, in which case, the bundles are made up into external straps retention means is a coating applied to the braided fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventors: Glen J. Brown, Garrett C. Sharpless
  • Patent number: 5722207
    Abstract: A foldable nail fin for a window comprising an inner end which is normally positioned in a kerf formed in the window frame. The nail fin is normally positioned in a substantially flush condition with respect to the window frame. At the building site, the nail fin may be folded from its substantially flush position to an outwardly extending position so that the nail fin may be secured to a building surface extending around a window opening formed therein. The folding of the nail fin is enhanced through the use of a fold line formed in the nail fin which is located closely adjacent the inner end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: SealRite Windows, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig A. Anderson, James T. Grigsby
  • Patent number: 5718089
    Abstract: A framed modular miniature front for a shelter, which front has a header, threshold and side rails together with an inner wall portion mounted on the surrounding frame. A full length door opening is formed in that wall adjacent a side rail of the modular frame. One or more dutch-type doors are swingably mounted in the opening by dowel hinges. This door opening is covered by a door pinned at the hinge side by a dowel pin that is seated in slightly oversized openings drilled lengthwise into the hinge side of the door. A swing space provides easy and full opening of the hinged door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Inventor: Roy Clayton Dakin
  • Patent number: 5699637
    Abstract: A plurality of elongated thermoplastic bar members, each bar member defining a pre-determined width, and a pre-determined thickness which is less than its width, and each bar member being made up of an outer facing panel, and an inner wall and intermediate spacer walls extending between the facing panels and inner walls at intervals, and defining therebetween generally elongated passageways, and at least some of the bars having interlock formations formed on the exterior of the facing panels, so that adjacent bars may be interlocking together, the interlock formations defining continuous tongue and groove slide members, permitting one bar member to slide relative to its adjacent bar members, and at least one of bar members having one panel free of the interlock formations, so as to provide a smooth finished exterior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Shade-O-Matic Limited
    Inventor: Norbert Marocco
  • Patent number: 5692350
    Abstract: A unique and simple apparatus and method allow one to simultaneously level a closure, such as a door or window, in an opening in a wall while also anchoring that closure to the wall. The apparatus includes a spring shim and an anchor. The spring shim has a pressure foot at each of two ends for engaging either the wall or the closure and an intermediate portion having a central aperture for receiving the anchor. The closure is leveled and plumbed in the opening by attaching a series of spring shims at spaced locations around the closure. The closure and attached spring shims are then positioned in the opening followed by the engaging and penetrating of the anchors into the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph James Murphy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5687519
    Abstract: A universal frame renders a double hung pocket replacement window suitable for window out--window in replacement and/or new construction installation, and likewise, renders a casement pocket replacement window suitable for window out--window in replacement and/or new construction installation, and likewise, renders a picture pocket replacement window suitable for window out--window in replacement and/or new construction installation, and likewise, renders a glider pocket replacement window suitable for window out--window in replacement and/or new construction installation, thereby giving rise to economies of scale in the manufacturing and distributing processes for a variety of windows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Andersen Corporation
    Inventor: Todd W. Bruchu
  • Patent number: 5678366
    Abstract: A sliding window structure has a window frame comprising an upper frame member, a lower frame member and bilateral side vertical frame members which are assembled in substantially rectangular shape, and an indoor side sash and an outdoor side sash fitted to the window frame. The lower frame member comprises an indoor side portion to which the indoor side sash is mounted and the outdoor side portion to which the outdoor side sash is mounted and has a step-like configuration in which the indoor side portion has a height higher than a height of the outdoor side portion. An attachment is mounted to the outdoor side portion of the lower frame member so as to cover the outdoor side portion. An upper end of the attachment is substantially at the same height level as an upper end of the indoor side portion of the lower frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: YKK Architectural Products Inc.
    Inventors: Hiroki Nambo, Shigeru Ueda, Toshiaki Hirono, Yuichi Nozaki
  • Patent number: 5675945
    Abstract: A loading dock shelter having rotating seal members is provided for forming a relatively air-tight seal between the dock opening and a truck so as to prevent air movement between the inside and the outside of the building during loading and unloading operations. The loading dock shelter has a frame assembly rigidly attached to the periphery of the dock opening and seal members rotatably mounted to the frame assembly on either side of the dock opening so that the truck may fit therebetween and form a seal between the exterior walls of the truck and the seal member. The seal members are rotatably movable between a first (open) position and a second (sealing) position in response to the movement of the truck into and out of the loading dock. In the first position, the seal members project into the path of the truck so that the truck engages the seal members as it backs into the loading dock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Corporation
    Inventors: Jon Giuliani, Bill Triervieler, David Hoffmann, Tom Boffeli, Tom Medley, Bob Frommelt, Ken Lenz, Tom Duccini
  • Patent number: 5669198
    Abstract: A metal frame anchor, such as one used for securing a metal door or window frame to an adjacent wall structure, having a generally rectangular base, two prongs bent upward and then over the base in opposite directions to form clips which open in opposite directions, and the base having at least one set of angularly cut opposite corners. The slidably insertable metal frame anchor is typically disposed in a metal frame element such that the anchor's base is positioned on inside surfaces of the backbends with the two prongs bent upward and then over the base in opposite directions to form clips which open in the opposite directions and which are positioned on outside surfaces of the backbends to which the anchor is clipped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: Robert O. Ruff
  • Patent number: 5660010
    Abstract: A window frame construction particularly useful in a manufactured housing unit to provide a structure for receiving and supporting at least one window and to provide coverage of ends of siding applied to the exterior of the housing unit. The window frame includes a window body member to generally circumscribe an opening in the housing unit, with a J-rail return member integrally formed therewith to provide a flange member for attachment of the window frame to the housing unit and to cover and secure ends of the siding in a slot formed between the flange member and the return member of the J-rail return. The return member has sufficient width to cover the siding ends even when the siding contracts during lowered temperatures. The window frame, in the preferred form, is constructed from extruded vinyl, and it is used principally for vinyl siding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: SealMaster Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Leland D. Sayers
  • Patent number: 5651223
    Abstract: A door frame made of synthetic material having an elongated, horizontally-oriented head and an elongated, horizontally-oriented sill, spaced apart from the head portion. The head and sill are preferably single, continuous members. The door frame also has at least two spaced apart, vertically-oriented jambs, each connected at one end to the head and at an opposite end to the sill. The jambs have a cavity disposed vertically therethrough. A rigid supporting member is then provided within selected jamb cavities. The rigid supporting members are preferably made of metal, such as aluminum, aluminum alloys and ferrous and non-ferrous materials. The jambs may further have more than one cavity disposed vertically therethrough, so that more than one supporting member is provided in a jamb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Chelsea Building Products
    Inventors: William S. Novak, William C. Paul, Gregory P. Irving, Edward Kridler
  • Patent number: 5644881
    Abstract: A window assembly having a pair of window frame halves each including a plurality of screw bosses. The screw bosses are arranged to align in male/female pairs when the frame halves are brought together in proper alignment. The mating male and female screw bosses are frictionally interfitted to releasably intersecure the frame halves during storage, transportation, and installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventor: Albert J. Neilly
  • Patent number: 5640813
    Abstract: A shim system having a first shim with oppositely facing first and second substantially flat surfaces and a second shim having oppositely facing third and fourth substantially flat surfaces. The first and second shims have a relative operative position wherein a) the second surface on the first shim is facially abutted to the third surface on the second shim and b) the first and second shims have a combined thickness equal to the distance between the first surface on the first shim and the fourth surface on the second shim. Cooperating structure is provided between the first and second shims for limiting movement between the first and second shims by relative movement of the second and third surfaces against each other with the first and second shims in the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: Anthony Glazik, Gary Glazik, D. Marcus Decker
  • Patent number: 5622018
    Abstract: A component shutter having a plurality of end caps for closing off the outermost longitudinal ends of each of a pair of side rails of the shutter and providing a decorative, finished appearance to the outermost longitudinal ends of each of the side rails. The end caps comprise a top portion and a tongue portion, with the tongue portion being sized to fit within a pocket formed between the side rail and either a top or bottom end rail. The tongue portion is slidably inserted into the pocket. The end cap forms a finished appearing edge surface for an end of the side rail of the shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: Tapco International
    Inventor: Charles E. Schiedegger
  • Patent number: 5619828
    Abstract: Improved installation fins (28, 76) for window or door assemblies (88, 98) are provided which include structure (46) defining an elongated fold line (73) in the fins (28, 76). The structure (46) includes a plurality of elongated, discrete, parallel, aligned depressions (48) formed in one face (38) of the fin (28 76); the depressions (48) are oriented with the longitudinal axes thereof at an oblique angle of from about 10.degree.-40.degree. relative to the longitudinal axis of the fin (28, 76). The fins (28, 76) are preferably fabricated from aluminum, and the depressions (48) are formed therein by knurling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Pella Corporation
    Inventor: Jim Ver Meer
  • Patent number: 5603191
    Abstract: A plastic door frame structure and a method of mounting the same after a threshold is installed in a door hole including fixing a packing rail on a wall of the door hole, fitting an outer rail on the packing rail and adjusting the horizontal or vertical position of the outer rail, arranging a link rail at either lateral side of the outer rail such that the link rail conceals a clearance formed between the outer rail and the wall and passing screws through the link rail and the outer rail into the packing rail to keep the outer rail firmly in place, and fitting a seal strip onto the link rail to accomplish an integral plastic door frame, which is cut at 45 degrees at appropriate positions to obtain an inverted-U shaped door frame with the lateral sides perpendicular to the top side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Ming-Hsin Wu
  • Patent number: 5596851
    Abstract: A system is provided, wherein the watertight performance of exterior wall perimeters is addressed such as the perimeters of a window, a door, or a curtain wall system. The perimeter sealant lines are classified into P.E. Seal bordering no differential air pressure and D.P. Seal bordering a differential air pressure. Long lasting watertight performance is accomplished by using P.E. Seal in the area of the water path and D.P. Seal away from the water path. The design is accomplished by using combinations of an inner transition member, an exterior perimeter member, pressure equalization holes, and pressure equalized wall cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Raymond M. L. Ting
  • Patent number: 5590496
    Abstract: A foldable shipping cover nailing fin for use with a frame assembly, including a window, door, or other such assembly. The shipping cover nailing fin includes an L-shaped flange-like member which includes an integrally formed insertion leg. The flange-like member is flexibly adjoined to a second member by a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism permits the flange-like member to rotate into contact with the second member. In this position, the insertion leg may be inserted into a nailing fin kerf formed in the frame assembly, thereby locking the shipping cover nailing fin to the frame assembly in the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Amesbury Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Martin, Michael K. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 5584157
    Abstract: A structure of a door frame including four rails each formed with a first passage at one side, a second passage at an intermediate portion, a third passage at another side, a first slot at an edge, a second slot at a front side, a third slot at the front side, a fourth slot at another side, and a raised portion at a rear side, four right-angled connectors formed with a first shoulder at one side, a central block, and a second shoulder at another side adapted to be inserted into the first, second and third passages, four auxiliary locking members each fixedly installed into the third passage and having a slot for passage of electrical wires, four fastening posts each formed with a first groove at one side and a second groove at another side adapted to engage with the raised portion of the rails and right-angled connectors, and covering members arranged on the inner sides of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: Hsin Y. Sun
  • Patent number: 5579609
    Abstract: Novel structural members are provided that are flexible prior to being rigidized. The structural members are fabricated as bundles of reinforcing fibers commingled with binder materials, e.g. thermoplastic yarn, and a heat source. Means for compressing the bundle during deployment may also be provided. The structural members are rigidized by activating the heat source to melt the binder material, which flows throughout the bundle to bind the reinforcing fibers together, such that when the binder sets or hardens a rigid, reinforced structural member is provided. In preferred embodiments, these structural members are attached to an inflatable enclosure in a structural framework arrangement to form an inflatable structure. Such an inflatable structure may be rolled or folded into a compact space for storage and transport, such as into outer space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Tracor, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley T. Sallee
  • Patent number: 5572840
    Abstract: A window frame profile for forming into a window frame with a number of other similar profiles includes a separate nailing strip extruded from aluminum and attached to the outer surface of the frame profile. The nailing strip includes a planar strip member and a cylindrical bead portion along one side edge of the strip member. The bead is snap fastened into a cylindrical recess in the outer surface of the frame allowing rotation of the strip about the axis of the bead from a retracted position for transport in which the strip is received in a flat recess on the outer surface. The strip can be rotated from the retracted storage position to an erect position at right angles to the outer surface by rotation about the axis of the bead and snap fastened in the erect position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventors: William A. Fast, Richard M. Desautels, David R. Campbell
  • Patent number: 5557894
    Abstract: The invention relates to a framing member for attaching panelling and windows to building structures which includes an integral and detachable J-shaped member and nail fin which obviate the need for decorative molding to mask the junction between the framing member and the underlying building structure. The J-member and nail fin may be broken away from the framing member to allow framing members to be attached to one another via a mullion strip to define a mullion between windows or panelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Stectus Systems-Midwest
    Inventor: Geoffrey C. Card
  • Patent number: 5555678
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a device for sustaining longitudinal compressive loads applied to the ends thereof, the device including: a longitudinally extending tube; devices to seal the ends of the tube; pressurized fluid within the tube, the pressurized fluid having a pressure greater than the external pressure on the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Raul A. I. Schoo
  • Patent number: 5551189
    Abstract: A hurricane window brace arranges brace elements at upper corners of a tilt sash so that the brace elements extend from a plow region of the sash into inside corners of a shoe channel in a resin jamb supporting the sash. When so positioned, the braces maintain a distance between the inside corners of the shoe channels and the plow regions of the sash so that the upper corners of the sash cannot be moved or tilted inward by wind force. Moving the braces upward or laterally, when wind force resistance is not required, allows the sash to tilt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: Caldwell Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Norman R. Westfall
  • Patent number: 5546707
    Abstract: The invention is an inflatable tube system, having an inflatable tube in the shape of a cylinder having two ends and a shaft. The tube includes a bladder, made of an elastometer in the shape of a cylinder, and a fabric covering made of woven polyethylene, the fabric covering enclosing the bladder. A pair of end closures sealing the fabric covering at the ends of the cylinder. An air valve extends into the bladder through one of the end closures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Vincent C. Caruso
  • Patent number: 5544456
    Abstract: A door has a door sheet and jambs and jamb-linings which are to be fitted in a wall opening. The jamb has at least on the side of the pivot axis (X) a continuous bowl-shaped cavity (2) directed towards the door sheet (4). The edge of the door sheet (4) fits into the bowl-shaped cavity (2). This cavity (2) has a radius which is substantially equal to the distance between the center line of the pivot axis (X) of the door sheet and the edge of the door sheet (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: Liexco S.A.
    Inventor: Rudi Dries
  • Patent number: 5526618
    Abstract: The present invention entails a kit of components for constructing a cased-arched opening and also involves a method of installing the components of the kit. The kit comprises a pair of side columns with each column being generally U-shaped and designed to be inserted around a terminal edge of a wall that borders an open passageway. Further, the kit includes a curved arched assembly that is opened at the top and includes a void that permits the arched assembly to be sandwiched around a lower terminal edge portion of an upper wall section that surrounds the passageway. The respective columns are designed to fit under and support the curved arched assembly and all of the components can be nailed or otherwise secured to the structure to form a cased-arched opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Inventor: John S. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5502927
    Abstract: A portable, inflatable tent has a semi-cylindrical cover portion that fastens to a planar base portion. The cover portion is provided with rib air-passageways that, when inflated, support the cover portion in its semi-cylindrical configuration. Various configurations of the rib air-passageways connecting to edge air-passageways provided with air inflation valves are described. Generally, the rib air-passageways are segregated into two groups, so that the failure of a single rib air-passageway will not cause the deflation of all of the rib air-passageways. The inflation valve(s) are preferably disposed on a surface of the cover portion that will be interior the erected tent, so that the user may reinflate the tent without exiting the tent. The tent is sized and shaped so as to provide convenient, weatherproof, portable shelter for a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Dennis R. Hammerton
  • Patent number: 5491940
    Abstract: The present invention provides a variable angle wedge that supports a replacement window and compensates for whatever sill angle exists on the previous window frame. A flange opposite the variable angle extends between a window engaging member and a sill engaging member. The angle defined between the window engaging member and the sill engaging member can be decreased by removing a distal portion of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: Andersen Corporation
    Inventor: Todd W. Bruchu
  • Patent number: 5479754
    Abstract: A pre-assembled elevator shaft door assembly is installed in a shaft door opening equipped with a dowel plate, a carrier bracket and a pair of fastening plates. A protruding threshold carrier plate is mounted on the underside of the shaft door assembly and includes recesses which detent with a cut-out in the door carrier bracket. A pair of locking bar mechanisms are mounted at the upper corners of the door assembly for engaging locking bar pockets on the fastening plates to retain the shaft door assembly. Laterally extendable covering brackets on the door assembly are engaged by tongues on the fastening plates to bridge over the vertical air gaps. During the entire assembly time, the shaft door opening is secured by a movable barrier against the falling-in of persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Inventio AG
    Inventors: Jean C. Pelvilain, Klaus Betzin
  • Patent number: 5473846
    Abstract: A loading dock shelter having a rotating seal member is provided for forming a relatively air-tight seal between the dock opening and the truck to prevent the movement of air between the inside and outside of the building during the loading and unloading operation. The seal members are rotatably mounted to the frame assembly for rotation between a first (open) position and a second (sealing) position in response to the movement of the truck into and out of the loading dock. In the first position, the seal member is spaced outwardly from the wall and the loading dock so that it does not interfere with the normal operation of the loading dock and so that it projects into the path of the truck for engaging the truck as the truck backs into the loading dock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Corporation
    Inventors: Jon Giuliani, Bill Triervieler, David Hoffmann, Tom Boffeli, Tom Medley, Bob Frommelt, Ken Lenz, Tom Duccini
  • Patent number: 5465538
    Abstract: A prefabricated lintel having two spaced apart parallel upstanding legs extending along the length of the lintel and having laterally aligned holes defined therethrough and spaced therealong. The lintel further has a flat lower surface and an upper surface defining flat, horizontal shoulders positioned along outer edges of the lintel on opposite sides of the upstanding legs and extending the length of the lintel. The lintel is placed to span a doorway and a course of blocks is laid on the flat shoulders, with a second course laid on the first course and a rebar positioned on the upper surface. A plurality of wire stirrups, each defining a rebar receiving loop, are engaged over the rebar and extend through openings in the two courses with end portions of the stirrups engaged in each of the holes defined in the upstanding legs of the lintel. The block openings are filled with grout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventor: John Powers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5430981
    Abstract: A channel clip which is configured to hold glass or plastic decorative panels in front of single or dual pane windows without affecting the existing window glass and while permitting a spaced and secure relationship between the decorative panel and the inner-most window pane in the proximity of which the decorative panel is installed. In a preferred embodiment herein, the channel clip of the present invention is a transparent, injection-molded polycarbonate device having three integrated structural members including a base member and a pair of panel retaining members. The retaining members are positioned preferably in perpendicular relationship to the base member and in spaced apart parallel relation to one another. A gap formed therebetween is adapted to receive the designer panel. The base member preferably is provided with a countersunk or tapered aperture which is designed to accommodate a wood screw to secure the channel clip into the underlying surface adjacent the window pane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Inventor: John T. Scott
  • Patent number: 5426896
    Abstract: A method of building a structure on a substrate, said method including the steps of providing on the substrate a support arrangement capable of adopting a first, substantially rigid state whilst the structure is being built thereabove, and a subsequent, second state permitting the accommodation of movement of, and/or forces in, the substrate (e.g. due to heave). The support arrangement comprises fluid confinable means which, in the arrangement's first state, confines a fluid therein to a first space and is operable (via said fluid) to support the structure or at least parts thereof above the substrate, and which, in the arrangement's second state, does not confine the fluid and is either in a reduced space or is readily compressible to a reduced space by said movement and/or forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Void Formers Limited
    Inventor: Robert M. Sloma
  • Patent number: 5421128
    Abstract: A curved, inflated, tubular beam consists of braided fibers and axial fibers on an elastomeric barrier. The construction can be accomplished on a short, straight mandrel. The curvature along the beam can be varied to suit the design needs. The angle of the braid in the bias fibers determines the inflated curvature when axial fibers situated within the braid along the inside of the curvature constrain the elongation on the inside of the curvature. The curved shape can be reinforced by having tape cemented to the outside of the inflated tube. While very small and very large tubes can be perfected for a range of inflation pressures and beam strengths, the preferred embodiment is a 12 3/4-inch diameter tube, 60 feet long forming an arch for a tent 30 feet wide and 24 feet high.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Inventors: Garrett C. Sharpless, Glen J. Brown
  • Patent number: 5392574
    Abstract: A window frame construction particularly useful in a manufactured housing unit to provide a structure for receiving and supporting at least one window and to provide coverage of ends of siding applied to the exterior of the housing unit. The window frame includes a window body member to generally circumscribe an opening in the housing unit, with a J-rail return member integrally formed therewith to provide a flange member for attachment of the window frame to the housing unit and to cover and secure ends of the siding in a slot formed between the flange member and the return member of the J-rail return. The return member has sufficient width to cover the siding ends even when the siding contracts during lowered temperatures. The window frame, in the preferred form, is constructed from extruded vinyl, and it is used principally for vinyl siding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Sealmaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Leland D. Sayers
  • Patent number: 5377464
    Abstract: A retainer strip for a window flashing used to weatherproof the installation of a window comprises a window grip leg for holding the retainer strip in a kerf in the window frame, and a flashing grip leg adapted to be mounted parallel to the side of the window frame for retaining the flashing in the space between the window grip leg and the side of the window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Owens-Corning Fiberglas Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Mott, Richard S. Hite
  • Patent number: 5365697
    Abstract: A door framing spacer apparatus (41, 41a) and method for use with a pre-hung door (21, 21a) to enable installation of the door in a door opening (31). The spacer assembly (41, 41a) is formed for positioning between the door (21) and a door jamb member (27) or the door (21) and another door (21a). The portion of the spacer (41, 41a) between the door (21) and jamb member (27) has a thickness dimension (t) therebetween substantially equal to a desired reveal space (29) to be maintained between the door (21) and jamb (27). The spacer (41, 41a) can include a door portion (46, 46a) which is secured by a fastener (43, 43a) to the door and a jamb portion (47, 47a) which is secured by a fastener (42, 42a) to the jamb. The spacer additionally includes a connecting portion (48) between the door and jamb portions which couples the two together as a unit and in turn couples the door (21) to the jamb assembly (23) to enable manipulation of the assembly during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald E. Vanderpan
  • Patent number: 5365707
    Abstract: An architectural element is formed from a frame and a body. The frame includes a nailing flange for adhering it to a surface such as a wall and an outwardly extending portion. The body, which substantially overlies the mounting frame, has an attachment portion for engaging the outwardly extending portion. The mounting frame and body are held together by an affixing part. In one embodiment, a recess is formed in the body and the affixing part includes a clip disposed within the recess. The clip resists movement of the body away from the mounting frame after their engagement. Resilient foam is disposed within a portion of the recess for forming a seal between the mounting frame and body. The body also includes an outwardly protruding portion which is designed to cover siding material that may overlie the nailing flange of the mounting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Vantage Products Corporation
    Inventors: Dale C. Jones, Michael A. Lacy
  • Patent number: 5347780
    Abstract: A door frame having excellent fire-resistance, flexural strength and screw holding properties is fabricated from gypsum fiberboard, specifically a gypsum fiberboard having a density of at least 60 lbs./cu.ft., a flexural strength of at least about 30 lbs. (1/2" thick material), and a screw holding capability of at least about 400 lbs. A preferred gypsum fiberboard material for fabrication of the door frame comprises a composition containing a substantially uniform dispersion of solids including by weight about 65% to 90% set gypsum, about 7% to about 30% pulped paper, up to about 9% binder, and about 0.8% to 2% inorganic fiber. A wood veneer is preferably applied to the visible faces of the gypsum fiberboard door frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Corporation
    Inventors: Turner W. Richards, Hubert C. Francis, George F. Fowler, Jr.