Log Wall-type Construction Patents (Class 52/233)
  • Publication number: 20110146171
    Abstract: An elongated timber or lumber member (10) for an elongated, thermally insulating building construction element assembly (20) formed by first and second ones of said elongated timber or lumber member assembled along respective elongated adjoining surfaces (11) facing each other, said elongated timber or lumber member having a first fitting side (13) on a side located opposite to its elongated adjoining surface, said fitting side being spaced from said adjoining surface by timber or lumber of a respective thicknesses, and said fitting side being provided with a tongue or a groove (14A, 14B) to allow a plurality of the elongated, thermally insulating construction element assemblies to be juxtaposed to each other in alignment in a tongue and groove arrangement to form a thermally insulating building surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Torkel Flatland
  • Publication number: 20110078966
    Abstract: A simulated log structure is provided. The simulated log structure is made up of a plurality of structural elements wherein each structural element is composed of a plurality of exterior simulated log elements and a plurality of interior log elements. The exterior simulated log elements simulate the appearance of wooden logs and are made from concrete to withstand the natural elements. The interior log elements are made of real wood to provide owners the authentic feel of living in a real log structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: Dina Pauline Herman
  • Patent number: 7841141
    Abstract: Cogging piece (1) for use when notching log constructional elements (2) to other log constructional elements (2) or to corresponding separate log constructional elements (9). The cogging piece is adapted to be attached to both ends of each log constructional element (2) and to the end of each end constructional element (9) that is adapted to face a cogged joint. The cogging piece (1) is provided with lateral (4at, 4bt, 7at, 7bt) and axial (5at, 5bt, 6at, 6bt) inclined surfaces that are adapted to rest against corresponding axial and lateral surfaces respectively of cogging pieces attached to below and/or above intersecting log constructional elements and end constructional elements. Thus an increasing vertical force on a wall leads to an increased axial contraction of the cogged joints in the same wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Isolaft AS C/O Spilka Industri AS
    Inventor: Bjarne Nordli
  • Patent number: 7823351
    Abstract: A stackable insulated unit for wall construction for forming a self-supporting wall structure consists of two side wooden planks spaced apart and secured to one another with an intermediate insulating layer bonded thereto, and a plurality of stud longitudinal sections transversely extending through the insulating layer and being secured thereby. The insulating layer ensures structural integrity of the stackable unit. The stud sections are preferably spaced from at least one of the side planks. The invention also includes the method of fabrication of stackable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Thermo Structure Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvain Tiberi, Michel Mathon
  • Patent number: 7797896
    Abstract: The invention relates to a log-cabin type façade for cladding walls in internal and external areas. Said façade comprises elongated contoured elements (12) and corner elements (16), which are designed to produce an interior corner and an exterior corner for internal and external areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Alexander Miller, Andreas Langlitz
  • Patent number: 7784230
    Abstract: Block made of solid wood or pressboard that is used in, construction on the same principle as masonry blocks by staggered stacking. It is provided with two flange on its upper portion, two grooves on its lower portion, and its end assembly is produced by using splined tongue and groove joints. Two countersunk holes are on its upper portion and in the two ends in a symmetrical way. These pilot holes allow the passage of a screw or a metal point so as to link the block to the initial support or to the lower block. The assembly of the right-angle quoins makes it necessary to grind flanges over the portion of assembly only. These blocks are used in the field of construction of buildings. They quickly enhance the value of and store accidental products such as fallen trees to improve the value of the scraps from the wood industry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Jacques Soux
  • Publication number: 20100154334
    Abstract: For use in constructing a log structure, a log and a kit of logs, and a method of manufacturing the same. In one embodiment, the log includes: (1) a body having a first end and a second end, (2) an integral tongue projecting from the first end and (3) a groove located in the second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Larry E. White
  • Patent number: 7735272
    Abstract: A system of construction using a mechanical device (20) which applies a force to an assembly of elements having a high resistance in compression in order to build walls, roofs, floors, and beams. The device makes it possible to preserve the integrity of the assembly even when undergoing changes in volumetry. It comprises three parts: a first component, namely a winch (24) applies a force to the assembly at one of its ends. A second component, a thin steel band (22) transmits the force to the assembly over a long distance. A third component, a spring (30) in compression maintains the force applied by the first two components even when there is a change in volumetry. A compressible and impermeable membrane (49) ensures the sealing of the assembly and metal fasteners ensure the stability of the assembly, sideways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Apostolos Caroussos
  • Publication number: 20100088979
    Abstract: A building wall or roof is formed of tubular structural members arranged in parallel, planar, spaced-apart relation. Saddle-shaped structural members having strengthening portions are respectively mounted on the tubular members with a clearance space, and thermal and/or acoustical insulation is interposed in the clearance space between the strengthening portions and the tubular members. As compared to conventional tubular log structures, the resulting wall or roof is resistant to horizontal forces generated by the wind or earthquakes and is faster and easier to construct and, furthermore, considerably better performing in terms of thermal and acoustic insulation without having to increase its thickness on an otherwise proportionate basis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Aejandro Stein
  • Patent number: 7690162
    Abstract: The invention provides technology for building houses and many other structures using logs. Log-positioning apparatuses are provided. Also provided are assemblies that include a plurality of logs and a plurality of log-positioning apparatuses. Finally, various log building methods are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Accelerated Log Building, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Chambers
  • Publication number: 20100043323
    Abstract: A log for a log home has a plurality of pockets formed within the body of the log. The pockets are filled with foam to enhance the thermal rating of the log.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald A. Wrightman
  • Patent number: 7661230
    Abstract: An improved structure, whereby the log structure is comprised of at least two adjacent walls mated to form a corner, with each wall constructed of logs laid horizontally upon each other, the logs alternating between protruding and nonprotruding logs, such that the ends of the protruding logs of the walls are interleaved, with the ends of the protruding logs of the first wall having notches cut from them to facilitate the mating of the first and second walls, and further comprising plugs to be inserted into the notches upon completion of assembly of the log structure, and a method for constructing same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Lawrence Peaco
  • Patent number: 7658042
    Abstract: A highly protective firewall (13) supported between upstanding columns or beams (15). The firewall is made of an inorganic cementitious material which is preferably inorganic phosphate cement. In one form, the firewall comprises a group of vertically stacked panels (14) made of such material, and the panels are in turn formed by a plurality of elongated and vertically stacked hollow members (21) of the same material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Composite Support & Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Clement Hiel
  • Publication number: 20100011686
    Abstract: Hollow metal “logs” each extending usually horizontally are arranged in adjacent, parallel, spaced-apart relation to form, or be part of, a wall or roof. Rigid insulating members are inserted between the logs. Each insulating member is shaped to fit around a log on either side of the insulating member. Each insulating member has a pair of outer faces respectively on either side of the wall or roof and lying substantially in respective planes parallel to the axes of the logs. The insulating members abut one another and collectively surround the logs and insulate the wall or roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Alejandro Stein
  • Publication number: 20090301012
    Abstract: A U-shaped rigidifying member cooperates with parallel metal “logs” each usually extending horizontally. A curved portion of the U wraps halfway around a first log, and first and second legs respectively descend in parallel from opposite sides of the curved portion. The legs are substantially tangent to a second log. This structure is repeated with the U-shaped members overlapping and inverted or otherwise oriented to shed rain, and forms all or part of a wall or sloping roof of a building. The U-shaped members are secured to each other and to the logs to form a continuous structural ensemble that is aesthetically pleasing, even without additional interior and exterior sheathing. It is moreover strong and highly resistant to an external force having a horizontal component parallel to the plane of the wall or roof. The rigidifying members can alternatively be J-shaped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Alejandro Stein
  • Publication number: 20090293390
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a log cabin structure using logs with multi-beveled interlocking notches located at the end of each log. The interlocking notches serve to form a tight locking connection at the cornering of the structure where the logs overlap one another. The interlocking notches are composed substantially of heartwood, which serves to reduce settlement and maintain a tight connection over time. The measurements for the interlocking notches are a function of the dimensions of the logs used. The log cabin structure may further employ anti-settling blocks which are disposed between the logs of the structure. In the preferred embodiment, the anti-settling blocks are positioned in aligned recesses which are present in the logs that compose the structure. Accordingly, the presence of the interlocking-notch cornering system and the anti-settling blocks combine to minimize the negative effects of settling on the structure while providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Richard T. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20090293373
    Abstract: A system and method for constructing a log structure includes logs having pairs of parallel spaced apart longitudinally extending grooves on opposing sides of the logs. Inner edges of the grooves may be tapered inwardly to receive lumber support pieces. A wall is constructed by providing a base log having a pair of parallel spaced-apart longitudinally extending grooves on an upper surface of the log, inserting lower edges of a pair of lumber support pieces into the grooves, and positioning the grooves of a log over upper edges of the lumber support pieces. Further lumber support pieces and logs are attached in like manner until the desired height is reached. A corner piece for forming corners of the structure having vertically extending channels for receiving ends of the lumber support pieces is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Richard KLINKHAMER, Hubert LACASSE
  • Publication number: 20090282761
    Abstract: The present invention provides a structural element for the construction of log type houses. The structural element comprises structural portions, preferably made of aluminum, and insulating material. The insulation coefficient of the structural element may be adapted to the local climate. Furthermore, the structural element is less sensible to temperature and humidity variations than wood, preventing possible cracks to appear between adjacent structural elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Remi Perron
  • Patent number: 7596916
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a log cabin construction using naturally tapered logs with multi-beveled interlocking notches located at the end of each log. The interlocking notches serve to form a tight locking connection at the cornering of the structure where the logs overlap one another. The interlocking notches are composed substantially of heartwood, which serves to reduce settlement and maintain a tight connection over time. The measurements for the interlocking notches are a function of the dimensions of the logs used. The log cabin construction further employs anti-settling blocks which are disposed between the logs of the structure. In the preferred embodiment, the anti-settling blocks are positioned in aligned recesses which are present in the logs that compose the structure. Accordingly, the presence of the interlocking-notch cornering system and the anti-settling blocks combine to minimize the negative effects of settling on the structure while providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Thomas Anderson
  • Patent number: 7594370
    Abstract: A butt-joint connection structure for joining two logs end-to-end in a log wall includes a first log having a first end face and a second log having a second end face for abutting the first end face and forming a seam therebetween, each log having a log height extending between top and bottom surfaces thereof, and a spline slot extending horizontally across the seam between a first closed edge in the first log and a second closed edge in the second log. The spline slot extends vertically through the log height of the first and second logs, and has generally planar, spaced apart inner and outer slot faces extending between the first and second closed edges. A spline is provided in the spline slot, the spline having a width spanning the seam and a first spline face in generally flush engagement with a respective one of the inner and outer slot faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Pointblank Design Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Clarke
  • Patent number: 7594367
    Abstract: A connection structure for a log wall includes a plurality of logs extending horizontally in an axial direction and stacked vertically to form a wall, the logs each having an end face at one end thereof, the end faces of the logs being generally vertically aligned with each other and defining an edge surface of the wall; a plurality of connectors retained within the wall adjacent the edge surface of the wall; a plurality of fastener access passageways in the wall, each fastener access passageway extending between a respective connector and the edge surface of the wall; and a plurality of fasteners, each fastener extending through a respective fastener access passageway and having a first end coupled to a respective connector and a second end opposite the first end, the second end extending proud of the edge surface of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Pointblank Design Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Clarke
  • Publication number: 20090205274
    Abstract: This application describes a wall construction and method of making the same in generally a Piece-en-piece mode. A vertical mortise is provided in adjacent vertical timber members and vertical mortises are cut into the end faces of horizontal timber members expected to be placed between adjacent vertical member. When the horizontal timber members are in place the vertical mortises align and wooden or metal splines can be inserted into the mortises thus securing the horizontal members laterally while still allowing them to move vertically to account for, for example, shrinkage in the wood. By substituting a mortise for a tenon, this invention reduces manufacturing costs and reduces assembly time and costs, as each horizontal timber can be set directly into place without lifting it to the top of the upright timber members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: David A. Loeks
  • Publication number: 20090199497
    Abstract: A building structure comprises a post having a vertically extending longitudinal face. A plurality of horizontal logs extends from said longitudinal face and has an end face in abutment with said longitudinal face. The post having an undercut channel in said longitudinal face and extends along said post. At least one of said end faces has a recess aligned with said undercut channel, and a spline assembly extends between said post and said log to secure said log to said post. The spline assembly includes a key located in and extends between said channel and said recess and an insert in one of said undercut channel and said recess. The insert co operates with said key to facilitate relative sliding movement therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Robert A. Wrightman
  • Publication number: 20090151279
    Abstract: The log house construction element of the present invention provides a means to increase the thermal insulation and/or modify the appearance of a log house with an element adapted to be received by recesses formed by adjacent logs of the walls. The log house construction element may be installed on the external side and on the internal side of the walls of a log house. Furthermore, a space may be left between the wall and the log house construction element allowing wiring, cabling and other equipments to be dissimulated in the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: REMI PERRON
  • Publication number: 20090139161
    Abstract: A log staircase is disclosed along with a method of producing components for the log staircase. The log staircase includes an elongated stringer capable of angularly extending from a lower level to an upper level. The stringer has an outer circumference with a notch formed therein. A protuberance extends upward from the notch. The log staircase also includes a tread having a semicircular periphery with a flat surface. An opening is formed in the semicircular periphery of the tread. The opening is designed to mate with the protuberance to retain the flat surface crossways to the stringer. The method includes cutting a number notches and protuberances in each of a pair of stringers, and cutting a pair of openings in a predetermined number of treads which are capable of mating with the protuberances to retain each of the treads crossways to the pair of stringers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: The Armstrong Creek Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Harven Teckam, Torrey Wyclisse Adams
  • Publication number: 20090133345
    Abstract: A tie bolt assembly for a log building has a coil spring that applies a continuous compressive load to force the logs together. Subsequent expansion or separation of the logs is prevented by a ratchet mechanism acting between the tie bolt and log.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Robert A. Wrightman
  • Publication number: 20090056251
    Abstract: A building structure comprises a post having a vertically extending longitudinal face. A plurality of horizontal logs extends from said longitudinal face and has an end face in abutment with said longitudinal face. The post having an undercut channel in said longitudinal face and extends along said post. At least one of said end faces has a recess aligned with said undercut channel, and a spline assembly extends between said post and said log to secure said log to said post. The spline assembly includes a key located in and extends between said channel and said recess and an insert in one of said undercut channel and said recess. The insert co operates with said key to facilitate relative sliding movement therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Robert A. Wrightman
  • Publication number: 20080282629
    Abstract: Simulated log siding is formed of an engineered cementitious composite. Single or dual flanges on each log piece is used to apply siding units to a surface. Some siding members are molded into a three dimensional configuration to appear as a structural wood log. Individual end pieces and molded tail clusters when used with the siding provide the appearance of the characteristic stacked or staggered corners of a log structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Michael R. Cook, Stewart K. Hansen, Robert L. Whitson
  • Patent number: 7444786
    Abstract: A structural system includes a plurality of pre-cast structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, and an exterior layer cast of a cementitious material, an insulating layer lies between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The pre-cast structural elements are stacked adjacent one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. Poured grout sleeves tie one structural element to another creating a structural composite. Grout from the sleeves form bearing pads between adjacent elements and allow for load transfer within the structural composite. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Concrete Log Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Morgenstern
  • Patent number: 7412803
    Abstract: An endpiece and method for siding a wall to simulate wood log construction are described. A generally cylindrical core (101) of the endpiece (100) has a curved surface (103), and a flat surface (105). A decorative skin (111) attached to the curved surface (103) has a cross-sectional arc that is greater than one hundred and eighty degrees. When an endpiece (100) is installed on a plank (200), a spline (117) that attaches along a lateral edge (109) of the endpiece interlocks with a bottom spline (215) of a plank (200). Also, a first offset (113) of the decorative skin (111) engages an upper lateral edge (207) of the plank (200). An end cap (301) attaches to a surface formed by an endpiece surface (305) and a plank surface (307).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventor: Gregory E. Lehn
  • Patent number: 7412804
    Abstract: The log hanger assembly includes a first saddle support, a second saddle support and a saddle member that is pivotally attached to both saddle support. The first and second saddle support include arcuate base plates that are arcs about a log axis with an arc radius that is substantially equal to the log radius of the log to which the base plate and extends outward from the convex side of each base plate. The saddle member is pivotally attached to the posts of the saddle. The saddle member extends 180 degrees around a rafter or moist and has a saddle member axis that is substantially perpendicular to an axis of a log to which the saddle supports are attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventor: Brian Bussinger
  • Patent number: 7398622
    Abstract: A connector (15) for connecting modules together comprises plastic connector member (16), an expander rod (17) and a threaded expander rod displacer (18). The connector member (16) has spaced dovetail style enlargements (19) on one side and a full length dovetail enlargement (20) on the other side. The connector member (16) is designed to slide in the confronting slots with the wasted sections (21) of the expander (17) located inside each of the sections (19). Once in position the threaded expander rod displacer (18) is used to axially displace the expander (17) to force the enlarged sections of the expander (17) into the sections (19) thus engaging the slot and at the same time biasing the modules together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Richard A Walker
  • Publication number: 20080134599
    Abstract: A log construction, such as a log home, log cabin, or any other construction using logs for external walls. The construction includes a plurality of horizontal logs extending between vertical log posts. The horizontal logs, stabilized by the vertical posts, support the load of the structure, including the roof. Each horizontal log has a flat plain cut on the top and bottom, from end to end; seating the plurality of horizontal logs flush with one another. The ends of each horizontal log have a male projection that slide down the female opening of the vertical logs. The plurality of horizontal logs rest in the vertical logs held in place by the male projection of the horizontal logs and the female opening in the vertical logs, resulting in a floating wall, generating compressive force toward the foundation. The tonnage of the floating wall and the cap log cutout, anticipate shrinkage, which result in eliminating the chinking process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond Ward Downing
  • Publication number: 20080127583
    Abstract: A log is provided that has a pair of oppositely directed faces, one of the faces having a pair of tongues separated by a channel and the other face having a pair of grooves separated by a ridge. The tongues, grooves, ridge and channel respectively are dimensioned so as to inter-engage when logs are placed one on top of another. The base of the channel is spaced from the end face of the ridge to accommodate a pair of seals that are maintained laterally spaced apart in the channel so as to define an air space therebetween. A thermal break is thus provided between the seals in the channel to inhibit conduction of heat through the seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Robert A. Wrightman, Ronald A. Wrightman
  • Publication number: 20080028703
    Abstract: A wood mat has a first layer of timbers extending parallel to one another in a longitudinal direction and a second layer timbers spanning across the first timbers parallel to one another and transversely to the first timbers such that each second timber intersects a plurality of the first timbers at respective intersecting locations of the mat; and a plurality of pressed fasteners mounted at selected intersecting locations through drilled holes formed by either a rivet fastener or a press fit fastener having opposed ends compressively joining the timbers therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Randel Brandstrom
  • Publication number: 20080022613
    Abstract: Multi-directional, one-piece, tested and rated, inside-mount fire barriers requiring no splicing to fit into expansion joint corner-type spaces are presented. Accompanying low-cost, re-useable, size-adjustable installation tools designed for one-step, drop-in, installation of each style barrier, are also taught. To insure a tight-fit between each installed barrier and the building units forming the joint space, spreader press-fit tools which, if desired, may serve as fire barriers covers are taught. Described herein is a barrier that needs no splicing to be installed into a T-shaped joint space that is created by the convergence of three building structures. The present invention contemplates inside-mounted, one-piece barriers shaped to fit cross-shaped and various L-shaped expansion spaces. L-shaped fire barriers include barriers having a horizontal and a vertical arm that can occur in various configurations and barriers having two horizontal arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Alan Shaw
  • Patent number: 7318299
    Abstract: Kits for building log structures, and methods for producing such kits. A kit for building a structure having a plurality of log walls each including multiple layers. The kit comprises a combination of logs which when assembled form the structure. Logs of multiple layers are marked for long groove cuts and for final corner notch cuts. These marked logs substantially retain the natural contour of the tree boles from which they came. In other embodiments, final corner notches have been cut in logs of multiple layers and long groove cuts are marked but uncut. In still other embodiments, long grooves have been cut in logs of multiple layers and final corner cuts are marked but uncut. Certain embodiments provide kits wherein logs of multiple layers each have cut therein at least one final corner notch or long groove, with the remaining cut(s) marked but uncut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Accelerated Log Building, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Chambers
  • Patent number: 7313890
    Abstract: A support structure for a log wall includes a plurality of logs extending horizontally in an axial direction and stacked vertically to form a wall, vertically adjacent ones of the plurality of logs having generally aligned end faces defining an edge surface of the wall; and a plurality of connectors positioned within the wall adjacent the edge surface and extending between vertically adjacent pairs of the plurality of logs, each pair of logs including a respective lower log and upper log generally situated on top of the lower log, each connector having a connector body with a lower and an upper log engagement portion, each lower log engagement portion engaging the respective lower log, and each upper log engagement portion engaging the respective upper log.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Pointblank Design Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Clarke
  • Publication number: 20070227085
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fire-resistant building comprising exterior surfaces and interior support members, wherein the exterior surfaces and interior support members are formed from fire-retardant treated wood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Henry J. Mader
  • Patent number: 7182988
    Abstract: A pre-textured sealing tape is provided for sealing the chink between the stacked logs in a log structure. A paper, plastic, metal or textile type of backing support material is coated with a thin layer of flexible moisture impermeable material resembling conventional chinking materials. A suitable adhesive can be applied to the opposite side of the support materials with the adhesive covered by a release layer. The tape is cut to the desired width for the chink that is to be sealed and is finished in a rolled configuration. A synthetic resin mixed with a granular material has been found to be suitable for the flexible coating and texturing of the tape. The tape can be applied directly to the logs, between the logs or to objects positioned within the chink, such as splines, insulation sheeting, or plywood panels. The tape can cover the space between simulated logs attached to panels used in simulated log structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: James S. McCain
  • Patent number: 7117647
    Abstract: A system for constructing log structures includes a corner connection structure, a through-bolt clamping apparatus, an opening support structure, a butt joint connection structure, a log profile, and an exterior casing structure. The corner connection structure has logs with overlap portions shaped so that the overlap portions of the logs of a first wall overlap and alternately interlace the overlap portions of the logs of a second wall. A generally vertical slot extends through the overlap portions of the logs, and at least one spline is provided in the slot. The through-bolt clamping apparatus has a through-bolt extending along the height of the wall, a lower clamp arm coupled to the through-bolt and the bottom of the intersecting walls, and an upper clamp arm coupled to the through bolt and the top of the intersecting walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Pointblank Design Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Clarke
  • Patent number: 7044824
    Abstract: The invention titled “Roof System for a Log Building Toy” (hereinafter “The Roof”) under this section consists of the design of the parts and the unique process of assembly of The Roof. The design of the pieces of The Roof include logs and slats that provide a new and unique manner of assembly of a log building toy or construction play set. The name of the pieces, proper identification, their description, functions and physical characteristics are described in detail on The Specification attached as well as in the nine drawings submitted along with the application. The process of assembly consists on the edification of The Roof by placing and positioning two Lateral Support Logs on sides on top of building's structure, a Central Support Log on the center on top of building's structure, and then placing the Special Roof Slats a the top of the building, which are held together in place by the Lateral Support Logs to get The Roof fully assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Raul Chavez
  • Patent number: 6923705
    Abstract: Building elements for constructing a play structure comprise polyethylene members. In one embodiment, the members are extruded cylinders and include notches or other interlocking features. In another embodiment, the members are flat panels and include notches, teeth, apertures or other interlocking features. A play structure comprises a plurality of the building elements connected to one another. In one embodiment, the play structure comprises a cabin. Walls of the cabin are constructed by interlocking elongate wall elements. The cabin includes a roof constructed from interlocked flat panels or slats. A roof support elevates the roof over the walls and connects the roof to the walls. A method of constructing a play structure comprises assembling a plurality of the building elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Kidzbuilt, LLC
    Inventors: John Anthony DeSalvo, Anthony J. Preus
  • Patent number: 6910305
    Abstract: A system for walls and structural slabs is disclosed. It consists of units of a pre-case reinforced concrete element has a special form design, fabrication methods and utilisation. The element has a circular section, variable lengths and flat surface on the top and bottom sides (2). It has a sectional area of 4170 sq mm. The optimum preferred dimensions of the cross section are 64 mm high and 75 mm wide (1). The element has an optimum shape that reduces the materials used yet provides the structural performance required. When stacked vertically between two structural framing columns, the elements form non-load-bearing walls system(3). The elements form structural diaphragm when horizontally laid side by side in a butt-jointed manner, supported on both ends by means of structural framing beams. Plain concrete topping to the necessary thickness is cast over the diaphragm/elements, forming an integral reinforced concrete structural slab system (4). The elements are fabricated mechanically or manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: Fahim Kassis
  • Patent number: 6904728
    Abstract: A wall includes a plurality of wall members stacked substantially vertically and including a bottom wall member and a top wall member. Each wall member has an upper surface in opposed relation to a lower surface and a through opening extending from the upper surface to the lower surface. A through opening in each wall member is aligned with a through opening in all other wall members so as to form a through opening in the wall extending from the upper surface of the top wall member to the lower surface of the bottom wall member. A rod, having an upper end in opposed relation to a lower end, is positioned in the through opening of the wall and a lower fastener attaches to the lower end of the rod adjacent the lower surface of the bottom wall member. An upper fastener attaches to the upper end of the rod adjacent the upper surface of the top wall member, and an actuator is positioned between the upper fastener and the upper surface of the top wall member for applying a downward force to the top wall member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Heritage Log Homes, Inc.
    Inventor: H. Craig Stutts
  • Patent number: 6851233
    Abstract: A structural system includes a plurality of structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, an exterior layer, and an insulating layer between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The structural elements are stacked adjacent to one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be fabricated from cast concrete material, and can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Morgenstern
  • Publication number: 20040255531
    Abstract: A kit for use in erecting a log structure having a finished window opening formed therein includes a support log, having a substantially horizontal support tenon formed in a top thereof; and a header log, having a substantially horizontal header tenon formed in a bottom thereof. At least one pre-assembled window opening frame includes: an upper frame piece configured to nestably engage the header tenon; a lower frame piece configured to nestably engage the support tenon; and a pair of side frame pieces coupled intermediate the upper and lower frame pieces. Each side frame piece has a side receiving channel formed in an outward side thereof, the side receiving channels being configured to nestably engage at least a portion of one of a plurality of wall component logs stacked adjacent to the side frame pieces and vertically atop the support log.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Jeff C. Middleton
  • Publication number: 20040237457
    Abstract: A process to enable the manufacture of tapered house building logs of various diameters, which would be used in hand-crafted round log construction, in both residential and commercial applications. A milling process would remove wood to create the lateral notches, also known as grooves or copes, on the underside of each wall log, while maintaining the natural taper of each whole log used. The convex curvature of the top of each log is milled to match the concave curvature on the bottom of the log sitting directly above it, using a common curvature for specified diameters; in the process of planing the top and the underside of each log, the same degree of taper is achieved. Whole, round trees are utilized and the natural taper of each log is always maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Charles Littler
  • Publication number: 20040211136
    Abstract: A system and method for simulating log siding on a building. In particular, a pass corner siding piece and a butt corner siding piece are provided that can be attached on the same plane on opposing sides of a corner of a building to simulate a butt and pass log corner The butt corner siding piece and pass corner siding piece can be joined to provide additional strength to the siding. Additionally, an outer corner log siding piece is provided to simulate a vertical post log corner. A straight siding piece can also be provided to simulate a log look along the sides of the building. A channel siding piece can also be provided to provide a finished log look around a building opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Sandra Stanton
  • Publication number: 20040211135
    Abstract: A system and method for simulating log siding on a building. In particular, a pass corner siding piece and a butt corner siding piece are provided that can be attached on the same plane on opposing sides of a corner of a building to simulate a butt and pass log corner. The butt corner siding piece and pass corner siding piece can be joined to provide additional strength to the siding. A straight siding piece can also be provided to simulate a log look along the sides of the building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Sandra Stanton