Abstract: Collapsible structures are disclosed. In one embodiment, the collapsible structure includes a plurality of hinges and a plurality of panels. The plurality of panels are swingably connected by the plurality of hinges so as to form at least one arch when the collapsible structure is in an erected state and so as to become at least one stack of the plurality of panels in a collapsed state. The panels allow for the collapsible structure to maintain its structural integrity when erected but to have a compact and transportable configuration when collapsed.

Abstract: An assembly for suspending ceiling panels, having a frame and suspension members for suspending the frame from a structure, the frame having intersection members and support members extending therebetween, each support member being for supporting a respective side of the ceiling panel, and wherein the ends of the support members are configured to engage with engageable portions provided circumferentially about each of the intersection members.

Abstract: A gasket for installation in a gap defined by adjacent modular construction units, each having a support frame. The gasket includes at least one layer of structural cement panel; and at least one layer of mineral wool, and the at least one layer of said panel and mineral wool has at least one plate recess configured for accommodating a support plate. A modular building construction is provided, including a plurality of modular units, each unit having a steel frame. Four adjacent units of the plurality form an intersection, and support plates are fastened at upper surfaces of corners formed by each frame. The gasket is disposed in a gap defined at the intersection, the gasket having four plate recesses for accommodating the support plates. In still another embodiment, a method of constructing a building made of modular units including the gasket.

Abstract: A beam can comprise a plurality of steel channel members that extend along a longitudinal axis. The plurality of steel channel members can cooperate to define an interior volume that is configured to receive concrete therein. The plurality of steel channel members can comprise a first C-shaped channel member defining a channel therein and having first and second flanges. The channel of the first C-shaped channel member can define a portion of an outer boundary of the interior volume. The first and second flanges can extend into the interior volume. A plurality of internally projecting members can be spaced along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of internally projecting members can extend into the interior volume from a steel channel member of the plurality of steel channel members. A strap can extend across the interior volume so that when the interior volume is filled with concrete, the strap engages the concrete.

Abstract: A construction element includes a first wall, and a second wall. The walls are arranged at a distance from one another, forming a space wherein at least one sheet component is arranged, and where the sheet component is arranged to the first wall and to the second wall, and where concrete is arranged in the space between the first wall, the second wall, and the sheet component.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting device (3) for mounting a wooden construction element (1), in particular in the form of a panel or beam, on a support (2a), wherein the connecting device (3) has a mounting node (4), which is designed for mounting the connecting device (3) on the support (2a), and a coupling arrangement (5), which is connected to the mounting node (4) and which, in the installed state, while projecting from the mounting node (4) on an upper side (1a) of the wooden construction element (1) can be connected to the latter by fastening members (7), which at least partially pass through the wooden construction element (1), wherein the mounting node (4) and the coupling arrangement (5) are each produced from a material which has a higher strength than that of the wooden construction element (1). The invention further relates to a wooden construction arrangement having a connecting device (3) according to the invention and to a structure having such a wooden construction arrangement.

Abstract: A support column extends in a longitudinal dimension and includes a plurality of outer hollow longitudinal structures. Each longitudinal structure defines an interior passage extending along a length of the longitudinal structure. The support column includes a plurality of inner members. The plurality of outer hollow longitudinal structures are aligned end-to-end along a single axis. The interior passages of the plurality of outer hollow longitudinal structures cooperate to define an interior passage of the support column. The inner members are aligned end-to-end along the single axis within the interior passage of the support column so that opposed longitudinal ends of each of the inner members extend to respective longitudinal ends of each adjacent inner member. At least one end of at least one inner member is longitudinally offset from every longitudinal end of the plurality of outer hollow longitudinal structures.

Abstract: A system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin using a stud bolt having a first threaded end, a second threaded end and a feature positioned between the first end and a second end. A sealing member is positioned over the first end of the stud bolt, which in one case is a metallic washer with an affixed compressible sealing member. The first end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the sidewall and an inner nut is placed over the first end inside the sidewall. As the inner nut is tightened, the feature is pulled toward the exterior surface of the grain bin thereby causing the sealing member to form a seal with the exterior surface of the grain bin. The second end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the stiffener which is tightened onto the stud bolt.

Abstract: A system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin using a stud bolt having a first threaded end, a second threaded end and a feature positioned between the first end and a second end. A sealing member is positioned over the first end of the stud bolt, which in one case is a metallic washer with an affixed compressible sealing member. The first end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the sidewall and an inner nut is placed over the first end inside the sidewall. As the inner nut is tightened, the feature is pulled toward the exterior surface of the grain bin thereby causing the sealing member to form a seal with the exterior surface of the grain bin. The second end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the stiffener which is tightened onto the stud bolt.

Abstract: A beam can comprise a plurality of steel channel members that extend along a longitudinal axis. The plurality of steel channel members can cooperate to define an interior volume that is configured to receive concrete therein. The plurality of steel channel members can comprise a first C-shaped channel member defining a channel therein and having first and second flanges. The channel of the first C-shaped channel member can define a portion of an outer boundary of the interior volume. The first and second flanges can extend into the interior volume. A plurality of internally projecting members can be spaced along the longitudinal axis. The plurality of internally projecting members can extend into the interior volume from a steel channel member of the plurality of steel channel members. A strap can extend across the interior volume so that when the interior volume is filled with concrete, the strap engages the concrete.

Abstract: A system of connecting a stiffener to the sidewall of a grain bin using a stud bolt having a first threaded end, a second threaded end and a feature positioned between the first end and a second end. A sealing member is positioned over the first end of the stud bolt, which in one case is a metallic washer with an affixed compressible sealing member. The first end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the sidewall and an inner nut is placed over the first end inside the sidewall. As the inner nut is tightened, the feature is pulled toward the exterior surface of the grain bin thereby causing the sealing member to form a seal with the exterior surface of the grain bin. The second end of the stud bolt is inserted into a hole in the stiffener which is tightened onto the stud bolt.

Abstract: A convertible floor panel assembly incorporates a metal wire mesh subfloor and a polymer deck overlying the wire mesh subfloor. A plurality of alignment heads project from an underside of the polymer deck, and are designed to extend through respective mesh openings defined by the wire mesh subfloor. A plurality of panel retainers engage respective alignment heads, and are adapted for removably attaching the wire mesh subfloor and the polymer deck together. The floor panel assembly is thereby convertible between a substantially open-surface sound permeable safety structure and a continuous solid-surface structure for increased floor load capacity.

Abstract: Methods and systems for constructing wind towers are disclosed. A wind tower may be constructed by vertically stacking and securing a plurality of modular units. Each modular unit of the plurality of modular units may include three generally hexagonal columns and three concrete panels coupled to the three generally hexagonal columns. The three concrete panels and the three generally hexagonal columns may jointly form a generally equilateral triangular prism.

Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing baseboard tilt associated with fastening a baseboard to a wall panel having a recessed edge. A baseboard support includes a corner bracket having first and second upright base members and having one or more flaps extending from an upright edge a base member. Each flap forms a flap angle with an adjacent portion of the bracket. Each flap is attached to the bracket at a resilient flap corner, or flap hinge. The baseboard support can be positioned in a corner in an upright position. A first baseboard can be positioned so that the baseboard end engages the first upright base member. A second baseboard can be positioned to engage the second upright base member, forming a mitered joint between the two baseboards. The baseboard support provides a stop that prevents each baseboard from tilting away from its corresponding wall panel and creating an unsightly gap. The flap or flaps allow the baseboard support to stand freely in the interior corner prior to baseboard positioning.

Abstract: A modular concrete building is made of a plurality of precast concrete panels which may be assembled to provide a building. The panel sections include lower frame panels or support members, wall panels, floor panels, and flat roof panels. The building may be assembled by securing the floor panels to the support members, securing the wall panels to the floor panels, and securing the roof panels to the wall panels and to adjacent roof panels. The roof panels may have rigid insulation. The roof panels may have tapered rigid insulation or the modular building may be constructed with the roof panels in a tilted position.

Abstract: A modular concrete building is made of a plurality of precast concrete panels which may be assembled to provide a building. The panel sections include lower frame panels or support members, wall panels, floor panels, and roof panels. The building may be assembled by securing the floor panels to the support members, securing the wall panels to the floor panels, and securing the roof panels to the wall panels and to adjacent roof panels. The roof panels are made of precast concrete and include stiffening ribs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to rooms or buildings constructed by raising walls using prefabricated blocks made of Portland cement reinforced with steel fiber that are stable without requiring a mortar mixture, or any additional internal or external structural support for the construction of the walls.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wall system which has a solid wood construction on both an inner and outer side with an insulation cavity between, and to an improved building construction utilising the wall system. A plurality of boards is arranged in an interior stack of boards and an exterior stack of boards on a base platform. The interior and exterior stacks of boards are spaced apart by vertical members. The vertical members are spaced apart at spaced locations along the wall. The vertical members have a spanning portion; the interior and exterior stacks of boards are spaced apart by the width of the spanning portion. The vertical members extend across the height of a plurality of boards of each stack of boards.

Abstract: The present invention provides construction configurations and a construction method for steel houses that eliminate the shortcoming of the conventional platform construction method for steel houses that complicates the structure because of the need to use metal reinforcements without losing the advantage of the conventional method that facilitates the construction work by using wall panels. After constructing the ground story wall (lower story wall) 22 by attaching wall panels 21 for the ground story to through vertical frame studs 20 extending to upper floors, the second story wall (upper story wall) 23 is constructed by attaching wall panels 21 for the upper Story to the through vertical frame studs 20. Of the wall panels 21 disposed along the four sides of the lower story, the top ends 29 of the two opposite wall panels 21b are positioned lower than the top ends 29a of the lower story wall panels 21a on the other two opposite sides.

Abstract: According to the invention, a system for supporting a floor structure from a central structure is disclosed. The system may include a plurality of receptacles and a plurality of support members. Each of the receptacles may be located within a corner of an exterior perimeter of the central structure. Each of the receptacles may also at least partially define a cavity which may open to two different sides of the central structure. Each of the support members may be configured to pass through the cavity of at least one of the receptacles. Furthermore, each of the support members may be configured to be supported by at least one of the receptacles, and extend outward from two different sides of the central structure. The support members may further be configured to support the floor structure on two different sides of the central structure.

Abstract: An off-module connector system for a partition system detachably connects a first partition with a second partition in a non-parallel, angular relationship at a location on the first partition between the opposite side members thereof. The off-module connector system includes top and bottom connector brackets, which engage the attachment slots on the panel frames to securely, yet removably, mount the two partition panels in an off-modular relationship.

Abstract: Disclosed is a building construction system and structural modules for erecting structures such as walls quickly, easily, and effectively.

Abstract: It is a constructive system that improves, facilitates and reduces costs in the construction of houses and buildings of one or more stories, through a new type of electro-welded steel structures pile up; through a new type of smart concrete blocks, that assembles one to each other with mortars, (mortars are blind view), because it always place to the interior of the blocks, which are linked to pillars through steel clips, whose role is make perpendicular and align; through a new type galvanized steel profiles to build roofs, which are joined to each other through connectors that allow them to easily take any degree of slope, and, through a new type of structural aluminum molds, which are used to build pillars, beams and slabs of reinforced concrete. Its main advantages are: 1. Reduces 43.22% the direct cost of construction (materials and workmanship direct) from each house basic (foundation, structure, concrete floor, metallic structure of the roof, and walls) 2. Increases 50% worker productivity 3.

Abstract: A method of attaching an installed concrete roof is disclosed. The installed concrete roof consists of rectangular panels positioned along a grid. The concrete panels are supported by metal beams. Smaller metal panels, having a hole in each corner, are positioned over the joints formed by the corners of the rectangular panels. A hole is drilled through the concrete panels and into the supporting beams. A self-tapping screw is positioned through the hole and fixedly attaches the concrete panels to the supporting beams.

Abstract: A floor/ceiling 10 has downwardly extending ribs (14) separated by downwardly opening channels (16). The floor/ceiling member (10) sits down on a horizontal header (32) that is on top of a building wall that extends perpendicular to the ribs (14) and the channels (16). A preformed wall panel (24) has a lower strip portion (26) that is connected to a side flange (36) on the header (32). Preformed wall panel (24) has upwardly directed peaks (28) and upwardly opening valleys (30). The peaks (28) are sized and shaped to snuggly fit within the ceiling channels (16). The valleys (30) are sized and shaped to snuggly receive the ribs (14) when the peaks (28) are in the channels (16). A continuous lower strip portion of the preformed wall panel (24) is connected to the flange (36) of the header (32), below the ribs (14). The peaks (28) extend into and block or close off the channel openings formed in and by the channel (16) above the web (38).

Abstract: An insert type building model, comprising layer members, wall members and accessories such as doors and windows. Said layer members are jointed to one another with joint pieces embedded at jointing portions thereof. Said wall members include plate pieces and switchover pieces connected to each other in an embedment fashion. Said layer members are combined with said plate pieces and said switchover pieces in an embedment fashion.

Abstract: A concrete form assembly (10) is provided that allows decking form sections (14) to be more efficiently secured to adjacent wall sections (16). The upper sidewall (20) of the wall section presents a flange (22) that is configured to engage a rib (30) formed in a ledger (26) that attached to a portion of the outer periphery of decking section (14). A plurality of fasteners (44) are used to secure the decking section (14) to the wall section (16).

Abstract: A corner fitting and a method of forming a corner fitting including steps of providing a flat woven fabric including a first woven portion having first and second direction woven fibers, a second woven portion adjacent the first woven portion having first direction fibers and sacrificial second direction fibers and a third semi-woven portion having first direction fibers selectively engaged by the sacrificial second direction yarns. The method further comprising steps of folding the flat woven fabric in at least one direction, and removing the sacrificial second direction fibers, wherein during removal, the sacrificial second direction fibers are replaced in the second woven portion by the first direction fibers of the third semi-woven portion and form a corner fitting having continuous fibers connecting all sides.

Abstract: A method for predicting local concentrations of short-lived microparticles having an unstable composition in a room simply and in a short time is provided. The method for predicting the concentration distribution of microparticles includes the steps of determining a flow field in a room, determining the age-of-air distribution in the room on the basis of the flow field in the room, and converting the age of air into the concentration of the microparticles.

Abstract: This invention is a new concept in prefabricated buildings, components and methods of making the components and methods of erecting the buildings. A typical wall of the new building consists of a plurality of alternately positioned wall panels and support columns, where each support column is situated between two adjacent facing side edges of two wall panels. Coupling elements connect the support column to the two panels, and a single activation element on the support column causes these coupling elements to pull the wall panels into correct elevation and secure engagement with the support column and also secures the support column to an anchor pin in the foundation directly below the support column. This support column consists of an outer tube and a shaft slidable within the tube. First coupling elements extending from each side edge of the support column, and mating second coupling element are situated in the side edges of each panel for cooperation with the first coupling elements.

Abstract: A metal building is disclosed that employs interlocking vertically extended panels of improved configuration including improved insulated wall panels, unique corner constructions, and unique window and door arrangements.

Abstract: At a beams-to-column connection of two beams to a column, in which the joint connection comprises both a gravity load-carrying capability and a moment-resisting capability between each beam and column, there is added a beam-to-beam connection across the column, using two gusset plates, facing each other on opposite sides of the joint connection. The gusset plates which are not welded directly to the column in a moment-resisting connection, connect the two beams in a tension, shear and moment-resisting connection with respect to each other. Such beam-to-beam connection by the gusset plates provides the capability of withstanding severe torsional and lateral inelastic deformation due to direct blast pressure. When subjected to violent conditions and upon loss of column support or the loss of integrity of the beams-to-column joint connection, the two beams and gusset plates provide independent beam-to-beam structural continuity, causing the two beams to act as one long beam.

Abstract: A system of building concrete homes and apartment buildings. The system creates a structure that is well insulated and that is very practical and economical to build. The system uses standard components such as wall ties, concrete forms, rigid foam insulation, and concrete, all of which are readily available in the market today. The system creates a building that is insulated and thermally broken at its structural connections such that use in temperate and colder climates is possible. Presently concrete construction finds only limited use for the construction of single family and multi-family housing. The system is economical to construct when compared to wood frame housing.

Abstract: A set structure for a wooden building formed with steel-frame H-beams as a basic frame, to which the wooden structures are connected, easily and securely, so as to allow structures for the wooden structures to be connected with one another is disclosed. The set structure may have interior finishing materials and include a basic frame unit formed with one or more steel-frame H-beams as unit members disposed vertically and horizontally, a reinforcing plate mounted on the contact point of the H-beams, and a truss attached to the planes of the H-beams; a frame assembling body fixed by engaging at least one or more wooden structures into engaging recesses provided on the H-beams and the truss; and a finishing material enclosing the frame assembling body. Wooden structures are easily coupled to the basic frames, reducing the number of construction processes and shortening the time for construction, in an economical manner.

Abstract: A construction wall system having, rigid inner an outer rectangular panels on either side and end edges on ends. The panels spaced apart from one another, with parallel junction strips between the inner and outer panels, with end junction strips secured between the panels. End junction strips define junction channels along the side edges between the panels, with inwardly spaced spacer strips secured between the inner and outer panels relative to the end edges of the panels to define end junction channels between the inner and outer panels. Panels and strips all being formed of polymer-modified fibre reinforced concrete material, with synthetic plastic foam material filling the spaces between the inner and outer panels.

Abstract: The present invention provides a joint structure for a building using thin and lightweight shaped-steel, and, in particular, provides a joint structure for fastening and fixing frame members made of thin and lightweight shaped-steel to steel sills and a bolt joint truss structure for forming a main structure of a roof, sufficiently durable against a large earthquake or a strong wind such as a typhoon.

Abstract: A connector for joining two elongate framing members in abutting right angle relationship to form either a right angle corner connection or T-connection between the framing members is disclosed. The connector can optionally include panel receiving means to receivingly support two rectangular panel sections in complimentary right angle relationship above or below the joined together framing members. Connectors which include the panel receiving means are useful in constructing containers such as planters or the like and which have upper and lower rectangular frames with the rectangular panel sections disposed therebetween and thus forming the sidewalls for the container.

Abstract: A connector for connecting a horizontal member with at least one vertical member in an interlocking manner includes plastic body in the shape of a cylinder, having one flat side which extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cylinder. A pin projects outwardly near a top end in of the plastic body, in a radial manner. A through hole is provided in the plastic body through which a securing screw can be threaded into at least one vertical member against which the connector is disposed.

Abstract: A connector for joining two elongate framing members in abutting right angle relationship to form either a right angle corner connection or T-connection between the framing members is disclosed. The connector can optionally include panel receiving means to receivingly support two rectangular panel sections in complimentary right angle relationship above or below the joined together framing members. Connectors which include the panel receiving means are useful in constructing containers such as planters or the like and which have upper and lower rectangular frames with the rectangular panel sections disposed therebetween and thus forming the sidewalls for the container.

Abstract: An easily constructed and highly durable structure, and method of making the same. The structure is constructed of lightweight foam panels assembled into walls and a roof, and therefore requires no framework. The entire structure is then sprayed with a cementitious coating. The cementitious coating is applied directly to the foam panels, and dries with sufficient strength and durability to make the structure load-bearing.

Abstract: The present invention relates in general to a prefabricated mode of constructing a building but more particularly to a modular building connector system utilizing the use of connectors comprising of different types for various usage such as for connecting columns, beams, wall panels and floor slabs.

Abstract: The movable manufacturing facility brings standard size home building comprehensively within a controlled factory environment. The main structure of the movable manufacturing facility is sufficiently tall to allow assembly and movement of standard size homes within. Multiple independent production lines are established to each produce portions of the dwelling in the form of subassemblies. Finishes, cabinets, appliances, roofs, paint, etc. are installed in the partially completed dwellings prior to houses leaving the production floor. The movable manufacturing facility allows a standard size home under construction to be advanced via a transport element from one production line to the next until complete. The completed homes are subsequently transported on the transport element over a controlled access roadway to individual sites with pre-constructed foundations specifically designed to accept these standard size dwellings.

Abstract: A wall framework includes top and bottom tracks, a horizontal channel and vertical studs. A first vertical stud is secured to the top track and the bottom track and has a first opening sized and shaped to permit the horizontal channel to extend therethrough and a second opening vertically spaced from the first opening. A second vertical stud is secured to the top track and the bottom track and has a third opening sized and shaped to permit the channel to extend therethrough and a fourth opening vertically spaced from the fourth opening. At least one clip extends through the first opening and the second opening. A fastener connects the horizontal channel to the clip. The clip cooperates with the fastener to secure the horizontal channel in a fixed relationship to the first vertical stud.

Abstract: A shelter which repays its construction costs in energy savings over a period of five to seven years. Except for entryways, the shelter is enclosed and has no vented attic or similar spaces below its roof. Roof and walls are skin-stressed panels having a closed cell insulation core between selected structural facings, for example steel. Interior insulation is at the walls and the roof line. Any ceiling below the insulated roof line is at nominal room temperature. Natural lighting enters the shelter via sun-tracking, sun-reflecting skylights. Preferable a plurality of air conditioners, concentric about the skylights, heats and cools the interior of the shelter. An energy program manager monitors and controls electrical usage. The shelter lends itself to many building types and functions.Those skilled in the art will conceive of other embodiments of the invention which may be drawn from the disclosure herein.

Abstract: Road tanker for an articulated vehicle, for hauling petroleum or other liquid products. The tanker has an elongated vessel provided internally with dividers. The dividers are joined to the side walls of the vessel by "U-shaped" extrusions providing dual connection between the dividers and the wall. The forward end of the vessel is provided with a skid plate which is integral with or located so as to be substantially at the same level as the bottom surfaces of the vessel. The forward and rearward vertical corners are hollow sections to reinforce the vessel at those locations. The vertical sides of the vessel are joined to the top panel by means of rails which inhibit rolling of the tanker from the side panels to the top panel.

Abstract: A method of constructing thermally insulated cavity wall in a quick manner with relatively unskilled labor comprises laying bricks, blocks or the like in successive courses without mortar or adhesive therebetween and injecting a foamable material into the cavity progressively as the wall is constructed. Joint spaces may be provided between adjacent blocks in each course so that the foamable material may bond to for example plaster board applied to the inner wall portion.

Abstract: A system for attaching furring adjacent a column includes a corner clip (140, 142) having a first leg (160) for attachment adjacent a column and a second leg (162) extending from the first leg. The second leg (162) extends substantially longitudinally of the column. The clip may be attached directly to the column or to the ceiling or decking adjacent the column. One end of a corner angle (150) is engaged over the second leg of the clip. The opposite end of the corner angle is engaged over the corresponding leg of a similar clip. The corner angle is then plumbed by moving the second end of the angle and clip, and the clip is attached to the decking or ceiling to maintain the angle plumb. Furring (G) is attached to the corner angle to cover the column.

Abstract: A kit of contructural elements permitting the quick assembly and knockdown of a temporary building structure. The kit includes a plurality of base beams which form the base frame of the structure. The two ends of each base beam are opposingly stepped whereby adjacent base beams can form an overlap joint at each base corner. Aligned apertures are formed through the overlap joint. Beneath each step at the end of a beam there is provided an undercut, whereby at a corner the undercuts merge to provide a notched corner. An upright stud with a depending bolt is inserted into the aligned joint and projects into the notch whereby a nut can fit onto the bolt without lifting the frame. The single nut is used to interconnect a vertical stud and two adjacent horizontal beams. Upper beams are utilized at the roof level and also include stepped corners. Wall panels can be inserted into grooves formed in the various beams and studs.

Abstract: A system for attaching furring adjacent a column includes a corner clip (140, 142) having a first leg (160) for attachment adjacent a column and a second leg (162) extending from the first leg. The second leg (162) extends substantially longitudinally of the column. The clip may be attached directly to the column or to the ceiling or decking adjacent the column. One end of a corner angle (150) is engaged over the second leg of the clip. The opposite end of the corner angle is engaged over the corresponding leg of a similar clip. The corner angle is then plumbed by moving the second end of the angle and clip, and the clip is attached to the decking or ceiling to maintain the angle plumb. Furring (G) is attached to the corner angle to cover the column.

Abstract: There is disclosed an adjustable buckstay system for use in association with the walls of vapor generators or the like and whereby the magnitude of necessary clearances in various connecting elements of the system may be adjusted to reduce or eliminate vibration in the system.