Sustainer Coextensive With Junction Of Panels Or Modules Patents (Class 52/281)
  • Publication number: 20080196338
    Abstract: The mounting member (10) includes a convex-concave section (24, 24A, 24B) between two edge strips (16, 20). Edge strip (16) is connected to framing by a screw (18) and edge strip (20) is secured to wallboard (14) by a screw (22). An inward push on the wallboard (14) causes the convex-concave section (24, 24A, 24B) to compress, allowing the wallboard paneling (12) to move towards the framing (12). When the force on the wallboard (14) is removed, the concave-convex section (24, 24A, 24B) functions as a spring and moves the wallboard (14) outwardly from the framing (12) to a static position (FIGS. 2, 4 and 6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Matt F. Surowiecki
  • Patent number: 7373762
    Abstract: A multi-functional building assembly includes a plurality of elongated studs, each of the studs including a recessed notch defined in axially extending fashion along first and second opposite extending surfaces. A plurality of elongated and planar shaped panels include extending edges which match in configuration that of each of the notches and in order that a selected panel is secured to a selected stud. A plurality of the studs and panels are engaged in end-to-end extending fashion to construct at least one of a wall and a corner detail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Richard L. Hubbard
  • Publication number: 20080098676
    Abstract: A precast concrete wall panel molding system for fabricating a wall shell and a plurality of ribs and beams. A precast concrete wall panel molding system with facilities for incorporating door and window frames. A ductile panel end connector for attaching panels one to another whether in parallel or angled as in inside or outside corners. A ductile panel end connector for attaching panels to columns. A wall anchor/shear plate with post-tensioning brace plate. A hybrid precast/cast-in-place special moment resisting shear wall/special moment resisting frame reinforced concrete building system for regions of potential seismic activity. A prescriptive method building system for composite structural building assemblies with conventional wood and light-gauge steel framing, structural steel, and other building code approved and tested building systems, building components, building panel systems, building roofing systems, modular and manufactured buildings, and building electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: John Francis Hutchens
  • Publication number: 20080078133
    Abstract: An extension assembly is provided for an enclosure coupled to a structure, such as a building wall. The enclosure includes a panel member, a plurality of sides extending outwardly from the panel member to define an interior having a depth and forming an opening for accessing the interior, and a cover. The extension assembly includes at least one extension member coupled to at least one of the sides of the enclosure, and having a depth, and an adapter collar. The adapter collar overlays the extension member(s) and includes a flange portion engaging the exterior surface of the wall, and an aperture extending through the flange portion. The flange portion receives the cover of the enclosure, in order to provide access to the interior of the enclosure through the aperture of the flange portion. The extension assembly increases the depth of the enclosure by the depth of the extension member(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: SCOT E. REMMERT, Matthew D. Occhipinti
  • Publication number: 20070277459
    Abstract: A construction system is described and which includes a first construction element which has at least one passageway which extends therethrough; a fastener body having a first and a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the fastener body is received in the passageway defined by the first construction element; and a locking member having first and second portions which individually matingly cooperate with the respective first and second portions of the fastener body to secure the fastener body to the first construction element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Marzetta
  • Patent number: 7246471
    Abstract: A panel for field erecting an assault course with the panel supporting a bullet retaining member on at least one face with the panel erectable on a base member and securable to similar or identical panels to form an assault course and a method for field erecting of the assault course comprising the laying of a base member on top of a terrain surface and then erecting a walled enclosure around the perimeter by positioning the panels on top of the base and then securing the panels to each other and to the base member with fasteners to form the assault course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Fred Riermann, Jonathan Riermann
  • Patent number: 7237766
    Abstract: Retaining device for use with two elongated slats longitudinally located in a chain linked fence. Each slat has first and second slat surfaces and first and second slat edges, and has a notch located in a portion of a slat end. The notch extends transversally from the first to the second slat edge. The device includes a cap having a first panel connected to an intermediate panel. A guide rail connects to the first panel. The guide rail has first and second spaced apart longitudinal stop ends located inwardly away from respective first and second panel side edges for cooperation with notches of respective slats. The guide rail is slidably and longitudinally engageable by the notches in generally opposed directions along restricted paths of travel from one of the stop ends toward the other one of the stop ends to retain the notches thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignees: General Plastiques Extrusion
    Inventor: Gerald Lemay
  • Patent number: 7165367
    Abstract: The invention relates to a composite profile and to a method for the producing a composite profile. The profile is configured as an assembly with at least one metal profile and at least one insulating profile, wherein a tolerance-compensating gap is located between a metal profile and an insulating profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Schüco International KG
    Inventor: Siegfried Habicht
  • Patent number: 6993875
    Abstract: The invention concerns a building element[which is a stud (10) having a number of channels (12). Each channel can receive a cooperating means (14) which can be used to mount a panel or bracket on the stud. The invention also concerns a building element which is a joining clip (16) which can be connected to a panel or bracket. The joining clip includes the cooperating means (14) for mounting a panel or bracket on the stud. The invention also concerns a building element which is a joining element (42) which can connect one panel to another. The joining element is hinged (46). The invention also discloses two types of bracket for mounting in the stud. The first type has a screw-threaded shaft (71) and a sleeve (72) with cooperating means (73) at one end of the sleeve. The cooperating means is shaped so that it can be inserted horizontally in a channel of the stud and rotated so that the cooperating means cannot be withdrawn horizontally from the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Telezygology Inc.
    Inventor: Dickory Rudduck
  • Patent number: 6892501
    Abstract: An improved key for a dry wall block system is provided with a plurality of longitudinal flanges and a common web. The keys are adapted to engage with slots in the ends of building blocks to align and join the blocks and provide improved stability during the erection process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Smart Masonry (Holdings) Pty Ltd
    Inventor: William John Davis
  • Patent number: 6817153
    Abstract: A cornerboard assembly comprises an interlocking, opposite direction joint between cornerboard millwork components. Dual male members extend from the end of one of the respective components, forming an opening between the members. The male members and opening formed between the members have planar outer surfaces. The second component comprises an end with a single male member which is configured to be inserted into the opening of the first component. The male member of the second component and the other surfaces at this end also have planar outer surfaces. The planar outer surfaces of the two cornerboards components are configured to be positioned adjacent to each other, in surface to surface contact. An exterior construction glue or similar adhesive is placed on the planar surfaces to fixedly and permanently secure the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Steinberg, Kenneth S. Bernstein, Claudio O. Lagar, Jose R. Martos
  • Patent number: 6807781
    Abstract: A back blocking device comprising an elongated member having a longitudinal axis and a first and second side. The first side of the elongated member has a first outer surface and a second outer surface that converge at the longitudinal axis. The first side has first raised portions and first recessed portions. The second side has a first inner surface and a second inner surface converging at the longitudinal axis, and second raised and recessed portions inverse to the first raised and recessed portions on the first side. First and second pieces of wallboard are positioned on either the first or second raised portions on either the first side or the second side and converge for attachment to the first or second side of the elongated member substantially near the longitudinal axis to form a butt joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Darrick S. Trout
  • Publication number: 20040118061
    Abstract: A universal stud for use with demountable wall partitions and demountable ceiling panels is provided. A base having a first end and a second end is provided. The base has sufficient structure for removably engaging a demountable wall partition and/or a demountable ceiling panel. A plurality of arms extend from the base. Two arms and the base define a channel for receiving either the demountable wall partition or the demountable ceiling panel. The universal stud can be oriented vertically to accept a demountable wall partition, or, can be oriented horizontally to receive either the demountable wall partition or the demountable ceiling panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: W. Frank Little
  • Patent number: 6751913
    Abstract: A wall structure includes at least two studs that are designed to support panels front and back, and end caps or raceway channel defining members on the leading and trailing edges of the panel wall structure. Each of the studs includes sets of oppositely arranged flanges that in turn cooperate with marginal edges of both the panels and the raceway defining members. Cross bracing is provided to allow wiring either within the enclosed space between the panels, or more preferably in the wireways defined in the raceway members so that the power and data communication conductors can be isolated from one another. The feature of the panel structure is that the panels themselves can support light fixtures or other lightweight electrical devices, and heavier electrical devices or units can be accommodated from the cross bracing or from shelves secured to the cross bracing and to the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: John R. Marrotte, Richard R. Picard, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6679021
    Abstract: A modular wall segment for constructing a wall includes two walling sheets of selected size and shape bonded to the opposite faces of a plurality of contiguously placed aerated concrete blocks. The segments may be formed with end faces defining slots of various configurations for receiving various types of fastening elements to enable a plurality of such segments to be secured together in a modularized fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Eliyahu Maimon, Oren Dror
  • Patent number: 6655106
    Abstract: Corner studs for prefabricated building systems are presented. The corner studs have an angled side that when interconnected with the angled side of another such stud forms a complete, structurally sound corner. The studs can be fabricated such that they can form corners of various angles. For example, corner studs can be fabricated to form corners of substantially 90°, 108° (e.g., used in pentagonal structures), or 120° (e.g., used in hexagonal structures). Galvanized metal, stainless steel, wood, suitable plastics, and other suitable materials can be used to fabricate the studs. The corner studs can have solid or hollow interiors with various cross-sectional configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Alfredo J. Sucre F.
  • Publication number: 20030205011
    Abstract: A device for joining a panel and another structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Franck Bequet
  • Patent number: 6631589
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and structure for decorating the interior of elevator cab walls by even unskilled personnel, without wastage of time, and of sufficient modularity so as to be adaptable for retrofitting on existing elevator cab walls and accommodating existing constraints of space, dimension and weight. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of horizontal and vertical members are joined together to form an advantageous lattice frame structure for supporting decorative panels. The horizontal members incorporate downward facing elongated hanger slots for removable engagement with upwardly facing elongated finger members that are affixed to the interior wall surface of the elevator cab. Swing arrester members are affixed to the cab wall and are engagable with the vertical member to inhibit lateral motion of the lattice frame structure. The lattice frame is made of lightweight extruded aluminum members of the same cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventors: Harold Friedman, Michael Mlodynia, Angelo Palmieri, Scott Broders
  • Patent number: 6615556
    Abstract: The present invention provides a stud component of a cleanroom wall system that, in addition to supporting wall panels also supports a door, thereby doing away with the need for a separate, standard doorframe. Thus, the universal nature of the wall and door stud components substantially reduces the material and labor cost associated with acquiring and constructing doorframes in a cleanroom wall system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventors: Dennis O. Cates, Roger K. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20030140592
    Abstract: A stud device for wall constructions, comprising a web (1) and at least one pair of flanges (2, 3, 4, 5) arranged at the longitudinal edges (6, 7) of the web (1) and protruding from the same side of the web (1) substantially parallelly to one another. In order to reduce the number of studs and the amount of work when erecting a right-angled corner, for instance, either facing inwardly or outwardly in the wall, the stud has an angle (&agr;) between the web (1) and the flanges (2, 4) at one of the longitudinal web edges (6) which, in such a right-angled corner, is 45°, and an angle (&bgr;) between the web (1) and the flanges (3, 5) at the opposite longitudinal web edge (7) which, in such a right-angled corner, is 135°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Tore Fjeld
  • Publication number: 20030136067
    Abstract: A drywall butt joint system for efficiently recessing a butt joint between two sheets of drywall. The drywall butt joint system is comprised of an elongate structure having a middle section, a first angled section and a second angled section extending from opposing edges of the middle section, and a first section and a second section extending from the opposing angled sections substantially parallel to the middle section. A first support and a second support are preferably attached to the outer edges of the first section and second section respectively in a manner traverse to the middle section thereby increasing the overall strength of the drywall butt joint system. The elongate structure is preferably roll formed from a sheet of metal for increased strength and decreased manufacturing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Edward A. Talbacka
  • Patent number: 6591565
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for improving the connection between a building panel and a foundation. The improved connection is made possible by a unique form assembly that includes a trough assembly and a novel means for adequately supporting the trough assembly while the concrete is poured. The trough assembly creates a trough, which is an elongated hollow notch at the top of the foundation that resembles the shape of the trough assembly. Thus, the trough assembly is designed such that its width is approximately equal to the width of the building panel. The trough assembly also includes an angle iron affixed to the top of its sides. The trough assembly provides the building panel an elongated hollow groove having angle irons on each side. The prefabricated panel is therefor affixed to the angle irons. Placing the prefabricated panel in the foundation in such a manner and affixing it to the angle irons provides the panel with improved lateral and horizontal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: MIC
    Inventor: Frederick Morello
  • Patent number: 6588171
    Abstract: A structural panel for building structures such as residential houses or the like comprises a honeycomb or other cellular core sandwiched between two metal face sheets and surrounded by a metal frame. Frame members of the frame form mechanical interlocking connections with the face sheets of the panel. Side frame members of the panel define interlocking protrusions and channels for making interlocking joints between panels. A building structure employing the panels for forming floor and roofs includes brackets that extend into a gap between the side frame members of the panel at the panel joints and attach to the side frame members. The brackets are used for attaching the panels to other parts of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Scienda, LLC
    Inventors: Jerry C. Pryor, Howard A. Kuhn
  • Publication number: 20030056456
    Abstract: An insulative building wall structure including parallel channel-bearing track and load plate structures with a plurality of spaced apart posts extending perpendicularly there between and a plurality of respective foam panels disposed between the posts. The panels are provided with a plurality of vertical slits such that width adjustment thereof can be accomplished on-site by removing an appropriate number of slitted strips from a panel. Each panel is maintained such that a void is formed between respective interior edges of the channels and the interior surfaces of the foam panels. A wall surface panel is secured to respective interior outer edges of the track and load plate structures to create an insulative dead air space, corresponding to the above-described void, between the interior surface of each foam panel and the wall surface panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: John J. Heydon
  • Patent number: 6532707
    Abstract: A structural system comprises a set of elements including two or more plank members 10, which are preferably hollow and divided by interior partitions 12 into longitudinally extending compartments 13. The plank members 10 are open at each end, and are interconnected by connectors 20, comprising a stem 21, and two arrays of projections which may be aligned for in-line connection of the plank members, or set of right angles to form a corner, or have three arrays to provide a T-connection. The plank members 10 are connected vertically by rods 26 which pass through aligned apertures 14 in the plank members and notches 25 in the projections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Armillatox Limited
    Inventor: Humphrey Richard Ian Cannon
  • Patent number: 6526712
    Abstract: A corner assembly for covering a junction between adjacent walls includes first and second members, each formed from an extruded composite material comprising wood fiber and polyethylene resin. The first member includes a tongue extending from one end thereof. The second member includes a groove formed in one side thereof, such that when the tongue is received within the groove, the first side of the first member and the first end of the second member are disposed generally coplanar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph G. Brooks, Michael M. Tull, James E. Roach
  • Publication number: 20030009963
    Abstract: A modular building system and related methodology wherein extruded, elongate, plastic building components can quickly, and with no special tools or skills, be snapped and slidably fit together to form a wide variety of different building structures. The proposed system produces frameless buildings wherein surface closure structures, like walls, windows, doors and roof panels are bound into stability through building-wrapping banding structures that include upright, perimeter stabilizer bars, roof trusses, and in most instances, the underlying ground. Within a finished building, the closure structures effectively float and react with relative motion responses to different applied building loads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: James H. Crowell
  • Patent number: 6446398
    Abstract: A hinge type post adapter, as part of a panel and post wall system, with circular loops or nuckles in horizontally extended sections, which fit snugly around the post, with a “U” shaped slot extending outwardly from the opposite side from top to bottom, with slots slightly wider than the loops or nuckles in the loop section, to allow an identical part to be inserted around the post upside down. It should be noted that the post adapters, when installed on the post will allow an extension of the wall in any desired direction around the post from 90 to 180 degrees from the proceeding wall section and will prohibit the transmittal of water or air thru the wall assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Richard L. Weir
  • Patent number: 6389778
    Abstract: A prefabricated modular wall panel brace is used in the construction of long wall for buildings. Each prefabricated modular panel brace is placed beside another framing component between a top plate and a bottom plate. Every other panel maybe inverted with respect to the adjacent panel so that the ends of a diagonal brace in each panel is adjacent to the diagonal brace in the adjacent panel. Each panel may have a movable/swiveling section to accommodate an angled portion of the wall. The modular wall panel brace may be used in single or multiple floor structures for either interior or exterior walls to provide shear or diaphragm bracing of the wall units of a building to provide bracing for wind or seismic loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Itec Steel Corporation
    Inventor: J. V. Strange
  • Patent number: 6389772
    Abstract: A universal building unit comprising a plurality of members connected to each other by at least one adjustable plate. There is also at least one panel connected to the plurality of members. In this case, the plurality of members, the adjustable plate, and the panels all connect together to form a universal building unit that can be repeatedly constructed and combined with adjacent building units to form a building structure. These building units also contain a heating and cooling system for heating and cooling each unit within the structure. In addition, these units can be combined in any manner to create stairs, walls, doors, fixed and movable partitions, windows, roofs, or any other type of building component. These building units comprise a series of simple, easy to install fittings and steel profiles to create framing for any type of building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventors: William B. Gleckman, Jacques Racine
  • Patent number: 6338231
    Abstract: A precast concrete wall panel and system using such panels, with each panel including a rectangular concrete frame having a flat outer side and a recessed inner side. On the perimeter of the panel and along the face of the recessed inner side, concrete ribs are cast for stiffness. The recessed inner side is embedded with an insulation batt. A strip of wood molding is provided on each inner longitudinal edge of the frame. Using this molding, dry wall may be conveniently fastened to the concrete panel to finish the inside wall surface. To form a wall, the panels are placed side by side. Joints between the panels coincide with reinforcement rods extending upwardly from the building foundation. Recesses in the sides of the panels create channels or keys through which the rods extend. Concrete is poured into the keys to secure the panels to each other and to the foundation. The wall panels are complemented with special components such as corner components, window frames and door frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: Fast Built Panels, Inc.
    Inventor: Alberto Enriquez
  • Patent number: 6314702
    Abstract: An assembled frame structure is provided. The structure includes a plurality of frame units, a plurality of connecting seats, and at least one screw element. The frame unit forms a hollow structure. The inner edge thereof describes a rectangular shape, while the outer edge thereof describes an approximate rectangular shape. The approximate rectangular shape has four chamfered corners. A spacer is disposed between the inner edge and the outer edge. A spacer describes a shape identical to that of the outer edge and has four connecting corners which extend in parallel to and opposite the chamfered corners. The spacer is offset from the inner edge as well as from the outer edge. Each of the connecting corners has formed therein a screw hole. The chamfered corners of adjacent frame units are disposed such that their screw holes align with the screw hole of a connecting seat positioned therebetween, so that the screw unit may be engaged with the holes in locked manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Chien-Teh Huang
  • Publication number: 20010025463
    Abstract: The invention concerns a building element which is a stud (10) having a number of channels (12). Each channel can receive a cooperating means (14) which can be used to mount a panel or bracket on the stud. The invention also concerns a building element which is a joining clip (16) which can be connected to a panel or bracket. The joining clip includes the cooperating means (14) for mounting a panel or bracket on the stud. The invention also concerns a building element which is a joining element (42) which can connect one panel to another. The joining element is hinged (46). The invention also discloses two types of bracket for mounting in the stud. The first type has a screw-threaded shaft (71) and a sleeve (72) with cooperating means (73) at one end of the sleeve. The cooperating means is shaped so that it can be inserted horizontally in a channel of the stud and rotated so that the cooperating means cannot be withdrawn horizontally from the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: Dickory Rudduck
  • Patent number: 6260321
    Abstract: The invention concerns a building element which is a stud (10) having a number of channels (12). Each channel can receive a cooperating means (14) which can be used to mount a panel or bracket on the stud. The invention also concerns a building element which is a joining clip (16) which can be connected to a panel or bracket. The joining clip includes the cooperating means (14) for mounting a panel or bracket on the stud. The invention also concerns a building element which is a joining element (42) which can connect one panel to another. The joining element is hinged (46). The invention also discloses two types of bracket for mounting in the stud. The first type has a screw-threaded shaft (71) and a sleeve (72) with cooperating means (73) at one end of the sleeve. The cooperating means is shaped so that it can be inserted horizontally in a channel of the stud and rotated so that the cooperating means cannot be withdrawn horizontally from the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Intellectual Exchange PTY Ltd.
    Inventor: Dickory Rudduck
  • Patent number: 6256960
    Abstract: A modular building construction and components thereof. A foundation for a building includes anchor bolts extending around its periphery. A metal lower track is installed over the anchor bolts and secured thereto with nuts and rod couplers. Elongated connector rods are threaded onto the upper ends of the couplers. Pre-manufactured modular wall panels, integrally molded with a metal stud along a first lateral edge and a complementary recess along a second lateral edge, are successively installed in the track. A first panel is installed with an open side of the stud surrounding the connector rod. The second, adjacent panel is installed with its second lateral edge facing the stud. The two panels are slid together to surround and enclose the connector rod. The process continues until the entire peripheral wall is formed. A metal upper track is laid over the upper ends of the wall panels with the connector rods extending therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventors: Frank J. Babcock, Reginald D. Smith, Jeffrey R. Scuka
  • Patent number: 6256953
    Abstract: A finishing device or “molding” comprises at least one support strip designed to be fixed on a support structure, a visible strip, and at least one spacer flank holding the visible strip at a distance from the support strip. The spacer flank is connected to the visible strip by a link strip which extends parallel to the first side portion with which it forms a first fold. The free margin of the second side portion is fitted with a closure element comprising a closure strip which forms a second fold together with said second side portion. The visible strip of the molding is made of extruded transparent plastics material, and the device is suitable for containing a decorative insert in the form of a strip suitable for being placed against the inside face of the visible strip and of being held in place by the two above-mentioned folds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Grosfillex S.A.R.L.
    Inventor: Michel Vulin
  • Patent number: 6253516
    Abstract: An improved wall stud assembly used to form a prefabricated partition or wall assembled within the interior space of a warehouse factory or other building structure, and comprising first and second elongate stud members, each having a joining part and a panel receiving flange disposed along each longitudinal side of the joining part. Preferably each of the joining parts of the stud members include a plurality of punched holes and extruded holes formed therein and relatively oriented to allow interconnecting fasteners to be applied to the stud member from either side of the stud assembly. The stud members are assembled so that joining parts are disposed in spaced, substantially confronting relation to one another and with the punched holes on the first stud member generally aligned with the extruded holes of the second stud member, such that at least one fastener element extend initially through a punched hole on the first stud member and subsequently into one of the extruded holes on the second stud member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventors: Anthony F. D'Andrea, Manfred Mantay
  • Patent number: 6202382
    Abstract: Two generally co-planar panels (4) are supported almost edge-to-edge by an intermediate beam (1). A coupling member (2) is captive to the beam (1) by interengaging longitudinal formations (6, 11) and provides an interlocking engagement (12, 18) for the edges of the panels (4). Opposite the coupling member (2) the beam (1) is proud of the panels (4) and receives and retains a cap (3) which seals against the panels (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Politec Polimeri Tecnici S.A.
    Inventor: Cosimo Conterno
  • Patent number: 6202375
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a concrete building system with a method for fabricating composite panels using an improved design plastic connector and assembling them at the construction site to a structure which will be shotcreted on both sides to a concrete building which is highly insulated, is fire and termite proof, hurricane, earthquake and flood resistant and fulfills the requirement for flexible design. The Composite Panels are composed of two concrete layers, enclosing an insulative foam core. The skins are reinforced with wire mesh as structurally required and are connected through the foam core by structural highly insulative plastic connectors using the snap connection on both ends of the connectors so they form a tri-dimentional system and hold the wire mesh in place for the onsite shotcrete application, which includes an application of fiber for shrinkage and cracking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Rolf Otto Kleinschmidt
  • Patent number: 6189289
    Abstract: A flooring which can be locally removed and relaid rapidly any number of times, comprising a plurality of tiles (2), a plurality of plate-shaped supports (5) arranged quincuncially below the tiles (2), and means of fixing the tiles to the plate-shaped supports (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: PMF Lavorazioni Metalliche S.r.l.
    Inventors: Natale Quaglia, Enrico Morettin
  • Patent number: 6176053
    Abstract: A cap track assembly for use with a fire resistant wall structure where the cap track assembly is adapted for attachment to a top structural member and to a plurality of wall studs. The apparatus is also directed to a method for installing the cap track assembly into a fire resistant wall structure. In one version, the apparatus provides a track assembly comprising a U-shaped longitudinal metal track having angled lips depending outwardly from the bottom ends of each of the side walls of the track, and an end tab and top tabs having longitudinal openings and depending downwardly at an angle of about 90 degrees from a top wall of the track. The track assembly further comprises a fire resistant material extending along the outer side walls of the track and supported on the lip of each of the side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Roger C. A. St. Germain
  • Patent number: 6155014
    Abstract: There is disclosed a non-progressive modular wall system for wall heights greater than eight feet that does not require excessive demolition of adjacent wall panels and framing posts above and below the moment connection, typically at the eight foot level. The wall system assembly includes framing at the moment connection comprising connector or junction blocks fastened to the ends of the framing posts. The connector blocks abut each other and are fastened together at the moment connection and allow for selective removal of the framing posts. The disclosed wall system meets the lateral load and deflection requirements for non-progressive wall systems having wall heights greater than eight feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Unistrut Insternational Corporation
    Inventor: S. Ross Wagner
  • Patent number: 6145257
    Abstract: A method and system for forming walls includes a dual-wall cavity. A stud is formed of an outer flange, middle flange and inner flange arranged in an "E" shape configuration. An outer panel attaches to the outer flange, a middle panel attaches to the middle flange and an inner panel attaches to the inner flange. An outer cavity is formed between the outer panel and the middle panel. The outer cavity can be filled with a filler material for providing structural and insulation features. Thereafter, an inner panel attaches to the inner flange for providing an inner cavity. The inner cavity can be used to house utility materials such as plumbing, air ducts, heating and electrical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony Cappuccio
  • Patent number: 6108990
    Abstract: A building panel joint support including an elongate member having spaced apart raised surfaces defining a longitudinal recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Steven M. Klamer
  • Patent number: 6101780
    Abstract: A system for preventing damage to a building or other structure during severe meteorological conditions (high wind) or geological (seismic) activity. The system includes a tiedown bracket for securing a roof or wall panel to an underlying support member, e.g., a truss or joist, and a stud connector for attaching the stud perpendicularly to its support beam. The bracket enwraps three sides of the support member and is gusseted on each side of the support member. The gussets have extension portions which extend through joints between the roof or wall panels and then are bent over to hold down the panels so they bear on the support member. The stud connector engages three sides of a stud support beam and four sides of the stud. The bracket and connector can have particular anchors integral with the plates forming them such that conventional fastening means, e.g., nailing, can be reduced or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: William Kreidt
  • Patent number: 6079072
    Abstract: A frame assembly supports a work surface of either flexible material or of sections of foldable and unfoldable relatively rigid material all so that the frame assembly and material may either be unfoldable and rigidized or folded into a compact package. The flexible frame assembly includes a pair of spaced poles and a number of hinged sections aligned so that the poles and material can be folded in sections. The poles rotate to permit either a frame folded disposition or a frame rigidized disposition. Embodiments include stretchers, screens and enclosures. The rigid material assembly provides a collapsible and rigidizable space spanning structure formed with a number of hinged sections of center supports and plates hingedly connected together to be either folded into a relatively compact device or unfolded and hingedly positioned to form rigidized space spanning structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Philip Furgang
    Inventor: Elli Katsiri
  • Patent number: 6052958
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of upright wall panels serially connected one with the other by an intermediate upright support post. The height of each wall panel is adjusted by modular panel extension assemblies which are mounted on base panels supported by lower support posts and include extension posts connected to the lower support posts so as to be arranged coaxial therewith. Spaced apart pairs of the extension posts are connectable to a cross rail at upper ends thereof which defines a downwardly extending generally U-shaped extension frame. A serially adjacent pair of extension frames shares a common extension post which is connected to both of the cross rails thereof, where the base panel and the extension panel assembly disposed thereon respectively define base and beltline raceways for workstation cabling. Additional extension posts can be inserted into the upper ends of extension posts already positioned so as to vertically extend the height of the wall panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Miedema, Robert Fox, Richard Klamforth
  • Patent number: 6047509
    Abstract: A panel used for display purposes comprises a frame having corner members that are molded in identical halves and snapped together. The corner members are provided with T-slots along the outer edges that will receive slidable members. A detent extends into the T-slot to engage the slidable members slid into the T-slot to hold them in position. The corner members include tangs for receiving extrusions for forming edge frames for the panel, with the corner members holding the frame in an assembly. The corner members have receptacles for receiving pins or shanks that can be latched in place with a latch member sliding in the T-slot on at least one of the legs of the respective corner member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Media/Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Troy S. Savoie
  • Patent number: 6041563
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing device for fixing at least one facing panel (4) to a building. The fixing device comprises at least one frame section (2) which can form part of a framework (1) to be fitted around the facing panel (4). The fixing device also has at least one supporting part (10) for fixing to a floor, ceiling or partitioning wall of a building. The at least one frame section (2) and at least one supporting part (10) can be interconnected by connecting means (11), which permit pivoting of the supporting part (10) relative to the frame section (2) during fitting of the frame section (2) on the building, in such a way that the facing panel (4) can be fixed to the floor, the ceiling or the partitioning wall at an oblique angle relative to the plane of the floor, the ceiling or the partitioning wall respectively. The connecting means (11) can comprise a ball hinge or line hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Karel Jan Vollers
  • Patent number: 6016632
    Abstract: A modular wall system comprising a framing assembly supporting a plurality of wall panels. The framing assembly includes top members, bottom members, and studs extending between the top and bottom members for supporting the wall panels. Each stud has a generally rectangular cross-section with a front face, a back face, and left and right side faces. The front face has a recess therein with a longitudinally extending ridged trough therein for receiving threaded fasteners. The back face having an outwardly-opening generally C-shaped channel with a longitudinally extending ridged trough therein for receiving threaded fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Porta-Fab Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne R. McGee, Scott Schormann, Scott Kouri, Trace Woodrum