Finite (i.e., Not Coextensive), Disparate Material Tie Patents (Class 52/285.1)
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Patent number: 11286658Abstract: Modular building methods and systems using lightweight modular panels, and specially configured transition panels for transitioning from wall to floor, or from wall to roof. Identically configured standard panels are used for constructing the walls, floor, and roof, with transitions from one structure to the next (e.g., wall to floor, or wall to roof). Each of the variously configured panel types includes channels (e.g., 2 pair of channels) formed through the length of the foam body, where the channels are configured to receive splines (e.g., flanges of an I-beam) therein. In the standard panel, the channels may include pairs of top and bottom channels, with the channels offset towards the respective panel major faces. In the transition panels, the channels may be similarly configured, but positioned differently to make the appropriate transition. The splines are connected to a frame, which acts as a template and transfers loads to a foundation.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2020Date of Patent: March 29, 2022Assignee: BLUE TOMATO, LLCInventor: Brian D. Morrow
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Patent number: 10190313Abstract: A construction block system including primary blocks 15, primary half blocks 115, base blocks 215, base half blocks 315 and column blocks 415 that cooperate to erect vertical structures using leveling and alignment tools at the base and between rows of blocks. Alignment and leveling tool 80 permits the leveling of the first row with respect to a supporting surface S and also immobilizes tool 80. The longitudinal outer walls 20; 40; 120; 140; 220; 240; 320; 340; 420 and 440 include outwardly extending rectangular walls 25; 45; 125; 145; 225; 245; 325; 345; 425; and 445 that coact with each other leave a space between abutting blocks for cementitious substances to further bind the structure. Tool 80 rests on surface S and includes two parallel rails receivable within cooperating and aligned channels on the base and column blocks. Tools 80 includes an elongated rigid member receivable within abutting blocks horizontal surfaces and serves to align and strengthen the structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2018Date of Patent: January 29, 2019Inventor: Omar Toledo
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Patent number: 9447578Abstract: A modular masonry system includes a plurality of masonry modules each having inner and outer structural members. Top and bottom spanning members extend the length of the inner and outer structural members and are retained within respective upper and lower retaining grooves of the inner and outer structural members. The top spanning member includes a second retaining feature that cooperates with a first retaining feature of the bottom spanning member of an adjacent masonry module. An insulation member is disposed within an interior volume defined between the inner and outer structural members and the top and bottom spanning members. The first retaining feature of each bottom spanning member slidably engages the second retaining feature of at least one vertically adjacent top spanning member. The engagement of the first and second retaining features aligns and secures the engaged masonry modules without the use of mortar.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2015Date of Patent: September 20, 2016Inventor: Richard Nelson DeBoer
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Patent number: 9089212Abstract: An assembled structure with connectors may include a first unit and a second unit. One side of the first unit extends to protrudingly form a plurality of protruding ribs that define a plurality of horizontal and vertical long connecting slots, and the first unit and second unit engage with each other. Also, a plurality of engaging slots are formed between the first unit and second unit, and the other side of the second unit has elongated slots. Thus, a board is connected with the connector at four corners of the board, and the first unit has long connecting slots that are used to circularly form a square frame. A backboard is connected with the engaging slot and the board to form a usable assembled structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2012Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Inventor: Wen-Tsung Chang
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Patent number: 8978326Abstract: A high-strength partition top anchor and anchoring system is disclosed. The high-strength partition top anchor is a dynamic anchor that provides resistance to wall and deck separation during periods of high lateral forces. The partition top anchor is set within a slip tube embedded within the upper most portion of a partition or masonry wall and interconnected with a channel affixed to an overlying slab or deck structure. Foam filler is emplaced within the slip tube and a compressible mat is positioned between the wall and the overlying slab or deck structure to further temper the results of high lateral forces on the building structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Columbia Insurance CompanyInventor: Ronald P. Hohmann, Jr.
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Patent number: 8978327Abstract: A fastening arrangement for glass balustrades for balconies, terraces and steps has a U-shaped receiving profile (1), between the two limbs (3, 5) of which a safety glass plate (39) is inserted. Dovetail grooves or T grooves (13) are embedded on the limbs (3, 5) of the receiving profile (1) and interact with corresponding dovetail grooves or T grooves on a fastening element (27). The fastening element (27) is first of all pushed into the grooves (13) on the receiving profile (1) and the fastening elements (27) are subsequently tightened at the destination. Any dimensional inaccuracy in the placing of the fastening elements (27) can be compensated for by moving the latter into other grooves in the receiving profile (1).Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2011Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Inventor: Beat Guhl
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Patent number: 8931223Abstract: A system and method for forming a wall is disclosed. In some embodiments, the wall comprises blocks having internal couplers configured for use with rods which can be inserted through and which are configured to securely lock blocks together. In some embodiments, the rods which are inserted into internal couplers may be threaded or have another locking features such that the blocks in a wall can be securely fastened together.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2014Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Tie-Cast Systems, Inc.Inventor: Barry G. Speer
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Patent number: 8919050Abstract: A system for constructing a residential or commercial structure and/or retrofitting an existing structure provides a series of construction components employed that cooperate with standard construction materials to enhance the building structural integrity when subjected to destructive wind forces, torsion forces, and seismic forces, such as those commonly associated with hurricanes and tornados. The resultant strength of the structure is increased beyond what the standard construction materials were capable of on their own. The components further cooperate with standard construction materials to provide a unitized system of structural integrity. The components further cooperate with a secondary water sealing ability to minimize and/or prevent influent water damage to the structure in the event that the primary sealing system is compromised.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2013Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: SR Systems, LLCInventors: Steven Zimmerman, Van T. Walworth, Scott Drummond
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Patent number: 8887468Abstract: Panels are shown which are provided with a mechanical locking system allowing perpendicular connection with a snap action.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Valinge Flooring Technology ABInventors: Niclas HÃ¥kansson, Darko Pervan
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Patent number: 8806836Abstract: A building anchor system includes a pair of elongate anchor rods (1,2), an anchor rod coupling joint (3) for joining the anchor rods end-on-end, the anchor rod coupling joint comprising or including a sleeve (4, 5, 6 & 7) for connection to an end of one of the anchor rods (1) a slideable arm (8) receivable in the sleeve for connection to an end of the other anchor rod (2) a closed slot within the arm or sleeve for slideably receiving the free end of a stop member (13) by which movement of the anchor rods along their major axis is possible to the extent allowed by the length of the slot, and frictional adjustment means (6,7) acting between the arm and the sleeve by which they may be joined and by which the force required to move them with respect to each other can be selectively varied. The invention also extends of a method of preventing or inhibiting catastrophic structural failure of a building by installing one or more anchor systems of the type described.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2010Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Cintec International LimitedInventors: Peter James, Dennis Lee, Sara Paganoni, Dina D'Ayala
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Patent number: 8683759Abstract: A pre-cast housing shelter unit includes: a polygonal floor surface; a plurality of pre-cast wall panels arranged in a polygonal shape adjacent the floor surface; a plurality of pre-made connectors positioned between each of the wall panels at corners of the polygonal floor surface, wherein the connectors are attached in place on the floor surface on-site; and at least one ceiling panel attached to the wall panels, wherein the housing shelter is sealed, in which the building structure is configured to support life and provide protection from disasters.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Inventor: Lane Lythgoe
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Publication number: 20130305639Abstract: A fastening arrangement for glass balustrades for balconies, terraces and steps has a U-shaped receiving profile (1), between the two limbs (3, 5) of which a safety glass plate (39) is inserted. Dovetail grooves or T grooves (13) are embedded on the limbs (3, 5) of the receiving profile (1) and interact with corresponding dovetail grooves or T grooves on a fastening element (27). The fastening element (27) is first of all pushed into the grooves (13) on the receiving profile (1) and the fastening elements (27) are subsequently tightened at the destination. Any dimensional inaccuracy in the placing of the fastening elements (27) can be compensated for by moving the latter into other grooves in the receiving profile (1).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2011Publication date: November 21, 2013Inventor: Beat Guhl
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Patent number: 8555597Abstract: A connector device for connecting an exterior deck structure to a contiguous building the connector having a pair of interlocked non-contacting cable loops, with a plastic plug encapsulating the interlocked ends of the cables and separating the cables to act as a thermal barrier. An expanded head at one end of the plug, with associated foam washer seals against a deck header. The exterior cable end of the connector is attached to a deck joist and the interior end of the connector is attached to a building joist, wherein the respective joists may be laterally offset. The connector prevents detachment of the deck from the building during severe tectonic of weather activities.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2011Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: GRK Canada Ltd.Inventor: Bernd Walther
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Patent number: 8555575Abstract: For use in a building having a roof and a wall each formed of hollow logs, wherein the wall has an uppermost horizontal log, a device is provided for connecting the roof to the wall. The device has a connector for connection to an end of a roof log, a saddle for mounting on the wall log and spreading the roof load over a wide area of the wall log, and a plate for securing the connector to the saddle.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2010Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Inventor: Alejandro Stein
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Patent number: 8479464Abstract: The invention is a portable and modular shelter that are assembled and erected to serve as a background or expendable facade for range targets used in live ammunition target practice and combat exercises. The panels of the modular and portable shelter are ballistically designed to let rounds of ammunition pass through with as little damage to the panels as possible. Additionally, the panels do not cause the ballistic projectiles passing through to scatter, splashback, or ricochet. The modular and portable shelters have no lasting environmental impact if erected temporarily.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2010Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Inventor: Leonard Holzworth
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Patent number: 8365484Abstract: A steel structural member is secured to a vertical cast concrete member or wall by a connector system including a fabricated steel receiver embedded within the wall. Embedded anchors are attached to the receiver which has upper and lower front wall portions flush with the concrete wall and define a front opening. A support bracket has a horizontal plate attached to the beam and a vertical plate which fits through the front opening within the receiver. The bracket is attached to the beam which is then elevated, and the vertical plate is inserted through the opening into the receiver. The beam and vertical plate are then shifted downwardly until opposite upper and lower edge portions of the vertical plate are blocked by the front wall portions of the receiver. In the illustrated embodiment, the front opening and vertical plate are generally rectangular with the opening wider than the plate.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: The Foley Group, LLCInventor: Robert P. Foley
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Publication number: 20120297700Abstract: A system and method for constructing a temporary structure is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of wall panels, a plurality of roof panels, a plurality of floor panels, at least one door panel, and each wall panel, roof panel, floor panel, and door panel comprising at least one edge coupled to a first track and at least one edge coupled to a second track. The first track has a first surface with an indentation and a flat second surface. The second track has an angled hemmed tab extending therefrom that is adapted to mate with the indentation of the first track and a straight hemmed tab extending therefrom that is adapted to abut the flat second surface of the first track.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: James G. Quinn
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Patent number: 8297012Abstract: A prefabricated building module made of multiple layers of plastic blocks or hollow plastic forms aligned between upper and lower sheet steel channels which are held together with circular steel bars extending vertically between and connected to the top and bottom channels, through guide conduit orifices in the plastic blocks or the hollow plastic forms.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2006Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Inventor: Mariano Nuñez-Vargas
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Publication number: 20120222374Abstract: The present invention is directed to a block building system for building a wall structure that includes a plurality of pre-formed blocks configured to be stacked vertically upon one another to form the wall structure. Each block has at least one frustum-shaped protrusion on a top surface of the block, a horizontal channel formed in a bottom surface of the block, and at least one aperture extending vertically through an interior of the block. The system also has at least one base track, a plurality of T-shaped reinforcement members configured to engage with and extend upwardly from the track, a plurality of extension members that interlock with and extend T-shaped reinforcement members, and securing members. One or more courses of blocks can be vertically stacked over the base track by passing the T-shaped reinforcement members and/or extension members through the apertures formed in the blocks, thereby forming the wall structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventor: Larry Bucheger
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Patent number: 8209925Abstract: A steel structural member such as a joist or beam is secured to a vertical cast concrete by a connector system including a fabricated steel receiver embedded within the wall. Embedded anchors are attached to the receiver which has front wall portions flush with the concrete wall and define a front opening. A support bracket has an attachment plate secured to the beam and a vertical plate which fits through the front opening within the receiver. The bracket is attached to the beam which is then elevated, and the vertical plate is inserted through the opening into the receiver. The beam and vertical plate are then shifted until opposite edge portions of the vertical plate are blocked by the front wall portions of the receiver. In the illustrated embodiments, the front opening and vertical plate are generally triangular, and the support bracket has a vertical or horizontal attachment plate.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2010Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: The Foley Group, LLCInventor: Robert P. Foley
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Patent number: 8209924Abstract: A steel structural member such as a joist or beam is secured to a vertical cast concrete member or wall by a connector system including a fabricated steel receiver embedded within the wall. Embedded anchors are attached to the receiver which has front wall portions flush with the concrete wall and define a front opening. A support bracket has a horizontal plate attached to the beam and a vertical plate which fits through the front opening within the receiver. The bracket is attached to the beam which is then elevated, and the vertical plate is inserted through the opening into the receiver. The beam and vertical plate are then shifted until opposite edge portions of the vertical plate are blocked by the front wall portions of the receiver. In the illustrated embodiment, the front opening and vertical plate are generally triangular, and the support bracket has a welded reinforcing gusset.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2009Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: The Foley Group, LLCInventor: Robert P. Foley
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Patent number: 8201380Abstract: A reinforcing shape member for a concrete block wall, and system of construction using same, including a wall engagement portion having an integral top end engaging wall portion and an integral bottom end engaging wall portion where the top end engaging wall portion and the bottom end engage and embed into the concrete wall at various depths.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2010Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Inventors: Paul Hargest, Robert George Drysdale
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Patent number: 8157991Abstract: A retention basin enclosure includes a plurality of prefabricated concrete vertical wall segments, a baffle unit and at least one steel connecting dowel. Each wall segment includes a horizontal top end that defines a notch and two vertical edges that define at least one cylindrical bore. The baffle segment includes a vertical edge surface that defines a plurality of cylindrical bores and a horizontal planar member from which a plurality of protrusions extend upwardly therefrom so that the baffle segment reduces water flow velocity. Two baffle vertical wall members each have a planar vertical surface that defines a plurality of cylindrical bores disposed so that at least one of the cylindrical bores defined by concrete baffle segment can be placed in alignment with at least one of the cylindrical bores defined by the planar vertical surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: HOK Product Design, LLCInventors: Paul Wilhelms, Matt Snelling, Jim Fetterman
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Patent number: 8082709Abstract: The invention relates to a modular construction system. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a construction system, including modules, which are capable of being used in a wide range of applications including buildings and various other structures. Prior systems included structured modules connected by means of flexible joints which were composed of cables. These allowed relative movement between walls of various units. Such systems were complex and expensive to manufacture An improved modular construction system overcame this problem by providing a plurality of structural elements of V-shaped or chevron-shaped cross section. These are adapted to be assembled in a cellular configuration by their similar form, size and by virtue of the elements having apertures. Any aperture may receive a connector, which permits an amount of relative movement between said elements in two-rotational degrees of freedom.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Inventor: Matthew William Lewis Roberts
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Patent number: 8082710Abstract: The present invention discloses an attachment system for use in a building comprising a plurality of first wall sections, a plurality of horizontal planks resting on the first wall sections, and a plurality of second wall sections resting on the horizontal planks. The system includes a plurality of threaded rods holding the system together, and may be made of concrete or similar material. The system may be disassembled and reassembled without affecting the structural integrity of the building.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2009Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Ballistics Technology International Ltd.Inventors: James E. Sigurdson, John T. Sutton
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Patent number: 8042311Abstract: Floor panels are provided with a mechanical locking system including a flexible locking element in a locking groove, which during a horizontal motion is displaced vertically.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2007Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Valinge Innovation ABInventors: Darko Pervan, Marcus Bergelin
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Patent number: 7877939Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening means for preferably fastening a glass pane (12) in a frame structure made of wood or plastic material.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventor: Friedrich Knapp
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Patent number: 7866109Abstract: The structural panel assembly structure has a rigid, substantially plane panel and at least one one-piece attachment part, produced by moulding, glued to the panel. The attachment part has a first plane face including a recess that can receive a glue and rims intended to retain the glue around the recess and at least one opening. A bar is fastened to the first plane face. The materials of the attachment part and the panel are composite materials and the bar has a metal insert that is inserted when moulding the attachment part and is intended to be threaded.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: ThalesInventors: Nicolas Guillot, Gilles Pommatau, Olivier Damiano
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Publication number: 20100199581Abstract: A compression post for a shear wall includes a plate mounted to the bottom of an end post of a shear wall. The plate is sized to conform to the lower end of each end post. An extended portion (e.g., a cylinder) is positioned perpendicularly to the plate. The extended portion has a cross section sized to fit through a hole in a mudsill of the shear wall and has a length selected to conform with a thickness of the mudsill. When the shear wall is mounted on a structural support (e.g., a footing or foundation), forces applied to the end post pass through the plate and the extended portion to the structural support. The extended portion may be secured to the plate (e.g., by spot welding, press fitting, bolting, or threaded engagement) or the two portions may be independent. The two portions may also be a cast unitary body.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2010Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: SPECIALTY HARDWARE L.P.Inventors: A. Carleton Elliott, Allan J. Swartz, Gregory Kulpa
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Patent number: 7730688Abstract: A corner bracket member for use in an Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) corner block or other form assembly having a pair of opposed inner and outer spaced apart panels for receiving concrete therebetween, the corner bracket member including at least a pair of side members, each side member having at least a pair of spaced apart flange members adapted for receiving and anchoring exterior facade or other surfaces thereto, and at least one concrete engaging member positioned and located so as to extend in a direction completely across the space formed by and between the inner and outer panels associated with the ICF corner block. The side members and flange members of the corner bracket member are encapsulated within one of the inner and outer panels and the at least one concrete engaging member includes a terminal end portion which is encapsulated within the other of the inner and outer panels when attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Reward Wall Systems, Inc.Inventor: Henry E. Pfeiffer
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Patent number: 7597504Abstract: A block and peg combination for a modular wall construction is disclosed including a cast block of cementations material having a front face, a rear face, two sides with each side extending between an edge of the front face and an edge of the rear face, a bottom, and a top parallel to the bottom. The front face, rear face and two sides are substantially normal to the bottom and top. The front face has a width between the two sides which exceeds the width of the rear face between the two sides whereby the block tapers at the sides from a wide dimension at the front face to a narrower dimension at the rear face for forming curved walls. The bottom defines at least four spaced-apart holes adjacent the respective sides of the block. At least two pegs, each peg having a conical head portion and a shaft portion, are utilized for insertion into the spaced-apart holes on the bottom of the block.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Inventor: Jeffrey McNear
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Patent number: 7581357Abstract: The present invention provides a system, or kit, of injection molded panels having integrated connectors which combine to form an enclosure, commonly in the form of a utility shed. The panels are formed of injection molded plastic to interlock with one another without the need for separate I-beam connectors. The ends of the wall panels have cavities to accept both roof and floor outwardly projecting locking bosses for interlocking cooperative engagement which serve to rigidly connect the components together. The symmetry of the wall, roof, floor and door components also minimizes component shapes and simplifies enclosure construction.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Suncast CorporationInventors: Jed C. Richardson, Lyle A. Rosine, Rob Stein, Robert Kopp, Michael Uffner, Torrence Anderson
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Patent number: 7527223Abstract: An attachment system for coupling together two airplane sections includes an attachment section securing one of the airplane sections and a mount section affixed to the other section. The attachment section includes a top, a bottom, a first end, and a second end. Coupled to the top are a two clamp sections, whereby at least one of the clamp sections is moveable. Coupled to the bottom is a pair of buttons. The mount section includes a top and a bottom, such that the mount bottom couples to the second airplane section. The mount section further includes a track coupled to the mount top, wherein the track includes an open end having outwardly tapered edges and a closed end. The one of the buttons slides into the track for coupling the attachment section to the mount section.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2006Date of Patent: May 5, 2009Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: James E. Ebner, Greg A. Tubbs
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Publication number: 20090007507Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a building construction with specially designed light gage metal studs, concrete slabs, and other prefabricated components. In one embodiment, a building construction for a wall structure comprises one or more wall panels; and at least one wall holding track connected to an edge of one of the wall panels, the at least one wall holding track having two flanges connected to a web to form a generally U-shaped track to receive the edge of the wall panel, the web including a plurality of integrally formed threaded nuts to receive threaded fastening members, the integrally formed threaded nuts being disposed at preset locations along the web. The invention gives a solution to modularize buildings, especially for residential homes which makes the building construction more assembly like.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: James Zhai
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Patent number: 7461493Abstract: Securement bracket including a base plate and a cylindrical body; the base plate (11) and the cylindrical body are of a single piece, the cylindrical body including two opposite walls called median wings (12, 13) in prolongation at 90° from the base plate (11) and two other opposite walls called flaps (16, 17) in prolongation at 90° from the median wings (12, 13), which have at least one opening in which is disposed a tongue (23) provided at the end of the flaps (16, 17). A process for production of such a bracket and cutout plate for the practice of the process are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: I.C.M. GroupInventors: Stéphane Quertelet, James Deciry
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Patent number: 7461492Abstract: A deck connector that may be cast into a structural concrete element for use in joining adjacent ones of the concrete elements to each other by the use of weld plates that are movably disposed within a weld plate housing forming an element of each of the deck connectors.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: MMI Management Services LPInventors: Sidney E. Francies, III, Richard J. Beak, Cliff Friend, Dewey W. Turbeville
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Publication number: 20080216426Abstract: According to the invention, a structure is disclosed. The structure may include a dual channel joint member and a plurality of panels. The dual channel joint member may define two channels, each channel possibly being configured to receive an edge of a panel thereby coupling two panels. The plurality of panels may include a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The first panel or the second panel may define a cavity. The other of the first panel or the second panel may include a hooked tab. The hooked tab may engage the cavity and couples the first panel with the second panel. The dual channel joint member may couple the second panel with the third panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: September 11, 2008Applicant: Tuff Shed, Inc.Inventor: Owen Woodruff Bunker
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Patent number: 7328535Abstract: An interlock connector (10) for interlocking stackable building blocks (26). The blocks are provided with apertures (32), such as grooves, on their top and bottom surfaces. The connector comprises a main body which includes two separate and vertically superimposed body portions and is interposed between two stacked blocks with each body portion disposed in a respective groove (32). One body portion is pivotable with respect to another, with a vertical pivot axis that is offset from the central vertical axis of the main body, so as to be pivotable to positions where the stacked blocks are offset. In another embodiment, the interlock connector comprises a single piece main body having an aperture to receive a projection protruding from the surface of one of the stacked blocks while being disposed in the groove of the other block, with the connector being pivotable about the projection to positions where the stacked blocks are offset.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2000Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Rinox Inc.Inventor: Horacio Correia
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Patent number: 7219477Abstract: Siding trim including at least three trim elements each having at least two recesses associated therewith. The at least two recesses share a traversing frame element. The traversing frame element has at least two projecting elements projecting outwardly therefrom. The at least two recesses selectively receive and retain one or more panel elements. The at least two recesses bias against the one or more panel elements to firmly retain the one or more panel elements therein.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2003Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventor: Scott T. Leffler
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Patent number: 6935085Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 14, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Inventor: William Franklin Little, Jr.
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Patent number: 6871461Abstract: The present invention concern the fabrication of panels (11) (12) in which the elements (2) are assembled by gussets (3) (13) during the preparation in the mold. A porous facing (5) constituting an external side that allows degassing (6) that is a result of the expansion of reactive products. The porous surface facing (5) is only impregnated (7) leaving the external surface of the panel rough for the future application of a coating. The present invention allows for a perfect water tight seal (11) (12) between the panel, the ground and the frame with junction profile (16) and a tube for the injection of products (18) with no cavities to be filled-up after set-up.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2001Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Groupe P.A.D.F., Inc.Inventor: Didier Fumez
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Patent number: 6786009Abstract: A kit for a securable enclosure having a front opening. The kit is placeable selectively in an assembled state and a disassembled state. The kit includes a top panel, first and second side panels, a rear panel, and first and second connector parts. The top panel, first and second panels, and rear panel are connected to each other to bound a storage space accessible through the front opening. The first connector part is fixedly attached to one of the top panel, first side panel, second side panel, and rear panel. The second connector part is fixedly attached to another one of the top panel, first side panel, second side panel, and rear panel. The first and second connector parts are connectable, each to the other, without any additional separate parts, to maintain the one and the another of the top panel, first side panel, second side panel, and rear panel, together with the kit in the assembled state.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2000Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Corporate Safe SpecialistsInventors: Edward J. McGunn, Lori R. Hollis
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Patent number: 6718709Abstract: A light-weight, portable display system which includes plural, hollow, plastic panels having uniquely contoured corners. The panels may be of flat or curved configuration. Most of the plastic panels are fabricated to present smooth front and rear faces. However, some panels are made with at least one slotted face for supporting shelves therein. Straight plastic connector components are designed to accept the corners of the panels, thereby connecting the panels in a manner to form a display area. Hinged plastic connectors are provided so that adjacent panels may be arranged at angles ranging from ninety to one hundred eighty degrees.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventors: Tim Koutras, Saro Sarkisyan, Veram Badangiz, Paul Edmunds
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Publication number: 20030226326Abstract: A method of constructing building module and resulting building module are provided, the building module including a building floor panel oriented substantially horizontally; a number of exterior wall panels having exterior wall panel faces and exterior wall panel ends, the exterior wall panels being positioned upright and end to end on the floor panel to form an enclosure; a number of wall panels having wall panel connection plates having a plate connection structure and having a plate anchor structure embedded in exterior wall panel faces at exterior side wall panel ends, the plate connection structure registering with and being immediately adjacent and welded to wall panel connection plates of adjacent exterior wall panels; and at least one roof panel having roof panel faces and roof panel ends and resting on top of a number of the exterior wall panels and having roof connection plates with plate connection structures registering with and being immediately adjacent and welded to plate connection structuresType: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Wallace D. Sanger
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Publication number: 20030192271Abstract: A light-weight, portable display system which includes plural, hollow, plastic panels having uniquely contoured corners. The panels may be of flat or curved configuration. Most of the plastic panels are fabricated to present smooth front and rear faces. However, some panels are made with at least one slotted face for supporting shelves therein. Straight plastic connector components are designed to accept the corners of the panels, thereby connecting the panels in a manner to form a display area. Hinged plastic connectors are provided so that adjacent panels may be arranged at angles ranging from ninety to one hundred eighty degrees.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2002Publication date: October 16, 2003Inventors: Tim Koutras, Saro Sarkisyan, Veram Badangiz, Paul Edmunds
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Patent number: 6622445Abstract: A modular wall block is adapted for being assembled together with a number of like blocks in stacked courses to form a retaining wall. The wall block includes a front and rear, top and bottom, and opposing sides. A generally J-shaped anchor has a connecting end and an anchoring end integrally joined by a setback spacer. The connecting end is adapted for being inserted into the wall block to secure the anchor to the block. The anchoring end extends outwardly from one of the top and bottom of the wall block to engage one of the number of like blocks in an upper or lower course. The spacer locates the anchoring end a spaced distance from the rear of the block. The anchor secures the block in the retaining wall at a predetermined setback relative to like blocks in the upper or lower course.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Ridgerock Retaining Walls, Inc.Inventors: Curtis W. Shillingburg, James S. Martin
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Publication number: 20030154675Abstract: A modular system includes a first panel having a first channel and a second panel having a second channel. A first coupler is mounted in the first channel, and a second coupler is mounted in the second channel. Each coupler includes a middle portion extending from the base and having an edge rounded at least locally to a thickened end of the edge. The middle portion has a length extending beyond the first channel in which the coupler is mounted and into the second channel when the first panel is abutted with the second panel. The couplers are mounted in opposing fashion to cause interference among the thickened ends when the panels are abutted.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2003Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Mathew G. LaBruzza
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Publication number: 20030145540Abstract: Skirting profile (1) for transition between wall (10) and preferably floating floors (20). The skirting profile (1) includes a channel (2), which channel (2) is intended for hiding and holding cables and the like in place. The channel (2) extends parallel to the skirting profile (1) and is open on the upper side of the skirting profile (1) as well as backwards to the wall (10). A cheek (5) is formed as an extension upwards of the front side (3), between which check (5) the channel (2) is formed. The front side (3) is provided with a thin decorative and resilient laminate (7) which extends from the lower edge of the front side (3) to and beyond the rounded edge (6) of the cheek (5) to or beyond a vertical surface being a tangent of the rear side (4).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2003Publication date: August 7, 2003Inventor: Dan Brunedal
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Publication number: 20030079428Abstract: A building system comprising a plurality of substantially rigid connectors adapted to form a substantially rigid self-supporting structural skeleton: each said connector having interconnection means and panel securing means; each said connector having an inner and an outer load supporting member and a thermal insulator separating and secured to both said inner and outer load supporting members; and said connectors being adapted to interconnect such that when in position, said thermal insulator provides a substantially complete block against thermal transfer between said inner supporting member and said outer supporting member and said connectors form the substantially rigid self-supporting structural skeleton to which panels can be secured.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2002Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventor: Clifford Henry Rivers
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Patent number: 6554528Abstract: A utility bracket designed for use in modular office arrangements wherein planar walls are used to form office cubicles is substantially planar and has a configuration, such as triangular, to fit within a corner formed by intersecting walls. Two of the legs of the triangle, for example, each has an array of a plurality of spaced U-shaped support member which fit down over the top of the walls to support the bracket in the cubicle corner. The support members are offset relative to each other along the lengths of the corresponding legs so that when two or more brackets are used to fill corners at, for example, a four corner intersection, the support members of two adjacent brackets interdigitate.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Thomas Chelko