Abstract: A hidden joining system with front activation for a bottom of a piece of furniture and furnishing items includes a front joining unit and a rear joining unit positioned between a bottom and a shoulder of the furniture, wherein each front and rear joining unit is attached beneath the thickness of the bottom of the furniture, wherein symmetry axes of the two front and rear joining units lie on a plane external and parallel to a center plane of the bottom and the front joining unit has a transmission element toward the rear joining unit.

Abstract: In a column end joint structure for joining an end of a column made of flat wooden material having a rectangular cross-section to a joining member, splitting generation at the end of the column is controlled. An expansion of crack is controlled when splitting generated. A cutout portion is provided in each of ends in a longitudinal direction of a column end face, and a joint fitting is coupled inside the cutout portion by a joint bolt. The joint fitting is coupled to a foundation by an anchor bolt. Joint fittings are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the end face inside each cutout portion. One joint fitting is located contacting or close to a surface of the column inside the cutout portion such that the joint fitting side face and the surface of the column inside the cutout portion restrain a displacement orthogonal to the column axis.

Abstract: A collapsible workstation includes stationary top, pivotable leg and collapsible top subassemblies. A collapsible work surface is attached to the stationary top subassembly by a hinge allowing the collapsible work surface to pivot vertically downwardly, but only slightly upwardly from the horizontal. The moveable leg subassembly, comprising two movable front legs each with support cups for receiving an anterior support crossbar of the collapsible work surface, is attached to the two stationary back legs by moveable leg hinges, which allow the two moveable front legs to fold inwardly. Once the legs clear the stationary work surface, the collapsible work surface may fold downward, resulting in the workstation being in a closed position. A stop bracket may be provided attached to the stationary base to inhibit the movable legs from pivoting beyond the position where the crossbar remains engaged in the support cups.

Abstract: A retention tie system for post-construction installation to stabilize masonry or composite walls. The system comprises a tie member anchored in an anchor hole bored into the existing foundation and a tensioned against a base plate and a cover plate seated along the top of the wall. A bracing member is used to provide lateral stability to the respective plate members. A tension washer is used to ensure that the tie members are tensioned to the appropriate load.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cuboidal housing for components of a HVAC system. The housing has at least one air inlet, at least one air outlet and a frame. The frame consists of twelve segments which form edge lines. The segments span six open side surfaces in a sealing manner with the open side surface of an adjacent housing, and an insulating means is located between the inner wall and the outer wall. Each panel element has a plastic profile wherein the profile has two bearing limbs each having a bearing surface. In the fitted state, the bearing surface of one bearing limb is in contact with the outer side of the frame segment directly or via at least one further component. In the fitted state, the bearing surface of the other bearing limb faces that side of the frame segment which is facing in the direction of the interior.

Abstract: An improved mechanically secured block building system generally for concrete masonry structures comprising a masonry block unit with a height and width essentially one-half the length of the unit, with multiple cavities through the block and with a recessed channel; an anchor bar with a plurality of threaded and non-threaded apertures in a special configuration to match the cavities in the block unit and able to lay in the recessed channel of the block; and a fastener wherein the mechanical secured block building system can be assembled in unique ways due to a cube effect of the masonry block to construct multiple width walls, grade beams, and horizontal decks. An alternative embodiment includes the preferred mechanical secured block building system further comprised of (d) a footer block and (e) a footer plate.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A wall assembly is disclosed including a plurality of panels extending in a line. Each panel 12 has front and rear panel faces and two sides. The wall assembly also includes a bottom plate extending along lower edges of the panels and fixed thereto, and a top plate extending along upper edges of the panels and fixed thereto. The wall assembly includes a plurality of support posts positioned at spaced intervals along the wall. The panels define a recess in each side thereof and the recesses of adjacent panels open into each other to form a receiving channel. The support posts are received within the receiving channel as are service conduits and/or cables. The top plate is configured so that service cables/conduits can run along the top plate. The bottom plate and the support posts are mounted on a wall support that is conveniently a concrete slab.

Abstract: A connecting element for panels comprises at least one plate (2) which can be fixed to a first panel (3), a connecting body (4) connected to the plate (2) and which can be inserted in a cavity (6) in a second panel (5) to connect the second panel to the first panel (3); the connecting body (4) having a substantially ‘V’-shaped cross-section and having a top edge (9) which can be completely inserted in the cavity (6).

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present invention provide a slab roof for interlocked mortarless masonry wall systems. In a method of providing a mortarless construction system, a wall foundation including foundation tendon rods is constructed and a first set of mechanical fastening is attached to the foundation tendon rods. A first set of tendon rods is attached to the first set of mechanical fastening. A wall structure is created by vertically stacking a plurality of wall units onto the threaded tendon rods and affixing the wall units using the mechanical fastening. A plurality of roof connecters is attached to the threaded tendon rods of the wall structure and a plurality of roof rods are attached to the roof connecters of opponent walls horizontally to form a network of roof rods which are interconnecting the walls for building a roof.

Abstract: A building block assembly includes a block that has a top side, a bottom side, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a front side and a back side. The block has a plurality of apertures therein extending into the top side and outwardly from the bottom side. Each of the apertures is defined by a perimeter wall. The perimeter walls of each of the apertures is cylindrically shaped and has threading grooves therein. The apertures are aligned with each other along a line orientated perpendicular to the front side and are equally spaced from the first and second lateral sides.

Abstract: A brick assembly includes multiple bricks and each brick has at least one rib and at least one slot respectively on two sides thereof so as to be connected side-by-side. Each brick includes multiple passages defined through the top surface and the bottom surface thereof and multiple first recesses are defined in the top surface and multiple second recesses are defined in the bottom surface of the brick. Each of the first and second recesses communicates with two passages. A U-shaped reinforcement bar extends through the two passages and the connection portion connected between two ends of the two legs is engaged with the second recess and a plate is engaged with the first recess. The two legs extend through the plate and are securely connected with two nuts.

Abstract: An uniquely improved mortar less masonry structure comprising a plurality of concrete masonry units connected to each other by metal bars and metal threaded fasteners thereby forming a reinforcing skeletal system for the masonry to utilize a post tensioned structure. The unique system has been developed with full recessed channels in the masonry unit, anchor bars that fit into the channels and extend across a plurality of masonry units and bolts that act as the tendon for the post tensioning system. This is an improved, rapidly constructed building system that demountably couples each individual masonry unit by an extended bar and bolt system. This extended bar is more efficient and easier to build with as compared to other traditional masonry structures.

Abstract: A building system including a plurality of supports structured to be vertically disposed in an underlying surface in spaced apart relation from one another, and a plurality of support headers removably disposed on an exposed end of each of the supports. Each support header includes a mounting hub that removably engages the exposed end of the support. A span element is further provided and extends between adjacent supports, each span element including a lock element that matingly engages a corresponding engagement element at the supports so as to removably secure the span element in position. A reinforcement panel formed of a stiff, open grid configuration is suspended from the span element along with an application panels.

Abstract: A mortarless masonry structure comprising a plurality of regular masonry blocks and/or bricks connected to each other by a plurality of metal bars and a plurality of standard metal threaded fasteners thereby forming a post tensioned structure. Preferably, the blocks are operatively connected to each other as a structure by simple mechanical tools. Each interconnection results in a unitized post tensioned member that, when interconnected to the adjacent members, forms a comparatively higher strength structure than systems made of mortar and reinforced mortar. The method used to create this structure is a simple, waterless, mortarless interconnection process that is completed by a series of simple individual steps of fastening the blocks and bars into a strong and durable structure. Once connected the structure is strong and durable. If desired, the structure may be disassembled and the components re-used.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A connection structure for a log wall includes a plurality of logs extending horizontally in an axial direction and stacked vertically to form a wall, the logs each having an end face at one end thereof, the end faces of the logs being generally vertically aligned with each other and defining an edge surface of the wall; a plurality of connectors retained within the wall adjacent the edge surface of the wall; a plurality of fastener access passageways in the wall, each fastener access passageway extending between a respective connector and the edge surface of the wall; and a plurality of fasteners, each fastener extending through a respective fastener access passageway and having a first end coupled to a respective connector and a second end opposite the first end, the second end extending proud of the edge surface of the wall.

Abstract: Masonry walls of buildings supported on concrete foundations are strengthened against destructive wind and seismic forces by spaced elongated members inserted inside the hollow masonry walls. The spaced elongated members are secured to the continuous masonry bond beam and the foundation. Tension means at the top of the masonry wall make the elongated members taut creating a continuous tension load path from bond beam to the foundation.

Abstract: A system for constructing log structures includes a corner connection structure, a through-bolt clamping apparatus, an opening support structure, a butt joint connection structure, a log profile, and an exterior casing structure. The corner connection structure has logs with overlap portions shaped so that the overlap portions of the logs of a first wall overlap and alternately interlace the overlap portions of the logs of a second wall. A generally vertical slot extends through the overlap portions of the logs, and at least one spline is provided in the slot. The through-bolt clamping apparatus has a through-bolt extending along the height of the wall, a lower clamp arm coupled to the through-bolt and the bottom of the intersecting walls, and an upper clamp arm coupled to the through bolt and the top of the intersecting walls.

Abstract: A foundation haunch assembly used for attachment to a foundation wall and a method of making the haunch assembly using a concrete block machine. The haunch assembly includes a concrete haunch having an upper portion, a center portion and a lower portion. The upper portion of the haunch includes a flat top surface adapted for receiving a portion of a pre-cast concrete slab, stairs, stoops, poured in place concrete slab or other building structure thereon. Also, the upper portion includes an internal horizontal metal support rod along the length thereof. One end of the support rod is threaded to one end of a threaded coupling. The foundation haunch assembly also includes a variable length foundation bolt with a threaded end threaded into an opposite end of the threaded coupling. The foundation bolt is adapted for receipt through a hole in a portion of a vertical foundation wall. An opposite threaded end of the foundation bolt is attached to a nut.

Abstract: A wall is constructed from precast concrete blocks stacked in tiers in which adjacent blocks are secured together to increase the strength of the wall. Anchors are embedded in the tops of at least some of the blocks. The ends of the blocks have vertical grooves which form a vertical opening when the ends of two blocks abut. The blocks in the tiers are offset so that the openings between blocks in one tier are positioned above the anchors on the blocks on the adjacent lower tier. The blocks in each tier are secured together by a tensioned cable extending through aligned passages in the blocks. Locking members are placed in the openings to secure the ends of the abutting blocks to an anchor in an adjacent lower block.

Abstract: A bricklaying structure, a bricklaying method and a brick manufacturing method that is adaptable to a variety of architectural details. Each brick is provided with a bolt hole and through-holes. The bolt hole has a diameter which allows a bolt to extend therethrough and the through-hole has a diameter for containing a nut. The bolt hole and through-holes are arranged on a longitudinal center line of the brick, and a center of the bolt hole, centers of the through-holes and respective end faces of the brick are spaced apart an equal distance from each other in a longitudinal direction of the brick. The bricks and metallic plates are vertically stacked and the bricks are integrally connected under pre-stress with each other by tightening the bolts extending through the vertical bolt holes.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A modular unit system for constructing a modular structure comprises different modular unit sets each having identical modular units. The modular units of each modular unit set has connecting surfaces each for connection to a corresponding connecting surface of at least one other identical modular unit or to a corresponding connecting surface of one of the modular units of another of the modular unit sets to construct a modular structure, such as a building structure, having a predetermined configuration. All of the modular units of each of the modular unit sets have a ladder-like configuration having at least two generally parallel sidepieces connected by at least four crosspieces except for the modular units of one preselected modular unit set. Each modular unit of one of the modular unit sets having the ladder-like configuration has a support member disposed between the two generally parallel sidepieces in parallel relation thereto.

Abstract: A moment resisting strap connection in a shear-resisting assembly for use in light frame building construction, particularly in shear walls, attached to a foundation. The improvement includes providing an elongated thin metal strap attached to a wood structural member such that the strap and wood structural member conjointly act compositely and transmit substantial shear and moment forces from the elongated structural member to the foundation. Further enhanced transfer of shear and moment forces from the wood structural member to the foundation is effected by providing sufficient fasteners such as screws between the strap, a holdown, and the wood structural member to stitch the elements together so as to stiffen them and thereby prevent bending of the end of the holdown.

Abstract: A protective shelter that is made from a plurality of elongate, vertical C-shaped panels that have web portions and perpendicular side portions, and are butt connected together with fasteners that are located in a section of the side portions that are closest to the inside portion of the shelter. A connecting cap is connected around the side portions of at least some of the adjacent panels. A cap connects a roof to the upper portions of the panels and the lower part of the panels are connected with fasteners to a base that in turn is connected to a floor.

Abstract: Apparatus for supporting heavy glass panels in a bathing enclosure without opaque metal frames or metal clips. The supporting apparatus includes transparent plastic support brackets and fasteners that attach to the heavy glass panels. These brackets and fasteners are used in a panel assembly to join an adjacent wall or pan to a fixed glass panel or panels and to join adjacent fixed glass panels to each. Although not relied on for support, clear sealant in the joints of the assembly enhances the overall integrity of the support. The combination provides dependable support while giving the enclosure a more transparent look. The brackets and fasteners are preferably molded of clear polycarbonate, which has the characteristics of transparency, strength, and moisture resistance needed, and the sealant is preferably silicone.

Abstract: A partition for spatially dividing open building space and the like including a plurality of frames having adjacent frame ends interconnected by vertically spaced connector brackets to define a post-simulating joint and a trim system for the plurality of frames. The trim system includes a locator bracket and at least one side trim strip. The locator bracket is shaped to be attached to one of the connector brackets and includes upstanding side walls with outward extending upper tabs. The at least one side trim strip is shaped to enclose an associated open side of the post-simulating joint and includes at least one inwardly protruding top tab, each top tab mating and abutting at least one of the upper tabs of the locator bracket to positively locate the at least one side trim strip with respect to the adjacent frame ends.

Abstract: Invention is a synergistic whole comprised of processes, machines, articles of manufacture and compositions of matter required to construct a habitable structure comprised of a cementitious product, in this example autoclaved aerated concrete (“AAC”), formed in unique blocks, panels and beams, resulting in an extremely environmentally friendly habitable dwelling, residential or commercial, which, due to the resultant synergy of embodiments, when compared to a similar structure employing prior art and/or current industry's standard materials and methods of construction, is structurally superior and simultaneously yields substantial savings in labor, time and costs.

Abstract: A moment resisting strap connection in a shear-resisting assembly for use in light frame building construction, particularly in shear walls, attached to a foundation. The improvement consists of providing an elongated thin metal strap attached to a wood structural member such that the strap and wood structural member conjointly act compositely and transmit substantial shear and moment forces from the elongated structural member to the foundation. Further enhanced transfer of shear and moment forces from the wood structural member to the foundation is effected by providing sufficient fasteners such as screws between the strap, a holdown, and the wood structural member to stitch the elements together so as to stiffen them and thereby prevent bending of the end of the holdown.

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.

Abstract: The invention provides a temporary portable shelter for an individual or individuals from the severe effects of a tornado or hurricane. The Enclosure consists of an case, having six sides, which is constructed of polycarbonate thermoplastic of extremely high quality and of superior strength and endurance. The Enclosure has a hinged door with door latch assemblies that may be operated from the inside. It has ventilation padding to protect the individual from injury while within the Enclosure. It may be bolted to the floor. Light may enter the Enclosure and a person inside may see out of the Enclosure. The Enclosure may also be outfitted with reflective tape detailing or a battery operated strobe light to help emergency staff quickly locate victims of severe weather conditions.

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.

Abstract: A lateral force resisting system includes a rigid structural panel and holdowns. A foundation bolt placement template may be used to locate and support the foundation bolts during fabrication of the foundation and to further secure the frame foundation interface. The rigid structural panel may be a vertical truss or a rigid structural frame with a wooden panel covering one side and interconnecting the members of the rigid structural frame. The wooden panel may be made up of multiple panes to tailor the response of the panel to the lateral force load. The holdowns secure the rigid structural panel to the foundation bolts and may be either a folded strap and pin embodiment or self-tightening.

Abstract: A prefabricated building system for constructing a building structure. The prefabricated building system includes a plurality of panels each comprising an outer shell substantially surrounding an inner core. The outer shell comprises a concrete material. The inner core comprises a mixture of a concrete material and particulate foamed polystyrene. A pair of reinforcing meshes are embedded in the outer core so that the inner core is interposed between the reinforcing meshes. Each reinforcing mesh has a plurality of wires arranged in a grid-like fashion forming a plurality of generally square spaces therebetween.