Block Type Having Vertical And Horizontal Keys Patents (Class 52/286)
  • Patent number: 11885132
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for constructing a wall panel and building are disclosed. The wall panel can include: fiber-reinforced concrete layers including concrete with interwoven fibrous materials; an insulation layer; and a connector. The insulation layer is sandwiched between the fiber-reinforced concrete layers, and the connector extends through the insulation layer and concrete layers to create composite action between the insulation layer and the concrete layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: KLRH, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Long, Manoj Krishan
  • Patent number: 11529751
    Abstract: A structure has a plurality of modules of cementitious material; a first module exhibiting a reciprocal coupling surface and hooking portions defining at least one cavity, a second module exhibiting a respective reciprocal coupling surface—countershaped and in contact with the reciprocal coupling surface of the first module—and a hooking portion defining at least one cavity extending along at least partially the stratification direction; a connecting element engaged, on one side, inside the cavity of the hooking portion of the first module and, on the other side, inside the cavity of the hooking portion of the second module. The connecting element is configured for stably constraining the first and second modules and holding these latter in contact with each other. Further, a process makes a structure of reinforced cementitious material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Inventors: Domenico Asprone, Ferdinando Auricchio, Costantino Menna
  • Patent number: 10982436
    Abstract: A log wall construction including a plurality of log blocks, each having a substantially same height-dimension and laid next to each other to form a log block row having a log block row length. Log blocks next to each other have at least one pair of adjacent curved surfaces for each pair of log blocks next to each other. A second log block row of the plurality of log blocks laid next to each other to form the second log block row having a second log block row length and being located on top of the first log block row. A stringer located between the log block row and the second log block row and separating each log block row from each other log block row. The stringer extends substantially an entire distance equivalent to both the log block row length and the second log block row length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventor: John P. Ross
  • Patent number: 10934705
    Abstract: A wall construction system includes multiple block types that interfit with one another to form walls in a staggered arrangement. Block types include jamb blocks having front and back surfaces, a planar surface on a first end, and a second side having a projecting surface or a receiving surface configured to mate with the projecting surface. The jamb block includes a top mating surface and a bottom mating surface configured to mate with the top mating surface. Webs extend from the front surface to the back surface to form voids. A multi-directional elevation is formed over a void adjacent the planar surface to permit stacking of blocks in two orientations. Other block types include a half jamb block having a web to form a void and a planar surface, and a web stretcher having a projecting surface on one end and a receiving surface on another end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: MAX-BLOCK DEVELOPMENT L.L.C.
    Inventor: Mark R. Weber
  • Patent number: 10648176
    Abstract: Precast blocks with a rectangular or quadrangular prism shape contain a normal weight hydraulic concrete casing, lightweight concrete or similar material, for building walls or slabs. The steel-reinforced blocks for walls, mezzanine or rooftop slabs have the length of the wall or slab to build. An acoustic, thermal-insulating lightweight material housed in the interior simultaneous provides for blocks sufficiently lightweight to transport and install manually on-site. For walls, the blocks are tongued and grooved on the top and bottom sides and placed horizontally one on top of the other using block or similar adhesive therebetween. In the corners or “T” intersections, blocks are alternatively placed and form armed headframes for stability and resistance. For blocks for slabs, the tongue and groove system is on the sides, installed one beside the other, using block or similar adhesive therebetween. Transversal rods to the slab are placed to avoid temperature retraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventor: Manuel Humberto Olarte Michel
  • Patent number: 10370859
    Abstract: A landscaping block having a block body with at least a first side surface, a second side surface, a third side surface and a fourth side surface, and opposed and substantially parallel top and bottom surfaces. The patio block having at least one spacer projection extending outwardly from each of the at least first, second, third and fourth side surfaces. The patio block having at least one spacer locator positioned along each one of the first, second, third and fourth side surfaces. The at least one spacer locator positioned along each side surface has a retaining surface shaped to receive a spacer projection, at least a portion of the retaining surface extending outwardly from the side surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: KEYSTONE RETAINING WALL SYSTEMS LLC
    Inventors: Robert John Lundell, Robert A. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 10012341
    Abstract: A universal precast base system formed from a plurality of interlocking frames, each frame includes at least two channel elements and at least one side element. A channel extends along the channel elements and is open on each end. The external surface of the side element includes an interlocking edge for mating adjacent frames together. Channels of adjacent frames connect to form a continuous channel for receiving vertical wall panels therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: Lined Products LLC
    Inventors: Edward Fitzpatrick Shea, Linda Suzanne Shea, Dave Vernon Caylor
  • Patent number: 9404255
    Abstract: Construction blocks include transversely disposed first and second end walls, longitudinally disposed first and second sidewalls, and longitudinally disposed top and bottom walls. A recess is formed in a first end wall, a protuberance is formed in a second end wall and the recess receives the protuberance when the blocks are laid end-to-end. A longitudinally-extending protuberance is formed in the top wall, and a longitudinally-extending recess is formed in the bottom wall and receives the top wall protuberance when the blocks are vertically stacked. A pair of parallel, longitudinally-extending ledges is formed in the top wall of each block by the top wall protuberance and each ledge receives an associated bottom edge of a sidewall when the blocks are vertically stacked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: ARCA Global, LLC
    Inventors: Mauricio Castro, Marc Newman, Jon LaPlante
  • Patent number: 9120029
    Abstract: This invention describes a set of building elements comprising a uniting plate (1) and a base plate (19). The uniting plate (1) comprises two plates (3) defined in a single plane, said two plates (3) are connected in a connection line (9), and a slot (5) is placed at said connection line; said slot (5) may engage with a slot on another uniting plate (1) to obtain uniting plates with their plates (3) in different planes. The base plate (19) being substantially planar having three parallel plates, which is placed in two planes, where the first (117) and third plate (119) is placed in one plane, are arranged on either side of the second plate (121), which is placed in the second plane, and where the two parallel planes define a space between the two planes to obtain one of the plates (3) of the uniting plate (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Mad House A/S
    Inventor: Ole Vestergaard Poulsen
  • Patent number: 8984821
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a technology of manufacturing and assembling modular doors, which can be assembled on site, and specifically to modular doors, which can be assembled without a use of glue, by mortize and tenons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Treebus Inc.
    Inventor: Salvatore Bruno
  • Patent number: 8956084
    Abstract: A block combinable with other similar blocks to form a wall comprises a front surface; a top surface including a plurality of bosses, two or more of which are located adjacent each other in a direction along the front surface; and a bottom surface including a groove that has a floor. Each of the two or more bosses of the top surface includes a summit, and the summit of each define a plane. When the block is placed on another similar block such that the bottom surface of the block and a top surface of the other similar block oppose each other to form an interface region, the groove holds two or more bosses of the other similar block that are included in the other similar block's top surface, and the floor does not intersect the plane defined by the two or more bosses of the other similar block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventor: Michael L. Kelly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8677713
    Abstract: A wall member useful in forming a wall panel system includes a pair of outer walls held spaced apart and fixed together at a pair of opposed side edges, one of the side edges being provided with a first connecting structure and the other of the side edges being provided with a second connecting structure. The first and second connecting structure includes a number of projections secured to and extending outwardly from the side edges and constructed with snap fit elements separately located from the outer walls. The wall member is adapted to be joined to an adjacently disposed wall member of similar structure by direct snap fit mating engagement between one of the first and second connecting structure at one of the second edges of the wall member and the other of the first and second connecting structure on a facing side edge of the adjacently disposed wall member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: EPI 04, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory R. Sheehy
  • Patent number: 8572916
    Abstract: Some embodiments of masonry blocks can be used to form a wall system that provides an improved resistance to moisture penetration that might otherwise advance to an interior surface of the wall. In particular embodiments, some or all of the masonry blocks in the wall system may be equipped with one or more moisture drainage elements formed in a surface of the respective masonry block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Concrete Products Group LLC
    Inventor: Canan D'Avela
  • Patent number: 8448396
    Abstract: A laminated insulated timber is described possessing a laminate essentially composed of plurality of side planks, a top plank and a bottom plank that box in an insulation member. The planks are offset relative to one another to form a tongue and groove arrangement. In this manner, other like laminated insulated timbers join together along the tongue and groove arrangements to interlock and stack, thus forming a structural wall of laminated insulated timbers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: International Homes of Cedar
    Inventors: Rodney Reynaud Robertson, Thomas Jay Warren
  • Patent number: 8424258
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to green roof, deck and patio apparatuses, also known as roof, deck and patio landscaping apparatuses and roof, deck and patio gardens, that are suitable for supporting live plant growth on building decks, rooftop and patio surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventors: Chuck Modica, Anthony Modica
  • Patent number: 8341898
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is described for applying a siding or facing to an internal or external surface of a wall, enclosure, or other building construction to simulate a solid debarked log wall construction that includes varying diameter non-uniform logs. The invention further pertains to a lightweight yet rigid assembly that closely resembles at least a portion of a solid debarked log and includes longitudinal segments that may be coupled together to a backing material to create a siding or facing that simulates the exterior of a log whose circumference may be varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Grand Log Homes LLC
    Inventors: Richard Mizia, Charles Mizia
  • Patent number: 8266855
    Abstract: A building block system for building concrete block walls. The system features a main block, a first corner block, a second corner block, a first end block, and a second end block. The blocks interlock with each other via first mating components, second mating components, third mating components, and upper protrusions disposed on various ends of the various blocks. Many of the blocks feature a center aperture, which can engage the mating components and upper protrusions. Generally, the first mating components and upper protrusions can engage the second mating components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Najem Altararwah
  • Patent number: 8156690
    Abstract: An enclosed structure includes a base perimeter structure with a plurality of base plates, an exterior wall structure and a roof structure. The exterior wall structure includes a plurality of sidewall panels. The roof structure includes a plurality of roof panels. The enclosed structure has a substantially enclosed interior structure space. The enclosed structure can be prepared using plastic molding methods and may be used as a temporary emergency structure, such as a temporary emergency dwelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: LRM Industries International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dean Higley
  • Patent number: 8037649
    Abstract: A step assembly that is specifically adapted to assist pets in reaching and/or descending from elevated surfaces is provided. The step assembly has two sidewalls having a plurality of openings in which pegs formed on the sides of individual treads and risers are engaged. The pegs are removably insertable into the openings and include protrusions which create an interference fit upon insertion. Because the treads, risers and side walls are joined by interlocking pegs and openings, the step assembly can be flat packed for shipping, and is easily assembled and disassembled for transportation and/or cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Vermont Juvenile Furniture Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Jakubowski, Scott S. Jakubowski, Todd M. Jakubowski, Guang-Sheng Lin
  • Patent number: 7743566
    Abstract: A structural assembly has a first set of first elongate structural members alternately spaced apart from a second set of second elongate structural members by locking blocks, the first set defining a first plane and the second set defining a second plane forming an intersection at an angle with the first plane, the structural members and locking blocks defining an assembly of adjoined blocks and structural members at the intersection, and a compressive mechanism spanning the assembly of adjoined blocks and structural members at the intersection. Compressing the adjoined blocks and structural members by the spanning compression mechanism locks the blocks and structural members together in a manner to resist applied forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Kozel, David Alexander Wilson
  • Patent number: 7596916
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a log cabin construction using naturally tapered logs with multi-beveled interlocking notches located at the end of each log. The interlocking notches serve to form a tight locking connection at the cornering of the structure where the logs overlap one another. The interlocking notches are composed substantially of heartwood, which serves to reduce settlement and maintain a tight connection over time. The measurements for the interlocking notches are a function of the dimensions of the logs used. The log cabin construction further employs anti-settling blocks which are disposed between the logs of the structure. In the preferred embodiment, the anti-settling blocks are positioned in aligned recesses which are present in the logs that compose the structure. Accordingly, the presence of the interlocking-notch cornering system and the anti-settling blocks combine to minimize the negative effects of settling on the structure while providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Thomas Anderson
  • Publication number: 20080115435
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembling whole, for the building of living places or for the area of toys. The whole comprises massive assembling bricks wearing lateral binding grooves, an upper binding groove and a lower binding groove designed for the assembling of the bricks, characterized in that the lateral groove is meant to bear a binding element uniting the bricks two by two. The invention also relates to a lock key for the assembling of two bricks by means of the lateral binding grooves, comprising a strip for key locking which sticks an assembling shim to lateral grip walls inside the binding grooves. The invention is made of wood or of any suitable material. The binding element is made of wood, of metal or of any suitable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: Jim Riviere
  • Patent number: 7337589
    Abstract: Interlocking blocks for construction preferably include an in-line block, a corner block, an offset block and end blocks. The in-line block includes a connector extension disposed on one end and a connector cavity formed on the opposite end thereof. The connector cavity is sized to receive the connector extension. First and second retention projections preferably extend from a face of the in-line block. The corner block preferably includes the connector extension formed on one end and the connector cavity formed in a side at the opposite end thereof. The offset block includes the connector extension formed on one side at one end and the connector cavity formed on the opposite side at the opposite end thereof. The end block includes a connector extension or a connector cavity disposed on one end. At least one cavity is formed through each block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Michael R. Meyer
  • Patent number: 7275289
    Abstract: A device and method for forming an indented female connector where the dimension of the indented female connector provides for removing a male molding component without damaging a set of internal ribs formed inside the female connector. A structure comprising an indented female blow-molded connector having a first wall having a top surface and a thickness, with the first wall surrounding an opening. At least one inner wall extends substantially perpendicular to the first wall and borders the opening. At least one rib is formed in the inner wall. A bottom wall is joined to the inner wall and the distance from the rib to the top surface is greater than the thickness of the first wall. The structure further comprising a male connector having a contact edge, such that when positioned inside the indented female blow-molded connector, the contact edge releasably engages the at least one rib.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Confer Plastics Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Lipniarski
  • Patent number: 7182988
    Abstract: A pre-textured sealing tape is provided for sealing the chink between the stacked logs in a log structure. A paper, plastic, metal or textile type of backing support material is coated with a thin layer of flexible moisture impermeable material resembling conventional chinking materials. A suitable adhesive can be applied to the opposite side of the support materials with the adhesive covered by a release layer. The tape is cut to the desired width for the chink that is to be sealed and is finished in a rolled configuration. A synthetic resin mixed with a granular material has been found to be suitable for the flexible coating and texturing of the tape. The tape can be applied directly to the logs, between the logs or to objects positioned within the chink, such as splines, insulation sheeting, or plywood panels. The tape can cover the space between simulated logs attached to panels used in simulated log structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: James S. McCain
  • Patent number: 7117647
    Abstract: A system for constructing log structures includes a corner connection structure, a through-bolt clamping apparatus, an opening support structure, a butt joint connection structure, a log profile, and an exterior casing structure. The corner connection structure has logs with overlap portions shaped so that the overlap portions of the logs of a first wall overlap and alternately interlace the overlap portions of the logs of a second wall. A generally vertical slot extends through the overlap portions of the logs, and at least one spline is provided in the slot. The through-bolt clamping apparatus has a through-bolt extending along the height of the wall, a lower clamp arm coupled to the through-bolt and the bottom of the intersecting walls, and an upper clamp arm coupled to the through bolt and the top of the intersecting walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Pointblank Design Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Clarke
  • Patent number: 6921231
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wall block for use in a segmental retaining wall system. The wall block comprises an interior face for forming an interior surface of a segmental retaining wall, an exterior face for forming an exterior surface of the segmental retaining wall, first and second sides that extend from the exterior face to the interior face, and a top surface and a bottom surface. Further provided in the wall block is a channel defined by a front wall, a rear wall, and an arcuate bottom surface. The channel extends across one of the faces and surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Rainey, Svenn Borgersen, John W. Turgeon-Schramm
  • Patent number: 6780485
    Abstract: A pre-textured sealing tape is provided for sealing the chink between the stacked logs in a log structure. A woven or textile type of backing support material is coated with a thin layer of flexible moisture impermeable material resembling conventional chinking materials. A suitable adhesive can be applied to the opposite side of the support materials with the adhesive covered by a release layer. The tape is cut to the desired width for the chink that is to be sealed and is finished in a rolled configuration. An acrylic resin mixed with silicon sand has been found to be preferable for the flexible texturing of the tape. The tape can be applied directly to the logs or to objects positioned within the chink, such as splines or insulation sheeting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Inventor: James S. McCain
  • Publication number: 20040128936
    Abstract: The present invention is a masonry unit, masonry system and method of constructing a structure using the system. In its most basic form, the masonry unit of the present invention includes substantially parallel top and bottom surfaces, substantially parallel a front and back surfaces, and substantially parallel right and left surfaces. A locking ridge is disposed upon the top surface and extends along the top surface in substantially parallel relation to the front and back surfaces. A locking channel is disposed with in the bottom surface and is dimensioned to mate with locking ridge on the top surface of an adjoining masonry unit. The locking channel is disposed inward from the bottom surface a distance that is a slightly larger than the distance from the top surface to the top of the ridge. The system includes a primary masonry unit and at least one corner masonry unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Del R. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 6758636
    Abstract: A wall block for use in a segmental retaining wall system. The wall block comprises an interior face for forming an interior surface of a segmental retaining wall, an exterior face for forming an exterior surface of the segmental retaining wall, first and second sides that extend from the exterior face to the interior face, and a top surface and a bottom surface. Further provided in the wall block is a channel defined by a front wall, a rear wall, and an arcuate bottom surface. The channel extends across one of the faces and surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Rainey, Svenn Borgersen, John W. Turgeon-Schramm
  • Publication number: 20040111990
    Abstract: A simulated log building is constructed by first assembling a conventional “stick built” frame and then attaching to upright exterior faces of the frame, rows of siding that are made of solid wood sections shaped to simulate the appearance of logs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Paul J. Neff
  • Patent number: 6735913
    Abstract: A masonry block wall system is disclosed comprising a plurality of piers positioned at predetermined intervals with a pilaster mounted on each of the piers. The pilasters are formed by vertically stacked masonry blocks that are attached to the pier by a reinforcing rod extending upwardly from the pier through a vertical mortarless void in the blocks. A plurality of courses of masonry blocks form block wall panels, each of the blocks in the panels having horizontal mortarless voids therein, the horizontal and vertical joints between adjacent courses being interlocking and mortarless. Selected courses of masonry blocks have a horizontal reinforcing rod attached to each block in the course without mortar or grout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Sanders & Associates Geostructural Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven H. Sanders, William L. Millhone
  • 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: 6647679
    Abstract: A stucco trim assembly for emplacement onto a corner defined by the juncture of a pair of walls, to permit a foam and/or a stucco material to be controllably applied and adjustably secured to the walls. The assembly comprises an elongated receiving trim member attachable to a corner of the pair of walls, and an elongated inserted frame clip. The clip is adjustably supported in the elongated receiving trim member a spaced distance from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Belleau
  • Patent number: 6550198
    Abstract: A wall construction comprises block members or sections stacked vertically about five high and abutting horizontally to form a wall. Each block member or section comprises a top plate, bottom plate and two side studs. The block members are attached side by side by fastening plates on the top and bottom which overlap adjacent blocks, including one top fastening plate which overlaps the top plates of two adjacent blocks, and a bottom plate which overlaps the bottom plates of two adjacent blocks. The vertical components may be 2×4 dimensional wood pieces on the order of 15-20″ long, and the horizontal components about 30-40″ long. Steel studs may be used instead of wood pieces, and horizontal components may be up to eight feet long.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventors: Youichi Endo, Shozo Endo, Shuji Endo
  • Publication number: 20020148187
    Abstract: Provided herein are blocks useful in the construction of walls and other structures. The blocks include in their design features which render them to be interlocking, and which provide for a wall constructed from the blocks to include a plurality of horizontal and vertical channels that are adapted to receive reinforcing rods (“rebar”). Once a two-dimensional network of rebar is disposed in the interior of such a wall constructed from blocks according to a preferred form of the invention, a castable concrete may be poured into the wall and caused to exist in the spaces between the rebar and the blocks of the invention. By such construction, a wall comprising concrete in its interior that is reinforced in two dimensions is provided, wherein reinforcement in the third dimension is provided by the interlocking feature of the tops and bottom portions of blocks in adjacent rows with one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Donald L. Walters
  • Patent number: 6438915
    Abstract: A pre-fabricated wall panel for providing a new type of wall structure. The pre-fabricated wall panel includes a panel member having a thickness and a cavity disposed therein and extending a length thereof with the panel member further having a first side, a second side, a first side end, a second side end, and a first end portion which extends outwardly from the first side end and which is generally recessed relative to the first side and with the panel member being adapted to fasten to a beam and to a floor of a building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Seymour L. M. Beauboeuf
  • Patent number: 6416257
    Abstract: A segmental retaining wall system comprising a plurality of wall blocks. Each wall block comprises an interior face for forming an interior surface of a segmental retaining wall, an exterior face for forming an exterior surface of the segmental retaining wall, first and second sides that extend from said exterior face to said interior face, a top surface, and a bottom surface. In addition, a plurality of wall blocks include apparatus for retaining a reinforcement member to the segmental retaining wall. In one arrangement, this apparatus comprises a channel that is defined by a front wall, a rear wall, and a channel bottom surface. This channel is provided in one of the faces and surfaces, and includes an inwardly extending shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Rainey
  • Patent number: 6385929
    Abstract: A building system comprising interlocking log-like construction members to be used with or without screw-like fasteners. Various real-sized structures such as cabins, play-houses and tool sheds may be formed by perpendicular arrangement of recessed surfaces formed in the log-like members. A fastening system allows semi-permanent attachment of adjacent log-like members using a flanged fastener having an axial threaded recess and an axial threaded extension. When two fasteners are axially aligned, the axial threaded extension of one fastener may be engaged in the axial threaded recess of the other. The fasteners extend through holes in the recessed surfaces of the log-like members and thereby secure adjacent log-like members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Richard J. Englehart
  • Patent number: 6338597
    Abstract: A modular earth retaining wall system comprising a plurality of similarly configured wall blocks that have lock channels and lock flanges that provide a locking mechanism for resisting leaning or toppling of the blocks. A positive retaining mechanism is also provided for attaching reinforcement fabrics to the retaining wall in between mating courses of wall blocks. This mechanism secures the reinforcement fabrics in place and permits the fabrics to extend along the entire contact area between adjacent stacked wall blocks to avoid an aggregate leaning effect. The retaining mechanism includes a retaining bar that is placed on top of the reinforcement fabric within the lock channel. The retaining bar holds the fabric against a wall of the lock channel in response to tensile loads applied to the fabric to prevent it from being pulled out of the retaining wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Rainey
  • Patent number: 6318934
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wall block for use in a segmental retaining wall system. The wall block comprises an interior face for forming an interior surface of a segmental retaining wall, an exterior face for forming an exterior surface of the segmental retaining wall, first and second sides that extend from the exterior face to the interior face, and a top surface and a bottom surface. Further provided in the wall block is a channel defined by a front wall, a rear wall, and an arcuate bottom surface. The channel extends across one of the faces and surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Sven Borgersen, Thomas L. Rainey, John W. Turgeon-Schramm
  • Patent number: 6216410
    Abstract: A wall member with a first side having a tongue extending therefrom, a second side having a headed tongue extending therefrom, a third side having a groove defined therein for receiving a tongue of an adjacent panel, and a fourth side having a groove and cavity defined therein for slide-lock receiving of a headed tongue of an adjacent panel. The wall member may have a surface with a recess defined therein, and ribs extending from the recess. Also, the wall member may have a generally square, trapezoidal, hexagonal, or octagonal planar shape. Apertures may be defined in the tongue and grooves for aligning and receiving a dowel to lock panels together. A first corner section is defined by longitudinally extending the profile of the tongue through the profile of the headed tongue. A second corner section is defined by longitudinally extending the profile of the third side groove through the profile of the headed tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Kurt Evan Haberman
  • Patent number: 6199332
    Abstract: A log facade. A siding facade member is attached to a wall of the structure and extends to a corner thereof. A side of the siding member is formed as a portion of a semi-cylinder, giving the illusion that the siding member is part of a whole log. A corner member is attached to the corner of the structure and includes a round side surface that simulates the cross-section of a whole log. The siding facade member has an end that is received by the corner member, so as to cover an edge thereof, giving the illusion that the siding facade member is interlocked with the corner member without requiring that the edge be specially shaped to fit the round side surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Randall W. Ellson
  • Patent number: 6185878
    Abstract: A utility shed is disclosed comprising modular side panels (30) which are connected together by corner connectors (26) and in-line connectors (28) to form sidewalls. The connectors (26, 28) have an I-beam cross section and comprise U-shaped ends (106, 80) which engage relatively wide channels (62, 64) to securely hold the wall panels together. A door assembly is provided for engaging the corner connectors (26) and include pivot pin members (202) which attached to the vertical channel (114) of corner connectors (26) and allow pivotal door panels (164) to be suspended therefrom. Floor panels (116, 118) and lid panels (154) are provided compatible with the I-beam edge configuration of the side panels (30) such that the lid, floor and sidewalls mutually interlock with high structural integrity. The modularity of the side panels (30) allow for enclosures of larger or smaller size to be created using the same panel componentry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventors: Hoke V. Bullard, III, William F. Croft, Gregory S. Floyd, Jonathan N. Mandell
  • Patent number: 6161357
    Abstract: A brick with, preferably, two or three cylindrical passageways running from top to bottom, a cylindrical passageway running from one end to the opposite end, two linear grooves at one end and two linear projections at the other end which are of identical shape, and annular projections centered around the bores at top and annular grooves centered around the bores at the other side which are of identical shape. These passageways intersect, the linear grooves are slightly larger than the linear projections, and the annular grooves are slightly larger than the annular projections. The linear projections and grooves are spaced apart from the end-to-end cylindrical passageway, run from top to bottom and are preferably designed with a break for ease of assembly. When a group of bricks of are assembled into a wall, they will interlock in two different planes and will include interconnecting passageways in two planes. The bricks of this invention can be reinforced with rods or posts or filled with concrete or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Armin J. Altemus
  • Patent number: 6151853
    Abstract: The present invention provides an outdoor floor construction, having at least first and second floor surface units. The first and second floor surface units are installable adjacent each other and capable of assembly with edges abutting each other. There is at least a first hole in first floor surface unit and a second hole in the second floor surface unit. In addition, there is at least one joint member having means for supporting the floor surface units and which is aligned below the first hole and said second hole. The joint member has at least a first and second latching piece. A first latching piece fits into the first hole and the second latching piece fits into the second hole thereby retaining the first and second floor surface units with respect to one another. Wall units may also be installed along the outer edge of the floor using similar construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Hiroshi Fukunaga
  • Patent number: 6134853
    Abstract: An insulated building block system for use in building walls and other structures. Each full block has sidewalls and endwalls with a generally open interior and flat upper and lower surfaces. Two vertical ridges are provided along the interior of one sidewall, with a protrusion extending above the upper surface. The ridges are located such that an upper block arranged in staggered relationship to a block in a lower course will interlock with the lower block. Recesses are provided in the interior endwall surfaces to retain a thermal insulation panel against the interior sidewall surface opposite the ridges. Half blocks are also provided to fill spaces in wall end surfaces between staggered full blocks. The half blocks have open interiors for placement of insulation panels and include ridges for interlocking with protrusions on adjacent full blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Juan Haener
  • Patent number: 6089793
    Abstract: A modular earth retaining wall system comprising a plurality of similarly configured wall blocks that have lock channels and lock flanges that provide a locking mechanism for resisting leaning or toppling of the blocks. A positive retaining mechanism is also provided for attaching reinforcement fabrics to the retaining wall in between mating courses of wall blocks. This mechanism secures the reinforcement fabrics in place and permits the fabrics to extend along the entire contact area between adjacent stacked wall blocks to avoid an aggregate leaning effect. The retaining mechanism includes a retaining bar that is placed on top of the reinforcement fabric within the lock channel. The retaining bar holds the fabric against a wall of the lock channel in response to tensile loads applied to the fabric to prevent it from being pulled out of the retaining wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Rainey
  • 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: RE39922
    Abstract: A segmental retaining wall system comprising a plurality of wall blocks. Each wall block comprises an interior face for forming an interior surface of a segmental retaining wall, an exterior face for forming an exterior surface of the segmental retaining wall, first and second sides that extend from said exterior face to said interior face, a top surface, and a bottom surface. In addition, a plurality of wall blocks include apparatus for retaining a reinforcement member to the segmental retaining wall. In one arrangement, this apparatus comprises a channel that is defined by a front wall, a rear wall, and a channel bottom surface. This channel is provided in one of the faces and surfaces, and includes an inwardly extending shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Rainey