Coplanar Sustainers; E.g., Joist To Wall (see 52/702) Patents (Class 52/289)
  • Patent number: 11686063
    Abstract: An interlocking blocking system includes a plurality of interlocking blocks. Each of the interlocking blocks includes a tapered opening, a protruding bottom, and a hollow tapered inside. The tapered opening is through a top surface of the interlocking block. The protruding bottom extends beyond a bottom surface of the interlocking block. The protruding bottom includes a tapered outer surface, a thickness, and an inner tapered surface. The hollow tapered inside extends from the tapered opening on the top surface and tapers into the inner tapered surface of the protruding bottom. The tapered outer surface of the protruding bottom is shaped and sized to match and fit inside of the tapered opening at the top surface of the interlocking block. Wherein the plurality of interlocking blocks are configured to be stacked onto one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Inventor: Robert Daggett
  • Patent number: 11639769
    Abstract: One embodiment provides a pre fabricated kit for assembling a supporting framework comprising a plurality of customized beams or supports with a connection openings/hole patterns selected from a set of connection hole patterns and using a plurality of generic connectors which fit on the interior of the customized beams or supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Inventor: Jay G. Bianchini
  • Patent number: 11598100
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting roof sheathing, including: (a) a left side member, wherein the left side member includes a length, a top surface, and a bottom surface; (b) a first upright member, wherein the first upright member includes a length, an outer surface, and an inner surface, and wherein the first upright member emanates contiguously and substantially orthogonally from the left side member; (c) a second upright member, wherein the second upright member includes a length, an outer surface, and an inner surface, and wherein the second upright member emanates contiguously from and substantially parallel to the first upright member; and (d) a right side member, wherein the right side member includes a length, a top surface, and a bottom surface, and wherein the right side member emanates contiguously and substantially orthogonally from the second upright member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Inventor: Vicki Lepior
  • Patent number: 11530714
    Abstract: A connector may couple to a non-cylindrical composite tubing having at least two lateral sides disposed in parallel and an open end. The connector may comprise first and second bonding plates adhered to an inner surface of the two lateral sides via an epoxy adhesive uniformly distributed. The first and second bonding plates may each have a distal lateral face defining a plurality of first threaded holes accessible at the open end of the composite tubing. The connector may also comprise an end plate having a plurality of first and second slotted holes disposed substantially in parallel and each aligned with an associating one of the first threaded holes. The connector may also comprise end plate fasteners loosely inserted through the first and second slotted holes and engaged with the first threaded holes. The end plate may also comprise one or more attachment points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Shawn Kerry McGann, Nicholas McGaha
  • Patent number: 11519189
    Abstract: A bracket forms one or more U-channel for receiving a beam that supports a portion of a building. An adjustable structure for supporting a beam includes the bracket and a concrete footer or pier having an anchor bolt, wherein the anchor bolt has one end securely embedded within the concrete and threaded end extending upward from the concrete. A leveling nut is threaded onto the anchor bolt below a base plate of the bracket, a top nut is threaded onto the second end of the anchor bolt above the base plate, and a block is disposed between the concrete footer or pier and the base plate to support the weight of the beam. The adjustable structure enables a person to adjust the elevation of an identified portion of a building that is not level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: TILSON HOME CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gene Leonard
  • Patent number: 11466454
    Abstract: A weight-bearing system for hanging items from the roof structure of a metal building is disclosed. The system includes a purlin with at least one flange, a span aperture in the vertical span of the purlin, a clip that attaches to the purlin using the span aperture, and a fastener on the clip for transferring weight applied to the fastener to the clip and to the vertical span of said purlin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: Advanced Fastener and Assembly Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Alton Craig Hedgepeth
  • Patent number: 11339564
    Abstract: A weight-bearing system for hanging items from the roof structure of a metal building is disclosed. The system includes a purlin with at least one flange, a span aperture in the vertical span of the purlin, a clip that attaches to the purlin using the span aperture, and a fastener on the clip for transferring weight applied to the fastener to the clip and to the vertical span of said purlin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2022
    Assignee: Advanced Fastener and Assembly Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Alton Craig Hedgepeth
  • Patent number: 11293177
    Abstract: A permanent wood foundation wall which includes a frame having a first member, a second member spaced apart from the first member, and two side members. The first member, second member, and two side members each have a front surface and a rear surface that form the front frame surface and the rear frame surface. A cavity is formed between the front frame surface and the rear frame surface of the frame and the first member, second member, and two side members are formed from a wood material including a preservative. Further, the permanent wood foundation wall includes a sheathing board having a first side attached to the rear frame surface of the frame and a second side opposite the first side, a waterproofing membrane applied to the second side of the sheathing board, and a foam layer formed within the cavity of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: IBACOS, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Grisolia
  • Patent number: 11174632
    Abstract: Modular wall panels having a frame of a plurality of frame components and at least one wall sheet affixed to the frame. Each frame component includes an outer surface with at least one aperture configured to receive and retain an insert therein. The apertures are also configured to permit a cable(s) to pass therethrough for running cables and such through the interior of the wall panel. The frame components may have angled ends, straight ends, or a combination thereof to collectively form a frame which may include corners. A wall system includes a plurality of such wall panels connected to one another along the outer surfaces of the frame components of their respective frames. Connectors and spacers may be inserted into the apertures as inserts and bridge between adjacent panels to selectively connect the panels. Caps may be placed in empty apertures to cover the openings for aesthetic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Versare Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Arnon Rosan
  • Patent number: 11085182
    Abstract: Modular wall panels having a frame of a plurality of frame components and at least one wall sheet affixed to the frame. Frame component may have angled ends, straight ends, or a combination thereof. Each end of the frame components may have at least one fastener or at least one corresponding receiver to selectively connect adjacent frame components end on end in forming a frame, including corners. Frames can thus be assembled in the field and are fully customizable. A hub may be utilized with multiple sides having fastener(s) or receiver(s) to interconnect frame components. A wall system includes a plurality of such wall panels connected to one another along the outer surfaces of the frame components of their respective frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: Versare Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Arnon Rosan
  • Patent number: 10975584
    Abstract: A catwalk system having a pair of side trusses formed of a top chord and bottom chord connected by a plurality of vertical posts and diagonal posts. The bottom chords have a plurality of joints formed of a bottom plate, opposing side plates and wing plates that form a pocket. These pockets receive an end of floorbeams which are bolted to the side plates. The bottom plate also includes a wind brace section that receives an end of a diagonal wind brace therein. The fabricated side trusses are shipped to the job site where the catwalk is quickly and easily assembled by aligning a pair of side trusses in parallel space alignment and installing floorbeams in the pockets of opposing joints. To provide additional rigidity diagonal wind braces are installed in a zig-zag formation between diagonally opposite joints. This arrangement provides a quickly assembled catwalk that requires minimal assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: SUKUP MANUFACTURING CO.
    Inventors: David Jay Brownmiller, Dustin Donahue Davis, Andrew Gene Sorensen
  • Patent number: 10941567
    Abstract: A wall construction system including plurality of interlocking concrete blocks. The interlocking blocks include one or more stretcher blocks, corner blocks, and half blocks. The blocks include top and end shear lugs and bottom and end grooves. The bottom grooves accommodate the top shear lugs of blocks in a lower course of stacked blocks. Corner blocks provide a means for creating a corner and turning the direction of a course of blocks by 90 degrees. The interlocking features of the blocks enable dry-stacking in successive courses to construct a wall or multi-wall structure. When stacked end to end in successive rows, the top and end shear lugs of each interlocking block engage complimentary grooves in the underlying, overlying, and adjacent blocks thereby enabling the blocks to rapidly self-align vertically and lock together as they are stacked. The resulting dry-stacked structure exhibits a high lateral resistance to overpressures or transverse loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: E. DILLON & COMPANY
    Inventors: Thomas Harmon Harris, Mike Miller, Mark J. Norden
  • Patent number: 10458116
    Abstract: The invention relates to building elements and building constructions, and more particularly to building systems which utilize compressed blocks made of a fibrous material in conjunction with a framework in order to form building constructions for buildings and structures. The present building element consists of a block 2 made of a fibrous material, and forming elements which are disposed on the surfaces of the block and consist of a pair of frames 3 interconnected by at least one transverse brace 4 to form a single structure. The building element also comprises a forming mesh 5, which is disposed between the fibrous material block 2 and the frames 3, on top of the transverse braces 4 that connect the frames 3; outer and inner walls 6, which are fastened from the outer sides of the frames 3; and membranes 7, which are disposed between the walls 6 and the frames 3. The outer contour of the frames 3 comprises curvilinear jigsaw-like locking elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: LLC “Ecocuber”
    Inventors: Vladimir Pavlovich Krupskij, Andrej Iosifovich Hovratovich, Aleksandr Igorevich Osika
  • Patent number: 9890533
    Abstract: A construction system includes a metallic stud definable in terms of an X, Y, Z coordinate system. The system includes a Z-axis elongate substantially rectangular integral web within a YZ plane, the web having a stability elements along a Z axis line of dependency with a first edge of the web, the elements defining an L-shaped element having a foot occupying a YZ plane substantially parallel to the web. The system also includes a second and opposite Z-axis edge of the web defining a series of trapezoidal cut-outs having openings at a minor base of each trapezoidal cut-out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Lakdas Nanayakkara
  • Patent number: 9879414
    Abstract: Three dimensional structural frames and enclosures and related methods are disclosed herein. In an example embodiment, an enclosure includes a plurality of three dimensional structural frames and opposing wall portions interconnected by the plurality of three dimensional structural frames, where the wall portions include a plurality of uniform wall sections, where the wall sections include a wall panel portion, a top wall portion, and sidewall portions, where the sidewall portions of the plurality of wall sections are joined to form the wall portions, and where the plurality of three dimensional structural frames are attached to the top wall portions of the wall sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: Power Solutions International, Inc.
    Inventors: Constantine Xykis, James Travis Baker, Alex N. Chmidt, Chad Chris Goddeyne, Jon Michael Pomasl, Kristopfer Lee Weiner, Brian Clement Athmer
  • Patent number: 9556610
    Abstract: A base (1a, 1b, 1c) for building wall (10a, 10b, 10c) comprising: a base socle (3a, 3b, 3c) interposed, in position, between a panel (2) of the wall (10a, 10b, 10c) and a foundation slab, a tubular member (5) filled with a mixture (6) including cement and water interposed, in position, between the base socle (3a, 3b, 3c) and the foundation slab, first constraint means (7a, 7c, 8, 9, 11) to rigidly constrain, in position, the base socle (3a, 3b, 3c) to the foundation slab; the planimetric position of the base socle (3a, 3b, 3c) and its distance from the foundation slab being adjustable by means of said first constraint means (7a, 7c, 8, 9, 11), second constraint means (7a, 7b, 7c, 12, 13) to rigidly constrain, in position, said panel (2) to said base socle (3a, 3b, 3c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignees: UNIVERSITA' DEGLI STUDI DI PADOVA
    Inventors: Luca Pozza, Roberto Scotta
  • Patent number: 9404269
    Abstract: An attachment strip for attaching lath to a wall and a system for attaching lath to a wall with increased water resistive characteristics. The attachment strip has protruding teeth on an attachment plate that holds the lath in place, and a mounting plate that secures the lath furring strip against the wall and framing. In addition, since attachment strip, instead of the lath directly, is secured to the sheathing, fewer mounting devices are needed compared to when a lath is directly secured to a sheathing, where substantially more mounting devices would be needed. Thus in this arrangement, fewer penetrations are created when installing the lath. Additional water resistive features, such insulation layers, and a drainage space surrounded by two water resistive barriers, create space that not only increases insulation, but protects the inner layers of a wall from damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Inventor: Todd A. Brady
  • Patent number: 9175469
    Abstract: A self-reinforced masonry block comprises a main body having opposed substantially parallel stacking surfaces and at least one tubular cell defined therethrough from one stacking surface to the other. At least one confining reinforcement is embedded in the main body to surrounding a corresponding cell. Each confining reinforcement extends substantially entirely along the longitudinal length of its corresponding cell and terminates inwardly of the stacking surfaces. The self-reinforced masonry blocks may be used in construction of a grout-filled, vertically reinforced masonry block wall, with the self-reinforced masonry blocks being used for those portions of the wall where the grouted cells are prone to crushing due to high levels of compressive stress, and conventional unreinforced masonry blocks being used for other portions of the wall. A method for making the self-reinforced masonry blocks is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: MCMASTER UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Hamid Toopchinezhad, Robert Drysdale, Michael Tait
  • Patent number: 9045892
    Abstract: A header bracket for connecting a deck ledger board to the side of a house and thus connecting the deck to the house, especially a brick veneer house. The bracket is first connected to a house rim board or the concrete foundation. The bracket is configured to extend through the outside covering of the house, whether the covering be siding, stucco, brick veneer or some other covering. The deck ledger board is attached to the end of the bracket opposite of the end which is connected to the house. The deck is now built as normal by first connecting deck joists which are supported at one end by the ledger board and at the opposite end by posts. The length of the bracket is adjustable to provide for different thicknesses of siding or brick. The header bracket is capable of being assembled in either a U-shaped or a Z-shaped configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Inventors: M. Clay Smith, Paul J. Spalding
  • Patent number: 9038338
    Abstract: The present invention provides in one aspect for a bracket for use with insulated forms for concrete walls. The bracket has an attachment plate for overlying the exterior of the insulated form to provide for a means of attaching the header or rim joist to the bracket. The bracket is provided an anchoring plate extending from the attaching plate for insertion into the interior of the insulated form. The present invention also provides for a method of attaching a header or rim joist to a concrete wall formed using insulated forms. The method involves cutting a vertical slot in the insulated form and inserting a bracket into the slot. The bracket has an attachment plate for overlying the exterior surface of the insulated form and an anchoring plate extending from the attachment plate through the slot into the interior of the insulated form. Concrete is poured into the form and allowed to set, after which the header or rim joist is attached to the brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Bailey Metal Products Limited
    Inventor: John Rice
  • Patent number: 8978329
    Abstract: A hanger for a cementitious building unit including: a first hanger component having: a body; and at least one first interlocking portion arranged in (a) predetermined position(s) on the body of the first hanger component a second hanger component including: a body; at least two second interlocking portions arranged in (a) predetermined position(s) on the body of the second hanger component; and an overhanging portion adapted to abut a building support surface wherein the first interlocking portions and second interlocking portions are complimentary to each other and provide for vertical height adjustment of the first hanger component in relation to the second hanger component; and the first hanger component also has at least one first connecting portion for a tension tie for anchorage within the cementitious building unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Stahlton Engineered Concrete
    Inventors: David John Edkins, Stuart Grant Ashby
  • Patent number: 8966857
    Abstract: A saddle hanger for connecting at least one bracing member to a truss chord includes a base having a first end portion for receiving a bracing member and an adjacent portion for receiving a truss chord. A projecting element extends from a transverse edge of the base portion, and has a width narrower than the transverse dimension of the hanger base. A plurality of flanges extends upward from side edges of the base and defines with the base a channel for receiving one of the truss chord and bracing member. The saddle hanger can be formed from a stamped metal blank, with portions of the saddle hanger being nested in side-by-side relation to minimize the amount of material used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Pope, Todd Grevious
  • Patent number: 8959849
    Abstract: A metal deck kit for erecting a metal deck appurtenant a residential structure. The kit includes a plurality of metal components including support posts, girders, joists, bridging elements, rim tracks, ledgers, along with various connectors, stiffeners, adapters, and brackets for connecting the components together to form a metal deck. Vibration or shock absorbing pads are included for use between various components to reduce shock and vibration transmission through portions of the metal deck. A method of forming a metal deck using these components is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. DiGirolamo, Charles DiGirolamo
  • Patent number: 8959844
    Abstract: A deck for positioning adjacent a structure may include a foundation configured for positioning relatively proximate to the structure, a frame extending from the foundation, and a deck system arranged about and supported by the frame, wherein the deck is adapted for positioning adjacent the structure and for cantilevering away from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Mike Ingalls
  • Patent number: 8955286
    Abstract: A bracket system kit for assembling playground equipment may include some or all of a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets can secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets can attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. Horizontal frame brackets can interconnect with vertical frame brackets. Swing brackets can fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The two ladder brackets can connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Backyard Swing-N-Slide Play Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Gadd, Giovanni Piccione
  • Patent number: 8943776
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a steel joist assembly for use in association with a concrete slab and being adapted to form a composite steel joist including a steel joist and a pair of end connectors. The steel joist has a top portion with a generally planar top surface and a planar web generally orthogonal to the generally planar top surface. An end connector is attached at each end of the steel joist. Each end connector has a strut and a diagonal member. The strut has a generally planar bottom surface which is attached to a portion of the generally planar top surface of the steel joist and the diagonal member is attached at one end thereof to the strut and at the other end thereof to a portion of the planar web of the steel joist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Ispan Systems LP
    Inventors: Michael R. Strickland, Douglas M. Fox, Richard Wilson Strickland
  • Patent number: 8898993
    Abstract: A bracket for a building that includes a first building member, a masonry veneer disposed exteriorly of the first building member, and a second building member disposed exteriorly of the masonry veneer. The bracket includes a bracket body having a first portion for being coupled to the first building member and a second outwardly extending portion having a length sufficient to extend to at least about an exterior surface of the masonry veneer. A connector member extends through the bracket member, and at least partially through each of the first and second building members. A connector support extends through the bracket body and includes a sleeve having a passageway for receiving and supporting the connector member, wherein the bracket body and connector support are configured to distribute a load borne by the connector member on the masonry veneer over an area of the bracket body greater than the area of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Bradley Rodgers
  • Patent number: 8899900
    Abstract: A construction system for building a home independently is provided that assists a sole home builder so that a modern home can be built without the use of heavy machinery or reliance on professionals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Harvey Hiatt
  • Publication number: 20140290163
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a load supporting blocking member for use in a metal stud wall having a plurality of parallel spaced apart metal studs, each of the studs having an aligned opening and horizontal bridging member passing through the aligned openings and tying the studs together. The load supporting blocking member comprises a base for overlying and being attached to the bridging member and an upstanding flange extending from one edge of the base the depth of the base being sufficient to overly the bridging member and position the upstanding flange in line with the edges of the studs in the metal stud wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: Bailey Metal Products Limited
    Inventor: John RICE
  • Patent number: 8769898
    Abstract: A facade/wall system comprises a number of modules. Each module comprises a plurality of insulating panels which have connection means on opposite sides thereof for interengaging the panels together at joints between the panels. Reinforcing elements in the form of top hat sections bridge the joints between adjacent panels. The top hat reinforcement elements used to interconnect adjacent panels in a module ensure that the composite panels act together as monolithic structure that creates a diaphragm while providing a surface to which cladding can be fixed and also providing a cavity between the panels and the cladding attached to the modules. They stiffen the panels and thereby enhance resistance to deflection. The system is cost effective and relatively easy and quick to install.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Kingspan Research and Developments Limited
    Inventors: James Carolan, Gregory Flynn
  • Patent number: 8739489
    Abstract: A decking system comprises a ledger board for mounting on an upright supporting surface, a beam, a plurality of joists for spanning between the ledger board and the beam, and a plurality of deck boards for spanning across the joists in which all of the components can be mounted to one another by interlocking engagement of various connectors so that no additional fasteners are required for assembly. The components are formed of extruded and molded materials which do not require any maintenance. A railing system and a stair system are also provided which similarly connect by interlocking engagement of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: SIGMA DEK Ltd.
    Inventors: Tory Weber, Brian Boettger, Pierre Harvey, Stephan Lachevrotiere, David Croteau, Francois Parenteau, Paul Girouard, Ken Crockett, Derrick Resler, Gregg Westergard
  • Patent number: 8720155
    Abstract: A system and method used in residential and commercial construction of floors, ceilings and roofs, where a beam and hanger together support a joist/rafter to which sheathing is applied. Hanger design features include bendable stiffeners that provide pinching structural support for opposing sides of an engineered wood I-joist web after the joist/rafter is seated into the bridge of the hanger, providing a superior structural interface connection, less material cost, and no contact between the hanger and sheathing which reduces unwanted noise in finished construction. Additional strengthening of the structural/load-bearing interface between the joist/rafter and beam may include selected horizontally-extending dato, groove, cut, or other detail formed in the support beams during their manufacture/milling and rearwardly-extending protections on the hanger configured to engage the detail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Glenn Robell
  • Patent number: 8707635
    Abstract: A multi-heel connector for securing a rafter, a ceiling joist and blocking, and supporting building roof structural members in a single bracket connection to withstand enhanced load forces such as hurricane forces. The multi-heel connector combines a loop portion for securing a joist, a rafter contact surface adjacent the loop portion, having a slope which provides for a selected, predetermined roof pitch, mounting tabs for securing the multi-heel connector to a top wall plate, tabs to fasten blocking and a tie down for securing the multi-heel connector to exterior wall stud. The multi-heel connector is adaptable for accommodating a riser key to adjust the rafter contact surface pitch, and a joist spacer to accommodate a joist having a cross-section smaller than the multi-heel connector loop portion cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Anthony J. Calini
  • Patent number: 8661754
    Abstract: A system and method of constructing a composite floor system having increased shear transfer between a slab and support members of the system is described. The composite floor system may include any combination of the following elements: a support member, a reinforcing member, a transfer member, a decking material, a fastener, and/or a slab. The transfer member may be connected to the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: New Jersey Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Cheng-Tzu Thomas Hsu, Sun Punurai, Pedro R. Munoz
  • Patent number: 8621798
    Abstract: A construction insulating panel includes a main body formed of a first polymer, and a mounting structure formed of a second polymer. The mounting structure is at least partially disposed within the main body and has cross members adapted to fasten mounting structure and thereby the insulating panel to a building structure under compressive loading to reduce formation of cold bridges through the insulation panel when an exterior finish material is fastened to the insulating panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Lionel E. Dayton
  • Patent number: 8615942
    Abstract: An improved metal or steel header frame is provided for use in a metal framed building wall or the like, wherein the header frame is adapted for quick and easy installation to span a framed opening such as a door or window opening in the building wall. The improved header frame includes a pair of metal bracket clips adapted for screw-on and/or bolt-on attachment to a pair of jamb studs disposed at opposite sides of the door or window opening. These bracket clips define support lands for vertically supporting opposite ends of an elongated header stud which can be quickly and easily seated thereon to span the door or window opening, and attached thereto by one or more suitable fasteners such as screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Lafreniere Construction Concepts, LLC
    Inventor: Dennis P. Lafreniere
  • Patent number: 8615935
    Abstract: A multi-heel connector for securing a rafter, a ceiling joist, and supporting building roof structural members in a single bracket connection to withstand enhanced load forces such as hurricane forces. The multi-heel connector combines a loop portion for securing a joist, a rafter contact surface adjacent the loop portion, having a slope which provides for a selected, predetermined roof pitch, mounting tabs for securing the multi-heel connector to a top wall plate, and a tie down for securing the multi-heel connector to exterior wall stud. The multi-heel connector is adaptable for accommodating a riser key to adjust the rafter contact surface pitch, and a joist spacer to accommodate a joist having a cross-section smaller than the multi-heel connector loop portion cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony J. Calini
  • Patent number: 8490340
    Abstract: The end of a transversely extending beam mates to a wall structure by a self-releasing structural assembly. It has a first portion anchored to the wall. A second, fireproof and non-thermally degradable, portion sticks out from the wall. It defines a seat for receiving vertical shear loads from the beam. The assembly also includes a thermally degradable member keyed to the second portion. Both portions have slots for beam end fasteners. The beam fasteners squeeze the end of the beam, the support bracket seat, and the consumable, thermally degradable member in compression. When exposed to heat or flame the consumable, thermally degradable member softens, releasing the tension in the beam end fasteners, and releasing the compression in the parts. The end of the beam can then move away from the wall. The consumable member can be inspected, replaced, and the beam fasteners re-tensioned, without unseating the beam end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Hatzinikolas
  • Patent number: 8490341
    Abstract: The end of a beam is joined to a wall structure by a self-releasing structural assembly. The self-releasing structural assembly has a first portion that is anchored to the wall. A second portion sticks out from the wall. This portion is fireproof and non-thermally degradable. It defines a seat for receiving the beam end. The assembly also includes a thermally degradable member mounted to the second portion. In normal use the beam fasteners squeeze the end of the beam, the support bracket seat, and the consumable, thermally degradable member in compression. When exposed to heat or flame the consumable, thermally degradable member softens, releasing the compression in the structural sandwich of parts. The end of the beam is then able to translate away from the wall structure. The consumable member can be inspected, replaced if necessary, and the beam fasteners re-tensioned, without removing the beam end from the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Hatzinikolas
  • Patent number: 8458977
    Abstract: A wall brace support for an acoustical ceiling tee having a bulb includes an elongated main portion having two ends; a wall attachment tab at one of the ends, the tab being operable to abut the wall and receive at least one fastener therethrough to fasten the tab to the wall; and an acoustical ceiling tee attachment structure at the other end, the structure being operable to receive at least one fastener therethrough to fasten the structure to the bulb at a location spaced away from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: USG Interiors, LLC
    Inventors: Peder Gulbrandsen, Abraham M. Underkofler, Mark R. Paulsen, James J. Lehane, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8443569
    Abstract: An improved connector and connection joining a plurality of supported structural members, preferably four roof trusses or rafters to a supporting structural member, preferably a header or girder truss. The connector is formed with a plurality of seat members, preferably four, that are joined to back member sections at angular junctures stiffened by shallow embossments. Variations can have three or five seat members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley K. Sias
  • Patent number: 8387333
    Abstract: A structural support device for supporting a joist relative to a support, wherein the joist has a web and a bottom, may include a hanger assembly having a seat configured for resting the bottom of the joist thereon, a side portion extending therefrom, and a securing portion extending from the side portion for securing the device to the support, and a web brace assembly operably extending from the hanger assembly at a junction and configured for articulation between a pre-adjusted position and an adjusted position to adjustably engage and align with the web of the joist. A method of making and using are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Brekke
  • Patent number: 8365484
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: The Foley Group, LLC
    Inventor: Robert P. Foley
  • Patent number: 8322096
    Abstract: A fire-resistant assembly may be attached to a wall frame assembly of a building and configured to transfer loads from a load-bearing assembly into the wall frame assembly. The assembly provides for a desired amount of fire resistance by virtue of a fire-resistant filler and provides for a desired amount of structural capacity by virtue structural sheets that form a cavity for the filler. In addition, a load-limited connector may be coupled to the assembly to transfer loads from the load-bearing assembly up to a desired load threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Visser
  • Patent number: 8250827
    Abstract: A joist hanger used to attach a joist to a support member or header designed to minimize the noise caused by the rubbing of the members of the connection, during loading. The joist hanger includes a seat and a pair of side walls extending upwardly in spaced relationship therefrom to receive the end portion of an joist. The bottom of the joist rests on the seat, and the side faces of the joist extend upwardly therefrom in spaced relationship from the side walls of the hanger. Inwardly projecting guides formed in the side walls of the hanger, hold the joist at selected points, maintaining the spaced relationship between the sides walls of the hanger and the side faces of the joist. The inwardly projecting guides can be formed with embossed portions connected to the side walls of the joist. The joist hanger is also formed with back flanges and top flanges that are relatively narrow compared to the back flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jin-Jie Lin, Thomas G. Evans, Tawn Simons, Caleb Knudson, Paul Oellerich
  • Patent number: 8245480
    Abstract: A joist support system including a joist having a joist seat at least at one end, each joist seat having a first portion fastened to an upper chord of the joist and a second portion adapted to engage a support structure and support the joist and a bearing load, and a second steel plate welded to the main steel plate extending downwardly from the main steel plate between the first and second portions, the second steel plate fastened with an upward support portion to an end portion of the joist extending inwardly adapted to resist transfer load on the joist seat, and a support structure adapted to support the one end of the joist by a portion of the joist seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Nucor Corporation
    Inventors: Glenn Wayne Studebaker, David Lee Samuelson, Lionel Edward Dayton
  • Patent number: 8225575
    Abstract: A bracket system for assembling playground equipment includes a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. The at least two horizontal frame brackets fix at least one horizontal frame beam to the at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at the second points; the horizontal frame brackets and the vertical frame brackets interconnect. The swing bracket fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The at least two ladder brackets connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: PlayCore Wisconsin, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Gadd, Giovanni Piccione
  • Patent number: 8209924
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: The Foley Group, LLC
    Inventor: Robert P. Foley
  • Patent number: 8209925
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: The Foley Group, LLC
    Inventor: Robert P. Foley
  • Patent number: 8186122
    Abstract: A support structure is provided for supporting the one end of a floor joist using a flush joist seat. The flush joist seat generally includes a generally horizontal plate having a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion is welded to the top of the floor joist and the third portion rests on the top of the support structure. The second portion is located beyond the end of the floor joist, between the first portion and the second portion. A generally vertical plate extends downward from the second portion of the generally horizontal plate and is welded to a portion of the end of the floor joist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventors: Glenn Wayne Studebaker, David Lee Samuelson, Lionel Edward Dayton