Forming Edging For Translucent Panel Patents (Class 52/308)
  • Patent number: 6665996
    Abstract: A view panel for a raised floor system is described which is constructed by an outer rigid frame, an upper plate of a tempered glass panel and a lower plate of an apertured steel panel for providing structural support of the view panel. The invention further describes a raised floor system that utilizes such view panels installed in floor panels in a semiconductor fabrication environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd
    Inventor: Chi-Chen Chang
  • Publication number: 20030208975
    Abstract: A vented hollow translucent/transparent plastic block for use in wall construction includes a single aperture disposed along the lower edge of the plastic block for alleviating pressure within the plastic block and for discharging any condensation within the plastic block that may occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: Samuel R. Regina
  • Patent number: 6586077
    Abstract: A sheet of glass having impressed therein a grid pattern which simulates a stacked series of glass blocks joined by mortar at their joints, in which the grid pattern is confined to certain tolerances so that the sheet is temperable and at the same time creates the desired glass block appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventor: James T. Pettis
  • Patent number: 6553733
    Abstract: Blocks with internal capsules having superior thermal resistance, solar control qualities, projectile-resistant properties and/or sound-dampening properties are described. The blocks are comprised of a structural exterior that encompasses a capsule. The capsule may be segmented into chambers with dividers. The capsules may be designed to provide various benefits including, but not limited to, improved insulating characteristics, increased projectile resistance, and/or a range of visual, thermal and strength characteristics. Various types of blocks with internal capsules and assembled panels of block with internal capsules are disclosed, along with methods of manufacturing and use of the blocks and panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Pittsburgh Corning Corporation
    Inventors: Donald E. Hock, John T. Verch
  • Publication number: 20030005655
    Abstract: A glass block structure supported by a flexible phenolic resin framework is disclosed. The phenolic resin framework is bonded to the individual glass blocks with an adhesive substance that is placed so as to lie at or near the corners of the blocks. The phenolic resin that makes up the supporting framework may advantageously be formed in a pultrusion process wherein the resin is embedded with glass-like strands. Further heat-tolerance and adhesion may be obtained from the use of a high-heat tolerant putty applied between the phenolic resin and the glass blocks. The flexibility of the phenolic resin allows the block structure to be preassembled and then transported to an installation site as a single, ready-to-install unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Steven G. LeMert
  • Patent number: 6427399
    Abstract: A block window system includes an array of glass or acrylic blocks, a window frame and a variable-dimensioned border frame that positions the array within the window frame. The border frame includes a body that has a first end that is shaped to mate with the array of blocks, and a second end that mates with the window frame, which is a desired size or is sized to fit in a given opening. The height or width of any or all of the sides, the top and the bottom sections of the border frame are adjusted by selecting the length of the body of the corresponding section of the border frame, such that the border frame extends between the interior dimensions of the window frame and the exterior dimensions of the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Hy-Lite Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Ross, Charlene Crooks, Karl Hatrak
  • Publication number: 20020050108
    Abstract: A clamp fixture to fasten glass plates that are clamped between an inner clamp element and an external clamp element, whereby a clamp bolt is supported elastically, to a limited extent, on the inner clamp element by means of a bush. The invention teaches that the inner clamp element, on the side facing the substructure, has a cylindrical receptacle space to hold the bearing that supports the clamp bolt in the axial direction, whereby the bearing is realized optionally in the form of a fixed bearing, in the form of a friction bearing that intersects the center longitudinal axis of the clamp bolt, or in the form of a movable bearing for the four-point bearing of a glass plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: Ralf Kreyenborg, Dirk Schulte
  • Patent number: 6379771
    Abstract: The invention discloses a sheet-like structure material and its manufacturing method. The sheet-like structure material has the advantages that impact imposed on its edge ends can be adsorbed to protect its adherends, and that the labor required for installing it and edge ends treatment can be significantly saved. The structure material comprises an outer peripheral structure which has elasticity and is integrally formed at the outer periphery of a sheet-like composite body comprising two glass sheets and an intermediate resin layer disposed between the glass sheets. The outer peripheral structure is formed from a resinous material used for forming the intermediate resin layer, by allowing the material to ooze from between the glass sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Kan'ichi Sato, Masayuki Oishi
  • Publication number: 20020043046
    Abstract: A double glazing unit has a pair of glass sheets 1, 2, with a frit seal 3 therebetween, the frit seal being fused to both sheets and extending around the periphery of the unit. The frit seal is fused by irradiation with light 4 from a laser. Typically, the frit is of brown glass, whereby it readily absorbs heat on laser irradiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventors: Anthony J. Cooper, Ingemar V. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 6358853
    Abstract: A ceria based abrasive is used in a chemical mechanical polishing operation at low polish pressure, and a predetermined pH range, to achieve high polish rates and good uniformity when planarizing layers formed from low dielectric constant materials, including but not limited to polymers. The distribution of ceria particle sizes in an exemplary slurry is bimodal and controlled. In a particular embodiment a polishing abrasive containing a controlled distribution of ceria particle sizes is used in a CMP polisher apparatus with a polishing pressure of approximately 3 psi and a pH of approximately 10.6 to planarize polymer films.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Cadien, Allen D. Feller, Mark Buehler, Paul Fischer
  • Publication number: 20010015037
    Abstract: A multi-sheet glazing unit includes a spacer frame having a pair of legs joined to a base to provide a U-shaped cross-section. A sheet e.g. glass sheet is secured by a moisture-impervious adhesive to outer surface of each of the legs of the spacer frame. A plurality of sheet retaining members in a spaced relationship to one another are maintained on the legs of the spacer frame between the glass sheets and spaced from the base. The sheet retaining members each have a groove for receiving edge of a sheet e.g. glass sheet to secure the sheet between the outer sheets. The sheet retaining member includes a first part having a vertical stop and a non-vertical platform e.g. horizontal platform and an elongated securing member detachably secured on the horizontal platform spaced from the vertical stop to form the groove. A method for making the unit is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Albert E. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20010002525
    Abstract: A glass block window assembly has a window frame formed from a window frame extrusion, a window sash formed from a window sash extrusion, and spaced separation strips holding glass blocks within the sash. The window sash extrusion has spaced connectors projecting laterally from the extrusion and securing opposite ends of the separation strips to opposite sides of the window sash. The sash is hinged to the window frame, constraining the sash to movement to an acute opening angle further restricting the sash to movement to an acute opening angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Publication date: June 7, 2001
    Inventor: Randolf Andrew Wirkus
  • Patent number: 6223489
    Abstract: A construction block cap is used to cap the outer periphery of a construction block structure in order to permit the structure to be easily drop glazed into a frame. The construction block cap has a base member with a pair of flanges extending along and upwardly therefrom. A flange structure extends along and upwardly from the base member between the pair of flanges. The flange structure can be a single flange or a pair of flanges. The pair of flanges and the flange structure form a pair of parallel inner channels that receive the spacing flanges of the construction blocks used to make the construction block structure while the pair of flanges form a pair of outer channels that receive the cut edges of the cut faces of a construction block. Optional lips on the various flanges help hold the construction blocks in place and seal the structure within the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Myles A. Fisher
  • Patent number: 6185883
    Abstract: A window with decorative accessories for providing a decorative structure while increasing energy efficiency. The window with decorative accessories includes a window frame that has a pair of spaced apart lateral members and upper and lower members extending between the lateral members. Spaced apart first and second panes of glass are mounted in the window frame. A third pane of glass has a plurality of decorative accessories thereon. The third pane is disposed between the first and second panes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Noel Howard
  • Patent number: 6026621
    Abstract: A muntin for attachment to a construction block structure is constructed of a tubular member having a top and a bottom. A channel extends along the length of the bottom. At least one prong, having a generally triangular head extends outwardly from the channel. The muntin is placed into a grout groove of the construction block structure such that the prong and head are received within the grout and the grout seeps into the channel. Once the grout dries, the muntin is securely held to the construction block structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Myles A. Fisher
  • Patent number: 5992111
    Abstract: A glass block construction kit comprises a peripheral frame with inwardly directed lips on its opposite sides and an interior frame having an outer wall held by the lips on the peripheral frame. The peripheral frame is made from a plastic material such as vinyl and the like while the interior frame is made of a more rigid material. The interior frame also includes a plurality of frame members which form glass block pockets. Glass block retainers are mounted on both sides of each frame member. These retainers are again made of plastic, preferably the same material used in forming the peripheral frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Round Top Window Products Inc.
    Inventor: Dianne Waterhouse
  • Patent number: 5987829
    Abstract: A construction block comprises parallel faces joined by four side edges. Two side edges have outer spacing flanges while the other two sides have inner spacing flanges. Hook receptacles are located on the lower portion of the inner spacing flanges and face away each other, while corresponding hooks are located along the outer spacing flanges and are adapted to be received within a corresponding hook receptacle when the a construction block is interconnected with the another of the construction block. A structural bar is positionable within the recess of the inner spacing flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Myles A. Fisher
  • Patent number: 5985445
    Abstract: Antinoise and antifragmentation plates based on acrylic polymers employing a polymeric continuous film placed inside the plate, wherein the film is characterized by an elastic modulus lower than the one of PMMA of at least 30%, and/or elongtion at break higher than at least 40%, measured by the test according to ISO 527 standard for plates or for films.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Atohaas Holding C.V.
    Inventors: Alberto Luca Stasi, Marco Binaghi, Donato Stanco
  • Patent number: 5970673
    Abstract: A construction block system for constructing construction block structures comprises a first construction block, having a pair of parallel faces joined by four side edges, and a second construction block having a pair of parallel faces joined by four side edges. A first set of spacing flanges extend about the four sides of the first construction block while a second set of spacing flanges extend about the four side edges of the second construction block. Hook receptacles are located along the first set of spacing flanges, the second set of spacing flanges or both, while corresponding hooks are located along the second set of spacing flanges, the first set of spacing flanges, or both and are adapted to be received within a corresponding hook receptacle when the first construction block is interconnected with the second construction block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Myles A. Fisher
  • Patent number: 5910086
    Abstract: A partition structure is comprised of a plurality of interconnected construction blocks. The partition structure can be formed in any size and shape including, triangular, rectangular, circular, semi-circular, trapezoidal, etc., by cutting away one or more outer edges of the structure. The partition structure can serve as the pane for a window or door frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventor: Myles Fisher
  • Patent number: 5907937
    Abstract: An interstitial junction spacer for positioning and supporting a plurality of blocks in a matrix for a wall construction, the blocks being of the type having two parallel rectangular side faces and four adjoining end faces orthogonally adjoining the corresponding edges of the side faces and the ends of each other contiguously to form a continuous circumferential edge of the block, the profile of the circumferential edge being substantially concave, whereby the corresponding edges of the side faces define an outer cusp along the opposing sides of each said end face; said spacer comprising a pair of intersecting and integral spacer means, each spacer means having a pair of coplanar edge members of a prescribed thickness adapted to repose in juxtaposition with the outer cusps of the circumferential edge of a said block along the adjoining end of the end face of the block to space the same from another block or surface disposed adjacent to said block, and an interconnecting web portion to integrally interconnect
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignees: W. Loftus & Co. Pty Ltd., Glass Block Constructions
    Inventors: Roy Loftus, William Hugh Burke
  • Patent number: 5904020
    Abstract: A translucent construction block assembly, e.g. for a window or wall panel of non-standard size and/or shape, has a frame extending around an array of hollow translucent construction blocks assembled in horizontal and vertical juxtaposition, the blocks each having front and rear walls connected by a peripheral wall and the array having a periphery engaged by the frame so that the blocks are thereby retained in position. The blocks include partial blocks having openings interrupting the peripheral walls thereof, the partial blocks being juxtaposed with the openings at the periphery of the array. A seal of resilient material interposed between the array and the frame extends between the front and rear walls and closes the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Hy-Lite, Inc.
    Inventors: Marlon Carlson, Julian Carlson
  • Patent number: 5884441
    Abstract: An art glass display formed primarily of a framework, at least one protective sheet of a translucent material adjacent the framework, and a peripheral border in contact with a portion of the framework and the translucent material. The framework is comprised of a plurality of cames and connectors in interconnected relationship. The cames are formed having a first sidewall portion, a second sidewall portion, and a pair of grooves extending the length of each came intermediate the first sidewall portion and the second sidewall portion, with the grooves being on opposite sides of the came. The connectors are formed having a center section, and a plurality of arms. The center section has a notch formed therein. The framework has retained therein at least one pane of glass, each pane of glass being approximately 3.1 mm (1/8") thick and having a bevelled edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Inventors: James L. Monroe, Jr., Michael D. Monroe, Jeffrey J. Menhart
  • Patent number: 5845443
    Abstract: A glass block wall 10 shown partially completed and employing a plurality of glass blocks 11 forming the wall. The frame elements 12 are made from milled compressed fibrous cement, are positioned between the blocks and are secured in place at their ends using anchor brackets 13 screwed or otherwise fastened to a wall or frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventors: Randolf Andrew Wirkus, Michelle Ann Wirkus
  • Patent number: 5806263
    Abstract: A connector strip is disclosed for assembling a building wall of glass blocks. The strip includes a longitudinal center section having a pair of oppositely disposed and longitudinally extending grooves dimensioned to receive a centrally located ridge extending peripherally around the outer edge surfaces of a molded building block to which the strip is to be mounted. U-shaped channels extend along the center groove for receiving wiring such as fiber optics for illuminating the glass block wall. Peripheral members and secondary walls serve to strengthen the connector strip, engage marginal edge surfaces of glass blocks and facilitate cement bonding between the connector strip and the adjacent blocks. A fastener member also is provided for coupling together adjacently positioned connector strips to form a rigid framework for assembling successive rows of blocks into a wall assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: William J. Coleman
  • Patent number: 5791108
    Abstract: Partition members including frame members forming an open-cell frame structure for housing glass bricks. Beads are shaped to fit the edges of the frame members around the cell openings, and overlap the edges of the glass bricks to hold them in their respective cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Conti
  • Patent number: 5778620
    Abstract: A construction block comprises parallel faces joined by four side edges. Two side edges have outer spacing flanges while the other two side edges have inner spacing flanges. The inner flanges are received within a recess defined by the outer flanges. Hook receptacles located on the lower portion of the outer spacing flanges receive hooks located along the length of the inner spacing flanges when two blocks are interconnected, holding the two blocks firmly to each other. The interfacing flanges provide spacing support and integrity and a location for flange to flange ultrasonic spot welding. A structural bar is positionable within the recess of the inner spacing flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Myles Fisher
  • Patent number: 5740646
    Abstract: A glass brick wall is provided including a plurality of generally rectangular glass bricks layed in horizontal runs between spaced elongated vertically extending support frame members. The wall has horizontally extending elongated separation stripe between adjacent horizontal runs. The vertical support frame members present a face incorporating vertically spaced apertures receiving the separation strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventors: Randolf Andrew Wirkus, Michelle Ann Wirkus
  • Patent number: 5715636
    Abstract: A light transmitting roof, skylight or interior floor/ceiling includes plural panels each having a light transmitting plate assembly formed of a glass plate laminated to a plastic plate having a lower thermal conductivity or a glass plate supported on a grid of glass blocks. The glass and plastic plates are secured together by a silicone adhesive disposed in a peripheral ledge or channel formed in one of the plate members. A perimeter frame is secured to the plate assembly, is inset from the side edges of the plate assembly and may include a grid of divider members for aesthetic and light transmitting purposes or for supporting the glass blocks. The perimeter frame is secured to the laminated plate assembly by angle members and the frame is secured to a substructure such as a grid of beams by respective angle members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Innovative Building Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5716694
    Abstract: A pane of glass composed of at least two sheets of glass 2,3 and of at least one insert layer 7. The surface-area of one of the sheets of glass is smaller than that of the other sheet, the edges of the two sheets lying flush at least at part of the periphery and the edge of the sheet of glass having the smaller surface-area not overhanging the large sheet of glass at any point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Saint Gobain Vitrage
    Inventor: Francois Jacquemet
  • Patent number: 5704177
    Abstract: A glass block wall 10 having a curved section 11 between a straight block 12 and a straight bull nosed end block 13 employs a lower run of blocks 14 and an upper run of blocks 15 shown in phantom to expose an arrangement 16 of separation means between the runs of blocks. The curved section 11 includes a number of curved separation plates 19, 20 and 21 each formed to the shape of an upper end face of the respective blocks. A corner block 22 has a corresponding plate 21 whereas the plates 19 and 20 are formed to the shape of bend blocks 23 and 24, forming a compound curve in the curved section 11.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventors: Randolf Andrew Wirkus, Michelle Wirkus
  • Patent number: 5687521
    Abstract: A translucent block assembly, for use in a decorative wall, window or the like in a building, has a connector extrusion for connecting juxtaposed translucent blocks in an opening of a frame having a recess extending around the opening. The connector extrusion has an alignment projection fitting snugly into gaps in the peripheries of the blocks for aligning the blocks and abutment faces for abutment with the blocks, and also has outwardly facing side faces engaging snugly in the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignees: Carlson Ventures, Inc., Fairmount Ventures
    Inventors: Marlon Carlson, Julian Carlson
  • Patent number: 5667897
    Abstract: This invention relates to first and second plate glass templates each having an outer smooth major surface and an inner rough major surface, only each of the major outer smooth surfaces being peripherally bounded by a chamfer formed at the cut edge. In this invention, the first and second templates are joined together with the rough surfaces in facing retention. The first and second plate glass templates may be used in forming a window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Amin Hamid Hashemi, David Norman Heilman
  • Patent number: 5655345
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a curved wall glass block assembly (100) by stacking vertical tiers (102) (103) (104) etc. of horizontal rows of individual glass blocks (101) on top of a plurality of successive tier base support units (10) comprising a plurality of tie members (20) operatively connected to at least one curved track member (40); wherein each tie member (20) is dimensioned to support one of the individual glass blocks (101).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Inventor: Earl G. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5640818
    Abstract: A glass brick wall assembly 10 comprising a plurality of generally rectangular glass bricks 11 arranged in horizontal runs 12, the wall having horizontally extending elongate separation strips 13 comprising sections 14 connected together by hinge means so that adjacent sections 14 are set at a pivoted position relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: Randolf Andrew Wirkus, Michelle Ann Wirkus
  • Patent number: 5640819
    Abstract: A glass block wall employs a plurality of glass blocks which form the wall. The wall also includes frame elements made from milled compressed fibrous cement. The frame elements are positioned between the blocks and are secured in place at their ends using anchor brackets screwed or otherwise fastened to the wall or frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: Randolf Andrew Wirkus, Michelle Ann Wirkus
  • Patent number: 5637363
    Abstract: A laminated glass pane having at least one rigid glass sheet and one flexible plastic material sheet is described, which has a peripheral strip disposed over at least a part of the edge of the pane over at least one edge of a flexible plastic sheet. The peripheral strip has two layers of respectively different materials, a first layer designated the "internal layer", is comprised of a material having a softening temperature which is less than or equal to the temperature employed in autoclaving the sheets which are components of the pane, and a second layer designated the "external layer", is comprised of a material having a softening temperature which is greater than the temperature employed in autoclaving the sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Vitrage
    Inventors: Stephane Leray, Patrick Janvier, Yves Naoumenko
  • Patent number: 5622019
    Abstract: A translucent panel is provided to simulate the surface of a glass-block matrix. The panel is impressed with a rectangular grid to simulate the perimeter of a plurality of glass blocks in a matrix and with a texture pattern simulating the pattern or texture of glass blocks. Two panels are mounted in a window frame in a spaced parallel configuration to simulate a glass-block window. An interior partition or wall is constructed with panels on either side of an interior framework. The partition is finished by suitable end caps, corner pieces and top caps. The translucent panel is preferably made by feeding a hot sheet of glass or plastic between two opposed rollers each having a suitable pattern thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: Joe Dorough, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5592798
    Abstract: A spacer for use in forming a wall of glass blocks which includes a pair of parallel elongated first arms, a pair of parallel elongated second arms, with each of the second arms being perpendicular to a corresponding one of the first arms so as to form a pair of spaced apart crossed arms. An elongated connecting bar interconnects to the crossed arms a plate positioned parallel to each of said crossed arms. A frangible coupling affixes each of the plates to a corresponding one of the crossed arms and an elongated vane element extends out from and across the plates and passes through a notional line through a center of each of the frangible couplings so that a user may grip and twist the vane element so as to impart a torque about the notional line which shears an associated frangible coupling at its joint with an associated one of the crossed arms without imparting any translational force to the spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Jed C. Friesen
    Inventors: Jed C. Friesen, Bohumir Cervenka
  • Patent number: 5585188
    Abstract: The invention concerns a monolithic or laminated pane of glass or of plastic materials which contains at least one glass sheet (8, 9). The edge face of the glass sheet is at least partly covered with a protective strip (11, 12) of elastomeric material which has a hardness less than 90 shore A. The protected strip is adhered to the edge face. The strip serves to protect the sheet from any shock or impact it receives during processing prior to assembly into a pane for use in aircraft or transportation vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Vitrage International
    Inventors: Jean Cheron, Pierre Chaussade
  • Patent number: 5553440
    Abstract: A multi-sheet glazing unit has a pair of outer glass sheets spaced from one another and secured to a spacer frame having a generally U-shaped cross section defined by outer legs secured to a base. The recess of a sheet retaining member is mounted on peripheral edge portions of an intermediate glass sheet. The intermediate glass sheet and sheet retaining member are mounted within the outer legs of the spacer frame to position the intermediate sheet between and spaced from the outer sheets. A method of making multi-sheet units is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark L. Bulger, Albert E. Thompson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5485702
    Abstract: A spacer used with substantially rectangularly-shaped glass blocks of the type having a ridge positioned intermediate its top, bottom, and side edges. The spacer comprises first and second oppositely positioned channel portions adapted to receive the seams of adjacent glass blocks. The channel portions define first and second ends. First and second oppositely positioned curved portions extend from the first end of the channel portions and a first pad extends from a junction between the first and second oppositely positioned curved portions. Third and fourth oppositely positioned curved portions extend from the second end of the channel portions and a second pad extends from a junction between the third and fourth oppositely positioned curved portions. The first, second, third, and fourth curved portions are each configured to form a friction fit with adjacent glass blocks while the lips of the adjacent blocks contact the first and second pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Glenn Sholton
    Inventor: Bernard C. Sholton
  • Patent number: 5460866
    Abstract: A structural laminate of rigid layers separated by very thin layers of vius fluid. The viscous fluid adheres to the confronting surfaces of adjacent rigid layers and is maintained in layered alignment within the laminate to ordinarily prevent flexural vibration and provide vibration overdampening to cope with flexural deforming forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Lawrence T. Kabacoff, Chak-Pan Wong, Arthur E. Clark
  • Patent number: 5448864
    Abstract: A multi-light glass block panel assembly adapted for pre-fab manufacture and application. A grid of perimeter and interior frame members having grooved interior faces seats in the grooves a plurality of glass blocks, one in each opening of the grid. A sealant such as a silicone sealant is interposed between the blocks and the adjacent frame members. In manufacture, the perimeter frame members are pulled tightly against the blocks, thereby securing them in their respective openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Inventor: John E. Rosamond
  • Patent number: 5430985
    Abstract: A connector strip is disclosed for assembling a building wall of glass blocks. The strip includes a longitudinal center section having a pair of oppositely disposed and longitudinally extending grooves dimensioned to receive a centrally located ridge extending peripherally around the outer edge surfaces of a molded building block to which the strip is to be mounted. A flange projects laterally outwardly from each longitudinal edge of the center section. The flanges have outwardly profecting walls and a plurality of laterally extending ribs which project outwardly from the walls. The flanges, walls and ribs define a plurality of open compartments on opposite sides of the flanges. Resiliently compressible material is mounted to the center section which engages with the outer edge surface of the building block to which the strip is to be mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Inventor: William J. Coleman
  • Patent number: 5367846
    Abstract: A glass construction block comprising a plurality of glass members, each of which has a front wall, a rear wall and a plurality of side walls. A frame surrounds the glass members and is secured to the glass members spacing the glass members apart from each other while holding the glass members in a static position. The frame defines a channel member with side walls which extend inward from the outer side edge of the glass members terminating in a bottom wall and has flange portions which extend outward and are secured to the side walls. The blocks are assembled as a wall system by fitting a positive rib placed into the channel member into the channel member of an adjacent block. The two are adjoined with a void between the edges of the blocks which is then filled with a sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Inventor: Kenneth F. vonRoenn, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5339588
    Abstract: An extruded molding configured to frame glass masonary block for building structures, particularly wood frame structures, the molding having a substantially flat base portion on which the block is seated and raised side elements forming a channel, the molding having a topside of the base portion with a pair of bracket elements constructed to engage and retain the tab segment of a panel anchor and having an underside of the base portion with a weather flash and a nailing flange to prevent water seepage under the molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventor: George Ballstadt
  • Patent number: 5333427
    Abstract: A one piece mold glass block especially adapted for interior use which has an aesthetically pleasing appearance characterized by an enclosing wall, usually rectangular in form, within which a central panel is located at the approximate mid point of the wall. One or both of the exterior of the enclosing walls and the central panel may carry a color coating to give a variety of aesthetically pleasing color effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Anchor Hocking Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Uhlik
  • Patent number: 5333428
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing an I.G. unit comprising at least two lites and a spandrel comprising a single lite for use in building construction, and especially for use as part of a building facing. At least one of the lites of the I.G. unit comprises a plurality of glass sections joined by at least one interposed joining member. Each I.G. unit is hermetically sealed and comprises a strength against wind load, atmospheric pressure changes, and other window stressing environmental factors which may be greater than a like sized, conventionally constructed I.G. unit. Each spandrel comprises a lite of similar appearance, construction, and strength against wind load to that of a lite for the I.G. unit whereby mechanical workings of the building between windows are concealed with lites of the spandrels providing substantially the same appearance and patterns as those provided by I.G. units on the visual areas of the building. The invention enables I.G.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Big Unlimited
    Inventors: George S. Taylor, Barry Benedict
  • Patent number: 5306535
    Abstract: An insert for mounting in the corner of a door or window frame opening includes two mounting flanges bonded along two edges of a glass panel. The flanges define an L-shape. Mounting within the frame is by fasteners which extend through apertures through the flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: B. Jeremiah Shaffer