Laterally Related Modules; E.g., Back-to-back Patents (Class 52/424)
  • Patent number: 11834839
    Abstract: A lining method includes fixing a backing strip in a frame shape to a concrete surface of already-placed concrete so that the backing strip protrudes from the concrete surface; disposing a filler inside a frame of the backing strip; making edges of a plurality of lining plates butt against each other at a position of the backing strip to cover the backing strip and the concrete surface; and joining the edges of the lining plates by seal welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Takao Ito, Hayao Kurono, Shuhei Dobara
  • Patent number: 11598094
    Abstract: A wall block having a block body and a vertical plane of symmetry. The block body having a front portion, a rear portion and a neck portion. The wall block including a core extending through the neck portion and dividing the neck portion into first and second neck wall members extending rearward from the front portion to the rear portion. The wall block having a flange extending downward from the block body. The wall block having a channel positioned in the rear portion of the block body. The wall block having a first plane parallel to the plane of symmetry that passes through the first neck wall member and a second plane parallel to the plane of symmetry that passes through the second neck wall member, the first and second planes being located approximately midway between the plane of symmetry and the lateral outermost points of the wall block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Keystone Retaining Wall Systems LLC
    Inventors: Robert John Lundell, Craig D. Moritz
  • Patent number: 11326343
    Abstract: A concrete block includes first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth planar faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Brian Burnquist, Jonathan M. Schlueter
  • Patent number: 10851514
    Abstract: A concrete building block (30) includes a body (32) having opposite first (34) and second sides (36), opposite first (38) and second end faces (40) extending between the first and second sides (34, 36), and opposite first (42) and second bearing faces (44) extending between the first and second sides (34, 36) and the first and second end faces (38, 40). The first side has a first section (52) and second section (54). The first section (52) and first end face (38) are shaped to mate with each other when a like block (30) is rotated 90° and oriented adjacent thereto so that the center plane for the two blocks (30) are perpendicular to each other; and the second section (54) and second end face (40) are shaped to mate with each other when a like block (30) is rotated 90° and oriented adjacent thereto so that the center plane for the two blocks (30) are perpendicular to each other. The building block (30) can be used for structures such as a free standing wall, retaining wall, garden wall, or columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: Anchor Wall Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Brian Burnquist
  • Patent number: 8980397
    Abstract: A composite sheet comprising two sheets joined by material closure provides on the one hand high global and local bending stiffness, and on the other hand very good forming behavior and very high load capacity in case of great deformations, as in case of a crash for example. Both sheets of the composite sheet comprise an at least partially structured surface and a smooth surface and both sheets are at least partially joined by material closure via the structured surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG
    Inventors: Lothar Patberg, Klaus Blümel
  • Patent number: 8877329
    Abstract: The invention comprises a relatively lightweight cementitious-based material panel. The cementitious-based material panel comprises a foam insulating panel having a first surface and a second surface; a first structural layer of cementitious-based material formed on the first surface of the foam insulating panel and affixed thereto; and a second non-structural layer of cementitious-based material formed on the second surface of the foam insulating panel and affixed thereto. The second non-structural layer of cementitious-based material is substantially thinner than the first structural layer of concrete. The second non-structural layer of cementitious-based material is preferably formed from polymer modified concrete, plaster or mortar. A method of making the cementitious-based material panel is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Romeo Ilarian Ciuperca
  • Patent number: 8561372
    Abstract: Thermally responsive walls can be formed of wall panels made from different materials and having staggered conduits with respect to each other when coupled together (e.g., pancaked or layered) to form a wall at one temperature. The staggered conduits in the different wall panels are configured such that they become aligned at a second temperature due to differences in expansion coefficients. The wall panels can be designed using a computing system that processes an algorithm that accounts for various parameters, such as the different thermal expansion coefficients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Koji Fujimoto
  • Publication number: 20130097956
    Abstract: A composite building construction system and method comprising a frame, wallboard, and a concrete layer wherein the wallboard is attached to an exterior side of the frame and the concrete layer is provided on the wallboard. A wire grid is attached to and spaced apart from the wallboard to provide support for the concrete layer. The resulting building construction composite provides enhanced strength and stability due to the relatively thick layer of concrete combined with the frame, which may comprise steel. The wallboard comprises blueboard or similar insulating wallboard material that preferably includes concrete adhesion characteristics. The frame comprises outer framing members and cross-members each of which may include apertures for receiving plumbing and/or electrical wires. The apertures may also receive conduits to protect the plumbing and electrical wires. An interior side of the frame is configured to received drywall or other interior housing finishing product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: John Joseph Francavilla
  • Publication number: 20130067844
    Abstract: A building panel assembly is provided. The building panel assembly comprises a plurality of pyramidal elements with each pyramidal element having an apex with a plurality of pyramidal feces extending to a base, each face separated from each adjacent face by a face edge, and the base having base edges. A plurality of inverse pyramidal elements are provided with each inverse pyramidal element having inverse pyramidal faces and mateable with the pyramidal elements. A flattened edge is formed along the face edges between each of the pyramidal faces creating a continuous adhesive flow channel and an adhesive substance positionable within the continuous adhesive flow channel. Upon mating, the pyramidal elements with the inverse pyramidal elements, the adhesive travels through the continuous adhesive flow channel and upon hardening the adhesive substance creates a space truss structure thereby strengthening the building panel assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Rivers
  • Patent number: 8375669
    Abstract: The invention is a formwork system and a method of using the formwork to construct rammed earth walls. The formwork comprises end panels which can be quickly assembled and disassembled to provide end stops to support side panels without the need for through-ties. The end panels comprise integral handholds for access to the full height of the formwork. The end panels are stackable, rotatable and interchangeable, such that one set of formwork may be used to create several different wall configurations. The finished wall contains an internal support structure and insulating core, without through-holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: SIREwall Inc.
    Inventor: Meror Krayenhoff
  • Patent number: 8276340
    Abstract: A concrete wall formwork module comprising a first side wall panel structure including a first grid and a first panel secured to the first grid, a second side wall panel structure including a second grid and a second panel secured to the second grid, and connecting rods having about a same length hingedly interconnecting the first and second side wall panel structures to allow movement thereof between a retracted parallel relationship to a spaced apart parallel relationship. A plurality of such concrete wall formwork modules allow assembling a formwork which is functionally similar to conventional formwork since the facing side wall panel structures are connected in a parallel relationship by the thin spacer connecting rods which allow concrete to freely travel within the formwork. When the first and second side wall panel structures are in the retracted parallel relationship, the concrete wall formwork module is more compact and therefore easier and less costly to transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Polycrete International Inc.
    Inventors: Serge Meilleur, André Grenon
  • Patent number: 8276341
    Abstract: A wall structure for either a building or a stand alone wall is formed with stacked horizontal elongated panels. The upper and lower faces of each panel interlocks with its neighboring panel with a tongue and groove joint to form a continuous wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Inventor: Ludovic Pop
  • Patent number: 8171688
    Abstract: A wooden building element for producing planar constructions, especially for constructing the upright walls of a building. Also, a corner building element adapted to the wooden building element and to a building constructed using the elements. The wooden building elements have two approximately rectangular support bases and two wall panels that are approximately equal in area. The support bases are maintained at a distance from each other by a plurality of supports that are aligned vertically in relation to the finished building and that delimit an interior compartment for the insertion of insulating material and building installations. The wall panels are fastened to the outer surfaces of the support bases and are set off therefrom in relation to longitudinal edges that are aligned approximately horizontally to the finished building and high edges that are aligned approximately vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Junker Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter Junker
  • Publication number: 20120096796
    Abstract: A waterproof masonry cement is disclosed. The masonry cement includes a waterproofing agent, in dry form, which is introduced into the cement during the grinding process. The waterproofing agent comprises siloxanes and alkoxysilanes and can also be introduced, in liquid form, into concrete blocks during the manufacture of same. In this manner, the concrete blocks incorporating the waterproofing agent along with the masonry cement containing the waterproofing agent can be utilized together to form a water repellant wall structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher J. Sieto
  • Patent number: 8112960
    Abstract: An insulating concrete form block adapted to be interlocked with other insulating concrete blocks to form an insulating concrete form for casting concrete. The insulating concrete block including a first foam panel and a second foam panel supported in a spaced apart, parallel relationship to form a concrete receiving cavity. Each of the first panel and the second panel having a top end, a bottom end, a first end, and a second end. The top end and the bottom end of each of the first and second panels having an outside row of a plurality of projections and an inside row of a plurality of projections. The projections of the outside row being spaced apart to define a plurality of recesses and the projections of the inside row being spaced apart to define a plurality of recesses with the projections of the outside row being adjacent to the recesses of the inside row and the recesses of the outside row being adjacent projections of the inside row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: BuildBlock Building Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: David Michael Garrett
  • Publication number: 20110289877
    Abstract: Modular block structures and assemblies thereof for building wall facades comprise a plurality of interconnected preformed blocks with spacers allowing the user to position the modular block structures in even rows and columns. The modular block structures include panels with block forms on their front faces. The top and bottom edges of lower and upper panels in an assembly are complementarily configured to be mated. The lateral sides of adjacent panels of an assembly are complementarily configured to be mated. The modular block structures also include offset ends or lateral sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Horacio CORREIA
  • Patent number: 7866106
    Abstract: A barrier comprising a body member. The body member has a first side, a second side, a front side, a rear side, and one or more cavities within the body member. The body member further has a first overlap portion and a second overlap portion. The first overlap portion extends from the first side adjacent to the front side and spaced apart from the rear side. The second overlap portion extends from the second side adjacent to the rear side and spaced apart from the second side. The second overlap portion is shaped to mate in an overlapping manner with the first overlap portion of an adjacent body member. A barrier wall comprising two or more barriers is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Daniel S. Bowlware
  • Publication number: 20090313933
    Abstract: A method of constructing a masonry infill in a load bearing structure comprises the steps of: laying one or more courses of masonry (7) in the infill space; partitioning off a casting space having as its base the then uppermost course of masonry (22); the casting space extending from one side of the infill space to the other; positioning reinforcing material (14) in the casting space; securing an end of the reinforcing material to the load bearing structure; filling the casting space with concrete (20), and laying one or more further courses of masonry on top of the filled casting space. The reinforced concrete forms a bond beam which strengthens the masonry. The reinforcing material may be rebar, secured to a load-bearing frame of the building by a cleat (16) having pockets (12) for reception of the rebar ends. Optionally the reinforcement may be tensioned, to pre-stress the bond beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: Wembley Innovation Ltd.
    Inventor: Liam Clear
  • Publication number: 20090272057
    Abstract: A cast architectural element is provided, including a stone shell having front, end, side and rear walls defining an internal cavity, the rear walls defining a rear opening. A core is disposed in the internal cavity, and at least one attachment clip is provided having a first portion extending from the shell, and a second portion engaged in the core. A layer of mesh is disposed upon the core and the second clip portion, and a settable filler layer is disposed upon the mesh in the rear opening, such that upon setting, the filler retains the clip in position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Wesley E. Hotchkiss III
  • Patent number: 7516589
    Abstract: The aim of this invention is to increase the rigidity of the integrated formworks at the time of their installation, to facilitate the work of the civil engineers if order to determine easily the contribution of the horizontal frameworks and to reduce manufacturing costs. This aim is reached by a formwork including two parallel formwork walls placed one facing the other provided with shaped bars forming the vertical stiffeners and connected by at least one articulated connection device allowing the maintenance of the formwork walls either at a distance defining a space to receive a filler such as concrete, or folded for storage and transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Polyfinance Coffor Holding S.A.
    Inventors: Pierre Messiqua, Régis Messiqua
  • Patent number: 7415805
    Abstract: An improved wall system comprising a plurality of blocks formed at least partially of a masonry material, a layer of an insulative material, and a layer of a curable or settable material interposed between the blocks and the layer of insulative material. The blocks may provide the wall with a masonry external surface or an exterior surface that is substantially aesthetically completed upon arrangement of the blocks and prior to the pouring of the layer of curable or settable material. In an alternate embodiment, ties may extend between a pair of blocks to form a construction unit that can be assembled in a factory or other location and then transported to a work site. The construction unit may be configured to include a space between spaced apart blocks into which a layer of an insulative material and a layer of a curable or settable material may be received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: David L. Nickerson
  • Patent number: 7284351
    Abstract: A building component having first and second high density foam panels and improved bridging members for connecting the panels that extend between and may be molded into the panels. The bridging members include a pair of elongated end plates oriented in a top to bottom direction of the panels, a pair of substantially identical web members joining the end plates and being substantially symmetrically disposed above and below a central horizontal axis of the bridging member, and a pair of strip members oriented in the top to bottom direction of the panels intersecting the web members. The web members have a unique configuration that maximizes load bearing capacity with a minimum amount of material. The strip members may abut against and be substantially flush with respective inner surfaces of the foam panels to assist in positioning and forming the panels during molding. Seating areas for positioning horizontally and/or vertically disposed rebar in predetermined positions are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: ARXX Building Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Cooper, G. Richie Scott, Robert E. Schulthorpe, Graham A. Knowles
  • Patent number: 7165374
    Abstract: A multi-layer wall panel includes a core filler material surrounded by two plastic sheets. Each sheet includes three-dimensional texture formed to resemble masonry or other desired aesthetics. A layer of concrete may be disposed between each sheet and the filler material. The sheet may be removed from the concrete layers to expose the concrete surfaces. Multiple wall panels may be stacked on top of one another and joined side-by-side with posts and connectors to form a wall assembly. A method for manufacturing vertical concrete wall structures is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Viken Ohanesian
  • Patent number: 7162845
    Abstract: Wall made of concrete or similar materials built from an unfold formwork integrated in the wall and including two formwork walls (8,8?,10) placed face to face and connected by connecting elements (1) articulated to the formwork walls by stiffeners (2) attached to the formwork walls. The interval between these formwork walls after being unfolded is filled with a filler (7) such as concrete. At least one of the formwork walls includes a casing (11,12) of concrete, mortar or similar, surcharged in relation to the stiffeners (2) and to the articulated connecting elements (1). This casing (11,12) is placed outside and/or inside the formwork wall, the stiffeners (2) and the articulated connecting elements (1) and the formwork wall 8 when it is coated forming an inner reinforcement of the wall submerged in the wall and covered by said casing. The use of separated stiffeners, which must be inserted before pouring the concrete, is thus avoided or highly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Coffor Internacional-Exploracao de Patentes LDA
    Inventor: Pierre Messiqua
  • Patent number: 7128308
    Abstract: Components and a system for limiting access and egress. A properly scaled barrier of the present invention meets varied requirements for applications that include: security, safety, order, privacy, and discipline. In one embodiment, pre-manufactured panels and connectors are delivered to a site that has been prepared for installation of the system. Local materials may be used for the panels in some cases. The panels and connectors can be assembled quickly by unskilled labor and, in some embodiments, the barrier just as quickly dismantled or repaired as necessary. One embodiment may be used as a temporary or emergency solution to access control while another may employ in-fill material to provide a permanent barrier. Another embodiment may be used in a residential setting, providing storage in some installations. In all embodiments, accessories for enhancing effectiveness may be installed on or within the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Charles P. Marsh, Charles C. Lozar, Brian Temple
  • Patent number: 6978581
    Abstract: A composite building block with a connective structure between the inner and outer wall units is presented. The wall units can be made of cement, clay brick, or similar materials. The connective structure is made of a material different than the wall units and may be integrally formed per the requirements of a particular wall construction project. In one embodiment, the connective structure comprises a center form, and one or more arms have connectors that connect to corresponding connectors integrally formed on the wall units. The center form may partition the cavity between the inner and outer wall units into two or more cavities, which may then be partially filled with, for example, insulative material or load-bearing materials, such as concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Pentstar Corporation
    Inventor: John G. Spakousky
  • Patent number: 6964136
    Abstract: A flashing and weep apparatus allows for simple installation and accurate placement windows and doors in cavity wall construction. In a first embodiment, the flashing and weep apparatus is a two-panel extrusion that has a flashing panel that acts as a non-porous support for the masonry veneer. This embodiment also includes a second panel which is joined at a generally right angle to the first panel to be juxtaposed against the outer face of the inner wall in the cavity wall construction. Weep channels are formed between the two panels and allow for the drainage and dissipation of water and other moisture in the cavity wall system. In a second embodiment, membrane is initially attached to and draped along the lower portion of the inner wall immediately above the sill or lintel. The membrane extends across the cavity spacing between the walls to underlie the masonry components forming the outer veneer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: PACC Systems I.P., LLC
    Inventors: P. Michael Collins, Steven E. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 6948289
    Abstract: The invention involves a manner of fabricating 3D construction forms by preparing first and second standard sized panels with a predetermined pattern of perforations and assembling same in spaced apart relationship by connecting the panels together with connectors designed to engage the perforations in the panels. The perforations of the panels are arranged in a specific pattern suitable for the assembly and use of the construction forms by means of an apparatus designed to form the perforations. The method also uses apparatus which assist in the orientation and alignment of the connectors to engage the panels. Modifications of the panels and connectors will allow the formation of 3D construction forms with corners of various configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Leonid Bravinski
  • Patent number: 6922962
    Abstract: Improved, modified flat wall insulating concrete forms similar to a “waffle grid” type for generating posts, beams, and interconnecting webs of concrete. The novel forms incorporate interlocking structure for a plural vertically stacked forms. The forms are provided as angled corner or straight forms having an overall length of four feet. Tie brackets connecting interior and exterior synthetic expanded foam walls of the form have flanges which are embedded within and concealed by the walls. Tie brackets are spaced apart from one another at one foot intervals, and from ends of the interior and exterior walls of the form by distance intervals of six inches. Interior and exterior walls are configured to enclose a void space therebetween. When filled with concrete, the space forms posts, beams, and webs filling openings which would otherwise occur among the posts and beams. The posts and beams, and webs are square or rectangular in cross section, presenting a uniform exterior panel thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Donald L. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6883284
    Abstract: A device for use in structures having masonry cavity wall construction for promoting removal of water and water vapor between a masonry exterior wall and a structural back-up wall. A plurality of the devices, which are elongated and have a generally “V” shape, are arranged in a systematic pattern in order to catch and retain trash mortar during a construction phase of the structure. Following construction, the device, which includes a wicking material to transport accumulated water beyond ends of the device, functions to promote the removal of water and water vapor in the cavity so as to prevent deterioration of the building materials of the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventors: Paul R. Burgunder, John Koester
  • Patent number: 6880304
    Abstract: A novel structural thermal framing and panel system for assembling finished or unfinished walls with multiple combinations for poured and nonpoured walls comprising of a permanent structural framing stud which can be adjusted to different wall thickness, a plurality of permanent forms, wherein the pluralities of permanent forms are interchangeable with various other permanent panel forms with or without defined spaces for receiving filler, and wherein the framing stud substantially conforms to a portion of the pluralities of panel forms and resists bending in the panel forms. The framing stud is the main structural element in the wall. A structural framing system in combination with insulated panel forms with various defined spaces for receiving filler, and wherein panels may not be prefinished to form a rigid substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: JenTec Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul W. Budge
  • Patent number: 6625947
    Abstract: A method and system for installing an insulated concrete wall includes insulation panels placed in an upright manner. Generally T-shaped wall studs are placed next to the insulation panels such that the front section of the wall stud is on the outside of the insulation panels and an anchoring section of the wall stud extends beyond the insulation panels into the gap into which concrete will later be poured. Concrete pouring forms are placed so as to render the gap into which concrete will be poured a desired thickness. The wall stud may also include slots for receiving cross-ties that secure the concrete pouring forms in proper position and retaining nubs that prevent the insulation panels from floating when concrete is poured. Concrete is then poured into the gap, surrounding the anchoring section the T-shaped wall stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventor: Ferrall Burgett
  • Publication number: 20030145543
    Abstract: Prefabricated, light-weight, columnar or rectangular, convertible to fencing or stand-alone columns resemble solid brick and masonry structures built by skilled masons. Modules comprise heavy duty durable plastic liners with corner reinforcements comprising heavy duty square plastic tubing, faced with concrete, mortar and exterior brick and mortar. Modules are erected on concrete footings equipped with (1) raised studs that mate with square plastic tubing and (2) embedded anchor bolts which mate with bottom apertures. Ends of rectangular modules are bolted together and columnar faces. Capitols are of same plastic faced with concrete or mortar and brick veneer. Black plastic tubing simulating wrought iron may be disposed along wall tops. Module inner spaces may be ballast-filled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Wallace J. Lane
  • Patent number: 6574934
    Abstract: The invention relates to a block forming a dead form work element for the construction of a mechanically resistant concrete wall. The block essentially comprises two parts (1a, 1b) which can be assembled, each part consisting of a main surface (10a, 10b) which is integral with and acts as the starting point on one side for bracing elements in the form of a shaft (11a, 12a, 13a, 14a, 14b), whereby said parts when assembled rest against each other and interlock via the ends of the bracing elements. The invention can be used to improve the construction of swimming pools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Joel Queirel
  • Publication number: 20030089066
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is remarkable in its simplicity and promises wide commercial application as the labor costs for construction become increasingly prohibitive. The extraordinary absence of nails, screws, bolts, welds or any other fastening device allows these barriers to compete with many conventional barrier systems, such as those employed for fencing, vehicular trailer beds, removable stages, and scale models or toys of all fabrications mentioned plus many more. In this age time is money and the erection speed this barrier system offers may well revolutionize conventional “post and beam” framing. The invention is specifically aimed at eccentric beam loading where barriers must be economically fabricated to withstand hurricane force winds, earthquake reactions, or liquid concrete pressure in a sub-rigid manner. The Fast-Form System will offer insurers building products that will protect their interests for any and all applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas P. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6321498
    Abstract: A formwork for building bearing walls comprises a plurality of pairs of facing panels (PE, PI) connected together so as to form an inside space between them, said pairs of facing panels being arranged in superimposed rows, the panels of each pair being connected to each others by braces (6) of adjustable length with both the braces (6) and the panels (PE, PI) being left in the wall formed when a cementitious material poured in said inside space has solidified. The so formed walls are provided with bearing partition members and ventilating duct, and are strongly insulated and already finished (FIG. 6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Salvatore Trovato
  • Publication number: 20010029717
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite modular building block with a connective structure between the outer and inner wall. The inner and outer walls of the composite modular block units may be made of cement, clay brick, or similar materials. The connective structure is made of a different material than the walls of the composite block and may be formed per the requirements of each block. In one embodiment, the connective structure may comprise two or more individual connective struts connecting an outer and an inner wall of a modular block. A panel member cooperating with the struts may be inserted between the outer and inner walls to form two separate cavities between the blocks when these are assembled into a wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventor: John G. Spakousky
  • Publication number: 20010023559
    Abstract: This invention aims to provide a novel process for making brick-faced block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Applicant: Toyo Exterior Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Ozawa, Koji Kitahara
  • Publication number: 20010000844
    Abstract: An insulated concrete wall structure having a concrete wall with opposing wall surfaces. The concrete wall has several vertically and horizontally spaced wall ties imbedded within the concrete wall and extending between the wall surfaces. Positioned between the vertically spaced wall ties are a series of elongated retaining strips such that the retaining strips are substantially parallel to the wall surface. Insulating panels such as polystyrene foam boards are located between the horizontally spaced wall ties and retained in position by the retaining strips. In one aspect of the invention, each insulating panel has a groove formed along its vertical edge for receiving and engaging the elongated edge of the retaining strips. The present wall system is advantageous in that an insulated concrete wall can be readily formed using conventional wall forms in approximately the same amount of time as conventional uninsulated poured concrete walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Applicant: K-Wall Poured Walls, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Kubica
  • Publication number: 20010000843
    Abstract: An insulated concrete wall structure having a concrete wall with opposing wall surfaces. The concrete wall has several vertically and horizontally spaced wall ties imbedded within the concrete wall and extending between the wall surfaces. Positioned between the vertically spaced wall ties are a series of elongated retaining strips such that the retaining strips are substantially parallel to the wall surface. Insulating panels such as polystyrene foam boards are located between the horizontally spaced wall ties and retained in position by the retaining strips. In one aspect of the invention, each insulating panel has a groove formed along its vertical edge for receiving and engaging the elongated edge of the retaining strips. The present wall system is advantageous in that an insulated concrete wall can be readily formed using conventional wall forms in approximately the same amount of time as conventional uninsulated poured concrete walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Applicant: K-Wall Poured Walls, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Kubica
  • Patent number: 6178711
    Abstract: Generally large, typically eight feet by two inches by ten or sixteen or twenty-four inches, sidewalls for modular concrete forms are easily, efficiently and economically produced by cutting and by routing sheet-type polymeric material, preferably polyurethane or expanded polystyrene foam. Metal connecting members are produced in standard sizes by cutting and bending sheet steel and/or wire. The sidewalls and connecting members are transported to a building site tightly and compactly in pieces, and then flexibly assembled into precision wall forms at the site with good efficiency at any scale. The wall forms so assembled define a cavity into which reinforcing steel rod, electrical and/or communications conduit, plumbing, etc., may be entered. Concrete is poured into the cavity to create a wall having the form sidewalls as its permanent surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventors: Andrew Laird, Alex Laird
  • Patent number: 6176059
    Abstract: A modular construction system and method of use for creating a concrete wall system which has a wall system which complies with a modular construction system. The system uses wall form panels having connectors and structural tie plates. The wall form panels have interlocking protrusions around the edges such that the panel is reversibly symmetric. The panels are specific lengths to minimize the number of panels required to achieve a set length. The structural tie plates have connectors to tie in with the wall form panels and in addition carry and position reinforcement bars with the wall. The modular wall system ensures ease and integrity of alignment of the wall form panels by the self-aligning structural tie elements. In a preferred embodiment, a footing is continuously integral with the wall. A heat retention cap form allows for a more uniform cure temperature in adverse temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventors: Robert A. Cantarano, Peter Fleischhacker
  • Patent number: 6151857
    Abstract: The invention concerns a prefabricated composite construction system for the production of internal and/or external building-walls. The composite construction system has a building panel for internal use of wooden material and a building panel for external use of a heat-insulating hard cellular material. Between the panels spacers are provided which are connected with them and form voids, which can be filled with concrete, in which steel lattices are arranged on the building panel for internal use which extend in concrete chuting direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Pieces, LLC
    Inventor: Gabriele Raschke
  • Patent number: 6145263
    Abstract: The present invention provides a light gauge sheet metal building construction system which has a complete exterior shell that includes all exterior walls, floors and the roof. The invention permits the pre-assembly of a sheet metal cell unit building component comprised of bent sheet metal panels connected together to form a cell unit. This component can be used for a floor system, a varying wall system, or a rigid frame roofing system for residential, commercial, or industrial building applications. It is an alternate framing system for conventional wood framed and conventional metal stud framing systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas R. Eckerd
  • Patent number: 5992102
    Abstract: This invention is to provide a structure unit comprising a lightweight cellular resign block and plural bricks laid thereon. A cellular resign block 1 is integrally molded from suitable foamable resign so as to include vertical grooves 3 at the transversely opposite extremities, a vertical bar passage 5 at the transversely middle, and mortar wells 8 extending on the upper end of the block 1. Brick 20 is adhesively laid on surface of the block 1 using elastic mortar to form a structure unit A. Vertical reinforcing bars are inserted into vertical grooves 3 as well as into the middle vertical bar passage 5 and then mortal is poured into the mortar wells 8 to carry out work of masonry. For the blocks in every other stage, portions of vertical partitions 4 extending above the mortar wells 8 are broken away to form horizontal bar supports. Thus, a desired exterior structure such as wall, gatepost or the like in the same manner as with concrete blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Toyo Exterior Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetuya Ozawa
  • Patent number: 5983585
    Abstract: A building block that has two block walls joined by plastic webs. The block walls can be made of cement, clay brick, or similar materials. The block has the strength of a cinder block, but with much less weight. Moreover, the plastic webs are used as a handle to permit easy handling and placement of the blocks. Because of the thermal characteristics of the plastic webs, when a wall is finished using these blocks, it has the characteristics of a true double wall construction. The blocks are filled with concrete on one side of the block and filled with insulation on the other side of the center arm. This creates a structurally sound wall that is fully insulated. The blocks come in full-height, half-height, full-length and half-length sizes. There is also a corner unit design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: John Spakousky
  • Patent number: 5901520
    Abstract: Interlocking blocks are provided which are light in weight, and which may be assembled without use of mortar or other binding agent. Because the interlocking block is light in weight, it may be of a larger size than conventional blocks. Each interlocking block employs a number of projections and corresponding notches positioned and dimensioned to couple with adjacent interlocking block's projections and corresponding notches. A series of such interlocking blocks may then be assembled to form gravity retaining walls or any other rigid structures. The interlocking blocks are structurally strong enough to be used as form-work and may also be filled with insulating material, sound-proofing material, reinforcing material or any other advantageous material. The interlocking blocks may also be quickly assembled or disassembled in individualized constructions, may be pre-assembled into wall sections on or off a construction site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Assad Abdul-Baki
  • Patent number: 5822938
    Abstract: A structural element for thermal insulation between two structural elements to be covered with concrete, especially a building and a projecting external part, has an insulating body to be inserted in between the structual elements and has at least integral compression elements which run transverse to the longitudinal extension of the insulating body and through them and are respectively connected to both structural elements, wherein the compression elements can have of a profile body with several especially vertically running compression bars, and wherein the length of the compression elements in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the insulating body amounts to a multiple of their vertical height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Schock Bauteile GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Bahr, Armin Schumacher, Thomas Edelmann, Oliver Wagner, Claudia Schneider-Liebich, Eckart Luz, Heike Roth, Gerhard Trunz, Andre Weber
  • Patent number: 5809726
    Abstract: A building system and apparatus for forming a wall on a footing. U-shaped channels and H-shaped or T-shaped members coupled at their sides by rigid links hold foam panels in a desired spaced relationship. Vertically oriented panels aligned and connected by T-shaped members or horizontally oriented panels stacked with and connected by H-shaped members are inserted into the U-shaped channels to form a structure of the desired length. Concrete is poured between the panels and members where it hardens to form a structural wall. The planar surfaces of the U-shaped, H-shaped and T-shaped members enable the members to be extruded, thereby substantially reducing member production costs. Furthermore, widely available conventional foam panels can be used, reducing panel production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Gerald T. Spude
  • Patent number: 5802793
    Abstract: A wall system utilizing a plurality of precast concrete panels so that a parallel inside wall and outside wall is created. Each panel of the plurality has a continuous slot on all four perimeter sides that mutually oppose slots on adjacent panels. A strip fits into the slot formed by the two abutting panels, thus aligning, reinforcing, and sealing the plurality. The outside wall is connected to the inside wall by one or more embedded protrusions from said opposite panels so that said protrusions overlap upon each other. The overlap is then fastened together by a chosen method, for example a bolt and nut which may include washers or spot welding areas of intersection yielding a rigid bridge between the opposite panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Walter Don DeVore, Jr.