Tie Along And Within Edge Or Face Groove; E.g., Spline Patents (Class 52/586.1)
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Patent number: 7194844Abstract: A prototype connector has a section in the general shape of the letter. “C”, thereby causing it to have a convex outer surface. Ends of the prototype connector form lips that are contiguously connected through respective flanges to ends of a web. A connector for making a butt connection between two cement composite panels is formed by two prototype connectors that have outer surfaces of their webs welded together. A connector for making an “L” connection between the two panels is formed by welding an outer surface of a flange of one prototype connector to an outer surface of a web of another prototype connector. A connector for connecting the two panels together at a preselected angle is made by using two sheet metal plates to connect each flange of a first prototype connector to a flange of a second prototype connector.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2002Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Andrew Dennis
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Patent number: 7185469Abstract: The present invention is a new and novel modular raised wall paneling system and method of manufacture that is economical, labor non-intensive, and can be easily constructed for a variety of room configurations and dimensions. The modular raised wall paneling system of the present invention comprises a plurality of individual panel sections having a joint there between, wherein a panel section includes a recess portion forming the appearance of a raised panel thereon. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the panel sections include along opposed longitudinal edges a tongue and a groove such that the panel sections can be disposed in parallel side-by-side mating relationship such that the tongue of one panel section is received in the groove of an adjacent panel section.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: Advantage Architectural Products, Ltd.Inventor: Gary Schaffeld
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Patent number: 7169460Abstract: A thermoplastic laminate plank is described wherein the thermoplastic laminate plank comprises a core, a print layer, and optionally an overlay. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has a top surface and bottom surface wherein a print layer is affixed to the top surface of the core and an overlay layer is affixed to the top surface of the print layer. Optionally, an underlay layer can be located and affixed between the bottom surface of the print layer and the top surface of the core. In addition, a method of making the thermoplastic laminate plank is further described which involves extruding at least one thermoplastic material into the shape of the core and affixing a laminate on the core, wherein the laminate comprises an overlay affixed to the top surface of the print layer and optionally an underlay layer affixed to the bottom surface of the print layer.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2000Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
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Patent number: 7152383Abstract: A blind connection for joining foam core panels which comprise a central sheet of foamed resinous material having top and bottom rails and veneers bonded to opposite sides of the central sheet and the rails. The rails having abutting side edge faces with matching slots formed along the length of the side edges. Te slots have undercut retaining surfaces which are engaged by retaining surfaces formed on a joining member which is inserted into these slots in joining the panels in assembled relation. The use of modified joining members in connecting foam core panels that are in angled relation to each other is also described. Wear resistant retaining surfaces may be provided for slots in the foam core by solid polymer liners. Additionally a method customizing panels on an installation job site is provided through the use of portable electrically powered saw to cut a panel to a desired width and a portable electrically powered router to form and undercut slot for receiving a joining member.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2003Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: EPS Specialties Ltd., Inc.Inventors: E. Lee Wilkinson, Jr., Edgar L. Wilkinson
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Patent number: 7100342Abstract: A modular building panel comprising a rectangular frame 11 having one face covered in a water resistant board 16 with the other face also covered in a board material 17, the frame having top and bottom rails 12, 13 joined together by wood composite “I” beams 14. Two of said I beams 14A & 14B also form the sides of the frame with their recessed sides 28 facing outwardly thereof. The recessed sides 28 of the outer I beams 14A 14B in use accommodate jointing posts for linking adjacent panels.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2003Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Wynn Peter Holloway
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Patent number: 7073984Abstract: A precast concrete retaining wall construction element for retaining a soil mass in a railway installation or the like includes an upstanding solid face panel having the shape of a hexahedron where a rectangular front wall and an integral stem. The front wall defines an area of between about 18.75 and 75 square feet and wherein the ratio of the width of the face panel to its height is between about 0.75 to about 3.0. A reinforced element including an upward extension, an improved shear key and stacked arrangement are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2004Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: The Neel CompanyInventors: John M. Carey, Thomas C. Neel
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Patent number: 7073300Abstract: The invention relates to a reinforced concrete section (1, 23, 26–28) comprising two commercially available pre-cast floor elements (2, 3) of the same type. Each element consists of a substantially rectangular concrete slab (4, 21) and at least one lattice girder (5, 7) attached thereto. The two pre-cast floor elements are arranged in a laterally reversed manner so that their concrete slabs (4, 21) are situated parallel to and at a distance from each other and their lattice girders face one another. The pre-cast floor elements (2, 3) are fixedly attached to one another by their lattice girders (5–7). The reinforced concrete section (1, 23, 26–28) can be used with site-mixed concrete to rapidly produce a foundation for a building on the building site, without erecting the shuttering and dismantling the shuttering.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2000Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Inventor: Udo Sohns
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Patent number: 7073303Abstract: The invention contemplates a system of interconnecting notched composite articles so as to create a surface therefrom. A joint segment having an edge configured to be received into a plurality of notches within juxtaposed composite articles and a fastener engaging the joint segment so as to anchor the joint segment to a support system underlying the joint segment interconnects the composite articles. Further disclosed is a method of installing composite articles involving fastening a first joint segment having opposing edges to a structural support system, aligning a composite article having a first notch on at least a portion of a first surface of the composite article and a second notch on a second surface of the composite article such that the first joint segment edge is received into the first notch, and fastening a second joint segment having edges to the structural support system such that the second joint segment edges engages the second notch on the second surface of the composite article.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2002Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Elk Composite Building ProductsInventor: Charles Baker
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Patent number: 7051486Abstract: Floorboards with a mechanical locking system having a separately machined strip which is mechanically joined with the floorboard.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Valinge Aluminium ABInventor: Darko Pervan
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Patent number: 7040068Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Unilin Beheer B.V., besloten vennootschapInventors: Stefan Simon Gustaaf Moriau, Mark Gaston Maurits Cappelle, Bernard Paul Joseph Thiers
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Patent number: 7017311Abstract: The invention provides a panel for modular construction of partitions and walled structures, the panel having a top, a bottom, two major surfaces and two minor side surfaces, a first of the side surfaces being provided with a first profile and a second of the side surfaces being provided with a second profile, wherein the first profile and the second profile are provided with means for complementary engagement with a profile of an adjacently-positioned panel, and wherein each of the first profiles is provided with two inter-engagement means arranged at angle of about 90° to each other enabling the alternative inter-engagement of two adjacent panels with an angle of 180° therebetween, and at an angle of about 90° therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Chagim Nechalim Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Nir Weiss
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Patent number: 6993877Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: Unilin Beheer B.V., Besloten VennootschapInventors: Stefan Simon Gustaaf Moriau, Mark Gaston Maurits Cappelle, Bernard Paul Joseph Thiers
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Patent number: 6990781Abstract: A decking assembly having a first deck section with a male leg and a second deck positioned adjacent to and in overlapping relationship to the first deck section. The second deck section has a female leg overlying the male leg of the first deck section. The male leg and the female leg have a triangular tab formed therethrough such that the triangular tab extends outwardly on one side of the female leg so as to secure the edges of the sections together in secure relationship. A plurality of triangular tabs are formed in spaced relationship to each other.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Varco Pruden Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Michael Sundstrom
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Patent number: 6986934Abstract: A thermoplastic laminate plank is described wherein the thermoplastic laminate plank comprises a core, a print layer, and optionally an overlay. The core comprises at least one thermoplastic material and has a top surface and bottom surface wherein a print layer is affixed to the top surface of the core and an overlay layer is affixed to the top surface of the print layer. Optionally, an underlay layer can be located and affixed between the bottom surface of the print layer and the top surface of the core. In addition, a method of making the thermoplastic laminate plank is further described which involves extruding at least one thermoplastic material into the shape of the core and affixing a laminate on the core, wherein the laminate comprises an overlay affixed to the top surface of the print layer and optionally an underlay layer affixed to the bottom surface of the print layer.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2004Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
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Patent number: 6945001Abstract: A building using pieces of structural facing is capable of simplifying the operation of construction and exalting the feasibility of construction, applicable to all conceivable portions of a building, and capable of liberally cutting the cost incurred in the construction. Each of the pieces of structural facing 2 is constituted of a heat-insulating sound-insulating core material 3 coated on both sides thereof with an outer panel 5 and an inner panel 6 both made of a steel sheet and connected to the framework of a building 1 and concatenated with adjoining pieces of facing 2.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2000Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventor: Masao Suzuki
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Patent number: 6941715Abstract: A modular prefabricated deck system which includes a plurality of rectangular flooring modules. Each module may include a plurality of laminations, such as a decorative upper element, and a lower support element for supporting the module upon the underlying joist structure of the deck. Additionally, each module may include interlocking structure for engaging adjacent modules upon installation.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2001Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Inventor: John Potter
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Patent number: 6920732Abstract: Flooring material comprising board shaped floor elements which are provided with edges, a lower side and a decorative upper surface. The floor elements are intended to be joined by means of separate joining profile. All four edges are provided with one notch-like groove each. The grooves are arrange parallel to its respective edge. The joining profiles are provided with lips arrange in pairs. The lips are intended to each be received by one of the grooves so that the floor elements with the grooves at the adjacent edges will be guided or fixed vertically via the lips of a joining profile. The lips are joined by a middle section of the joining profile. The grooves are furthermore provided with an undercut while the lips are provided with hooks that matches the undercut whereby adjacent floor elements will be guided or fixed horizontally via the undercuts and the hook.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2004Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Pergo (Europe) ABInventor: Göran Mårtensson
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Patent number: 6886301Abstract: A novel building construction is described for exterior building walls. The construction comprises an interior frame formed of a plurality of laterally spaced studs or beams, a layer of rigid insulation adjacent to the exterior side of this steel frame, exterior building cladding adjacent the exterior side of the rigid insulation and a plurality of low conductivity connectors, e.g. insulating plastic connectors or thin metal strips having an insulating plastic foam coating, extending through the layer of rigid insulation and connecting together the exterior cladding and the interior steel studs or beams. Vertical channels are formed adjacent both the inside and outside faces of the insulation layer to remove moisture. This provides the required structural strength with a minimum of thermal conductivity from the warm side to the cold side of the building envelope, while providing exterior drain channels and interior moisture removing channels.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2004Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Inventor: Herbert K. Schilger
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Patent number: 6880305Abstract: The invention relates to a strip for a building board (2), exhibiting a board body (S) which is formed with a gripping stud (24). The strip (10) extends from the body (S) and from which are formed gripping elements (26, 28), which are bent round the gripping stud (24) for mechanical fastening of the strip (10) to the body (S), as well as a locking element (12) for enabling mechanical joining of the board (2) to similar boards.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2002Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Valinge Aluminium ABInventors: Darko Pervan, Tony Pervan
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Patent number: 6874292Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Unilin Beheer BV, Besloten VennootschapInventors: Stefan Simon Gustaaf Moriau, Mark Gaston Maurits Cappelle, Bernard Paul Joseph Thiers
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Patent number: 6874291Abstract: The invention describes a universal structural element (1) for the purpose of forming in particular, three-dimensional structures, which structural element can be manufactured in a convenient manner efficiently, cost-effectively from the most varied materials and can be recycled in an environmentally-friendly manner, can be used and applied universally, enables a monolithic type of construction using similar connectors (5) for connecting similar structural elements together and with other elements at low assembly cost and allows disassembly or reconstruction work to be conducted in a straightforward and non-destructive manner, meets high static requirements and can preferably be standardised in modular dimensions.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2000Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Inventor: Ralf D. Weber
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Patent number: 6871467Abstract: A decking system and clip apparatus used therein are provided. According to one aspect of the invention, the clip apparatus typically includes a top portion and a pair of lateral projections extending from opposite sides of the top portion. Each lateral projection is configured to contact a respective decking member, thereby maintaining a predefined distance between the decking members. The clip apparatus further typically includes a pair of spaced-apart downward projections extending downward from the top portion, the downward projections being separated by a void sized to receive the joist.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Inventor: Robert Hafner
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Patent number: 6865855Abstract: The invention relates to flat and/or elongated building components (1, 2), preferably wooden, and a structure connecting these components (1, 2) in accordance with the groove and tongue principle. Two legs (3, 4) forming a groove (5) branch off from a front face of one of the components (1), and a tongue (6) branching off from a front face of the other component (2) can be inserted into the groove (5). Locking elements (7, 8) hold the components (1, 2) in an assembled position. In accordance with the invention, the locking elements are configured as triangular projections (7) and cavities (8) in facing or adjacent surfaces of the groove and/or tongue.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2002Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Kaindl, MInventor: Franz Knauseder
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Patent number: 6848228Abstract: Foam blocks may be manufactured using a two part urethane foaming agent or the like at the construction site using a mold that may be disassembled into a plurality of component pieces for ease of transportation and to facilitate removal of a block. Preferably, the blocks are formed in the mold in which a facing is placed such that the facing is bonded to the foam of the block. A wall constructed from successive courses of blocks will have intersecting horizontal and vertical channels which may be filled with concrete and reinforcing rod to produce a wall with high horizontal and vertical load capacity as well as superior insulating properties.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2000Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Inventor: Chester W. Williams
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Patent number: 6807787Abstract: A system for joining blocks of foam, each block having a surface, using a connector system. The connector system including a first and second connector which each have a lateral flange for securing within one of the blocks of foam, beneath and parallel to the surface. The connector system has a mechanism for joining the first connector to the second connector to secure the blocks of foam together while holding the surfaces of the blocks closely against each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Inventor: Stephen Ross
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Patent number: 6804925Abstract: A composite material that is formed into basic structural panels that can be subsequently assembled into the floors, walls, roof trusses, and roofs of buildings by unskilled labor having access to basic tools is disclosed. Thus, basic shelter, low-cost houses and various other structures, such as schools, churches, clinics, and storage facilities may be constructed to address the need for such structures in economically-distressed countries with large populations. The building material for the panels is a molded polymer composite, made from either homogeneous or non-homogeneous materials. The materials consist primarily of recycled or virgin polyolefins, primarily polyethylene and polypropylene compounds with or without various additives, including glass fiber, metals and naturally-occurring materials such as rice husks, sugar cane bagasse, nut shells, talc, clay, sand and wood.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Daedalus Project, Inc.Inventor: Edward Archie McCulloch
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Patent number: 6799403Abstract: A prefabricated structural building panel having a deep ribbed sheet metal interior skin. The panel preferably has a light weight rigid highly insulative foam core bonded to inner and outer skins, and having a ribbed configuration for the interior skin. A method for building a structural wall by assembling panels in an edge to edge relationship to create a structural wall system with the ribbed interior skin providing the structural support. A prefabricated insulated structural panel, having a core material of various types of foam plastic bonded to an interior ribbed metal skin and an exterior skin of any one or combination of suitable exterior materials such as for example wood, fiber glass, cement, or metal. The edges of the panels are configured to abuttingly match corresponding edges of similarly configured panels when such panels are arranged in edge to edge relationship to form the structure wall of a building.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2001Date of Patent: October 5, 2004Inventor: Teresa G. Winter
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Patent number: 6796097Abstract: A light-weight structural system is provided by a panel system having at least one pair of adjacent panels (10) and a clip (60) positioned between the adjacent panels. A groove or channel (26) in each panel receives an outwardly-extending tongue or tab (70) on the clip. Built-up gussets (28, 30) on the panels above and below the groove or channel provide structural strength. Upwardly-extending support members (64, 66) on the clip bear weight from the panels. A base section (62) of the clip allows the clip to be fixed to a roof or wall substructure. The panels can be formed from thermosetting or thermoplastic polymers, especially fiber-reinforced polymers.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: The Garland Company, Inc.Inventors: Fred A. Fensel, Michael Huber
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Publication number: 20040182034Abstract: The present invention is an anchoring biscuit device for joining three boards. It includes, (a) an at least partially flat horizontal top element having an imaginary center line, having opposite side walls, and having a top view footprint adapted to be inserted into grooves of adjacent boards; (b) at least one substantially vertical support member attached to the underside of the top element and extending downwardly therefrom for a predetermined length for joinder of two adjacent boards which contain said grooves for receiving portions of said top into said grooves; and, (c) at least one compressive element located on aid device, with at least a portion of said at least one compressive element, from a top view footprint, being located away from said imaginary center line and way from said vertical support member, wherein said compressive element is adapted to at least partially collapse under predetermined compressive force.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventor: Harry W. Eberle
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Publication number: 20040177583Abstract: The present invention is a new and novel modular raised wall paneling system and method of manufacture that is economical, labor non-intensive, and can be easily constructed for a variety of room configurations and dimensions. The modular raised wall paneling system of the present invention comprises a plurality of individual panel sections having a joint there between, wherein a panel section includes a recess portion forming the appearance of a raised panel thereon. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the panel sections include along opposed longitudinal edges a tongue and a groove such that the panel sections can be disposed in parallel side-by-side mating relationship such that the tongue of one panel section is received in the groove of an adjacent panel section.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2003Publication date: September 16, 2004Inventor: Gary Schaffeld
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Patent number: 6786019Abstract: Floor covering hard panels having at least on two opposite edges, coupling elements made in one piece with the panels, so that several ones of such panels can be mutually coupled, whereby these coupling elements provide for an interlocking in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the edges and parallel to the plane of the panels, and whereby these coupling elements are made such that the panels can be rotated into and/or out of one another at least along the above-mentioned edges. The panels are provided, at least on the above-mentioned edges, near the top side, with a part from which has been removed an amount of material such as by a bevel.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Flooring Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Bernard Paul Joseph Thiers
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Publication number: 20040168393Abstract: A system consists of blocks (1) provided with grooves (19, 21) as well as joining elements (23) which are situated in the grooves for positioning the blocks with respect to each other. The block (1) has two joining sides (3, 5) for joining the blocks situated above and/or below it. Starting with a rough, undressed block, a layer of the rough block is removed from both joining sides over the whole surface, so that the joining sides (3, 5) become bearing surfaces (15, 17), which form the contact surfaces with the blocks above and below them. When dressing the rough block one makes sure that the distance (18) between the bearing surfaces (15, 17) lies within narrow tolerances of a desired value. Because of this, the blocks in a course lie precisely in a horizontal plane. The grooves (19, 21) and joining elements (23) make sure that the blocks lie precisely in a vertical plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2004Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: Gert J Den Daas
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Patent number: 6772567Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.Inventors: Niels Diffrient Jr., Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
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Patent number: 6769220Abstract: A Dyligomer is disclosed. The Dyligomer has the structure where B is a chemical moiety formed by reactions involving the NCO groups of a diisocyanate having the formulas OCN—B—NCO and the active hydrogens of OH groups of compounds having the formulas A—OH and D—OH, and A and D are chemical moieties formed by the reactions which formed B, and wherein A and D include, in their structures, at least two active hydrogens which are parts of OH groups and at least one ethylenic double bond. Also disclosed are polymerizable compositions comprising Dyligomers and their use to produce structural panels that are admirably suited for use as floors in refrigerated trucks and trailers, and in roofs, sidewalls and load bearing walls for homes and commercial buildings. Blocks which can be used to produce buildings are also disclosed, as is the use of Dyligomers to produce the blocks, and the use of the blocks to produce building structures.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Inventor: Charles E. Friesner
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Patent number: 6766622Abstract: Floor covering, consisting of floor panels (1) based on a fiber-like material bound by a binding agent, more particularly MDF or HDF, which, at least at their edges, are connected to each other by means of a connection, more particularly a tongue-and-groove connection (2-3) which connection consists of coupling parts which are made in one piece with the floor panels and is shaped in such a manner that the floor panels (1) are locked glue-free in the direction parallel to the plane of the floor covering and transverse to the connection, as well as in a direction perpendicular to this plane, characterized in that, at least at the location where the floor panels (1) cooperate with each other, a sliding agent (12-12A) is provided at least on one of the floor panels (1).Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2001Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: Unilin Beheer B.V.Inventor: Bernard Paul Joseph Thiers
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Patent number: 6763643Abstract: Flooring material comprising board shaped floor elements (1) which are provided with edges (2), a lower side (5) and a decorative upper surface (3). The floor elements (1) are intended to be joined by means of separate joining profiles (10). All four edges (2) are provided with one notch-like groove (4) each. The grooves (4) are arranged parallel to its respective edge (2). The joining profiles (10) are provided with lips (11) arranged in pairs. The lips (11) are intended to each be received by one of the grooves (4) so that the floor element (1) with the grooves (4) at the adjacent edges (2) will be guided or fixed vertically via the lips (11) of a joining profile (10). The lips (11) are joined by a middle section (12) of the joining profile (10). The grooves (4) are furthermore provided with an undercut (46) while the lips (11) are provided with hooks (16) that matches the undercut (46) whereby adjacent floor elements (1) will be guided or fixed horizontally via the undercuts (46) and the hooks (16).Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2001Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Pergo (Europe) ABInventor: Göran Mårtensson
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Patent number: 6761008Abstract: A spline, tongue, connector, or snap connector is described and useful for connecting a variety of surface covering products together. In one embodiment the spline is a polymeric material having an elongated shape and dimensions such that the spline has a sufficient width to fit into and extend outside of a groove in a side edge of a first plank and to fit into a respective groove in a side edge of a second plank. The spline may be concealed from view when the first plank and the second plank are connected together by the spline. A surface covering system for connecting two or more planks together is also described as well as methods to connect two or more planks together using the splines of the present invention. The system can include a spline having a length that differs from the length of one or more of the planks.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2001Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
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Publication number: 20040111998Abstract: Improved building planks and boards consist of a metal tray (a) filled with a filling material (b). The sides of the tray may be grooved (c) enabling adjacent planks or boards to be assembled coplanar with pipes located in the oppositely facing grooves. The pipes serve to maintain the alignment of the planks or boards relative to one another and by circulating liquid through them enable an array of such planks and boards to be used in thermal transfer applications involving extracting heat from the environment or introducing heat to the array, for example for de-icing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Barrie Peter Moore
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Patent number: 6745538Abstract: The present invention relates to a mounting structure which is arranged at two abutting structural panels (1, 2) so that said structural panels are connected with each other, comprising two pairs of clamping plates, with one of said pairs of clamping plates being fixed to one structural panel (1), and the other pair of clamping plates being fixed to the other structural panel (2). The two pairs of clamping plates abut against each other with one of their clamping plates (3, 4), and the two abutting clamping plates (3, 4) are provided with mutually aligned, undercut longitudinal slots (5) which receive a connecting plate (6) connecting the abutting two clamping plates (3, 4) with each other, and being fixed to the two clamping plates (3, 4) by means of fasteners (7) which extend through said connecting plate (6). Thus, a mounting structure is provided whose manufacture is relatively easy and cost-efficient.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: Casma S.p.A.Inventor: Mirko Marinoni
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Publication number: 20040060255Abstract: The invention relates to a panel with coupling elements, which are designed in such a manner that two panels can be connected to one another by a form-fit connection at the same time in a first direction perpendicular to the common joint and in a second direction parallel and perpendicular to the common surface of the panels. The invention relates especially to a laminate flooring. The panel according to the invention provides one coupling element, which is designed in such a manner that two panels can be connected to one another especially by form-fit connection in the direction along the common joint formed by the panels. The form-fit connection along the common joint according to the invention therefore achieves greater security during assembly with reference to any enlargement of the cracks and inaccuracies when laying parquet flooring.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2003Publication date: April 1, 2004Inventor: Franz Knauseder
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Patent number: 6701678Abstract: A storage enclosure including a plurality of panels defines an interior space. At least one of the plurality of panels includes a mounting interface configured to couple an accessory to one of the plurality of panels, and a panel interface configured to couple adjacent panels.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Rubbermaid IncorporatedInventors: Erik L. Skov, William F. Croft, Timothy M. Pierzynski
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Publication number: 20040040244Abstract: The invention contemplates a system of interconnecting notched composite articles so as to create a surface therefrom. A joint segment having an edge configured to be received into a plurality of notches within juxtaposed composite articles and a fastener engaging the joint segment so as to anchor the joint segment to a support system underlying the joint segment interconnects the composite articles. Further disclosed is a method of installing composite articles involving fastening a first joint segment having opposing edges to a structural support system, aligning a composite article having a first notch on at least a portion of a first surface of the composite article and a second notch on a second surface of the composite article such that the first joint segment edge is received into the first notch, and fastening a second joint segment having edges to the structural support system such that the second joint segment edges engages the second notch on the second surface of the composite article.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: March 4, 2004Inventor: Charles Baker
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Patent number: 6694688Abstract: A covering system for walls, floors, ceilings, and other surfaces, having covering units joined by locking keys. Additional components adapt the system to corners and a variety of surface edges.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventor: Robert A Crepas
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Publication number: 20040020150Abstract: A light-weight structural system is provided by a panel system having at least one pair of adjacent panels (10) and a clip (60) positioned between the adjacent panels. A groove or channel (26) in each panel receives an outwardly-extending tongue or tab (70) on the clip. Built-up gussets (28, 30) on the panels above and below the groove or channel provide structural strength. Upwardly-extending support members (64, 66) on the clip bear weight from the panels. A base section (62) of the clip allows the clip to be fixed to a roof or wall substructure. The panels can be formed from thermosetting or thermoplastic polymers, especially fiber-reinforced polymers.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2002Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: Fred A. Fensel, Michael Huber
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Publication number: 20040020152Abstract: A fastening device for securing adjacent, parallel boards to a transverse structure, including a top plate having flanges to fit into slots cut into the sides of boards, a center hole in the top plate to accommodate a screw or nail, and top and bottom tabs to provide uniform spacing and to support the fastener during attachment to the support structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2002Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventor: G. Steven Harris
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Publication number: 20040016197Abstract: An arrangement of building elements capable of a snap-fastening interconnection comprises an element, especially the tongue, consisting of a different material from the other building elements. An MDF/HDF panel, is initially milled along the longitudinal and/or transverse sides, and the resulting groove is then provided and/or foam-filled with extrudates. Finally, the free ends of the extrudates are milled to form the profile of the tongue. Alternatively, or additionally, a groove may also be milled into the extrudates.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: January 29, 2004Applicant: M. KAINDLInventor: Herbert Ruhdorfer
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Patent number: 6681820Abstract: A process for the manufacturing of longitudinal profiles such and tongue and groove on boards wherein the process includes the steps; a) Moulding a substantial part of the profile cross-section by means of milling with a milling tool. b) Fine moulding undercuts in at least the groove of the board by means of broaching utilising at least one broaching tool.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Pergo (Europe) ABInventor: Ola Olofsson
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Patent number: 6679021Abstract: A modular wall segment for constructing a wall includes two walling sheets of selected size and shape bonded to the opposite faces of a plurality of contiguously placed aerated concrete blocks. The segments may be formed with end faces defining slots of various configurations for receiving various types of fastening elements to enable a plurality of such segments to be secured together in a modularized fashion.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Inventors: Eliyahu Maimon, Oren Dror
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Patent number: 6675545Abstract: A spline, tongue, connector, or snap connector is described and useful for connecting a variety of surface covering products together. In one embodiment the spline is a polymeric material having an elongated shape and dimensions such that the spline has a sufficient width to fit into and extend outside of a groove in a side edge of a first plank and to fit into a respective groove in a side edge of a second plank. The spline may be concealed from view when the first plank and the second plank are connected together by the spline. A surface covering system for connecting two or more planks together is also described as well as methods to connect two or more planks together using the splines of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2000Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Mannington Mills, Inc.Inventors: Hao A. Chen, Richard Judd
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Publication number: 20040003562Abstract: A soundproof flooring system for overlying a sub floor includes a resilient soundproof membrane laying down on the sub floor. Elongated supports disposed generally parallel and spaced relationship relative to each other lay down on the membrane in alternate fashion with elongated spacers. Each support includes an elongated channel with a core slip encased therein. The plywood slip has a rib with an outer surface protruding out from the channel to support and secure the finish floor thereto. Each spacer slightly protrudes out upwardly from the rib outer surfaces of the plywood slips to support the finish floor thereon. The wood planks of the finish floor are transversely secured to the plywood slips using a bonding agent with staples or cleats.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2002Publication date: January 8, 2004Inventor: Ehsanul Haque