Abstract: A telescoping structure includes an alignment mechanism to keep aligned an inner structure member and outer structure member, as the members translate relative to one another to extend or retract the telescoping structure. The alignment mechanism includes multiple parts that are mechanically coupled to respective of the structure members. For example, the alignment mechanism may include sprockets or pinions (rotating, toothed elements) on one of the structure members that engage racks or chains (linear, tooth-receiving elements having recesses therein) on the other of the structure members. By keeping the telescoping structure members in alignment with other during telescoping translation, jamming is prevented or at least made less likely. The parts of the alignment mechanism may also be used to provide force for extending or retracting the telescoping structure, for example using a motor move the tooth elements and/or the tooth-receiving elements to cause relative translation of the structure members.

Abstract: A truss bearing supports a web-type construction truss and has an elongated metal member that is secured along its length to the primary supporting chord of a truss. The truss bearing can include a pair of substantially parallel spaced-apart elongated wooden members sandwiching the metal member extending along and secured to the bottom of the primary chord, with the metal member adhesively secured to the primary chord through being adhesively secured to the pair of wooden members. An optional metal bearing plate can be substantially rigidly secured to the bottom surface of the elongated metal member near one or both ends of the truss, forming therewith a T-shaped cross-section, and can be welded to a supporting member of a larger structure using metal-to-metal connection. The bearing plate can have an angled extension affixed to the first diagonal truss member.

Abstract: A deployable rectangular truss with folding or removable chordal members and diagonals and orthogonal hinge joints for continuous and synchronous retraction and extension. The truss is rectangular in cross section, with four common chords on the corners. Two opposing sides of the truss have diagonals that meet at side joints. One or more end frames may be used to close off or mount one of more ends of the deployable truss. A plurality of telescoping transverse struts may extend between major joints on one side of the truss.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an aerial service wire includes a mast capable of attachment to an aerial service wire. The mast may be extendable between at least a first position and a second position and connected to a clamp capable of attachment to a support structure. A method for supporting an aerial service wire includes attaching an extendable aerial service wire mast to a support structure, attaching an aerial wire to the extendable aerial service wire mast, and adjusting the height of the extendable aerial service wire mast.

Abstract: There is disclosed a telescopic mast (2) including two or more cylindric telescoping sections (4) with parallel walls (6), where the distal one of two adjacent telescoping sections (4) is narrower than the proximal one of the two adjacent telescoping sections (4), so that the distal telescoping section (4) can be moved into and out of the proximal telescoping section (4), respectively. In the interspace (8) between two adjacent telescoping section (4) there is provided at least one means (10) interacting with an actuator (16) and pressing the adjacent walls (6) away from each other. Hereby play is eliminated or minimised.

Abstract: A telescoping mast for supporting and raising a load may be telescopically extended by a zipper-action chain extension system further comprising a system for the management of one or more cables, such as power or communication cables traversing the length of the mast, and is capable of being locked into a rigid formation along a range of telescopic lengths.

Abstract: A self-deployable, monolithic, open-lattice frame structure of resilient, tape-spring members. The structure is comprised of three or more longitudinal prismatic tape-spring members (longerons) and non-prismatic tape-spring members (battens) that are connected transversely to the longerons. The longerons can be reconfigured in a z-folding manner to compact the structure. The batten members have a twist at each end of the same magnitude and sense, such that when connected to the longerons, the concave surfaces of the battens substantially face along the longitudinal direction of the frame structure. This batten shape permits them to nest within adjacent battens when the structure is compacted.

Abstract: The extendible building post includes a telescoping hydraulic cylinder integrated within a construction member externally configured and dimensioned essentially identically to a conventional building construction member, e.g., a four-by-four or six-by-six length of lumber, or alternatively a plastic column. The hydraulic system may be formed of stock plastic pipe and fittings, and may use water as the working fluid. The device may include insulation and a heating system to prevent freezing when used in such an environment, with certain types of insulation also providing additional rigidity for the hydraulic assembly.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.

Abstract: A portable telescoping tower assembly. The assembly includes a tower mounted on a trailer wherein the tower includes a plurality of telescoping sections that extend for use and retract and nest for storage and transportation. At least one cylindrical ram moves the tower between horizontal and vertical positions. A motor extends and retracts the plurality of sections. Each of the sections includes a plurality of external edges with each of the external edges including at least one protruding guide to mate with and receive an adjoining section.

Abstract: An extensible beam (1) comprising: a first, elongate element (10), a second element (50) adapted to move relative to the first elongate element in order to vary the amount of overlap between the first and second elements and thereby vary the length of the beam. Wherein the first element includes first (18) and second (20) support portions and the second element includes first (52) and second (54) spaced apart strut members for engagement with the first and second support portions respectively.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.

Abstract: A radial-hinge mechanism includes one or more elongated members arranged and interconnected into a unique, geometry-based, closed-loop assembly often resembling a multi-point star when in its fully-closed mode. The mechanism's signature function is its variable nature of pivoting open from a centralized hinge-core as its substantially circular inner-aperture concurrently contracts in its own circular dimensions. Additionally, the mechanism has a natural susceptibility to spring-biasing techniques to further modify its versatility and performance.

Abstract: A boom for a load handling machine, the boom has a mounting by which the boom is mounted on a body of the machine, and at least first and second telescoped sections. In use, the boom carries a load handling implement at or towards its outermost end. The first boom section is telescoped within the second section and is extendible and retractable relative to the second boom section by an actuator. At least the first boom section includes walls made at least predominantly of a composite material. A bearing member is located where adjacent walls meet to extend along a substantial length of the first boom section to provide bearing surfaces during sliding of the first boom section relative to the second boom section. Bearings also may be provided on the interior of the second boom section to further protect the first boom section.

Abstract: A deployable single truss with folding or removable chordal members and diagonals and orthogonal hinge joints for continuous and synchronous retraction and extension, in straight and curved configurations. One or more endframes may be used to close off or mount one of more ends of the deployable trusses. A primary orthogonal hinge joint is used to connect the chordal members and diagonals of the deployable trusses along each primary chord. A secondary orthogonal hinge joint to connect the chordal members and diagonals of the deployable trusses along each secondary chord.

Abstract: A metal stud and clip assembly is designed for use in a non-load-bearing wall to allow a horizontal ceiling to vertically float thereon. This is accomplished by an elongated receiving channel on the stud spaced inwardly from its edges. A clip member has an elongated stabilizing bar slidably inserted into the channel, and the stabilizing bar itself then is secured to a horizontal ceiling or a track system mounted to the ceiling. Thus, relative movement of the ceiling with respect to the wall allows the stabilizing bar to move up and down in the receiving channel on the stud member.

Abstract: A one piece assembly of a small production unit (23) for panels intended for building comprises an upper tray (2) a bottom tray of longer length (1) a collapsible crane (7) situated on the upper tray (2) supporting the crane structure (7) is horizontally mobile with rollers (11) supported on rail (12) positioned on the bottom tray (1) without requiring an external support lying on the ground. The vertical movement of the upper tray (2) is assured by an assembly of screw jacks (4), plates (18), guides (14) and runners (13). The compact assembly (23) of the production unit can be moved from site to site without heavy handling movement.

Abstract: A portable flag holding pole having a flag tube (2) a holder (1), rising and setting groove (3) to facilitate the rising and setting of a flag (5) into an inner tube (6), a cap 12, a slope gear (16) and a slope gear projection (15) positioned at the inner part of the cap (12), a projection piece (17) of the slope gear (16) for insertion into a cutting groove (7), an axial pin (18) connected to the slope gear projection (15), a revolving body (9) is flexibly mounted at an end of the winding inner tube (6) through which an insert driving shaft (10) is inwardly passed and a spring (8) is mounted flexibly, characterized in that the cutting groove (7) engages a fixed pin (19) of the revolving body (9) with the insert holding piece (11) positioned at the rear end of the insert driving shaft (10) inserted into the insert holding piece (22) of a supporting means (20).

Abstract: A post and beam construction system has a plurality of telescoping posts, and a plurality of post support bases, each of the bases supporting one of the telescoping posts on one end thereof. A plurality of generally U-shaped brackets are attached to the other end of each telescoping post. A beam is supported and attached to each of the generally U-shaped brackets on the end of each telescoping posts. A decorative foamed polymer cover covers the beam and each of the plurality of telescoping posts and is coated with a fiber reinforced cement coating. The beam has a first and second elongated rib extending from two sides thereof, each rib having a T-shaped cross-section for attaching another structure component thereto.

Abstract: A truss assembly includes angled cross members and straight cross members which extend between two parallel truss members. Brackets are provided along the two parallel truss members for attachment to the ends of the angled and straight truss members. Slots are provided either in the brackets or in the angled truss members to permit pivotal movement of the angled truss members to accommodate varying dimensions of the truss assembly.

Abstract: An inner leg telescopically fits within an outer leg and includes a motor coaxially mounted to an end remote from the outer leg. A drive screw is coupled to the motor shaft and extends through a drive nut in an axially extending drive nut riser. As the motor rotates the drive screw, the inner leg extends and retracts from the outer leg. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the drive nut riser is a hollow cylindrical tube extending substantially the length of the outer tube to position the drive nut near the intersection between the inner and outer legs when fully extended. Such an arrangement allows a motor to be coaxially mounted within the inner leg and, therefore, concealed and provides the desired extension and retraction of the legs for adjustment to different operative positions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for elevating items includes telescopically retractable and extendable hollow tubular pole sections that include a locking means to lock at least one section in extended position. The bottom of the pole is adapted for mounting to a support structure.

Abstract: A strut apparatus for constructive use in the building framing arts is comprised of an elongate sheet-metal first cylinder, open at each of its ends, one of the ends providing a pair of integral ears. An elongate sheet-metal second cylinder is also open at each of its ends, and also provides attachment ears. The first and second cylinders are adapted by size and shape for tight sliding mutual engagement in a coaxial, linearly extensible, relationship with the ears of each of the cylinders extending in opposite directions.

Abstract: A post and beam construction system has a plurality of telescoping posts, and a plurality of post support bases, each of the bases supporting one of the telescoping posts on one end thereof. A plurality of generally U-shaped brackets are attached to the other end of each telescoping post. A beam is supported and attached to each of the generally U-shaped brackets on the end of each telescoping posts. A decorative foamed polymer cover covers the beam and each of the plurality of telescoping posts and is coated with a fiber reinforced cement coating. The beam has a first and second elongated rib extending from two sides thereof, each rib having a T-shaped cross-section for attaching another structure component thereto.

Abstract: A portable safety anchor for use in an aperture with side jambs such as a door or window as a tie off for a safety line. The anchor has a pair of clamps mounted on a bar longer than the aperture is wide. The clamps are T-shaped with a stem and a cross arm. The stem is adapted for contact with a first side of the wall and the cross arm has a toe and a heel. The toe is adapted for contact with the side jamb and the heel is adapted to extend beyond the side jamb on the first side of the wall. The heel has an aperture through which the bar passes. Means are provided for securing the clamps on the bar with the toes in frictional contact with the side jamb and the stem in frictional contact with the first side of the wall. A safety line is tied from the toe of one or both of the clamps such that a force applied to the safety line on the second side of the wall is transferred to the first side of the wall by the clamps.

Abstract: A retractable column formed from a set of at least three flexible webs with each of the webs having a set of teeth located along opposite edges of the webs, each of the teeth having a first ear obliquely extending from a first side and a second ear obliquely extending from a second side, each of the teeth spaced from an adjacent tooth a base distance substantially equal to a root distance of a tooth on the web so that when a tooth on one of the webs is engaged in a neck to neck relationship with a pair of teeth on one of the other webs the teeth on each of the webs engage each other in an interlocking relationship to hold the webs proximate each other to form a rigid column.

Abstract: The invention relates to a slide mount for telescopic parts, more particularly for crane jibs, including a slipper arranged between the sliding surface areas of the telescopic parts, the slipper being configured so that it is held in place by a wedge effect between the telescopic parts, and the slipper including on its inner and/or outer surface area longitudinal grooves receiving compensating, spacer elements, preferably, elongated strips.

Abstract: A connector plate for joining, in a biased manner, structural members of a building and including first and second plates in overlapped relationship with each plate adapted for individual securement to a structural member being joined. A tapered insert serves to impart tension to at least one of the plates so as to draw the attached structural member toward the remaining member. Supplemental tensioning members engage misaligned openings in the plates to further tension one of the plates.

Abstract: An adjustable rafter that includes a main rafter having an inner end portion and an outer end portion. The outer end portion is adjacent to a wall of a structure. The main rafter defines a longitudinal direction. A rafter tail slideably engages the outer end portion of the main rafter, and the rafter tail is slideable in the longitudinal direction to a position relative to the outer end portion whereby the rafter tail may be laterally aligned with a plurality of other rafter tails.

Abstract: An expandable self-locking frame useful in the construction of temporary to permanent walls. The frame comprises a plurality of longitudinally extensible studs mounted along the length of a pair of elongated tracks. Each of the longitudinally extensible studs is provided with a longitudinal extension mechanism incorporating a locking mechanism with which a length of the frame can be adjusted. In a preferred embodiment, the outer longitudinally extensible struts of the frame are further provided with lateral extension mechanisms with which the width of the frame can be adjusted.

Abstract: A method of casting concrete structures using a "flexible formwork assembly". The assembly has flexible sheets suspended from a fixed location, preferably from a supporting frame assembled on top of the reinforcing members, with rigid stress distribution members located to the outer surface of flexible sheets in predetermined spacings so as to carry load directly and to redistribute stress in the sheet so as to aid the sheet to withstand the concrete pressure. The majority of stress distribution members are arranged in pairs which are directly connected to each other by ties in wall type structures. Reinforcing members are used as a main frame or skeleton to hold and suspend the formwork assembly. Spacers are used to aid in maintaining the sheets in a desired location which ensure adequate concrete cover to the reinforcing prior to pouring of the concrete. Stress distribution members provide external shape, configuration and pattern to the concrete surface by their shape and arrangement.

Abstract: A figure for positioning into a variety of polygonal orientations. The figure includes telescoping outer members pivotally connected to one another to form a polygon. The telescoping members can each be adjusted in length and angular orientation relative to adjoining members to form a plurality of polygonal shapes.

Abstract: The form panel (1) has a lining skin (2) and girders (4) supporting the lining skin (2) on the side averted from the concrete, as well as possibly marginal webs (3) which run approximately parallel to the girders (4) and enable adjacent form panels (1) to be coupled and connected to one another. The girders (4) have an approximately U-shaped cross section, the U-limbs (5) departing from a U-crosspiece (6) to diverge slantwise and having at their free ends, where they are furthest apart from each other, oppositely directly fastening flanges (7) for joining to the lining skin (2).

Abstract: A formwork board is disclosed for use in the placement of concrete slabs, sidewalks, driveways, and footings. It includes a first element and a second element. The first element is adapted to telescopically receive the second element to provide a board of variable lengths. The elements of the board are advantageously fabricated from a light metal, or a light metal alloy.

Abstract: A telescopic rod composed of a plurality of tubular rod sections which are mounted so as to be slidable within each other includes a multistage piston-cylinder unit which is arranged within the telescopic rod and is connected to the outermost rod section of the telescopic rod and to the last inner rod section of the telescopic rod. Locking bars are provided in the areas of the inner end faces of individual sections, wherein the locking bars are displaceable in a direction transversely of the longitudinal direction of the rod sections and wherein the locking bars can be placed in operative engagement with the respectively adjacent outer rod section. When the rod sections of the telescopic rod are in the extended end position, the locking bar of each inner rod section engages in a positively locking manner in an opening of the respectively outer adjacent rod section. Spring-biased clamps are provided on the outer sides of the rod sections located between the outermost rod section and the innermost rod section.

Abstract: An architectural support comprised of various splines, key ways, and collars which interlock and when assembled form a complete unit. This unit may be used as an architectural support in the construction or fabrication of a table, display, cabinet, stand, and platform. This architectural support in the above items would be used as a table leg, support leg, or door pull. In addition, the architectural support could be used for decorative or aesthetic purposes.

Abstract: A telescopic flagpole comprises at least two concentrically disposed tubular segments that are axially movable with respect to each other. A locking device housed within an inner segment includes a pin that is biased to extend from the inner segment through a hole in the adjacent outer segment to prevent relative axial movement of the segments. Additionally, a screw mounted in a bushing at one end of an outer segment can be tightened against, passed into, or passed through a portion of the adjacent inner segment to inhibit relative axial movement of the juxtaposed segments. The screw can have an uncommon head configuration to reduce the possibility of unauthorized or unintentional loosening of the screw. Relative rotation of adjacent segments is inhibited by providing an outer segment with an inwardly projecting ridge that engages a notch in the adjacent inner segment. Alternatively, the ridge can engage a notch in a plug inserted into the end of the adjacent inner segment.

Abstract: Floor structures that are erected on a temporary basis on ground so that they can be removed and not do permanent damage to the environment. In one embodiment a frame is mounted on poles that are staked into the ground. The floor has sections that extend between sides of the frame and are connected together to move in unison to be extended for use and retracted for storage. Such extension and retraction may be motorized. In another embodiment a glass floor structure bridges a pool and steps provide access for people.

Abstract: A telescopic boom including an elongated hollow outer boom, an elongated inner boom telescopically received within the outer boom, and guidance structure for guiding the inner boom for telescopic movement is provided. The guidance structure includes a plurality of guide rails attached to the interior corners of the outer boom, a first roller assembly attached to one end of the inner boom, and a second roller assembly attached to one end of the outer boom. The first roller assembly includes a plurality of wheels mounted on axles for engaging the guide rails. Each of the wheels includes an arcuate rail-engaging portion which presents a radius of curvature equal to the radius of curvature of the guide rails. The second roller assembly includes a pair of roller bars positioned on opposed sides of one end of the outer boom for guiding the inner boom during telescopic movement. Each of the roller bars extends transverse to the longitudinal axis of the outer boom and is rotatably mounted on an elongated shaft.

Abstract: The invention herein pertains to an antenna stand for radio broadcasts and particularly pertains to temporary antenna stands which are erected for on site broadcasts such as at shopping centers or the like remote from a permanent broadcast station. A collapsible antenna stand having mast sections is provided so an individual worker can erect, dismantle or vary the height of the antenna with relative ease and convenience. The antenna mast comprises a series of sections which are engaged and slidably raised through the bottom of a tripod having extendable legs.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for erecting a vertical mast 10 on a drill platform 15 with minimal reliance on existing cranes. An elevator guide section 20 is first constructed on the platform 15. The elevator guide section 20 has one open side for receiving the mast top section 40, mast bottom section 70, and one or more mast intermediate sections 58A-D, all of which, have approximately the same horizontal cross section. A pair of mast elevators 28A-B are slidably coupled to the elevator guide section 20. By means of the existing platform crane, the top section 40, which has a prestrung crown block 45 and travelling block 46, is placed within the elevator guide section 20 and on the elevators 28A-B. Lifting power is transmitted to the elevators 28A-B by the existing drawworks 52 via the travelling block 46. Through a series of vertical movements of the elevators 28A-B, the top section 40 is raised and one more intermediate sections 58A-D are stacked thereunder.

Abstract: An adjustable-height post (10) for construction formwork, which is preferably made of aluminum, consists of an outer tube (12) to which a threaded nut is fastened in a lossproof manner, and an inner tube (11) that has thread segments (13, 14) on the outer surface. The segments (13, 13', 13", 13'") project into recesses (19, 19', 19", 19'") of the outer tube (12). This embodiment produces a robust post (10) whose inner tube (11) is nonrotatably supported and guided in the outer tube (12). The inner tube (11) can more easily be manufactured with the threads (14) according to the invention; at the same time, material can be saved in the manufacture of the post (10).

Abstract: A gypsum board support device with two opposite right angle locking support arms attached to an adjustable standard used temporarily when mounting gypsum board to ceiling members.The standard is of knockdown construction for ease in transporting to various construction sites.

Abstract: The invention herein pertains to an antenna stand for radio broadcasts and particularly pertains to temporary antenna stands which are erected for on site broadcasts such as at shopping centers or the like remote from a permanent broadcast station. A collapsible antenna stand having mast sections is provided so an individual worker can erect, dismantle or vary the height of the antenna with relative ease and convenience. The antenna mast comprises a series of sections which are engaged and slidably raised through the bottom of a tripod having extendable legs.

Abstract: A removable support apparatus for supporting a swimming pool cover employs adjustable frame assemblies capable of spanning between opposite edges at opposite sides of the pool. Each frame assembly includes a pair of separate frame members placed in side-by-side relation to one another so that together they define the overall length of the frame assembly. The frame members are displacable longitudinally relative to one another to adjust the overall length of the frame assembly to match the distance between the opposite edges of the pool so that the frame assembly can fit across the pool between its opposite edges. Each frame assembly also includes an end support member attached to the outer end of each frame member and supporting the frame member from one of the opposite edges of the pool.

Abstract: The invention provides a moving mechanism which can be made so small and lightweight as to be portable when being contracted, which can be formed into a longer higher column than conventional potable column, and which can thus realize a large moving amount without increasing the weight thereof. The movement mechanism has a slender moving member, a driving portion for moving the moving member, a plurality of centering members each having a through hole for the moving member at the center thereof, connected to each other and are moved in linkage with the movement of the moving member so that the distance between the respective centering members can be changed, and a movement passage for supporting and guiding the movement of the centering members.

Abstract: An adjustable window well grate is disclosed. The grate includes a plurality of individually adjustable elongate members, each of which has first and second elongated slidable sections, preferably U-shaped stringer sections which are slidable relative to each other to enable one to easily adjust the overall length of the elongate member. By having the ability to adjust the length of each elongate member individually, the grate's overall shape can be adjusted to fit the contour of the window well. In addition to the elongate members, the adjustable grate includes a plurality of cross supports for supporting and connecting a plurality of the elongate members together.

Abstract: A mast, column or post is assembled from successive segments which are arrayed along turns of a helix and are connected together successively and to the turns above and below such segments to enable a large diameter mast to be erected and, upon removal of the segments, to be lowered.

Abstract: A structural supporting system for use as a temporary support in concrete falsework construction and the like is disclosed. The structural supporting system includes a series of overlapping form beams and a plurality of cooperating brackets positioned along the length of the overlapping form beams. A bracket is provided at the opposite free ends of the overlapping form beams for mounting the overlapping form beams in the temporary concrete construction support. At least one other bracket, and preferably two other such brackets are positioned intermediate the opposite free ends of the overlapping form beams in order to provide adjustable extension and collapse of the overlapping form beams, so as to increase or reduce the span of the overlapping form beams, as desired.

Abstract: An extendable pole or mast is constructed from a plurality of nested pole sections with each pole section is made from an initially flat sheet which is roll formed into a rectangular, preferably square, cross section element. A seam is formed by over lapping the edges of the sheet, with the bulk of the seam being placed inwardly of the element. Each of the inner sections includes its own seam and an offset of sufficient size and depth to receive the seam and offset of an outer sections. The sheet material permits tabs to be cut or stamped into outer walls of the outer sections in order to support an adjacent inner pole section. Tabs are formed in each of the outer pole sections. These tabs are biased to extend inwardly, against the adjacent inner pole section. Tabs may be formed below the first tab to provide a choice in the amount of extension of the pole.