Diagonal And Horizontal Bracing Extend From Juncture Of Sections Patents (Class 52/638)
  • Patent number: 11866307
    Abstract: A boom, of a machine, may include a first member; a second member opposite the first member; and a support structure. The support structure may comprise a first support member; a second support member; and a third support member. The first member, the first support member, and the second support member may define a first opening. The second member, the second support member, and the third support member may define a second opening. A first area of the first opening may exceed a second area of the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Aaron M. Brames
  • Patent number: 11802414
    Abstract: Provided a bolt-bearing circumferential device for reinforcing and correcting an angle iron of a transmission tower, comprising a reinforcing angle iron, a holding hoop, and a connector; the reinforcing angle iron is arranged at an inner side of two limbs of an angle iron to be reinforced, an axis direction of the reinforcing angle iron is parallel to the angle iron to be reinforced, and an outer wall of two limbs of the reinforcing angle iron are fitted with an inner wall of the angle iron to be reinforced; the holding hoop is arranged at an outer side of the reinforcing angle iron and the angle iron to be reinforced, and each part of the holding hoop are connected together through the high-strength bolts; a side wall of the holding hoop is provided with three groups of threaded holes, wherein an axis of a first group of the threaded holes and an axis of a second group of the threaded holes are perpendicular to each other, a first group of bolts pass through the first group of the threaded holes to apply a r
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Assignee: SHANDONG UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Li Tian, Meng Yang, Juncai Liu, Xianchao Luo, Xiaoyang Wang, Zhen Ma, Xiangrui Meng
  • Patent number: 11761213
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a frame and stair system for engaging a wall includes multiple pad assemblies, a distal frame assembly, a lower proximal frame assembly, an upper proximal frame assembly, multiple stair assemblies, and multiple upper panel stair adapter brackets. A lower stair assembly is coupled with a left stair pad assembly, a right stair pad assembly, a left distal leveling pad, and a right distal leveling pad. A middle stair assembly is coupled with the distal frame assembly and the upper proximal frame assembly. An upper stair assembly is coupled with the upper proximal frame assembly. The upper proximal frame assembly is coupled with the lower proximal frame assembly. A left upper panel stair adapter bracket and a right upper panel stair adapter bracket are coupled with the upper stair assembly and are configured to engage an upper edge of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
    Inventors: Omar Esquilin-Mangual, Catherine S Stephens, Omar G Flores, Andrew B Edwards, Nicholas R Boone
  • Patent number: 11554941
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a lattice piece for a lattice boom having four corner bars that are connected to one another by a plurality of posts and diagonals, wherein the lattice piece has a rectangular cross-section having two longer and two shorter sides. A cross-sectional section of the corner bars is designed as a hollow section that has a larger extent in the direction of the longer side of the lattice piece than in the direction of the shorter side of the lattice piece. At least one side of the corner bar section has a stabilization structure in the form of a joint, a kink, a bend, or a rounded portion. The present disclosure further relates to a lattice boom comprising at least one lattice piece in accordance with the present disclosure and to a work machine having such a lattice boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Stangl, Ulrich Wiedemann, Markus Kirschbaum
  • Patent number: 11286680
    Abstract: A reinforcing device for reinforcement of an angle material of an existing structure includes two band members for holding both sides of the angle material. A band auxiliary member is arranged at an inside corner of the angle material, a joining bolt/nut set is provided for joining the band auxiliary member and one end of each of the band members together, and a tightening bolt/nut set is provided for integrally fixing the other end of each of the band members to the angle material. The joining bolt/nut set and the tightening bolt/nut set are arranged only one by one respectively at one end and the other end of each of the band members. An outer face of each of the band members has reinforcing ribs provided at either an upper part or a lower part of each of the two band members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: ITC CONSULTING INC.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Komatsu, Keigo Ishii
  • Patent number: 10753094
    Abstract: A length-adjustable truss stiffener is intended to be used to strengthen truss systems at locations of localized over-stress to reduce the cost from the alternative solution which is to reduce truss spacings. The stiffener consists of two or more sleeves locking around two or more components of the main truss. The sleeves mounted on different truss components are connected to one another with a length-adjustable shank. The stiffener may be used in two-dimensional or three-dimensional trusses. Of a collection of prefabricated trusses necessary to erect a structure, only a subset of one or more trusses are customized with stiffeners according to loading calculations predicting failure of that subset under required loading conditions, while all other trusses are installed in their original prefabricated state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Shervin Khalili Ghomi
  • Patent number: 10190328
    Abstract: A construction support having an outer tube extending in a longitudinal direction, and an inner tube arranged therein, extending in the longitudinal direction, adjustable in relation to the outer tube in the longitudinal direction and having an outer thread. The outer tube is an uneven rolled tube and provided with at least one guide groove during roll-production. The guide groove extends in the longitudinal direction and is open in the radially inward direction. The inner tube is a round tube and has at least one guide element protruding radially outwards that engages in the radially inwardly open guide groove such that the inner tube is interlockingly anti-rotationally arranged in the circumferential direction in the outer tube. An adjustment nut is arranged in a longitudinal end region of the outer tube in a captive manner such that it is rotatable in the circumferential direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Doka GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Handvest
  • Patent number: 9343824
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a conductive fastener assembly, system, and method, wherein the fastener assembly comprises a nut having a counterbore formed therein. The counterbore is formed to maintain a sufficient gap between the nut and the protruding end of a fastener sleeve. The nut with the counterbore improves the conductive fastener system such that the need for a solid copper grid and a cap seal is reduced or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Russell J Heeter, Thu A Nguyen, John A Ward, John R Porter, Jeffrey A Wilkerson
  • Publication number: 20150143769
    Abstract: A steel-frame building, which is installed permanently next to a stand-alone heavy structure and which can reduce a construction cost, a plant including the steel-frame building, and a method for assembling a steel-frame building are provided. The steel-frame building is installed permanently next to a stand-alone heavy structure, and includes a gantry frame which is used for pulling the whole of the stand-alone heavy structure to stand up. The gantry frame may be used for carrying in other devices to be housed in the steel-frame building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Naoshige YOSHIDA
  • Patent number: 8955274
    Abstract: A windfence supporting tower with tension-integrity, includes a tubular metal tower having a central tubular post and four inclined tubular structural tensile elements attached to the post via the coupling ring and the lower ends attached to the free ends of a yoke of compression tubes, which is in turn attached to the post by the reaction flange of the yoke, further receiving at the free ends of the yoke four vertical tensile structural elements which are tensioned and anchored to the ground through four independent foundations located around the foundation of the central tube. These vertical ties pull on the connection point of the yoke and in turn the inclined structural elements connected to the coupling ring, thereby providing stability with tension-integrity, which is the main feature of the present supporting tower for absorbing forces caused by the wind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignees: Metalvix Engenharia E Consultoria Ltda, MCA Technologia de Estruturas Ltda
    Inventors: José Emílio Brandão, Carlos Alberto Pinto Montenegro, Carlos Augusto Calmon Nogueira Da Gama, Carlos Eduardo Calmon Nogueira Da Gama
  • Patent number: 8869468
    Abstract: Disclosed is a buckling restrained brace which is a core plate inside a tube, with the plate prevented from buckling by being surrounded by the tube. The core plate is provided with a layer of discrete springs adjacent the core plate, with the interior of the tube otherwise filled with cement. The layer of discrete springs may be cardboard of other material. The layer of discrete springs defines a space between the core plate and the concrete, to allow for expansion of the core plate under compression from the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew Hinchman
  • Patent number: 8820025
    Abstract: A structural apparatus for carrying loads and transferring forces to ground, the apparatus having a plurality of nodes, each having a spherical core, the core having a spherical surface. Each one of the nodes having a plurality of housing frames secured in fixed selected positions in contact with the surface. Each one of the nodes having a plurality of housing hubs secured by the housing frames in contact with the surface and free to circularly rotate about a radius of the core, and each one of the nodes has a plurality of fasteners, each of the fastener having a head and a shaft extending from the head, the head constrained between the surface and a housing hub positioning the shaft in a radial attitude relative to the core. A plurality of struts interconnect the nodes and the struts are joined with the shafts at their opposing ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Alexis Rochas
  • Patent number: 8789341
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for constructing a multilevel structure using a hybrid top chord bearing floor framing system. The method and system may include a top chord bearing floor truss positioned on a first frame structure. The top chord of the truss may include a load-bearing interface with a top surface and a bottom surface. The truss may be wholly supported by the load-bearing interface of the top chord. The method and system may further include a second frame structure on the top surface of the truss. The first frame structure may be secured to the second frame structure via a fastener that extends through both the second bottom load bearing member and load-bearing interface of the truss into the first top load bearing member of the first frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Mark Shepard
  • Patent number: 8769886
    Abstract: When constructing a unit building having a middle scale or more such as especially an apartment house, a long and large size building unit capable of reducing construction period while increasing construction efficiency and being economically provided can be achieved. Detachable temporary reinforcing members 2 are provided on both of the short side surfaces of the building unit body 1A, respectively. The temporary reinforcing member 2 has lower end portion on which a projecting portion 3 is downwardly projected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignees: Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd., Studio Cube, Inc., Arcadia Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsunori Ohnishi, Akihiko Kobayashi, Satoshi Saigo, Hai Lin
  • Patent number: 8769907
    Abstract: Construction elements and methods of using and making them in a structurally strong manner are disclosed. The construction element and the method of making it may be in the form of an elongated beam, a post or other. The element may include a generally tubular open frame formed of a series of conjoined octahedral sections constructed and arranged in a side by side manner joined together by conjoined pairs of tetrahedral sections disposed intermediate the octahedral sections. Each pair of octahedral sections may be constructed and arranged such that they are conjoined together by a common member, also common with the intermediate tetrahedral sections. The method may include forming an upright structure, using at least one large construction element having a plurality of octahedral and tetrahedral sections, and positioning at least one small construction element within an opening within the sections of the large construction element and affixing thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Bruce E. Camber
  • Patent number: 8763345
    Abstract: The invention provides load-resisting segments (e.g., panels or frames for openings) for transmitting loads through a building structure. In the context of a wall, the load-resisting segments transmit shear loads downward to structural elements below the wall, such as to a building foundation. The load-resisting segments may comprise a truss configuration, i.e., an assembly of members forming a rigid framework. Each load-resisting segment can include web members and pairs of truss plates secured to sides of the segment to secure connections of the web members to each other and to other members. The wall segments can include beam-separation blocks that reduce truss plate failure by spacing apart the ends of two web members bearing against a chord or post to position the intersection point of the load paths of the web members with the load path of the chord or post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Cloyd, Robert D. Lucey
  • Publication number: 20140130438
    Abstract: An easily assembled, transportable, re-deployable, modular, protective, double-roof system is disclosed which is compatible with other Modular Protective System (MPS) components and can be assembled in a variety of configurations to provide soldiers and equipment with protective enclosures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventors: Bartley P. Durst, Pamela Kinnebrew, Nicholas Boone, William Heard, Thomas Slawson, Michael J. Roth, Omar Flores, Omar E. Esquilin-Mangual
  • Patent number: 8713888
    Abstract: A roof panel structure having a purlin comprising a truss, the truss having a substantially horizontally disposed top surface. A nailer board is attached to the top surface, and a first subpurlin is attached to the nailer board and is extends at least partly along the top surface such that the first subpurlin is arranged to be supported by the top surface. The nailer board is arranged vertically on the top surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph K. Glenn
  • Patent number: 8615960
    Abstract: Improvements in the design and construction of solar collector modules. Aspects of the invention include improvements in the layout of a frame for a solar collector module, and in the joining of structural members of the frame at nodes. In one example, a module of a solar collector includes a reflector and a three-dimensional structural frame that supports the reflector. The frame is made up of substantially rigid elongate frame members interconnected at nodes. Improved node connection components include hubs or frame members having tabs for receiving frame member connections. A tab may have a width that is substantial in relation to its height. The frame may incorporate asymmetry in its layout, in the size or presence of frame members, or in the positioning of the nodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Abengoa Solar Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Marcotte, Kenneth Biggio, Edmund Kenneth May, Kerry Manning, Rachel Backes, Janina Nettlau, Rick Sommers
  • Publication number: 20130333320
    Abstract: In a double layer grid-type of space frame, certain framing members are connected at their opposite ends to separate node connectors carried by chords of the frame. The node connectors have spaced apart opposing surfaces that receive the framing members. A shear pin passage is formed through each framing member and through the opposing surfaces of the node connector. The shear pin connects the framing member to the node connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: GOSSAMER SPACE FRAMES
    Inventor: GOSSAMER SPACE FRAMES
  • Patent number: 8590258
    Abstract: Disclosed is a buckling restrained brace which is a core plate inside a tube, with the plate prevented from buckling by being surrounded by the tube. The core plate is provided with a layer of discrete springs adjacent the core plate, with the interior of the tube otherwise filled with cement. The layer of discrete springs may be cardboard of other material. The layer of discrete springs defines a space between the core plate and the concrete, to allow for expansion of the core plate under compression from the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Hinchman
  • Patent number: 8572924
    Abstract: A truss hub with a circular outer shape, that connects to trusses that extend radially away from the truss hub in different directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, LLC
    Inventor: James Kempf
  • Patent number: 8448406
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for constructing a multilevel structure using a hybrid top chord bearing floor framing system. The method and system may include a top chord bearing floor truss positioned on a first frame structure. The top chord of the truss may include a load-bearing interface with a top surface and a bottom surface. The truss may be wholly supported by the load-bearing interface of the top chord. The method and system may further include a second frame structure on the top surface of the truss. The first frame structure may be secured to the second frame structure via a fastener that extends through both the second bottom load bearing member and load-bearing interface of the truss into the first top load bearing member of the first frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Shepard
  • Patent number: 8438790
    Abstract: Support structure for solar collector for use in cylindrical parabolic collectors to support a cylindrical parabolic reflector and an absorbing tube The structure includes a main bearing structure on which a plurality of support arms for the parabolic mirrors are supported The main bearing structure is formed by two rectangular lattice grids, a top one and another bottom one, in a parallel and overlaying arrangement, linked together by four laterally-disposed mini-lattices, in twos at each end, and by a plurality of external lateral ties bars and internal diagonal tie bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Sociedad Anonima Minera Catalano Aragonesa
    Inventors: Javier Del Pico Aznar, Carlos Tierra Galán, Sergio Aguilar Cardiel, Javier Collado Hernández
  • Patent number: 8240106
    Abstract: The invention provides load-resisting segments (e.g., panels or frames for openings) for transmitting loads through a building structure. In the context of a wall, the load-resisting segments transmit shear loads downward to structural elements below the wall, such as to a building foundation. The load-resisting segments may comprise a truss configuration, i.e., an assembly of members forming a rigid framework. Each load-resisting segment can include web members and pairs of truss plates secured to sides of the segment to secure connections of the web members to each other and to other members. The wall segments can include beam-separation blocks that reduce truss plate failure by spacing apart the ends of two web members bearing against a chord or post to position the intersection point of the load paths of the web members with the load path of the chord or post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M Cloyd, Robert D Lucey
  • Patent number: 8234827
    Abstract: A light steel framing construction technique for light gauge load bearing wall type buildings uses specialized brackets to suspend poured slab floors. Multiple stories of the building can be erected without waiting for individual concrete slab floors to be poured and set at each story. During construction, a building is protected from torsional warping, such as may be occur under wind loads, by a series of lateral and diagonal bracing structures at each level affixed in a plane perpendicular to the load bearing elements. Multiple concrete floor slabs can be poured sequentially or simultaneously, as desired, during the construction process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Schroeder, Sr., Harry Gittlitz, Robert Schroeder, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8202596
    Abstract: In accordance with the disclosed principles, a novel thermoplastic profile roofing strip and an apparatus for welding the thermoplastic profile roofing strip to a thermoplastic roofing membrane is disclosed. In one embodiment, the thermoplastic profile roofing strip may comprise a horizontal base extending longitudinally and having a notched profile. In addition, the thermoplastic profile strip may comprise a vertical central portion laterally connected at one edge and normal to the horizontal base. In such embodiments, the vertical central portion extends longitudinally along the horizontal base to provide the improved profile. Related methods of welding a thermoplastic strip to a thermoplastic membrane are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Building Materials Investment Corporation
    Inventors: Li-Ying Yang, Thomas J. Taylor, Sudhir Railkar
  • Patent number: 8136309
    Abstract: A damper system for installation in a structure to dissipate seismic and wind energy transmitted to the structure, includes first and second pairs of elongated members forming an outer parallelogram, third and fourth pairs of elongated members forming an inner parallelogram, and a pair of energy dissipating devices connected between the parallelograms for dissipating the energy transmitted to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Ahmad Rahimian
  • Patent number: 8132391
    Abstract: A thin-sheet panel assembly. In one embodiment, a substantially rigid thin-sheet panel assembly having a non-rigid thin-sheet component includes the thin-sheet component which has selected plan area and shape, a backer having a plan shape and area substantially similar to the thin-sheet component, and plural riser elements of selected height and configuration each extending from the backer to distal ends connected to a reverse surface of the thin-sheet component, the riser elements being configured and disposed in an array which causes the assembly to have substantial rigidity in a selected direction in the thin-sheet component, and the thin-sheet panel assembly further includes a bar coupled to the backer and extending between at least one pair of adjacent riser elements of the plural riser elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Gossamer Space Frames
    Inventor: Glenn Alan Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7845119
    Abstract: A constructional unit comprising: a support frame which is O-shaped in plan bounding an open central region, the support frame including first and second members which are each U-shaped in plan, each member being in the form of a base frame from which extend two side arms; the first and second members having their side arms telescopically engaged to define sides to the open central region of the O-shaped support frame; the telescopic engagement providing for—the spacing of the first base frame from the second base frame to be adjustable over a range of distance; and the temporary securing of the first member to the second member at a predetermined spacing; the base frame of the first member being adapted for location at a first level at a first working location; the second member being adapted, at a position remote from the first member, for location at a second level at a second working location by way of at least one leg pivotably attached at or near one end of the, or each, leg to the base frame of the sec
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Inventors: Robert David Black, John Alexander Black
  • Publication number: 20100229482
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connecting structure including: a node member having an accommodating space formed therein; a lower truss member disposed penetratingly at the lower portion of the node member, the lower truss member being made of a material with tension and compression-resistant rigidity and having a predetermined length; an upper truss member disposed penetratingly at the upper portion of the node member in such a manner as to be spaced apart from the lower truss member, the upper truss member being made of a material with tension and compression-resistant rigidity and having a predetermined length; and a filler adapted to be filled in the node member in such a manner as to be initially injected in a fluid state into the accommodating space of the node member so as to surround the lower truss member and the upper truss member, and then to be hardened as time elapses so as to rigidly couple the lower truss member and the upper truss member therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicants: NINE ARCHITECH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jae-Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 7703257
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile structure for adapting surfaces, which is formed by a grid assembly (1) which is supported at grid nodes by telescopic columns (2) which can be individually extended in order to use the grid assembly (1) to form a variable surface comprising relief elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Jorge Tomas Cueli Lopez
  • Patent number: 7698870
    Abstract: In a frame consisting of longitudinal and transverse frame members which are used as bearing units, a frame bearing mount for the frame and an aggregate bearing mount are vertically arranged one upon the other and the frame areas between the frame bearing mounts and the aggregate bearing mounts are made of a vibration absorbing material in the form of blocks so as to provide a lightweight frame in a simple and economical manner and ensure an efficient attenuation of vibrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH
    Inventors: Viktor-Marius Murarescu, Björn Engles, Andreas Hopt, Matthias Schuchardt
  • Patent number: 7658049
    Abstract: The invention provides load-resisting segments (e.g., panels or frames for openings) for transmitting loads through a building structure. In the context of a wall, the load-resisting segments transmit shear loads downward to structural elements below the wall, such as to a building foundation. The load-resisting segments may comprise a truss configuration, i.e., an assembly of members forming a rigid framework. Each load-resisting segment can include web members and pairs of truss plates secured to sides of the segment to secure connections of the web members to each other and to other members. The wall segments can include beam-separation blocks that reduce truss plate failure by spacing apart the ends of two web members bearing against a chord or post to position the intersection point of the load paths of the web members with the load path of the chord or post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M Cloyd, Robert D Lucey
  • Patent number: 7634888
    Abstract: The invention provides load-resisting segments (e.g., panels or frames for openings) for transmitting loads through a building structure. In the context of a wall, the load-resisting segments transmit shear loads downward to structural elements below the wall, such as to a building foundation. The load-resisting segments may comprise a truss configuration, i.e., an assembly of members forming a rigid framework. Each load-resisting segment can include web members and pairs of truss plates secured to sides of the segment to secure connections of the web members to each other and to other members. The wall segments can include beam-separation blocks that reduce truss plate failure by spacing apart the ends of two web members bearing against a chord or post to position the intersection point of the load paths of the web members with the load path of the chord or post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Trussed, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Cloyd, Robert D. Lucey
  • Patent number: 7610732
    Abstract: A segmented end shape for an elongate, parallel-sided wooden web for a roof truss, suitable for use in the Turb-O-Web method of roof truss construction, is shaped as a series of three or more substantially straight facets to approximate a notional part circle, preferably a semicircle having an endpoint coinciding with an endmost point of said web. The end shape includes an irregular part polygon having an end point coinciding with the endpoint of the notional part circle, and wherein junctions between one or more adjacent facets of the polygon lie outside the notional part circle and a part of one or more facets lie inside the notional part circle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Turb-O-Web International Pty. Limited
    Inventor: John Edwin Griffith
  • Patent number: 7587877
    Abstract: A joist comprised of at least one cold-formed steel elongated chord member; a cold-formed steel web having a plurality of web members and means for securing said web to said chord member. A plurality of joists are generally for use in a support system for a platform or a deck in the construction of floors and roofs. The support system is of particular use in a composite floor and roof systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Best Joist Inc
    Inventors: Michael Richard Strickland, Lei Xu
  • Patent number: 7578109
    Abstract: A node connector in a double layer grid-type of space frame preferably is an extrusion which includes an open-ended tubular portion for snugly at least substantially encircling a frame chord member of desired cross-sectional configuration which is disposable in the passage. The node connector has fixed external elements which extend along the connector parallel to the passage. Those elements define facing parallel flat surfaces arranged in at least two pairs of such surfaces. The surfaces of each pair lie equidistantly from a center plane between them. Each center plane is parallel to the passage axis and preferably includes the passage axis. Each pair of facing flat surfaces of the node connector can cooperate closely with opposite flat surfaces at the end of each of other frames framing member placed between the facing surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Gossamer Space Frames
    Inventors: Glenn A. Reynolds, Dean R. Hackbarth, Gary N. Curtis
  • Patent number: 7556273
    Abstract: In a method of making a control arm for a wheel suspension of a motor vehicle a blank of steel material having a tensile strength of at least 800 MPa is shaped, using a sheet metal forming process, into a shell body having a center web and plural flank portions extending from the center web in a same direction. The flank portions are connected by a latticed reinforcement made of plastic, without application of a heat treatment process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Streubel, Armin Zuber, Wolfram Linnig
  • Patent number: 7530201
    Abstract: A connection node for a double layer grid or truss system has at least one diagonal flange receiving a pair of diagonal framing members having surfaces that lie in a single diagonal plane parallel to the flange(s). Use of co-planar diagonal members that can be at various diagonal angles or vertical, simplifies node connections and permits variations in bay spacing to produce interesting architectural effects and to provide greater member density where structural loads are greater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Gossamer Space Frames
    Inventors: Glenn A. Reynolds, Dean R. Hackbarth, Gary N. Curtis
  • Patent number: 7373758
    Abstract: A seismic brace includes an elongated central brace unit and a rigid restraining member. The central brace unit has two ends adapted to be connected fixedly to a framework of a building, and a middle portion interconnecting the ends and having a cross-sectional area that is smaller than those of the ends. The restraining member is disposed around the middle portion of the central brace unit in a tight fit manner so as to prevent buckling of the central brace unit when the building is subjected to an earthquake, and includes two halves that are interconnected removably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: National Applied Research Laboratories
    Inventors: Keh-Chyuan Tsai, Sheng-Lin Lin
  • Publication number: 20070266669
    Abstract: This application relates to a light-weight, multi-purpose construction module. The module may be used, for example, as a mold for settable materials such as concrete. A plurality of modules may be aligned together in different configurations for use as a temporary road or support for use on unstable terrain, such as arctic tundra or wetlands. In yet another application the module may be deployed as a storage or shelving unit. The module comprises a deck and a plurality of wall elements projecting from the deck and defining a plurality of honeycomb-like compartments. The module may be used in conjunction with a mating cover for enclosing the module compartments. In one embodiment the cover may be coupled to the module in two different orientations. In one of the orientations connectors may be coupled to an outer surface of the cover. The connectors are useful for joining separate modules together and for providing the assembly with enhanced structural integrity, for example to support heavy loads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventor: Antonio RAPAZ
  • Patent number: 7197856
    Abstract: Truss assemblies of this invention comprise elongate chord elements having opposed first and second axial ends. Brace elements are used to orient and connect together the chord elements in a desired spatial orientation and have a plate structure. The brace elements comprise chord receiving openings disposed therethrough that are sized to accommodate placement of a respective chord element therein, and that are positioned to provide the desired spatial orientation between the chord elements. The chord element receiving openings and define a portion of the brace element that surrounds the chord element disposed within the opening. A connector is rotatably attached to an end of the chord elements to facilitate attaching the truss assemblies together for the purpose of forming a desired truss system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: Ian Nicholas Coles
  • Patent number: 7185462
    Abstract: The present invention relates to structural braces. More particularly, the present invention relates to a brace apparatus that has an effective length capable of undergoing plastic deformation that is greater than the length of the brace apparatus. The brace apparatus has a first core member having a deformable region of an effective deformable length and a second core member having a deformable region of an effective deformable length. The total effective deformable length of the brace apparatus is the sum of the effective deformable length of the first core member and the second core member. This allows the brace apparatus to have a greater deformable length relative to the length and size of the brace. Additionally, the greater deformable length reduces the strain on the core members enabling the brace apparatus to undergo a greater amount of deformation for a larger number of total cycles without buckling the brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: SME Steel Contractors, Inc.
    Inventor: James Smelser
  • Patent number: 7165361
    Abstract: An adjustable building construction shore has an inner tubular member extending internally of an outer tubular member and displaceable longitudinally of the outer tubular member, the inner and outer members having projecting and recessed longitudinal portions slidably interengaged and preventing relative rotation of the inner and outer tubular members. Openings extending transversely through the inner and outer tubular members are spaced apart longitudinally of the inner and outer tubular members, and retainer members extend through the openings for securing the inner and outer tubular members against relative longitudinal movement. A screw jack supports a lower end of the shore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Peter Vanagan
  • Patent number: 7160601
    Abstract: A door jamb assembly for an entryway has a wooden jamb plate to which an extruded plastic brick mold and stop member is attached. The brick mold and stop member forms the raised stop of the jamb assembly also may form the brick mold thereof. The extruded plastic brick mold and stop member has a core made of economical cellular PVC plastic at least partially encased in a stabilizing layer of a plastic material, such as SAN, having a heat distortion temperature greater than that of the PVC plastic of the core. The stabilizing layer holds the core material in place and restrains it against distortion and shrinkage due to extreme temperatures, such as those found between a storm door and a door exposed to direct sunlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Reese Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert T. Ellingson
  • Patent number: 7143550
    Abstract: Structural system and method are disclosed for building a simpler and more efficient double layer reticulated frame structure. The double layer reticulated frame structure includes an internal network that has a lower strut frequency than the external network. The lower strut frequency helps reduce the overall weight, cost, and construction time of the structure. Diagonal struts space apart and connect the internal and external networks. The diagonal struts are connected in an alternating manner such that no more than two diagonal struts are connected together at any point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Conservatek Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Alfonso Lopez
  • Patent number: 7036707
    Abstract: Disclosed is a friction stir welding technique which avoids occurrence of a dent, in a joining region, extending to a level beneath the joined surfaces. At end portions of the frame members to be joined, at the joining region, thickened parts which project toward the rotary body joining tool are provided. Two adjoining thickened parts, of adjacent members to be joined, can form a trapezoid shape. The rotary body joining tool has a small-diameter tip portion and a larger diameter portion. The rotary body joining tool is inserted in the thickened parts. In a state where the rotary body joining tool has been inserted small-diameter tip end first, to a level where the larger diameter portion of the rotary body joining tool overlaps the thickened part but does not extend below the upper surface of the non-thickened surfaces of the members joined, the rotary body is rotated and moved along the joining region. Even when a gap exists between two thickened parts, a desirable joining can be carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kinya Aota, Masakuni Ezumi, Yasuo Ishimaru, Hisanori Okamura, Isao Funyuu, Akihiro Satou
  • Patent number: 6945003
    Abstract: This concerns a 1000 foot stainless-steel Cross. This is a multi-faceted building including an I-beam internal structure for the tower and the arms, a cable structure within and without the building, and stainless-steel panels as the external “skin” of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Jacob O. Berry
  • Patent number: 6758022
    Abstract: A web member for use in reinforcing a structural framework, such as a truss or a wall panel, comprised of beams and web members secured to the beams. A web member includes a support section with a longitudinally extending tab on each end thereof. The tabs are bent to engage inside surfaces of the beams for securement thereto as with screw fasteners whereby the web member is secured to and extends between beams of the truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Anthony Coll, John Tadich