Components Adjustably Or Collapsibly Connected Patents (Class 52/645)
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Patent number: 7694486Abstract: A deployable truss is formed from a plurality of column members connected at their ends where at least some of the column members are formed from column assemblies, each including a plurality of strut members that are at least connected to each other at a first and second end of the column assembly. For added rigidity, strut members of a column assembly may be connected to each other between the first and second ends using, for example, a rigidizable resin, a fixed spacer, or a deployable spacer. Connecting strut members between the ends of the column assembly provides mutual bracing to the strut members and decreases the free buckling length of the individual strut members. Spacers are preferably configured to radially space the strut members away from the longitudinal centerline of the column assembly to increase its moment of inertia, and hence its buckling strength.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2003Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventors: David M. Murphy, Thomas W. Murphey, Michael E. McEachen, Matthew M. Botke
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Publication number: 20100077693Abstract: The invention concerns a structure comprising a rigging (1-2) consisting of at least one flexible rope (1, 2) impregnated with a hardening substance, with controllable hardening, designed to rigidify at least one rope after it has been deployed and extended. The structure may comprise at least one rigging mesh, whereof at least one flexible rope (1, 2) is impregnated with the hardening substance and bound to itself and/or to another rope of the rigging by at least one bond (6). Said structure is independent of any means of deployment, but may also comprise a deploying device (3) independent of the rigging and extending the ropes (1, 2) of the structure and maintaining them taut while the hardening material is cured. The invention is in particular applicable to deployable structures capable of being rigidified on board space crafts.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2006Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: Astrium SASInventor: Rene Jean Cheynet de Beaupre
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Patent number: 7677009Abstract: An adjustable roof truss that includes roof truss members, roof base members and a central body containing a polymer matrix. The roof truss members include a pivot end, a connection end, a roof facing edge, an inside edge, and a pivot surface. The roof base members include a receiving end, a connecting end, a top edge, a bottom edge, and a contact surface. The roof truss members are pivotally connected to the roof base members by a pivot fastener inserted through a pivot opening on the roof base members and a stator opening on the roof truss members. One or both of the roof truss members and the roof base members include an embedded portion extending from the roof facing edge or the bottom edge respectively into the central body. Expansion hole(s) are positioned along the embedded portion such that the polymer matrix expands through the expansion holes.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2007Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: NOVA Chemicals Inc.Inventor: Jay J. Bowman
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Publication number: 20100058703Abstract: A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. An apparatus for cleaning solar mirrors on a frame of a solar trough system. A method for cleaning mirrors on a framework of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2009Publication date: March 11, 2010Inventors: Craig Roy Werner, John Funai
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Publication number: 20100043629Abstract: A portable protection system including a selectively collapsible truss for supporting a protection member. The truss is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. The protection member includes at least one layer of ballistic armor material for disrupting a projectile. The truss includes suitable connectors for releasably connecting the protection member to the truss, and also suitable connectors for releasably connecting the truss to an adjoining truss so as to form a protection wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2008Publication date: February 25, 2010Inventors: John CARBERRY, George D. Forsythe, Harvey Kliman, Katherine Leighton, John Garnier, Ray Ballario, Wiktor Serafin, Jason Ickes
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Patent number: 7662014Abstract: A joint system for joining polyhedric facet elements together. Polyhedrons have a plurality of facets. The polyhedric facet elements have facet planes that are generally congruent with the facets of the polyhedrons in which they are found. Various facet elements occupy angular relationships such that they can be joined in rigid stable joints by means of key elements where the planes of the key elements extend generally perpendicular to the planes of each of the facet elements. The joint system is suitable for inter-polyhedron joint systems where the joints include four joint elements, three of which are in the respective polyhedrons that are to be joined, and the fourth is a key element perpendicularly disposed between the other three joint elements.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventor: Gregg R. Fleishman
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Publication number: 20100024342Abstract: The present invention provides a retainer frame of an outdoor above ground pool, which includes a plurality of posts and a plurality of sets of beams, connected between pairs of adjacent posts to form a polygonal shaped retainer frame. Each beam has two end portions, and each post has one or more receiving ports for receiving the end portions of a set of beams. The retainer frame also includes a plurality of locking members for locking the end portions of the set of beams in the receiving ports of the corresponding post. The beams are capable of swinging around a longitudinal axis of the posts within a range of swinging motion so that the same components (posts, beams and locking members) can be used to form polygonal shaped retainer frames having different numbers of sides.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2007Publication date: February 4, 2010Applicant: INTEX RECREATION CORP.Inventors: Hua Hsiang Lin, Shen Wu Wong, Huei Sheng Chang
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Patent number: 7634885Abstract: Wall element 2, especially for constructing a partition wall, for example in an exhibition, has a first connecting device with a least one first connecting element 12 to establish a connection with at least one other wall element 2?. the first connecting device is configured such that one wall element 2 can be connected with another wall element 2? without tools. The wall element includes an essentially frame-like basic body 18 and a second connecting device for releasable connection of at least one flat face element 30, 32, 34 to the basic body. the second connecting device is configured so that the face element 30, 32, 34 can be connected-with the basic body 18 without tools. The wall element 2 allows the partition walls to be largely assembled without tools. This saves time and assembly costs.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Inventor: Manfred Hoffmann
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Patent number: 7634874Abstract: A collapsible structural member has been provided in which substantially identical modules made up of metal or plastic are threaded on a tensioning member such as a cable and are movable relative to each other in the collapsed condition of the beam and are brought together into a condition where adjacent modules are locked together to form a rigid construction when the beam is in its erected operating condition. The beam is changed from its erected condition to its collapsed condition by relaxing the tensioning member or cable.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: Luco-Ed Enterprises LLCInventor: Nicholas G. Lucas
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Patent number: 7610732Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 29, 2004Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Turb-O-Web International Pty. LimitedInventor: John Edwin Griffith
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Patent number: 7578307Abstract: A lightweight, deployable, portable shelter is described. The portable shelter may be a tent. The tent can be used indoors as well as outdoors. The structure of the portable shelter is determined by compression elements and tensile members such that the compression elements do not touch. The forces acting on each component of the structure are axially-loaded, thereby taking advantage of the characteristics of the compression elements and tensile members to provide a tent with improved strength.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2003Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Inventors: Dana Macy Ung, Robert E. Skelton, Jean-Paul Pinuad
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Publication number: 20090158686Abstract: There is provided a truss element in which space truss diagonal members can be easily integrally formed by being drawn in a predetermined direction. This truss element is formed in a corrugated shape with mountain portions 1a and valley portions 2 in left and right directions alternately and cut portions 4a, each which is perpendicular to a ridge line 3 of the mountain portion 1 and leaves a bottom of the valley portion uncut, and cut portions 4b, each which is perpendicular to a bottom line 5 of the valley and leaves a peak of the mountain portion uncut, are formed alternately with spaces in a front and back directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2007Publication date: June 25, 2009Inventors: Yoshinari Oki, Shigeru Kinoshita, Hiroyuki Hashizumi, Yukio Kitahashi
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Patent number: 7546718Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Inventor: Salvatore Vasta
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Patent number: 7533681Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for providing a collapsible support structure strut, which may include a strut member; a hollow tubular terminal end portion of the strut member having an inner surface; and a detachable looped eyelet having at least one loop and a pair of extending legs, the legs being springedly biased to engage the tubular terminal end of the strut, thereby frictionally holding the looped eyelet in place at the terminal end of the strut. The apparatus and method may also employ a holding plug, with first and second holding groove opposingly placed in the periphery of the holding plug, having at least a portion thereof that is shaped and sized to frictionally engage the inner surface of the tubular terminal end of the strut, to frictionally hold the holding plug in engagement with the strut. The detachable looped eyelet may also have at least two loop.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Inventor: Stephen F. Miller
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Patent number: 7533498Abstract: A mechanically deployable, expandable and collapsible structure is provided. The structure includes at least one scissor assembly made up of a first and a second strut, a first spacer disposed between the first end of the first strut and the first end of the second strut when the scissor assembly is in the expanded position, and a second spacer disposed between the second end of the first strut and the second end of the second strut when the scissor assembly is in the expanded position. A tension member is connected to the first and second struts. The tension member is arranged such that the scissor assembly is moved from the folded position when there is slack in the tension member to the expanded position when the slack in the tension member is taken up.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: World Shelters, Inc.Inventor: Theodore R. Zeigler
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Patent number: 7464503Abstract: A folding linkage is hereby disclosed that is comprised of four links, each link having a bevel gear on its end, where each link is in geared contact with a neighboring link, such that both links are held together by a hub element that is small relative to the two links. An alternate embodiment of the invention has links that have a spur gear on each end, whereby each gear end is engaged with a central rack (linear gear).Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Inventor: Charles Hoberman
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Patent number: 7466286Abstract: A folding frame for mounting an antenna on an upstanding support structure including first and second support arms pivotally secured to an upper mounting bracket and third and fourth support arms which are pivotally secured to a lower mounting bracket with the upper and lower mounting brackets being secured to the support structure. Support members are pivotally secured to the outer ends of the support arms and are pivotally connected together so that the frame may be pivotally moved from a folded position to a non-folding position. When the frame is in its folded position, it is easily shipped on a pallet.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Inventor: Brandon M. Chapman
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Publication number: 20080184651Abstract: An adjustable roof truss that includes roof truss members, roof base members and a central body containing a polymer matrix. The roof truss members include a pivot end, a connection end, a roof facing edge, an inside edge, and a pivot surface. The roof base members include a receiving end, a connecting end, a top edge, a bottom edge, and a contact surface. The roof truss members are pivotally connected to the roof base members by a pivot fastener inserted through a pivot opening on the roof base members and a stator opening on the roof truss members. One or both of the roof truss members and the roof base members include an embedded portion extending from the roof facing edge or the bottom edge respectively into the central body. Expansion hole(s) are positioned along the embedded portion such that the polymer matrix expands through the expansion holes.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2007Publication date: August 7, 2008Inventor: Jay J. Bowman
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Patent number: 7360341Abstract: A column mounted shoring bracket has a support sub-assembly attached to a column or other supporting surface, a jack sub-assembly attached to the support and a head sub-assembly attached to a part of the jack that varies in height relative to the support. The head has a head base that supports one or more rollers for moving a form. The head also has a supporting plate for supporting the form. The supporting plate is connected to the head base so that it may be slid upwards and fixed in a position where the top of the supporting plate is above the top of the rollers, for example to carry the weight of a slab being built, or slid downwards so that the top of the supporting plate is below the top of the rollers which do not have to carry the weight of the slab being built. The angular position of the rollers may be aligned with an external reference such as the side of a column, a wall, or a jig.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Inventors: Barry W. Jackson, George W. Jackson
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Patent number: 7357238Abstract: An expandable and collapsible structural module is provided. The module includes at least three strut pairs, the at least three strut pairs being arranged end to end, at least three corners being defined by connected ends of the at least three strut pairs. The module also includes at least three legs pivotably connected at respective ones of the at least three corners to the connected ends of the at least three strut pairs, at least one of the at least three legs being a telescoping leg.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: World Shelters, Inc.Inventor: Theodore R. Zeigler
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Patent number: 7275555Abstract: A canopy of the type that is typically packaged in a kit form that permits consumers to assemble a group of pipe members into a canopy structure. Once assembled and erected, the canopy includes a series of vertical posts and a series of rafters that extend upwardly from the post. In order to provide additional structural support, especially to the rafters and to the roof structure formed by the rafters, a series of cross or brace members are interconnected between the vertical posts and the rafters. These cross or brace members are arranged in sets with each set including two brace members that extend between a pair of vertical posts and a pair of rafters. The brace members, vertical posts and rafters form a truss network that imparts structural strength and rigidity to the overall canopy frame structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2002Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Powell & Powell Supply Company, Inc.Inventors: Billy R. Powell, Tony A. Powell, David R. Powell
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Patent number: 7266933Abstract: A sheet material handling device for assisting a drywall installer in installing sheet material, such as drywall or gypsum board, in an overhead location such as a ceiling of a structure. The device includes base and a pivoting sheet support that is adjustable in several planes to help locate the device relative to the job site and the ceiling in the job site. The drywaller assembles the device, places a sheet of drywall on the device, raises the sheet of drywall into position using the device, secures the pivoting sheet support and then fastens the drywall to the ceiling joists.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Inventor: Mark E. Pasek
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Patent number: 7211722Abstract: A lightweight structure for space application is deployable from a compact bundle of interconnected struts into a plurality of tiled substantially rectangular bays. Each bay preferably comprises four or six hinged strut members having substantially rectangular cross sections, such that a solar or other suitable blanket may be compactly nested within the bundled struts. In one aspect of the invention, the blanket is attached to two opposed strut members of a six-member strut bundle, such that the blanket is unfolded during deployment of the strut bundle into a substantially rectangular bay. In another aspect of the invention, the blanket is attached to, and held against, a single strut in a strut bundle. After the strut bundle is deployed into a substantially rectangular bay, the blanket is spread across the bay via a cable mechanism or other deployment mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: AEC-Able Engineering Co., Inc.Inventor: David Michael Murphy
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Patent number: 7204064Abstract: Composite structures obtained by joining two or more structures of the type which presents pairs of joined tubular elements, whose extremity is hinged in universal joints and in which the universal joints are substantially parallelepiped in form and present four seats of hinging corresponding to the sides faces, in which the universal joints present grooves along the sides of the face, in which are scheduled the seats to hinge the extended elements, in proximity of the edges and parallel to the same edges, that cooperate with C-sectioned fixing elements to hold united two matched universal joints belonging to two structures from join.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Inventor: Sergio Cazzolaro
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Patent number: 7152614Abstract: A foldable, deployable framework for a structure has a lower hub having a first central axis, sets of tracks, masts, and rafters connected pivotally to the lower hub, to one another, and to an upper hub in a manner that allows the framework to be folded into one, two or three small packages, and to be deployed into a structural frame supporting floors, walls, and roof for an enclosed structure. In different versions folding and deployment is accomplished in a different way. Structures based on the framework can be made for many and varied purposes.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Inventor: Peter A. Kalnay
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Patent number: 7150127Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Underwood, Keith E. Metcalf, Ryan A. Herbig, J. Douglas Mitchell
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Patent number: 7131243Abstract: A hinged plate is provided for pivotally attaching a pair of lumber members together in a double-hinged manner. A building truss incorporating the double-hinged plate is provided which can be assembled and erected in a facilitated manner.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2003Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Universal Forest Products, Inc.Inventor: John Sirowatka
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Patent number: 7107733Abstract: A variable support structure with modular construction includes at least one support structure module, which is bounded by joints (114, 115, 126, 121) of a first joint set that lie in a first surface, and by joints (101, 102, 113, 108) of a second joint set that lie in a second surface, and with at least one joint (109) of a third joint set that lies outside of the first surface. At least some of the joints of the first and second joint sets have a fixable position relative to one another, especially being connectable with one another, by a guide mechanism. The at least one joint (109) of the third joint set is connected with at least two joints (114, 115, 113, 121) of the first and/or second joint set by a connecting element (39, 41, 43, 45) that transmits essentially only tension forces.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2000Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Inventor: Gerhard Rueckert
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Patent number: 7100332Abstract: The unfolding modular building system includes a main floor section having a plurality of square frames having inverted pyramidal support assemblies depending therefrom, hinged corner sections defining wall frames, hinged roof support and truss sections defining gable end frames, and hinged roof panel frames, whereby an interior perimeter may be defined by the interconnection of a system components. The system is easily transported and assembled and its modular construction enables the assembly of a structure having a plurality of interconnected modular units.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Ivan L. Loesch
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Patent number: 7086207Abstract: An antenna sector frame that can collapse for easy transport and storage. The antenna frame can be packaged with all of its loose parts in a single container on a relatively flat single skid capable of being stacked in storage. The antenna frame can include a pair of face frames configured to support one or more antennas, the face frames being joined to articulate on a face frame pivot axis such that the face frames can be folded together for compact shipment and storage and opened for use.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2005Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: Andrew CorporationInventors: Darin Piburn, Dale Heath, Kevin Paswalk, Kevin Rovell
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Patent number: 7040059Abstract: Adjustable apparatus for bracing one or both sides of a wall being fabricated from masonry blocks and having an opening near the base of the block wall. Bracing system includes strong rigid members assembled in the form of a right angle brace set having stiff vertical, horizontal and diagonal members, a connector having a length sufficient to extend through the opening affixed at a right angle location of one or both of the brace sets. A pair of such braces—back to back, and spaced on opposite sides of a wall—are interconnected together via this connector. Selected brace members telescope to accommodate increases in wall height and a manually adjustable outrigger screwjack at the remote end of the horizontal member eliminates reliance on prior art deadmen.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2003Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Inventors: Edwin R. Hodsdon, Laurent E. Grenier
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Patent number: 7028442Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Inventor: Donald V. Merrifield
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Patent number: 6996946Abstract: Composite structures obtained by joining two or more structures of the type which presents pairs of joined tubular elements, whose extremity is hinged in universal joints and in which the universal joints are substantially parallelepiped in form and present four seats of hinging corresponding to the sides faces, in which the universal joints present grooves along the sides of the face, in which are scheduled the seats to hinge the extended elements, in proximity of the edges and parallel to the same edges, that cooperate with C-sectioned fixing elements to hold united two matched universal joints belonging to two structures from join.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2000Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Sergio Cazzolaro
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Patent number: 6938387Abstract: A length adjustable composite stud combining the advantages associated with metal studs with the advantages associated with conventional wood studs. The composite stud also allows for customized adjustments of its length using a set of simple and ergonomic steps. The composite stud includes a generally elongated frame member defining a generally open base channel. The composite stud also includes a core component configured and sized for allowing insertion thereof in the base channel. A transversal movement limiting component prevents relative movement between the core component and the frame member in a direction other then that of the frame longitudinal axis. A longitudinal movement limiting structure releasably retains the core component within the base channel in a core first position wherein a core longitudinal end is generally in register with a frame longitudinal end. The longitudinal movement limiting structure selectively allows longitudinal movement of the core component.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2003Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Inventor: Ghislain Belanger
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Patent number: 6904722Abstract: An elongated truss boom structure is adapted to be flattened and coiled to a stowed configuration. The truss boom includes longerons, battens, and diagonals. A fixed ladder shaped structure is formed by a plurality of fixedly coupled battens which interconnect two adjacent longerons. The truss boom is flattened for stowage by arranging all of the longerons coplanar to the plane of the fixed ladder shaped structure. The longerons preferably have a corrugated cross section. For stowage the longeron is heated and compressed into a ribbon shaped cross section, and upon deployment the longeron is heated to restore its corrugated cross section. A mechanical assembly machine includes a drum, a stowed flattened truss boom rolled into a coil around the drum, a device for unrolling the coil, an actuating and locking mechanism, and a control arm which connects the actuating and locking mechanism to the drum.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Michael A. Brown, Christopher J. Butkiewicz
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Patent number: 6901714Abstract: Tensegrity units may be used to form a tensegrity structure. Each tensegrity unit may include n face tension members, n continuous tension members, and n compression members. A bracket for the tensegrity unit may allow for adjustment of position of portions of the tension members when the tensegrity unit is not in a deployed state. The tension members may be coupled to the tensegrity unit so that there are no loose tension member ends. The unit may be deployed from a collapsed state by positioning the compression members and tension members in a proper orientation and adjusting the length of at least one compression member. Adjusting the length of at least the one compression member may allow tension to be applied to each tension member. A tensegrity structure may be formed from tensegrity units by joining a number of tensegrity units together.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2002Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas SystemsInventor: Katherine A. Liapi
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Patent number: 6851243Abstract: Elements are provided to erect a female blanking die for a die cutting machine for die cutting and/or blanking a carton blank, as well as for erecting a combination male blanking die/female blanking die. The elements include the following specifically-described elements: jogger members; auxiliary adjustable support members; grid orientation cylinders; grid support brackets; template corner locking clamps; center line orientation cylinders; center line clamps; and rail connecting elements. The rail connecting elements serve to erect a rectangular framework for the universal press frame of the female blanking die wherein the front and the rear rails are disposed at a higher level than the side rails. Embodiments of jogger members are provided which are selectively-disposed along the internal perimeter of the rectangular framework for erecting the female blanking die, each such jogger member having a particularly-recited structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Inventor: Peter E. Sandford
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Patent number: 6829869Abstract: A support and attachment brace for a collapsible display structure. The support and attachment brace is attachable between two vertically adjacent hubs of the collapsible display structure, and includes an elongated rigid bar or brace with opposing ends. A first end has a tab with an aperture adapted to receive and engage a fastening button projecting from a first hub assembly. The second end has a slide mechanism having a slide with an open notch. The slide is retractable so that the brace may be aligned with a fastening button projecting from the second hub without the need for forcing the hubs apart. Once in position, the slide is extendable so that the open notch is engaged with the fastening button of the second hub. The support and attachment brace is adapted so as to enable multiple support and attachment braces to be attached to the structure in a vertical column arrangement for providing vertical support and rigidity to the display structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2003Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.Inventor: Troy S. Savoie
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Patent number: 6804927Abstract: A modular system for the construction of a lattice panel for a bridge, comprises first and second chord members (20, 28) and a plurality of web members (1). Each web member comprises three legs forming a triangle. One leg (2) extends perpendicularly between the chord members. The second and third legs (3, 4) are joined to each other and to the ends of the first leg. The ends of the first leg (1) are provided with means for connecting the web member to the chords (20, 28). Interlocking means (13, 19) are provided at the joint between the second and third legs, and mid way along the first leg, so that adjacent web members can be connected together.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Mabey & Johnson LimitedInventors: Richard Charles Edward Forsyth, Bevil Guy Mabey, John Meynell Richardson
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Publication number: 20040154258Abstract: A structure, including: at least two structural members; a joining element connected to the at least two structural members; and at least one active element within the joining element, or between the joining element and at least one of the structural members, wherein a force applied to one structural member passes at least partially through the active element and into the other structural member, the active element being configured such that the structure exhibits a prescribed load-deflection relationship when a force is applied thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventors: John Hulls, Rory R. Davis
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Patent number: 6739098Abstract: This invention discloses tongs-linkage, which, in its extended position, provides an essentially triangular-shaped surface, whereby the links of the tongs-linkage are themselves the panels that form the surface. Such assemblies may be planar, or, by use of intermediate hub elements, may form a surface with curvature. As such an assembly is compressed, the panel-links slide over one another, compressing down to a compact stack. Such tongs-linkages may be joined to similar linkages by pivots lying along their respective edges thereby forming extended structural surfaces. Surfaces that are planar, cone-shaped and doubly-curved surfaces of revolution are disclosed. In each case when the structure is retracted it compresses down to a compact linear element or ring.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventor: Charles Hoberman
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Patent number: 6701679Abstract: A folding structure supports a duct in a generally horizontal orientation, and permits sweeping and serpentine movement of the duct. The structure is foldable for storage and transport. The structure comprises an array of panels hinged together, with the structure biased upward from its base to its free end for counteracting the weight of the loaded duct.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Brandt Industries Ltd.Inventors: Bradley Zazula, R. Shawn Mooney
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Patent number: 6691488Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting a post-style poultry house to a clear span style poultry house. The apparatus includes a truss assembly including a center truss section adapted to be mounted to the roof beams and first and second outer truss sections adapted to be secured to the center truss section. The trusses are installed without the removal of the roof and without removal of the drinker and feeder equipment of the existing post-style poultry house. In installing the trusses, first the center sections of the trusses are attached to the roof beams and then the upper ends of the outer sections are attached to the center sections. Then the lower ends of the outer sections of the trusses are secured to the poultry house footers. Once the truss sections are all secured to each other and secured to the footers, the posts are cut away and removed.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: John Branson
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Patent number: 6691486Abstract: A reinforcement includes two parallel walls formed with braces arranged along two orthogonal directions, the walls being spaced apart by tie rods. The structure further includes on at least one of its formwork surfaces a permeable structure for retaining aggregate and allowing excess water of cast concrete to escape. According to the invention, at least one of the parallel walls includes two mutually independent grates, one the grates being associated with the other wall by a first set of tie rods, and the other of the grates being associated with the other wall by a second set of tie rods, independent of the first set. When the grates are displaced in opposite directions along an axis parallel to the plane of the grates, the spacing between the walls is modified.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Philippe Durand
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Publication number: 20040025466Abstract: A cooling tower support frame having a plurality of modules. Each module includes at least two vertical columns and at least two horizontal girts that are connected to the vertical columns. The horizontal girts extend between the vertical columns preferably at separate vertical levels.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2002Publication date: February 12, 2004Applicant: Marley Cooling Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Paul W. Hink, Michael P. Cushing, Mark A. Muder, Eldon F. Mockry
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Patent number: 6688050Abstract: An adjustable support system for use in roofing and object support applications, such as on vehicles. An exemplary system includes first and second offset support members that each comprise a base, a first member rotatably and lockably attached to the base, a second member slidably and lockably attached to the first member, and a transverse member attached to the second member. The transverse members of the first and second offset support members are coupled together and are laterally adjustable with respect to each other. The first and second members and the transverse members are preferably tubular. An alternative embodiment has the transverse member of one support member rotatably attached to the end of a base.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: Malofou Sagiao
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Patent number: 6668508Abstract: A shear panel assembly including a shear panel in combination with a shear panel hold-down. The shear panel includes a frame and a panel diaphragm including a peripheral edge. The frame includes an upper horizontal frame member pivotally interconnecting the upper ends of first and second upright frame members. A lower horizontal is connected at the lower ends of the first and second upright frame members. The peripheral edge of the panel diaphragm is secured to an inner periphery of the frame within the depth of the frame. The shear panel system includes a hold-down having a base and at least one upright frame member engagement tab pivotally connected to and extending from the base for attachment to an upright frame member.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventors: Glyn Richard Boone, Lionel L. Brightwell, Miles E. Waltz, Jr.
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Publication number: 20030213204Abstract: A length adjustable composite stud combining the advantages associated with metal studs with the advantages associated with conventional wood studs. The composite stud also allows for customized adjustments of its length using a set of simple and ergonomic steps. The composite stud includes a generally elongated frame member defining a generally open base channel. The composite stud also includes a core component configured and sized for allowing insertion thereof in the base channel. A transversal movement limiting component prevents relative movement between the core component and the frame member in a direction other then that of the frame longitudinal axis. A longitudinal movement limiting structure releasably retains the core component within the base channel in a core first position wherein a core longitudinal end is generally in register with a frame longitudinal end. The longitudinal movement limiting structure selectively allows longitudinal movement of the core component.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2003Publication date: November 20, 2003Inventor: Ghislain Belanger
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Publication number: 20030205019Abstract: An assembled structural beam according to the present invention comprises a top chord and a bottom chord mechanically connected by series of diagonal connecting members. The top chord includes, on an upper surface, a longitudinally extending bolt slot. The bottom chord includes, on a bottom surface, a longitudinally extending bolt slot. Each of the chords have two opposed side surfaces with a shallow channel recess in one side and extending the length of the chord, with a complementary projection on the opposite side and extending the length of the chord sized for receipt in the shallow channel recess. Each chord is an extruded component and includes a securing flange which cooperates with the diagonal connecting members to secure the top chord to the bottom chord. The structural beam is particularly useful in flying forms for concrete forming.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2002Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: Allan James Becker, Zygmunt Dziwak
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Patent number: 6634152Abstract: Two embodiments of a collapsible metal roof truss are disclosed. Both embodiments are made up jackknife foldable left and right heel sections, a jackknife foldable peak section and a center bottom chord. In the flat ceiling embodiment the center bottom chord can be solid. In the second cathedral ceiling embodiment the center bottom chord is split into two pivotally interconnected sections and a vertical web leg is added. The truss can be assembled in a variety of shapes and sizes and configurations and is easily collapsed after partial prefabrication for convenient shipping.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2002Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: David Pilkinton