Having Specific Connector, Etc. Patents (Class 52/655.1)
  • Patent number: 8096085
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting node (10, 20) for constructing a three-dimensional framework (100), in particular a geodetic structure, wherein the connecting node (10, 20) has at least one connecting arrangement for connection by way of a definable number of (n) of basic structural elements (3) attached to the respective connecting node (10, 20) with other identical connecting nodes (10, 20). It is provided that the connecting node (10, 20) is formed as a disk (4, 6) having a predefinable number (n) of keyholes (1n), with each of the keyholes (1n) being penetrated by a connecting means (5) and engaging with a receiving element (3A) attached on the basic structural elements (3n), so that each basic structural element (3n) is rotatably supported in the formed first connecting arrangement (5, 3A) and can be pre-adjusted and subsequently attached at arbitrary predefinable angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventors: Michael Schneider, Carsten Fulland, Gordian Overschmidt
  • Publication number: 20120005980
    Abstract: Structural members widely adaptable for use to build various composite structures and assemblies having horizontal and vertical supports, such as columns, beams and rails, are shown and described. The composite structural members include a longitudinal channel having a web and first and second legs. Each leg includes a plane that extends from a side of the web and is inclined relative to the web, and a cylinder is located at an edge of the leg that is spaced from the web. Various fittings can be used to engage at least one of the cylinders of the channel to fix the channel in position relative to a second, third and/or fourth channel to form the column, beam or rail. Further, select brackets can be used to attach together columns, beams and rails of the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Kundel, SR., Robert Kundel, JR., Richard A. Schley, Chris Welker
  • Publication number: 20120000158
    Abstract: A wind turbine tower which includes a number of sections, connected by bolted joints is disclosed. A bolted joint includes at least one connection of the bearing type and at least one connection of the slip resistant at serviceability type. In one aspect, the bearing type connection includes at least one non prestressed bolt and/or the connection of the slip resistant at serviceability type includes at least one prestressed bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Christian Laursen
  • Publication number: 20110308189
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having mutually connected lattice bars, wherein the lattice support structure has lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure as well as lattice bars connecting them directly or indirectly, wherein the connecting lattice bars are connected to the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction such that the spacing of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure can be reduced on the folding in of the lattice support structure and can be enlarged on the unfolding of the lattice support structure, wherein at least one of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction is arranged stationary such that it is in a fixed position on the folding and unfolding of the lattice support structure; and in that at least one further of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction is arranged movable so that it undergoes a movement on the folding and on
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Kamal Daas, Doron Livnat
  • Patent number: 8079192
    Abstract: A suspended ceiling system uses a grid system having series of intermediate nodes interior to a peripheral edge of the ceiling system and a series of edge nodes at an edge of the grid system. Each intermediate node is defined by a connection plate having a series of guide tracks for receiving and cooperating with an upper edge of the ceiling grid members to align the grid members in a predetermined geometric configuration. Mechanical fasteners secure the connection plate and the ceiling grid members in any of the guide tracks. Each connection plate between adjacent guide tracks includes generally opposed connection slots for receiving support springs suspending ceiling panels beneath the grid system. The connection plate simplifies installation and avoids incorrect placement of the grid members. Preferably the grid system includes at least five grid members equally spaced about a center point of the connection plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Decoustics Limited
    Inventors: Martin Daniel Gerkes, Heikki Kolga, Ronald White
  • Patent number: 8074324
    Abstract: A flexible hinge including a first set of plies and a second set of plies, and a hinge area where the first set of plies and the second set of plies bend. A damping material is disposed between plies of the first set and the second set at least at the hinge area thereof to control the deployment of the hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter A. Warren, John Williams, Victor Leemon, Michael Winter
  • Publication number: 20110296786
    Abstract: The present invention provides in one aspect for a bracket for use in a metal stud wall having internal bridging members for tying the metal studs and bridging members together. The bracket comprises an L shaped bracket having a leg for overlying the bridging member joined to an upright for overlying the metal stud. The outside corners of the leg and upright of the L shaped bracket are truncated so that the bracket may be inserted within the channel of a metal stud and rotated to the proper position for attaching to the bridging member and metal stud. In an aspect of the invention, there is provided a bridging member for a metal stud partition wall, the bridging member being provided with openings at regular intervals along its length thereof to aid in spacing of the studs in the metal stud partition wall. In an aspect of the invention, the bracket is provided with a downwardly extending tab at the junction of the leg and the upright sized to fit within the opening of the bridging member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: BAILEY METAL PRODUCTS LIMITED
    Inventor: John Rice
  • Publication number: 20110296787
    Abstract: A lateral bracing system having high initial stiffness and including yield links capable of effectively dissipating stresses generated within the lateral bracing system under lateral loads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: SIMPSON STRONG TIE CO., INC.
    Inventors: Steven E. Pryor, Guy T. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20110296773
    Abstract: Mechanical clips and pier cap assemblies are provided that may be used to construct solar panel mounting frames. The assemblies include a pier cap that is configured to be attached to a top portion of a pier, which includes an opening and a flange stop. The flange stop is configured to support a solar panel mounting frame member. The assemblies further include a clip that has an aperture and a tab, with the tab being configured to be disposed through the opening in the pier cap. The assemblies further include a bolt and a nut, which are used to secure a solar panel mounting frame member to the pier cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Dallas Kellerman
  • Patent number: 8069632
    Abstract: An integrally assembled changeable framework connector used for a spatial structure includes a framework, a predetermined quantity of protruded connecting bases and a specific quantity of positioning element. The framework is a predetermined shaped axial rod, which acts as a main body of the whole connector. The protruded connecting base has a specific quantity of protruding bodies extended in different positions and directions and disposed on a predetermined shaped base body and along the peripheral surface of the framework, and fixed onto the framework by a positioning element to form a connector used for connecting various different spatial structures in any direction and position. An axial pipe and a lateral connecting element are used for connecting the connectors to form the spatial structure. The shapes of the framework, the protruded connecting base and the positioning element can be changed to fit the shape and the connection of the spatial structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Piao-Chin Li
  • Publication number: 20110289878
    Abstract: A support system securable between pairs of metal bar joists or beams includes one or more end brackets secured to the top of a first bar joist at one end, and another corresponding number of end brackets secured to the top of a second bar joist opposite the first two end brackets. One or more elongate bars span the distance separating the bar joists. Each elongate bar is secured to one of the end brackets secured to the first bar joist at a first end, and to the respective, aligned end bracket secured to the second bar joist at a second end. Cross members, each defined by a pair T-shaped bracket assemblies having cross bars secured thereto, are secured between the elongate bars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas H. Morey
  • Publication number: 20110283653
    Abstract: A damping system including a first set of plates having one end thereof attached to a first vertically extending structural element, a second set of plates having one end thereof attached to a second vertically extending structural element spaced in a horizontal direction from the first vertically extending structural element, and arranged such that the first set of plates has a second end portion extending towards and overlapping with a second end portion of the second set of plates at an overlapping region, and further including an energy dissipating material provided in the overlapping region for connecting the first set of plates and the second set of plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicants: THE GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO
    Inventors: Constantin CHRISTOPOULOS, Michael MONTGOMERY, Tibor KOKAI, Sean SMITH, Agha HASAN, Evan BENTZ, Michael P. COLLINS
  • Publication number: 20110283652
    Abstract: A tower assembly for use with a modular tower is provided. The tower assembly includes a plurality of assembly panels each including a pair of opposing circumferential edges, and, a plurality of connectors for use in coupling adjacent assembly panels of the plurality of assembly panels to one another, each connector of the plurality of connectors including an outer flange, an inner flange, and a spacer extending therebetween, the outer flange is spaced a distance from the inner flange such that a first slot and a second slot are defined between the outer and inner flanges, each of the first and the second slots is sized to receive one of the assembly panel circumferential edges therein to enable the adjacent assembly panels to be coupled to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: Balaji Haridasu, Biao Fang, Danian Zheng
  • Publication number: 20110277417
    Abstract: The present invention relates to components and method for modular building system used as houses, home flat, buildings, offices, gazebos, and pavilion, and to assemble the modular building system fast, easy and simple. Specifically a modular building system of the present invention includes structural frames for post and beam of the building system, lock mechanism for connecting and keeping rigidly said structural frames, corner support for connecting the corner of said structural frames, and structural insulated panel for the purpose wall, roof and floor. The structural frame consists of atleast a groove and atleast pair of bevel surface. Further the lock mechanism includes a top shell, a bottom shell, a tension screw, atleast one pair of reed, atleast one pair of support pieces, and atleast one pair of fill pieces. And also a method for assembling said modular system is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Bryan Welcel
  • Publication number: 20110271623
    Abstract: The construction element (1) has a hollow body (2) which extends along a longitudinal axis (A) and has substantially rectangular cross-section, possibly with rounded corners, and at least a first (3a) and at least a second (3b) strut element, wherein the first strut element (3a) extends from a first edge of the hollow body (2) to the second edge which lies opposite it with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the second strut element (3b) extends along the other diagonal between the associated edges. The strut elements (3a, 3b) are advantageously designed and arranged such that they absorb compressive forces but not tensile forces. A semi-finished product (1a) which has the strut elements (3a, 3b) and a tubular sleeve element (4) which extends along a longitudinal axis (A) can be arranged inside the construction element (1). The hollow body (2) and the strut elements (3a, 3b) can be fabricated completely from a fiber-reinforced plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Josef, Peter Kurath-Grollmann
  • Publication number: 20110271608
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally relate a method and apparatus for a tower structure. In one embodiment, the tower structure comprises a first base plate comprising a first hinge device, a first structural section having a first side and a second side, the first structural section coupled to a second base plate comprising a second hinge device, a second structural section coupled to the first structural section, and an aerial component coupled to the second structural section, wherein the first structural section is rotatable relative to the first base plate in a first rotational axis, the second structural section is rotatable relative to the first structural section in a second rotational axis, and at least a portion of the second structural section is received in a channel formed in the first side of the first structural section when the first structural section and the second structural section are substantially parallel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: Electro Mechanical Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Fallon M. Egan, Claudio J. Gutierrez, Christoval Sanchez, Patrick M. Weisbrod
  • Publication number: 20110271633
    Abstract: A plurality of structural members configured to be coupled together to form an array. Each structural member includes a top portion having a plurality of top extending members spaced apart from one another and a bottom portion having a plurality of bottom extending members spaced apart from one another. The top extending members and bottom extending members can be vertically offset from each other. The top portion of each structural member can be coupled to the bottom portion of another structural member, and each top extending member of a structural member can be coupled to a bottom extending member of another structural member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Samuel Lanahan
  • Patent number: 8051626
    Abstract: The beam has end terminals which can be connected to one another, such that one of the terminals is provided with front projections for guiding in vertical displacement of the other terminal, which has guides with a form which mates with the said projections, one of the terminals also having projecting lower arms to support the other terminal after it has been put into position, thus determining a single area of contact in order to permit disconnection of the supported terminal during dismantling, by turning on the said area of contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Sistemas Technicos de Encofrados, S.A.
    Inventor: José Luis Ubiñana Felix
  • Publication number: 20110252732
    Abstract: As ambient conditions change around a truss structure, such as a wooden truss in an attic, webs of the truss are affected by changes of moisture and temperature in the air. As the end-grain of the webs expand and contract, a contraction and expansion management (CEM) joint minimizes unwanted expansion and contraction in the truss chord. An elastic layer such as an elastomer in the CEM joint absorbs expansion while plates around the CEM joint maintain rigidity of the chord, keeping it secure to the walls. As the moisture and temperature in the attic decrease, the end-grain of the truss returns to its original state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: Neuro Guard, Inc.
    Inventors: Carter E. Morrett, Jeffrey A. Kunze
  • Publication number: 20110248119
    Abstract: Structural connectors for watercrafts, buildings and aircrafts are disclosed. In general, each structural connector includes at least a pair of members extending outwardly from and substantially perpendicular to a body of the structural connector, the members spaced apart from one another so as to form a recess therein between. In some embodiments, the recess may be sized and shaped for receiving supporting members including the likes of stringers and support plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventors: Israel Stol, John W. Cobes, JR.
  • Patent number: 8028494
    Abstract: A connector sleeve 22 is disclosed for connecting two beams 2,4 together in the construction industry which is quick and easy to use and which may be moved or removed if required. The sleeve 22 comprises opposing walls 25,26 for receiving the end portions of two beams 2,4 therebetween and clamping means 32 integrally mounted on one of the opposing walls 25,26. The clamping means 32 is configured to releasably engage the beams 2,4 in use so as to fix their location relative to each other. A modular connection assembly for connecting two beams is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Denmay Steel
    Inventors: Andrew Denn, Nigel May
  • Publication number: 20110225923
    Abstract: A joist assembly kit according to various embodiments comprises: (A) a first joist comprising: (1) a first casing; (2) a tenon that is disposed adjacent an end portion of the first casing; and (3) a first reinforcing member that extends: (a) longitudinally within the interior of both the casing and the tenon, (b) out of the tenon's interior, and (c) adjacent an end surface of the tenon; and (B) a second joist that comprises: (1) a second casing; and (2) a second reinforcing member that extends longitudinally within an the second casing's interior. In particular embodiments: (1) the second casing defines a mortise; (2) the tenon is adapted so that when the tenon is inserted into the second joist's mortise, the tenon matingly engages the second joist about a perimeter of the mortise. The joists may be attached together by fastening their respective reinforcing members together with a suitable fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas K. Dueker
  • Publication number: 20110219720
    Abstract: The present invention is a light steel framed metal joist including an adjustable connector fastened to the joist web that allows one to adjust the length and angle of the joist when attaching to floor and wall systems. The adjustment allows one to install end connectors onto the joists prior to installation while retaining flexibility of orientation during construction. The joist functions in both web bearing and bottom chord bearing configurations. A flat plate distributing member allows one to design a floor system without having to coordinate the positioning of the joist with wall studs. Angle or U shaped members can be fastened to the lower portion of the flat plate distribution member to support joists during construction. The invention further provides a seamless fire stopping system with consideration for acoustic dampening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: BEST JOISTS INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Strickland, Douglas M. Fox
  • Publication number: 20110214369
    Abstract: A decking system comprises a ledger board for mounting on an upright supporting surface, a beam, a plurality of joists for spanning between the ledger board and the beam, and a plurality of deck boards for spanning across the joists in which all of the components can be mounted to one another by interlocking engagement of various connectors so that no additional fasteners are required for assembly. The components are formed of extruded and molded materials which do not require any maintenance. A railing system and a stair system are also provided which similarly connect by interlocking engagement of the components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Tory Weber, Brian Boettger, Pierre Harvey, Stephan Lachevrotiere, David Croteau, Francois Parenteau, Paul Girouard, Ken Crockett, Derrick Resler, Gregg Westergard
  • Patent number: 8011156
    Abstract: A construction set for allowing a user to construct a variety of different structures comprising a plurality of Type A beams, a plurality of Type B beams, a plurality of base columns, a plurality of intermediate columns, a plurality of base plates attached to the base columns, and a plurality of deck pieces for laying atop the beams to create a floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Paul R. Schwan
  • Publication number: 20110203216
    Abstract: A framework system for buildings and other structures having a plurality of structural columns each having a wall structure of generally circular cross-sectional configuration defining an internal chamber and having a number of pairs of elongate external undercut grooves extending the length of the column and defining internal elongate grooves also extending the length of the column. Structural framework members extend between adjacent ones of the structural columns and define opposed ends. Gripper members are mounted to the ends of each of the structural framework members and each have a pair of spaced hook-like lateral retainer flanges disposed in retaining engagement within the elongate external undercut grooves. A structural member extends the length of the internal chamber and has radially oriented structural flanges each being received within one of the internal elongate grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Ahearn
  • Publication number: 20110197378
    Abstract: Structural assemblies for constructing bridges and other structures. A structural assembly may comprise an elongated member defining an internal space. The structural assembly may also comprise a plurality of framing members connected to the elongated member at a plurality of pin connection nodes, each pin connection node comprising a pin interconnecting the elongated member, a first one of the framing members, and a second one of the framing members, the pin having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, at least one of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the pin being located in the internal space of the elongated member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Alexandre De La Chevrotiere
  • Publication number: 20110179741
    Abstract: A modular building system is disclosed. The modular building includes a plurality of pre-fabricated joints having open-ended hollow arms extending orthoganally along at least two directional axes, as defined by a 3-dimensional rectangular coordinate system. The system further includes a plurality of pre-fabricated beams detachably insertable into the open-ends of the hollow arms of the joints and connectors removeably securing the beams in the hollow arms of the joints. The joints and beams are assembled to build a variety of modular grid-frame structures in accordance with pre-determined assembly plans.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Chih-Cheng YEN
  • Publication number: 20110179725
    Abstract: A lateral bracing system is disclosed for affixing a column to a beam in a construction. The lateral bracing system includes a pair of buckling restraint blocks, one each affixed to a top and bottom flange of a beam. Each buckling restraint block includes one or more bores formed through a center of the block. The lateral bracing system further includes at least one yield link for each buckling restraint block. Each yield link includes a first end affixed to the column, and a second end fit through a bore in a buckling restraint block and affixed to an end of the buckling restraint block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Badri Hiriyur, Steven E. Pryor
  • Publication number: 20110177844
    Abstract: The Cellular Mobile Radiotelephone Tower Wind Turbine (CMRTTWT) specifically is an innovative method of harvesting available wind power around CMRT towers. The CMRTTWT addresses the base station power needs of the Cellular Mobile Radiotelephone (CMRT or Cell Phone) industry, providing clean on-site power generation for reduced environmental impact and for improved availability during disasters (natural or man-made). This invention extends the design of the CMRT tower to include a wind turbine and the associated structural and electrical modifications to accommodate that wind turbine. This wind turbine is designed to provide approximately the daily power demands for the CMRT tower system; thus the turbine would be small enough to be mounted on the tower without interfering with the operations of the antennas. By using the turbine as a constant power source, clean electricity is directly harvested from suitable velocity winds at the higher altitudes of the tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Albert Frank Lowas, III
  • Publication number: 20110167752
    Abstract: The teachings are generally directed to a construction system that includes a three-dimensional, load-bearing cell that can be modular, releasably connectable with other construction components, reinforced with bracing for higher strength, and exceed industry size limits, for use in a building or non-building structure. The load-bearing cell can be constructed on-site and can have a dimension that exceeds size standards set for transporting construction materials to a construction site as compared to pre-fabricated cellular structures. These construction cells are a novel, technical contribution for at least the reason that they overcome the technical industry size limitations that add cost and complexity to construction. The teachings provide (i) an ability to save on the complexities and amounts of materials, equipment, and labor needed in a construction project, (ii) a reduction in costs, and (iii) a novel, simplified, and bid-winning approach to the art of construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Iyad Mohamad Adnan Daadoush
  • Publication number: 20110154757
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tower section for assembling a wind turbine tower. The tower section comprises a flange at least at one end of the tower section. The flange is provided with holes for the connection elements. The flange have a first array of holes, where each hole is arranged in a first angle (?) relative to a longitudinal axis of the tower section, and a second array of holes, where each hole is arranged in a second angle (?) relative to the longitudinal axis. The first angle (?) is different from the second angle (?). The invention also relates to a foundation comprising a flange, where the flange of the foundation has characteristics corresponding to the characteristics of the tower section flange. The invention also relates to a wind turbine tower and to a wind turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/S
    Inventor: Jesper Staerke Rosengren
  • Publication number: 20110154756
    Abstract: A building is assembled from an array of rectangular panels where the side edges are connected so that in the array each set of four panels meet at a junction location containing the corners of the panels to form an array of the junction locations. Each building panel is divided along a main axis into two separate triangular panel portions with channel shaped overlapping connecting members which form a beam of double thickness. Each junction location includes an outer cover cap portion on an outside surface covering the junction location with female channel shaped recesses receiving the marginal edges of the panels at the corner and a central recess receiving the beam. A corresponding male shaped inner cap is located under the junction and clamps to the outer cap to form a seal over the corner location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Norman M. Stephens
  • Publication number: 20110146192
    Abstract: A stayed connection for a wind turbine (1) where the wind turbine (1) tower (4) comprises an upper pipe-shaped tower portion (12) and a lower tower portion (14) and where the upper pipe-shaped tower portion (12) is connected to the lower tower portion (14) by means of a stayed connection (16), and wherein the stayed connection (16) comprises pipe-shaped diagonal stays (18) extending from the lower tower portion (14) and in toward the outside of the upper pipe-shaped tower portion (12), as the diagonal stays (18) at their toward the upper pipe-shaped tower portion (12) facing end portion (28) are compressed and connected directly or via a plate portion (30) to the upper pipe-shaped tower portion (12) by means of a welded connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Gunnar Foss
  • Publication number: 20110138729
    Abstract: A wind turbine generator tower is configured by arranging and connecting a plurality of approximately cylindrical tower sections in their axial direction. Each of the tower sections includes an approximately cylindrical tower section main body, and a plurality of approximately flat-plate protruding parts that are formed so as to protrude along the axial direction at at least an axis-wise end portion of the tower section main body on an outer circumferential surface and/or an inner circumferential surface of the tower section main body. The plurality of tower sections are connected when the protruding parts of one of the tower sections and the protruding parts of another one of the tower sections are friction-jointed with fastening means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Yasuaki SHIRAISHI
  • Publication number: 20110140437
    Abstract: A self-supporting platform for a wind turbine tower comprises a grid structure having a plurality of grid nodes, wherein the grid structure transfers a load on the platform to the wall of the tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Satish VEMURI, Kharyl Evenson George STEPHENS, Hueseyin KARACA, Ingo PAURA, Raghunandan Chickballapur VENKATAKRISHNAPPA
  • Publication number: 20110138730
    Abstract: A wind turbine tower segment for wind turbines is provided that includes a wind turbine tower segment body having a longitudinal axis; and a first and a second end; wherein the surface of at least one of the first and the second end is not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the wind turbine tower segment. Further, a wind turbine having such a wind turbine tower segment is provided. The method includes providing a second wind turbine tower segment having a longitudinal axis and a first and a second end, wherein the surface of at least one of the first and the second end is not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the wind turbine tower segment; and mounting the second wind turbine tower segment to a first wind turbine tower segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Jacob Johannes Nies
  • Publication number: 20110131898
    Abstract: A flange connection is provided which includes a first flange having a first mounting hole and at least one second flange having a second mounting hole adapted to be aligned with the first mounting hole. A bolt including a shaft portion having a threaded portion, and a head portion formed at one end of the shaft portion is adapted to pass through the first and second mounting holes. A screw nut is adapted to be screwed onto the threaded portion and for connecting, when tightened, the first flange and the at least one second flange. At least one of the head portion and the screw nut includes a convex surface which is oriented towards the respective flange, and the respective flange includes, at the mounting hole, a flange recess which is oriented towards the convex surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventors: Jacob Johannes Nies, Shanmuga-Priyan Subramanian
  • Publication number: 20110135492
    Abstract: A wind turbine including an article, article, and method of forming an article for distributing stress are disclosed. The article includes a flange for securing an upper tower section and a lower tower section of a wind turbine and includes a first arm extending in a first direction, a second arm extending in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction, a relief region disposed between the first arm and the second arm, the relief region maintaining or improving the distribution of stress on wind turbine components selected from the group consisting of the first arm of the flange, the second arm of the flange, a fastener of the flange, and combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Ravindra P. TETAMBE, Ingo PAURA
  • Patent number: 7954296
    Abstract: A new connecting node set that is unique and surprisingly effective at aligning interfacing holes in connecting nodes is illustrated by their application to radial tetrahedral structures. This method of connecting one node to another requires that a left handed node be connected to a right handed node. They are called left handed or right handed because their lines of interface in at least two directions of intended use are geometrically coincident with straight line rulings of a hyperboloid of revolution of one sheet which itself consists of two families of straight line rulings, designated a left handed and a right handed family respectively. With these nodes, magnets could be placed on the lines of interface (opposite placement in a left handed one from a right handed one) and thus the magnets would always attract or repel as preferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Dennis John Newland
  • Publication number: 20110113711
    Abstract: A fastener assembly comprises a first cylindrical member disposed within a second cylindrical member. One of the first and second cylindrical members is movable relative to the other in a first direction. The other one of the first and second cylindrical members is locked relative to the one in a second direction opposite to the first direction. A spring is operably attached to the first and second cylindrical members to urge one of the first and second cylindrical members in the first direction. A removable member is operably associated with the first and second cylindrical members to prevent one of the first and second cylindrical members from moving in the first direction prior to removing the removable member. The removable member is configured to be pulled out to allow one of the first and second cylindrical members to move in the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas M. Espinosa
  • Publication number: 20110113717
    Abstract: A system and method for providing a stronger lanai, area or pool enclosure. The system utilizes a beam having an interior channel that provides increased thread receiving surface for receiving one or more fasteners and an interlocking joint for further strengthening the connection between a plurality of beam members that form the beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Teffenhart, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110113718
    Abstract: A quick assembled house comprises a frame including a plurality of side walls and a roof, characterized in that: the side walls and the roof are formed of a number of first and second planks, wherein each of the first and second planks includes an engaging groove fixed on one side thereof and a locking tenon secured on the other side thereof, wherein the locking tenon includes two downwardly-tilted fastening arms extending outward from a top portion thereof, wherein the fastening arms of the locking tenon of the first plank is inserted to the engaging groove of the second plank so as to connect the first and second planks together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: SUPER HONOUR INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
    Inventor: Kwok Keung CHENG
  • Patent number: 7941985
    Abstract: A column/beam connection in a building frame, including an elongate column having faces which join through corners, an elongate beam having an end, and a full-moment nodal connection connecting the end of the beam to the column solely through a pair of next-adjacent corners in the column, with the beam end, as so connected, being spaced from the column face which lies between the mentioned pair of corners. The connection per se features (a) plural standoffs joined to and extending, one each, outwardly from the column's corners at a selected, common elevation located along the length of the column, and (b) a halo collar joined through a gravity-seat-and-lock, full-moment interface connection to each of the standoffs, and, as so joined, spaced by the standoffs from the column faces which lie between the column corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: ConXtech, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7941984
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a box-shaped structure of inter-related structural components. The structural components are combined to create a single three dimensional component the shape of a rectangular prism. The structure is formed by creating a pair of exterior walls from horizontal members and a series of laterally spaced vertical members that are coupled to the horizontal members by truss plates. The structure also includes a series of laterally spaced rectangular ribs that are coupled to the exterior walls by additional truss plates. The ribs and the walls are further coupled by use of wood sheeting along the top of the structure to form the resultant assembly. The entire assembly is connected together with a series of bolt and steel angle connectors, allowing the entire module to act monolithically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventors: Charles Roig, Daniel Roig
  • Publication number: 20110107710
    Abstract: An improved connector and connection joining a plurality of supported structural members, preferably four roof trusses or rafters to a supporting structural member, preferably a header or girder truss. The connector is formed with a plurality of seat members, preferably four, that are joined to back member sections at angular junctures stiffened by shallow embossments. Variations can have three or five seat members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Stanley K. Sias
  • Publication number: 20110107709
    Abstract: A reinforced triangular truss column having two vertical pipe reinforcing columns added to the three rods of the truss column is provided. Also provided is a method of reinforcing triangular truss columns comprising adding two vertical pipe reinforcing columns to a triangular truss column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Kevin P. Bauman, Curtis J. Porr
  • Publication number: 20110107711
    Abstract: A steel structural member such as a joist or beam is secured to a vertical cast concrete by a connector system including a fabricated steel receiver embedded within the wall. Embedded anchors are attached to the receiver which has front wall portions flush with the concrete wall and define a front opening. A support bracket has an attachment plate secured to the beam and a vertical plate which fits through the front opening within the receiver. The bracket is attached to the beam which is then elevated, and the vertical plate is inserted through the opening into the receiver. The beam and vertical plate are then shifted until opposite edge portions of the vertical plate are blocked by the front wall portions of the receiver. In the illustrated embodiments, the front opening and vertical plate are generally triangular, and the support bracket has a vertical or horizontal attachment plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Robert P. Foley
  • Publication number: 20110107712
    Abstract: A factory building assembly structure and a method for assembling a factory building are provided in which the factory building can be efficiently constructed at a low cost and the factory building with excellent design can be constructed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: TAIKISHA LTD.
    Inventors: Tadashi Inoue, Hisao Nakajima
  • Publication number: 20110099936
    Abstract: A building structure having a plurality of frame assemblies joined together to form an internal frame structure for a building. Each of the frame assemblies includes a truss, a pair of vertical wall members and a floor joist. The truss is attached to respective top ends the vertical wall members at each end of the truss with interlocking joints in which the truss and vertical wall members are in substantially the same plane. Each vertical wall member is attached to the floor joist with interlocking joints. Each interlocking joint has a puzzle-piece configuration. Cross-members interconnect the frame assemblies in a spaced-apart manner. A floor panel is attached to the floor joists and exterior wall panels are attached to an exterior of the internal frame structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Jacob Cluff