Outside Corner Or Peripherally Bordered (i.e., Framing, Etc.) Patents (Class 52/656.1)
  • Publication number: 20080185299
    Abstract: This invention is designed to provide flexibility of décor options while providing easy access, storage, display and the ability to sample-view the wearing of any jewelry that attaches to a persons body part with a hook. This invention is unique due to the combination of the decorative frame, see-through mesh screen (for jewelry hanging), shadow box and mirror features. This invention is intended for wall mounting similar to a picture or mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Rebecca Margo Thorman
  • Publication number: 20080172966
    Abstract: An assembly of glass blocks is held in a structural frame and comprises a plurality of glass blocks each having two rectangular display faces and four edge faces; a rectangular structural perimeter frame having four sides; and a plurality of primary muntins, each primary muntin connected to the rectangular structural perimeter frame and comprising an elongate web with stand-offs lying within parallel planes and extending outward from the web and at least one elongate hollow boss integral with the web positioned within the planes, the primary muntins extending entirely across the structural perimeter frame, wherein the primary muntins define an array within the structural perimeter frame with openings for receiving the plurality of glass blocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: William P. Voegele, Alan D. Lohr, Raymond A. McNally
  • Patent number: 7380384
    Abstract: A layout for shop window construction includes a dormant frame and an opening frame of a closed tubular section defining an internal volume, the opening or dormant frames appearing in the form of an assembly of the profiles defining the closed tubular section, the profiles being joined edge against edge by their ends e1 e2. Each profile includes at least an opening element and a closing element and a fixation device for between the profiles, each opening element including at least a web and two wings defining at least two edges known as longitudinal, extending from one end to another of the profiles and connected wholly in part to the web and/or to said the wings. The fixation device includes an internal welding completing the volume, connecting the profiles at the level of their junction, the welding being envisaged before closing of volume by the closing element. The invention also relates to a window frame, glazed door and/or similar, composed of such a frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Jean Bourly
  • Publication number: 20080040999
    Abstract: A structural panel includes perimeter rails and parallel joists having top and bottom surfaces lying in common parallel planes. Between the joists and the rails are diagonal planar bridge members extending obliquely in zigzag manner such that an end of one of the bridge members butts an opposed end of a next one of the bridge members at a side face of the joist. Planar top cover sheets bottom cover sheet are adhesively bonded to the top and bottom surfaces of the rail members, bridge members and joists. When used in a modular building, the floor has sufficient stiffness for the module to be transported from an assembly location in finished condition with all interior and exterior cladding attached and with the walls are topped by finished sandwich ceiling panels. The roof structure spanning the assembled modules is built on at the installation location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Alena Vetesnik, Jan Vetesnik
  • Patent number: 7310920
    Abstract: An architectural structural system comprises a structural beam and a structural connector. The structural beam includes a first c-beam and a second c-beam adjacently disposed one in parallel to the other. Each of the c-beams has opposed first and second ends. The structural connector has a plurality of transverse blades with opposed faces, one of the plurality of blades being connectedly disposed between the first and second c-beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: David Hovey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20070271869
    Abstract: The corner member acts structurally and as a trim cap for cladding. The corner member can accept multiple types of cladding with or without sheathing in channels formed in the corner member. The corner member may also comprise return flanges or a separate mounting flange that extend into the structure and are exposed to allow for fastening of internal accessories or other items that need an internal mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventors: Justin C. Andrikanich, Thomas E. Hanna, Timothy M. Pierzynski, Erik Skov
  • Patent number: 7299596
    Abstract: A framed shear wall has a pair of crossed tension straps passing through the studs that make up the shear wall. The straps are preferably rods and are preferably attached to upstanding plates installed at the corners of the wall. Each of two straps is preferably attached to an opposite side of the upstanding plate such that the straps do not interfere with each other where the straps cross. The straps preferably include threaded ends and the upstanding plates preferably have threaded receptacles sized to accept the threaded ends of the straps such that the straps can be tensioned before and/or after installation. In one embodiment, the upstanding plates are bolted through a bottom surface of the wall into a threaded anchor plate at floor level, and the threaded anchor plate is attached to a top of a wall on a floor below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: John Hildreth
  • Patent number: 7266932
    Abstract: The present invention provides a furniture assembly that includes rods and connection members, and that can be fully assembled without using tools or additional hardware. In one embodiment, the rods include a threaded end and an unthreaded end, and the connection members include an interior member and an exterior member, where the interior member and exterior member may be separate or of unitary construction. The exterior member includes unthreaded apertures for receiving the rods and the interior member includes an unthreaded aperture and a threaded aperture, also for receiving the rods. The rods and connection members are interconnected and gradually tightened to provide a stable furniture frame. Multi-level framing and methods of assembly are also provided. In an alternate embodiment, a connector assembly is provided for securing a plurality of rods within a connector using a leg threaded into the connector obliquely to a plane occupied by the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Mio Lotta, LLC.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Rowan
  • Patent number: 7207636
    Abstract: A modular cabinet structure, process, and system are provided, in which a modular cabinet structure comprises a structural frame comprising a first side and a second side, and a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the frame structure comprises a removable frame component at the second end; and a face assembly; wherein the face assembly is fixedly retained within the frame structure when the removable frame component is affixed to the frame structure; and wherein the face assembly is movable in relation the frame structure when the removable frame component is detached from the frame structure. In frame-style embodiments, the face assembly comprises a central panel having a front surface and a back surface, a retaining assembly attached to the back surface of the central panel, and a face frame having a front surface and a rear surface attached to the central panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: I.D. Furniture Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Livingston, Peter Hans Müller
  • Patent number: 7197855
    Abstract: The invention relates to a paving system for tiles, especially flagstones, for paving ceilings, walls, or floors, in which each tile is provided with a paving frame on which the tile rests over at least part of its area. The paving frames comprise, on each of two adjacent (intersecting) limbs, a fin for the accommodation of a rubber-elastic sealing profile that defines the width of the seam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: Tomas Della Pepa
  • Patent number: 7131481
    Abstract: A flexible curtain rollup door includes a drum mounted on a door frame and drivenly connected to an electric right angle gear motor unit. The frame includes opposed channel shaped guide tracks for receiving opposed side edges of a door curtain. Spaced apart elastically deflectable combination curtain stiffening struts and windlock members are secured to the curtain and include opposed windlock parts receivable in the guide tracks and configured, respectively, to provide for releasing only one side edge of the curtain from its guide track. A flexible transverse bottom bar includes plural side by side flexible bags filled with particulate material, secured to the curtain bottom edge and enclosed by a flexible envelope member. The curtain bottom edge includes a stiffener formed of interconnected links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Overhead Door Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Varley, Richard D. Aiken, Raymond A. Clark, George Lair
  • Patent number: 7082734
    Abstract: The present invention provides a furniture assembly that includes rods and connection members, and that can be fully assembled without using tools or additional hardware. In one embodiment, the rods include a threaded end and an unthreaded end, and the connection members include an interior member and an exterior member, where the interior member and exterior member may be separate or of unitary construction. The exterior member includes unthreaded apertures for receiving the rods and the interior member includes an unthreaded aperture and a threaded aperture, also for receiving the rods. The rods and connection members are interconnected and gradually tightened to provide a stable furniture frame. Multi-level framing and methods of assembly are also provided. In an alternate embodiment, a connector assembly is provided for securing a plurality of rods within a connector using a leg threaded into the connector obliquely to a plane occupied by the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas J. Rowan
  • Patent number: 7036283
    Abstract: A molding cap for use with a first molding having a first cross-sectional area and a second molding having a second cross-sectional area, is a three-dimensional structure with a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface. The side surface has a first hollow area and a second hollow area corresponding to the second cross-sectional area of molding. A first molding and a second molding are partially covered by the three-dimensional structure as the three-dimensional structure straddles the first molding and straddles the second molding, such that said three-dimensional structure conceals an end of the first molding and an end of the second molding and any joint between the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Paul Halas
  • Patent number: 7000362
    Abstract: A screening device is provided with multiple channel upper and lower panel retaining members that allow multiple panel members to be slid in front of or behind each other. Channel end caps and close spacing of the upper and lower panel retaining members prevent removal of the panels from the screening device. A support structure uses angled castings and extrusion members for rapid custom screen device assembly that avoids long welding assembly times as well as subsequent weld failure due to screen device vibration. A corner panel, decorative trim, a top panel retaining member alignment tang, and a fastener concealing end cap are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: James E. Cullinan
  • Patent number: 6988346
    Abstract: The present invention provides a connection having a plurality of parallel structural members. The structural members are bridged by strap member, preferably light gauge steel. The end of the strap member is held in place by an overlapping strap holder. Fasteners hold the strap holder and the strap to the underlying structural member, with at least one passing through only the strap holder into the first side of the the first structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Louay A. Shamroukh, Mark G. Crawford
  • Patent number: 6974276
    Abstract: A connecting part for attachment on a mounting rail has a fastening part with an at least approximately rectangular cross-section. The fastening part has legs and surrounds when mounted a mounting rail on all sides by having a matching cross-section formed by the legs. The fastening part has clamping devices for effecting a clamping fixation of the connecting part on the mounting rail. A cross-sectional plane of the fastening part has two diagonally opposed corners and the clamping devices are arranged on the two diagonally opposed corners, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Halfen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Georg Kirchner, Michael Binna, Beate Görtz, Andreas Hanke, Renate Neumann
  • Patent number: 6945002
    Abstract: A reinforcement for prefabricated concrete panels with improved bonding with concrete, which comprises profiles to be embedded in a concrete body of a panel. At least some of the profiles have perforations and undulations which are suitable to increase the bonding between the profiles and the concrete body of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventors: Sergio Zambelli, Benito Zambelli
  • Patent number: 6922955
    Abstract: A dock pit for a dock leveler mechanism comprises a pre-cast concrete body including integrally formed side, rear panel and front panels, all forming a continuous perimeter open therethrough to receive the load leveler mechanism. Each side panel has a top edge and the rear panel has a rear edge offset below the of the side panel top edges, whereby a concrete slab poured around the body will abut the rear panel edge with the surface of the concrete slab substantially flush with the top edge of each side panel. The side panels define a recess along their length that is situated between the top edge of the side panel and the rear edge of the rear panel, whereby the concrete slab poured around the pre-cast body will integrate within the recesses on each said side panel. The dock slab can be poured using the pre-cast pit as a form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Mark Sanders
  • Patent number: 6920726
    Abstract: A hollow plastic section, includes a frame section defining a longitudinal axis and having an interior subdivided in several inner chambers by a plurality of partition walls extending in a direction of the longitudinal axis, Received in the interior is a plurality of stiffening elements arranged separate from one another, without interconnection, for realizing a reinforcement of the frame section. The stiffening elements may be made of metal or may be configured as bands or strips of fiber-reinforced plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Schüco International KG
    Inventors: Hans-Walter Bielefeld, Matthias Senneca, Ralf Kämper
  • Patent number: 6920724
    Abstract: A bracket for use in fabricating steel structural panels has a first passageway for accepting a connecting member secured to a diametrically opposed bracket to introduce tension between the opposing brackets in the panel. The brackets each have an additional second passageway to accept a connecting member for securing the brackets to a horizontal structural slab or other floor systems. By mating pairs of structural panels with a plurality of horizontal structural slabs or other floor systems, a building may be fabricated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignees: Epic Metals Corporation, Infinity Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Hundley
  • Patent number: 6896026
    Abstract: An improved flyscreen to be slidingly deployed across an opening of window or door, the window or door having a static glazing pane or panel and an opening pane or panel, the flyscreen comprising a frame dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of the window or door opening to be covered by the flyscreen and having a mesh screen therein extending thereacross, the frame having a brush or filamentous pad strip extending substantially the full height of an upright of the frame and which when the screen is slidingly mounted adjacent to a window or door to be slidingly moved back and forth across the opening of the window or door, is substantially able to brush over the surface of the static pane or panel of the window or door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Conrad Peter Martin
  • Publication number: 20040255542
    Abstract: A modular cornice system includes at least one substantially rigid face section and at least one substantially rigid return section having a connector configured to couple the return section and the face section. The system further includes at least one retainer on the face section configured to engage a bracket for attaching the cornice system to a mounting surface. An opening may be provided on the sections to receive a portion of a cover material, so that the cover material may be applied over at least a portion of the face section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Applicant: June Tailor, Inc.
    Inventors: Jilene A. Repp, Francis A. Yogerst
  • Patent number: 6829870
    Abstract: A building is erected using pre-cast wall panels, preferably load-bearing wall panels having a shear key on each vertical edge and starter bars on each horizontal edge, by first erecting the wall panels, and then casting a concrete column around the vertical edges of adjacent or intersecting wall panels using movable formwork made up from a set of standard modules that can be assembled to form different configurations and sizes of column for different panel arrangements. The moulding surfaces of the modules may be shaped to provide decorative features to the columns and/or the column/wall intersections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: HC Precast System SDN. BHD
    Inventor: Teow Beng Hur
  • Patent number: 6823924
    Abstract: An improved flyscreen to be slidingly deployed across an opening of window or door, the window or door having a static glazing pane or panel and an opening pane or panel, the flyscreen comprising a frame dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of the window or door opening to be covered by the flyscreen and having a mesh screen therein extending thereacross, the frame having a brush or filamentous pad strip extending substantially the full height of an upright of the frame and which when the screen is slidingly mounted adjacent to a window or door to be slidingly moved back and forth across the opening of the window or door, is substantially able to brush over the surface of the static pane or panel of the window or door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Conrad Peter Martin
  • Publication number: 20040194413
    Abstract: The invention provides a muntin (1) for a roof structure, the muntin (1) comprising: a cap (3) having a cover (7), for forming a link between elements of a roof structure in use, and a connector region (13) connecting with a separate coupler (5); and the coupler (5) having means (21, 23, 25) to connect with a jointer of a roof structure, and means (19) to connect with said cap connector region (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Cliff Gordon
  • Patent number: 6792733
    Abstract: A deflection clip comprising a planar base plate comprising a first surface and an opposing second surface, and a guide depending from the base plate. The guide comprises a first arm extending along a longitudinal axis substantially transverse to the base plate from a proximal end adjacent the second surface. The guide further comprises a second arm extending away from the base plate oriented in the same direction as the first arm defining a channel between the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Flex-Ability Concepts, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Frank Wheeler, Dick Ninness
  • Patent number: 6754999
    Abstract: A structural system with a plurality of metal framed load bearing walls formed in one or more sections with a support post connected in line to the ends of each load bearing wall. A plurality of metal framed roof trusses in one or more sections parallel with and connected to the top of the load bearing walls. A metal framed roof formed in one or more sections and spanning adjacent roof trusses. Each wall, truss and roof section formed with metal tracks and C-shaped studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Delmer L. Urbanczyk
  • Patent number: 6735909
    Abstract: A slide-out room assembly for mobile living quarters, such as a recreational vehicle, includes a pair of side walls, a ceiling wall, and a floor wall, all of which are received in corresponding sockets in a frame that extends around the outer edges of the side walls, floor wall and ceiling wall. The frame includes an outwardly extending flange that engages the side wall of the main living quarters when the slide-out room is retracted. The outer wall panel is bonded to the flange by an appropriate adhesive and encloses the end of the slide-out room defined between the ends of the side walls, ceiling wall and floor wall. A raceway is provided in the frame that extends around ends of the side walls, floor wall and ceiling wall to permit the necessary electrical wiring to be routed around the end of the slide-out room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Stewart Gardner
  • Patent number: 6732478
    Abstract: A floor panel (20L) or (20R) comprises a first plastics sheet (5) edge lit by a light source in a space (8), a second plastics sheet (6) being provided above the first sheet and below an upper sheet (7) of glass. A floor may be formed by placing a number of panels together, and the floor panels may be mounted on a matrix of beams (22) which are themselves mounted on height adjustable pedestals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Gulvin Russell, Michelle Evelyn Russell
  • Patent number: 6722096
    Abstract: A frame for a partition system and a component of the frame are disclosed. The component automatically and evenly tensions a fabric about a partition panel. The component of the frame includes a support element and a lockable element. The support element defines a cavity that receives and supports the panel. The lockable element extends from the support element and supports the fabric that is to be tensioned about the panel. Also, the lockable element is moveable relative to the support element. The component further includes an integral hinge between the support element and the lockable element. The integral hinge enables the movement of the lockable element relative to the support element. As a result, the fabric supported on the lockable element is automatically and evenly tensioned about the panel upon the movement of the lockable element. The component also includes a backing strip to protect the fabric from the integral hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Quanex Corporation
    Inventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
  • Patent number: 6694695
    Abstract: Wall constructions and methods for constructing walls. In one embodiment, the wall is constructed from studs that each having a web that has at least one opening therein. The studs are oriented such that the openings in their webs are aligned to permit at least one spacer member to extend therethrough. The spacer members are formed with structure for engaging portions of the webs through which they extend. Retainers are provided on the webs of the studs for retaining the spacer members in position. In another embodiment at least two studs that have webs with openings therethrough are oriented such that the openings are aligned with each other. At least one spacer member is inserted through the aligned openings to engage a portion of each web through which they extend. The spacers are then brought into engagement with retainers on the webs of the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Collins, Larry R. Daudet, Gregory S. Ralph
  • Publication number: 20040016199
    Abstract: A building is erected using pre-cast wall panels, preferably load-bearing wall panels having a shear key on each vertical edge and starter bars on each horizontal edge, by first erecting the wall panels, and then casting a concrete column around the vertical edges of adjacent or intersecting wall panels using movable formwork made up from a set of standard modules that can be assembled to form different configurations and sizes of column for different panel arrangements. The moulding surfaces of the modules may be shaped to provide decorative features to the columns and/or the column/wall intersections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Teow Beng Hur
  • Patent number: 6668508
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventors: Glyn Richard Boone, Lionel L. Brightwell, Miles E. Waltz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6668495
    Abstract: A screened patio enclosure is provided with primary and secondary structural members for retaining screening fabric and decorative inserts that are available in a variety of pleasing colors and patterns thus improving the aesthetic appearance of the interior of the enclosure. Additionally, the primary members include integral recesses for receiving load carrying insert members thus allowing the load capacity of the primary structural members to be increased incrementally by varying the number of metallic inserts added to the primary structural members. The primary structural members include post/columns and beams while the secondary structural members include horizontal and diagonal purlins and base anchoring members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Richard T. Prince
  • Patent number: 6647691
    Abstract: A track arrangement for supporting wall studs is provided. The track arrangement includes a central longitudinal extension, first and second sidewalls and a first stud clip arrangement comprising a pair of stud clips. In a preferred embodiment, each clip comprises a portion of the sidewall bent inwardly, to form a cam surface and a stud ridge receiver. During use, the stud is forced toward the cam surface, bending the clip until a portion of the stud, specifically a stud ridge, is received in the stud ridge receiver. This will secure the stud in place, against undesired movement relative to the track. Wall assemblies are provided which preferably involve one such track arrangement positioned on the floor as a floor track, and one on the ceiling, as a ceiling track, with a stud extending therebetween. The wall framework assembly can be assembled as a slip track, or as a non-slip track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Duane William Becker, Brian Duane Becker
  • Patent number: 6622448
    Abstract: Hold-down clips for insulation. The clips have U-shaped bases for wrapping about the exposed edges of framing members such as 2×4s, 2×6s, 2×8s, and 2×10s, and the like, that are used under roofs, ceilings, floors and walls. The clips have side extending arms that abut against the insulation materials and can include protruding portions which further press the insulation material in place. The U-shaped bases can further include inwardly protruding bent tabs, dimples, and spike portions for further locking the clips to the framing members. The clips can be easily installed without the need for tools such as hammers, nail guns, and staple type guns, as well as not need any additional fasteners such as nails, screws, and staples, in order to be installed. An optional through-hole in the base portion can allow for an extra fastener to be used where the through-hole provides direct guidance for placing the optional fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: University of Central Florida
    Inventor: Jeffrey K. Sonne
  • Patent number: 6619003
    Abstract: A method of assembling a frame assembly for a partition system is disclosed. The frame assembly includes a partition panel, a fabric covering the panel, and a frame component. The frame component automatically and evenly tensions the fabric about the panel. The frame component provided according to this method includes a support element, a lockable element, and an integral hinge defined between the support and lockable elements. The support element defines a cavity for receiving and supporting the panel. The lockable element extends from and is moveable relative to the support element. The panel is inserted into the cavity, and the fabric is mounted to the lockable element. Next, the lockable element is moved about the integral hinge such that the fabric mounted to the lockable element is automatically and evenly tensioned about the panel. A backing strip may be mounted to the frame component to protect the fabric from the integral hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Quanex Corporation
    Inventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
  • Patent number: 6619007
    Abstract: A process for producing structures includes: cutting a transverse groove in a panel; introducing a plastic material into the groove; applying an imprint to the panel; cutting V-shaped grooves in the panel and folding the panel to form a structure. The plastic material is initially free-flowing and subsequently solidifying. The plastic material forms a hinge which may be flush with the panel or project beyond the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Wilhelm Riesmeier
  • Publication number: 20030163969
    Abstract: A frame assembly for a window opening includes an elongated frame member made of roll-formed stock material having top and bottom edges, and a first wall extending between the top and bottom edges. The frame assembly includes a latch positioned adjacent the first wall and between the top and bottom edges of the frame member. The latch is slidable between extended and retracted positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Arthur Silverman
  • Patent number: 6609349
    Abstract: The invention relates to window framing systems which use corner keys, and which seal against embossed surfaces, particularly for use in garage doors. The corner keys are insertable into hollow portions of extruded window frames and which preliminarily hold the window frame together prior to more permanent fastening within a garage door by a plurality of screws or even via a snap-fit arrangement. The angularity of at least two internal ribs of the corner key into which a fastener impinges thereupon, facilitates tightening engagement of each mitered window frame corner, leading to a superior appearance and preventing moisture from getting inside the window unit by the positioning of a sealing surface which seals on an edge of a door or panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Formtech Enterprises, Incorporated
    Inventor: John E. Davidsaver
  • Publication number: 20030136073
    Abstract: A frame for a partition system and a component of the frame are disclosed. The component automatically and evenly tensions a fabric about a partition panel. The component of the frame includes a support element and a lockable element. The support element defines a cavity that receives and supports the panel. The lockable element extends from the support element and supports the fabric that is to be tensioned about the panel. Also, the lockable element is moveable relative to the support element. The component further includes an integral hinge between the support element and the lockable element. The integral hinge enables the movement of the lockable element relative to the support element. As a result, the fabric supported on the lockable element is automatically and evenly tensioned about the panel upon the movement of the lockable element. The component also includes a backing strip to protect the fabric from the integral hinge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: QUANEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
  • Publication number: 20030131540
    Abstract: Environment protective liner plank structure having several legs and a panel. Each leg is composed of multiple layers of rice grasses (or wheat stems) which evenly overlap each other in the same direction. A layer of adhesive is sprayed between each two layers of rice grasses (or wheat stems). When each layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems) is evenly overlaid on a lower layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems), a male mold is used to compress the rice grasses (or wheat stems) into a compact state. The lowermost layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems) of the panel is evenly overlaid on the adhesive on the uppermost layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems) of the leg. A plane board mold is used to compress the rice grasses (or wheat stems) into a compact state. A layer of adhesive is sprayed over the lowermost layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems) of the panel and then an upper layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems) are overlaid on the lowermost layer of rice grasses (or wheat stems).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Tse-Wei Huang
  • Publication number: 20030106280
    Abstract: A stud spacer for connecting and extending between studs within a stud wall structure. The stud spacer includes an elongated member having a series of curved shaped notches formed in the member with each notch being adapted to receive a portion of a stud such that the stud spacer effectively connects to and extends between respective studs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: Edward R. diGirolamo
  • Patent number: 6568144
    Abstract: The present invention an elongated metal construction panel for use in forming a portion of the vertical walls of a building structure by being fastened to an identical adjacent panel, the metal construction panel comprising a front portion co-extensive with the length of the panel; end plates co-extensive with the length of the panel disposed substantially normal to said front portion and extending from distal ends of said front portion, said end plates defining the depth of said panel; flanges co-extensive with the length of the panel and extending inwardly from distal ends of said end plate, wherein said flanges are spaced from and parallel to said front portion; and wherein said end plates include end troughs co-extensive with the length of the panel such that when metal construction panels are placed adjacent each other by bringing into contact said end plates, said end troughs form a bonding channel adapted and sized for pouring bonding agents therein thereby securely fastening adjacent panels together
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Harold F. Meredith
  • Patent number: 6568138
    Abstract: A framing system and related framing section assembly includes at least one first member, preferably in the form of a U-shaped track or channel, that receives at least one second member, such as a stud. The stud is captured on or between spaced protrusions or pairs of protrusions projecting inwardly from the opposed sidewalls of the receiver. The protrusions securely, but releasably, hold the corresponding end of the stud in place in the receiver. To form a framing section assembly using this system, two opposed receivers are provided for engaging and supporting each end of a plurality of studs. To permit variable positioning of the studs in the receivers and enhance flexibility during installation, the protrusions may be equidistantly spaced at frequent intervals. Surface indicia may also be provided on the receivers at certain conventional intervals to allow the installer to easily determine the proper location for the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Exterior Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon James Frost, Steven Lee Kilmer, John Mack Reed
  • Patent number: 6553736
    Abstract: There is provided a metal chord member for use in a building system which chord member is formed of two or more interlocked generally U-shaped chord tubes. The chord tubes are interlocked by means of the provision of a plurality of equisized, equispaced, longitudinal ribs formed along the length of the depending side arms of the U-shaped chord tubes defining elongated recesses therebetween, the ribs on one of the chord tubes being adapted to interlock into and mate with the recesses defined between ribs on the adjacent chord tube and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventors: Antonio Montanaro, Guiseppe Montanaro
  • Publication number: 20030041540
    Abstract: A partition for open building space and the like having a frame including at least one substantially horizontal surface. A cover member is configured to enclose at least a portion of the frame. The cover member includes attachment members configured to connect the cover member to the frame. A seal is attached to the cover member and includes a resilient flap which engages the substantially horizontal surface of the frame to inhibit the passage of acoustical and/or optical energy through the partition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Donald P. Gravel, Douglas L. Hancey, Vladimir Zila
  • Patent number: 6526708
    Abstract: A removable and reusable door frame guard for installation over and providing temporary protection to door trim attached to a door jamb. The guard includes a relatively rigid elongate upright member of shock absorbing material with an L-shaped cross section for covering adjacent bottom, front and inside portions of a vertical door jamb to be protected, and an expandable clamp means is secured to an upper end of the upright member and dimensioned in position for expanding and thereby engaging a bottom surface of a horizontal door header to hold the upright member in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventors: Briane L. Hartley, Edwin R. Malacki
  • Publication number: 20030019181
    Abstract: An improved flyscreen to be slidingly deployed across an opening of window or door, the window or door having a static glazing pane or panel and an opening pane or panel, the flyscreen comprising a frame dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of the window or door opening to be covered by the flyscreen and having a mesh screen therein extending thereacross, the frame having a brush or filamentous pad strip extending substantially the full height of an upright of the frame and which when the screen is slidingly mounted adjacent to a window or door to be slidingly moved back and forth across the opening of the window or door, is substantially able to brush over the surface of the static pane or panel of the window or door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Conrad Peter Martin
  • Publication number: 20020189192
    Abstract: A track arrangement for supporting wall studs is provided. The track arrangement includes a central longitudinal extension, first and second sidewalls and a first stud clip arrangement comprising a pair of stud clips. In a preferred embodiment, each clip comprises a portion of the sidewall bent inwardly, to form a cam surface and a stud ridge receiver. During use, the stud is forced toward the cam surface, bending the clip until a portion of the stud, specifically a stud ridge, is received in the stud ridge receiver. This will secure the stud in place, against undesired movement relative to the track. Wall assemblies are provided which preferably involve one such track arrangement positioned on the floor as a floor track, and one on the ceiling, as a ceiling track, with a stud extending therebetween. The wall framework assembly can be assembled as a slip track, or as a non-slip track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Duane William Becker, Brian Duane Becker