Joint, Connector Patents (Class 52/656.9)
  • Patent number: 8596017
    Abstract: A frame assembly that includes at least two frame members that are connected to one another. A corner key cavity is formed at the outer sides of adjacent frame members and is shaped to cooperate with a corner key. The corner key cooperates with the corner key cavity to secure adjacent frame members to one another. The corner key cavity is formed at or near the outer perimeter of the joined frame members, and extends across a majority of the depth of the frame members. The frame assembly may include a number of frame members that, when secured to one another, define a window frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: James Hardie Technology Limited
    Inventor: Brian A. Emanuel
  • Patent number: 8590256
    Abstract: The present invention provides a joining structure of a roof truss using thin light-gauge shaped steel. In a joining structure for joining a subsidiary roof with a main roof, a valley bracket formed by bending a thin steel sheet is inserted and disposed in the longitudinal valley direction of a joining member for joining a rafter forming the subsidiary roof with a truss or a rafter forming the main roof. In a joining structure in which a roof truss upper chord member or a rafter intersects a wall on the upper surface of the wall, a bracket formed by bending a thin steel sheet is disposed at the intersection of these members and fixes the roof truss upper chord member or the rafter to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshimichi Kawai, Jun Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8572925
    Abstract: A frame assembly supports an article. The frame assembly comprises a frame member having a plurality of walls extending between a first end and a second end. The walls define an interior of the frame member. The frame assembly also comprises at least one foldable cornerlock. The foldable cornerlock has first and second body portions movable relative to each other. A method of manufacturing the frame assembly comprises the steps of forming at least one notch in the frame member spaced from the ends of the frame member, inserting the foldable cornerlock into the notch, and bending the frame member about the notch of the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Quanex Building Products Corporation
    Inventors: Jeff V. Sawyers, Ron J. Pich
  • Publication number: 20130283723
    Abstract: Corner joints and methods of forming such joints using hollow frame members are described. The corner joints are manufactured using corner keys inserted into the ends of the frame members. In addition to holding the frame members together, one or more capillary break members protrude from the corner key so that the one or more capillary break members are located between the assembled frame members and the corner key forming the corner joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Engstrom
  • Patent number: 8528293
    Abstract: A foldable cornerlock is used in a frame assembly. The frame assembly includes first and second ends. The walls of the frame member define an interior of the frame member and also define at least one notch. The frame member is bendable at the notch to form a corner of the frame member. The foldable cornerlock is disposed in the notch and extends into the interior of the frame member. The foldable cornerlock comprises first and second body portions each configured to mate with the interior of the frame member. The body portions are movable relative to each other for inserting the foldable cornerlock into the notch of the frame member. The foldable cornerlock also comprises a hinge portion coupling the body portions together. The hinge portion defines an axis extending in a longitudinal direction through the hinge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Quanex Building Products Corporation
    Inventors: Jeff V. Sawyers, Ron J. Pich
  • Publication number: 20130212973
    Abstract: A mull binder system includes a mull binder that couples a first and second window frame and provides a seal along the grooves. The first window frame has an exterior side, an opposing interior side and at least a first side and a second side extending perpendicular to the exterior side and interior side, the first side including a groove therein. A second window frame has an exterior side, an opposing interior side and a first side and a second side extending perpendicular to the exterior side and interior side, the second side including a groove therein. The mull binder has a first and second arm coupled thereto. Each arm has a plurality of flexible barbs extending therefrom. The barbs on the first arm and second arm are received within the groove of the first window frame and second window frame respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Melvin Saunders, Chris Roderick, Michael Kuneman
  • Patent number: 8511033
    Abstract: A beam-column connection structure is formed, after installing a continued beam member to a predetermined position, by connecting and fixing lateral beam members, to side faces of an end portion of the continued beam member using a drift pin while connection grooves are fitted to side face connection metal fittings which are attached to the end portion, connecting an extension beam member to the end portion of the continued beam member using a drift pin while a connection groove formed at an end face of the extension beam member is fitted to the end face connection metal fitting, and connecting and fixing column members, to the upper face and lower face of the end portion of the continued beam member using a drift pin while fitting holes, formed at end faces of the column members, are fitted to the top end side portions of column connection pole-like fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Sumitomo Forestry Co., Ltd., Kanai Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Kumakawa, Junichi Imai, Kunio Kanai, Masayoshi Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20130205706
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a frame assembly includes at least two frame members, each frame member comprising two mitered ends and defining an interior space divided into at least three longitudinal cavities, wherein one of the at least three cavities is a corner key cavity. The frame assembly further includes at least one corner key, wherein each half of each corner key is configured to fit into one end of one of the corner key cavities to form a corner. When the at least two frame members are joined using the corner key, the corner key cavity is adjacent to the outer perimeter of the frame assembly system. The outer perimeter of the frame assembly includes a contact portion configured to contact another frame assembly or a structure, wherein the corner key cavity extends across at least 90% of the contact portion of the outer perimeter of the frame assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Proformance Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald D. Beranek
  • Patent number: 8479462
    Abstract: A window insulation having a frame with a track fixedly attached thereto and flexible impermeable sheeting having a rail member peripherally positioned and releasably mountable to said track member therein forming a window thermally insulative device that can be mounted to the wall over the window opening or mounted to the window jamb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventors: Lakeram Sahadeo, George F. Mesiha
  • Patent number: 8474212
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tower for a wind power plant having a plurality of corner bars (1) for forming a mast construction, wherein the corner bars (1) are each made up of a plurality of partial profiles (2) connected to each other and having opposing connection areas (3a, 3b) at which the adjacent partial profiles (2) of a corner bar (1) can be connected to each other, and wherein the partial profiles (2) each have two kink points in cross section extending in the longitudinal direction of the partial profiles (2) in a segment located between opposite connection areas (3a, 3b) of the partial profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Rautaruukki Oyj
    Inventors: Klaus Husemann, Willi Meiners
  • Publication number: 20130152502
    Abstract: My invention, a manufactured frame, is peripheral devise containing a solid filler that bolts and bonds in groups to form walls, roofs and floors and may be called Wall Cells. It is a moderate sized manufactured devise (ideally 4?×4?) that is grouped with other identical or modified Wall Cells by minimal connection points, to form a housing The wall cells can be exchanged, add or removed easily to re-configure the structure or cosmetics of any wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: Duran Lee Blocker
  • Publication number: 20130145704
    Abstract: A device is provided to improve the installation of a window frame within a window opening comprising a clip, a track, a base plate, and an elevator attachment. The device of the invention and the method of utilizing the device improve the efficiency and effectiveness of current installation methods by providing rapid installation of a frame that is centered and true and additionally vertically adjustable via an elevator attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: William E. Stein, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130139467
    Abstract: A door lite frame comprises a first frame component comprising first screw bosses and first grip sockets, and a second frame component comprising second screw bosses and second grip sockets. The first and second frame components are constructed to permit arrangement of the first and second frame components in an assembled state and a nested state with respect to one another. In the assembled state, the first screw bosses are correspondingly aligned with the second screw bosses, and the first and second frame components are secured to each other. In the nested state, at least one of the first screw bosses of the first frame component is mated with at least one of the second grip sockets of the second frame component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: MASONITE CORPORATION
    Inventor: MASONITE CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8453402
    Abstract: A frame unit of a curtain wall has a mullion, a beam and a connecting device. The mullion has a mullion recess and a mullion channel. The beam is substantially the same as the mullion and has a beam recess and a beam channel. The connecting device has a first group and a second group. The first group has a plate, two chunks and two bolts. The plate is mounted in the mullion recess. The chunks are mounted in the mullion channel. The bolts are mounted through the plate and are respectively screwed into the chunks. The second group is the same as the first group and is similarly connected with the beam. Because one beam can be connected with and spreads forces to multiple mullions, a structure of a curtain wall can be enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Rong-Jun Huang
  • Patent number: 8453397
    Abstract: An interior window framing system comprising a standardized frame having predetermined dimensions proportionate to a standard window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventors: Kendall W. Prince, Jack R. Prince, Matt A. Stott
  • Patent number: 8453414
    Abstract: A method, and associated apparatus, for assembling a structural frame from elongate, tubular columns having plural sides, and a selected style of elongate beams, with respect to which, the method includes the steps of (a) pre-fitting the sides of such columns and the ends of such beams with attached, gravity-set, complementary interconnect structures (either collar-form or non-collar form in nature), including column-side-fitted interconnect structures and beam-end-fitted interconnect structures, (b) utilizing gravity, bringing interconnect-structure pre-fitted beams and columns into correct, predetermined, relative design dispositions relative to one another, and (c) through the performing of the bringing step alone, and on the resulting occurrence of the achievement of the mentioned correct, predetermined, relative design dispositions between a beam and a column, simultaneously and immediately thereby establishing (1) a full-moment load-bearing connection, and (2) a relatively positionally gravity-set-and-s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: ConXtech, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Simmons
  • Publication number: 20130111847
    Abstract: A frame assembly that includes at least two frame members that are connected to one another. A corner key cavity is formed at the outer sides of adjacent frame members and is shaped to cooperate with a corner key. The corner key cooperates with the corner key cavity to secure adjacent frame members to one another. The corner key cavity is formed at or near the outer perimeter of the joined frame members, and extends across a majority of the depth of the frame members. The frame assembly may include a number of frame members that, when secured to one another, define a window frame assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: James Hardie Technology Limited
    Inventor: James Hardie Technology Limited
  • Publication number: 20130111846
    Abstract: A structural frame member, such as for constructing a window frame, includes a body portion having a first section defining a number of axially extending passages and a second section defining a key passage area. A cap portion is engaged with the key passage area to define an enclosed key passage. The key passage area may be defined by a pair of protrusions that extend from a wall on the body portion, and the cap portion is engaged with the pair of protrusions. The cap portion and the protrusions may include snap-type engagement structure that secures the cap portion to the pair of protrusions. The enclosed key passage may extend across a majority of the depth of the body portion. A frame assembly formed of at least a pair of structural frame members, and a method of assembling a frame member, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Brian A. Emanuel
  • Patent number: 8413401
    Abstract: A modular door case for bathing enclosure includes two jambs, two frame members, and four fasten components. Each frame member has an accommodating portion at ends thereof, and at least one pair clasp holes respectively formed on upper and lower walls of the accommodating portion. Each fasten component has a base, at least one pair of clasp members, and at least one compelling bolt. A clasp protrusion is disposed at opposite distal end of each clasp member, so that space between the pair of clasp members, in normal state, shrinks from the joint ends to the distal ones. Each clasp protrusion of the clasp member contacts each clasp hole of the frame member, while the base inserts into each accommodating portion. The compelling bolt is between the pair of the clasp members, and further capable of moving towards the distal ends of the clasp members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Hou-Tzu Aluminum Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chuan-Fu Wang
  • Patent number: 8381481
    Abstract: What is described is a linear connector for connecting two opposing ends of a hollow profile member for the purposes of forming a frame-like spacer for the production of insulating glass panes. The linear connector includes a top side, a bottom side and two side surfaces, connecting the top side and the bottom side of the linear connector. The linear connector is provided with a midsection in a middle area of the linear connector, with the midsection extending at least along an entire width of the top side or of the bottom side of the linear connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Plus Inventia AG
    Inventor: Karl Lenhardt
  • Patent number: 8375652
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Badri Hiriyur, Steven E. Pryor
  • Patent number: 8375660
    Abstract: An interlocking decorative trim system has a backing strip and a cover strip interlocked together. The backing strip has a top, a bottom, a back face, a front face, a tongue extending from the top, and a projection adjacent the bottom and extending away from the front face. The front face has a recess and the projection has a slot. The cover strip has a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, a tab extending from the bottom, and a second projection adjacent the top and extending away from the front face. The back face has a recess and the second projection has a groove. The tongue of the backing strip fits inside the groove of the cover strip and the tab of the cover strip fits into the slot of the backing strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: AZEK Building Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Nolan, Michael A. Dotsey
  • Patent number: 8371089
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of modular building systems. Embodiments of the invention include, a modular building system comprising planar sheets of material and moment connections, which are combined with tool-less or limited tool assembly mechanisms and can be used, for example, as spatial partitions, platforms, structural supports, or supports for articles. Specific embodiments of the invention provide structures having a seemingly homogenous, flowing ribbon structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan King, David B. Clark, Robert Dunay, Joseph Wheeler
  • Patent number: 8365476
    Abstract: A structural framework that includes a column, a beam, a brace beam coupled at an angle to the column and the beam, and a gusset plate to connect the brace beam with the column and the beam. The framework also includes a shear plate with horizontally slotted holes to couple to the column to the beam. The structural framework may also include double framing angles or a flex plate coupled to the gusset plate and to the beam via spacer plates to provide for a semi-rigid connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Seismic Structural Design Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph M. Richard, Rudolph E. Radau, Jr., James E. Partridge, Clayton J. Allen
  • Publication number: 20130019558
    Abstract: A corner key includes a first body and a first engaging portion. The first body has a first slot. The first engaging portion is disposed on a surface of the first body and a position of the first engaging portion is corresponding to the first slot. The first engaging portion has a first section, a second section and a third section, wherein the first and third sections are located at opposite sides of the first engaging portion, the second section is located between the first and third sections, and a height of the second section is greater than that of the first section or the third section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Huang-Chi Tseng
  • Patent number: 8347582
    Abstract: An innovative retrofit connector with unique bends that add strength, and angled nailing that allow the connector to positively tie together intersecting wood structural members. The intersecting members can be horizontal, vertical, and of different slopes. The connector is simple to manufacture, doesn't split the wood, angles the nails or screws into the heart of the wood, and is strong. The connector helps protect an existing home against wind and seismic events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas C Thompson
  • Publication number: 20120311955
    Abstract: A construction panel for use in erecting structures comprises a pair of vertical support members and at least one lower horizontal member, extending between lower ends of the vertical support members. At least one header member extends between upper ends of the pair of vertical support members. At least one horizontal purlin member braces the vertical supports intermediate the lower horizontal member and the header member. At least one intermediate vertical member extends between the at least one horizontal purlin member and one of: another horizontal purlin member; the header member; and the at least one lower horizontal member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Brian Wade Johnson
  • Patent number: 8327596
    Abstract: A structural building system includes a plurality of pultruded fiberglass reinforced structure components configured to be used as a structural frame member of a building and a plurality of connectors. Each connector is configured to be mounted to one end of a first pultruded structural component and includes a mounting section that is couplable to a second pultruded structural component so as to connect the first and second structural components at right angles to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Tecton Products, LLC
    Inventor: Mark Bratton
  • Patent number: 8322091
    Abstract: A plastic window frame assembly is disclosed that includes rigid molded corner sections. Each of the corner sections has opposite ends. A pair of offset tabs extend outward from each of the opposite ends. The corners are molded so as to include integrally formed non-rigid seals. Lineal rail sections are located between the corner sections. Each of the rail sections has channels, one each formed in an exterior and an interior surface of the rail section for receiving, respectively, the offset tabs of the corner sections to locate and to align the corner sections with a rail section. The channels include a glazing channel extending along the length of the rail section for receiving a glass or plastic pane. The tabs are connected to a rail section such that the tabs and a portion of a rail section together define stake holds, each of which proceeds from an exterior surface of the frame and extends therethrough but does not penetrate the interior surface or the tabs of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Atwood Mobile Products, LLC
    Inventors: Mark L. Smith, Roch Tolinski
  • Publication number: 20120279166
    Abstract: A corner joint for a window or door frame includes first and second frame members each having a mitered end, at least one cavity in each mitered end and at least one side wall opening into each cavity. A screw boss is disposed in the cavity of the first frame member, and a detent lug on a flexible resilient portion of the screw boss is received in the side wall opening of the first frame member. A corner key has a first leg received in the cavity of the first frame member over the screw boss to hold the screw boss in place, and a second leg received in the cavity of the second frame member. A screw extends through the side wall opening in the second frame member and through the corner key, and is threaded into the screw boss to clamp the mitered ends of the frame members together. A sealing gasket may be captured between the mitered ends of the frame members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Jess J. Valler, Michael Kuneman
  • Patent number: 8297009
    Abstract: To provide a solar cell module capable of discharging rain water or the like even when the solar cell module is installed outdoor such as on the roof, and rain water or the like flows into the solar cell module. A solar cell module 1 includes a solar cell panel 9 having a primary side and a secondary side adjacent to the primary side, a primary frame member 10 disposed along the primary side, and a secondary frame member 20a disposed along the secondary side. The primary frame member 10 and the secondary frame member 20a include a holding unit that holds the solar cell panel 9. The primary frame member 10 includes, below the holding unit of the primary frame member 10, an end face 17a that is open at an end portion in a lengthwise direction of the primary frame member 10 and a primary interior space 17 communicating with the interior from the end face 17a.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Daiki Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 8286352
    Abstract: A plurality of framework supporting decorative panels. The framework is interconnected collectively so as to form a modular, ornamental, closed plane structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: D. Leon Ray
  • Publication number: 20120247056
    Abstract: A method of assembling an adjustable frame assembly for supporting a fenestration article includes the steps of sliding sections of each rail member along adjustment splices to adjust a width of the adjustable frame assembly and/or sliding sections of stile members along adjustment splices to adjust a height of the adjustable frame assembly. The fenestration article is disposed along a wall and at least partially within a groove of the rail member and stile member. A plurality of rail clips are inserted into the groove of each rail member to secure the fenestration article to each rail member. A plurality of stile clips are inserted into the groove of each stile member to secure the fenestration article to each stile member. The rail clips are disposed adjacent the stile clips to prevent adjustment of the width and/or height of the adjustable frame assembly resulting from compression forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Jeffrey V. Sawyers, Joseph D. Isaacs, Scott Fetting, Brian Jensen, Joe Cutsforth
  • Patent number: 8266851
    Abstract: A mullion system includes a universal reinforcement key, that joins window frame members and when anchored in a window frame opening or against other window frame joining members, contributes to bearing the load on the window frame unit. The system also includes a mull strip member with end caps designed to weep moisture away from and out of the window frame unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Ply Gem Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Colin D. Campbell, James M. Bowling
  • Patent number: 8261495
    Abstract: A system for connecting panels of framing members utilizes five types of monolithic, elongate connectors. A first connector has a cross-section defined by an L-shaped portion and a straight portion extending from a bottom tip of the foot of the L-shaped portion at an angle. A second connector has a cross-section defined by an L-shaped portion and a straight portion extending from a top tip of the leg of the L-shaped portion at the same angle as the first connector. A third connector has a cross-section defined by a U-shaped portion and two straight sections extending away from the U-shaped portion. A fourth connector has a cross-section defined by two equal-length straight portions meeting at a right angle, and a fifth connector has a cross-section defined by a single straight portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Alphonso Griffin
  • Patent number: 8250819
    Abstract: An association formed from two hollow section ends, the inside of which is based on a plastic that are butted together by a connector, the connector including a body with a central part and two flanges made of plastic that are engaged in the hollow section ends respectively and that have an anchoring mechanism capable of keeping the hollow ends in place around the connector. The anchoring mechanism of the connector is made of plastic and includes at least one element that is flexible and comes into friction contact with the inside of the hollow section ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Glass France
    Inventor: Renaud Subra
  • Patent number: 8240107
    Abstract: A spacer frame arrangement for insulating glass units, comprising a spacer profile body extending in a first direction and having a predetermined cross section in a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the predetermined cross section defining a hollow inner space of the spacer profile body with predetermined dimensions in the plane perpendicular to the first direction, and a connector comprising a connector section adapted to be inserted in the first direction into the hollow inner space of the spacer profile body by having a cross sectional shape perpendicular to the first direction which corresponds, with predetermined tolerances, to the cross section of the spacer profile body limiting the hollow inner space, at least the outer surface of the connector section facing the inner surface of the hollow inner space of the spacer profile body after insertion of the same being made of a fusable material, preferably a material fusable by melting the same, wherein the connector section is inserted into the h
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Technoform Glass Insulation Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Raymond G. Gallagher
  • Patent number: 8240940
    Abstract: A corner connector for glass pane spacers includes a first and a second connecting element, on each of which a spacer can be mounted, and a corner element, which joins the two connecting elements at an angle, wherein the corner element has two lateral surfaces facing the glass panes, two end surfaces facing the respective spacer and an outer surface. The corner connector is characterized in that a metal foil is applied to the outer surface and at least partially to the lateral surfaces and the end surfaces, and butyl is provided in the area of the end surfaces, which creates a seal between the metal foil and the inserted spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: S & T Components GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rolf Strohheker
  • Patent number: 8234821
    Abstract: A strut runner includes a member extending lengthwise in a first direction, where the member includes an underlying panel and one or more walls that extend from the panel. The member may be configured to at least partially support the panel array while being integrated or directly connected to the underlying structure. Additionally, the strut runner may include one or more peripheral extensions that extend a distance outward from the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: PVT Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Reed Plaisted, Brian West
  • Patent number: 8205408
    Abstract: A building framework includes plural column assemblies interconnected by plural full-length beam assemblies, with the union of the column assemblies and beam assemblies forming beam-to-column joint assemblies according to this invention. The column assemblies include pairs of side plates spanning the column members of the column assemblies and projecting toward another column assembly of the plurality of such column assemblies. The full-length beam assemblies include beam members for being received between column assemblies to be interconnected and defining an end gap with respect to each column member. Additionally, the full-length beam assemblies include at each opposite end portion thereof a pair of cover plates, including an upper cover plate and a lower cover plate, which cover plates are sized and configured to be united with the side plates of a column assembly, as by welding applied at a construction site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: David Houghton, Jesse E. Karns, Enrique A. Gallart
  • Publication number: 20120144774
    Abstract: A fire rated wall structure includes a channel-shaped top track and bottom track each having male protrusions formed along their side walls. The wall structure further includes at least one stud member interconnecting the top and bottom tracks. The stud member comprises a stationary portion and a slip extension slidably nested within the stationary portion. Female recesses are formed in a terminus end of each of the slip extension and stationary portion and are adapted to nest with male protrusions of the top and bottom tracks. A slot formed within the slip extension accommodates fasteners initiated from a panel member and which passes through the stationary portion side wall and extends into the slot to allow relative sliding motion between the slip extension and the stud member. A top overcap disposed in overlapping relation to the top track includes a male protrusion for slidingly bearing against the panel member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: William J. Andrews, Geoffrey Darmody, Albert S. Hill
  • Publication number: 20120144764
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a system for constructing a building that includes a plurality of components formed substantially of cellulose and configured to be arranged together to form the walls, roof, and floor of the building. Further, reinforcements are molded into the plurality of components and a plurality of joint structures arranged along at least one of edge of at least two of the plurality to components, the joint structures configured to connect the plurality of components together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: James HANNA
  • Publication number: 20120137624
    Abstract: Disclosed is a window frame for a door using a holder pin having a novel structure in which an exposed part caused by a screw does not exist, the coupling work can be simply achieved, frame bodies are manufactured by using a single mold, and the frame bodies can be coupled with each other at interior and exterior sides. The window frame includes two frame bodies having a form of a frame coupled with a window, installed in an opening of a body frame, and coupled with each other at interior and exterior sides about the opening while facing each other, protruding boss parts protruding from facing positions of the two frame bodies and having coupling holes recessed in an axial direction from an end surface thereof, and a holder pin having two opposite ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: CAPSTONE ENGINEERING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Peter Yong SIBBETT
  • Publication number: 20120137626
    Abstract: Pieces that are components of a frame for a window having a threat side and a safe side include a base and a pressure plate that together form part of one of a sill section, a head section, and a jamb section of the window. The base and pressure plate are elongated in a longitudinal direction. The base has (1) an L-shaped cross-section at a near portion of the base to receive an end of a glazing unit from the threat side of the window, and (2) a first pocket formed in a far portion of the base and running in said longitudinal direction. The rear portion is closer to the threat side than the far portion. The pressure plate is to be assembled with the base so as to secure the glazing unit in the corner. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: American Development Group International LLC
    Inventor: Murray L. Neal
  • Patent number: 8176706
    Abstract: A building framework includes plural column assemblies interconnected by plural full-length beam assemblies, with the union of the column assemblies and beam assemblies forming beam-to-column joint assemblies according to this invention. The column assemblies include pairs of side plates spanning the column members of the column assemblies and projecting toward another column assembly of the plurality of such column assemblies. The full-length beam assemblies include beam members for being received between column assemblies to be interconnected and defining an end gap with respect to each column member. Additionally, the full-length beam assemblies include at each opposite end portion thereof a pair of cover plates, including an upper cover plate and a lower cover plate, which cover plates are sized and configured to be united with the side plates of a column assembly, as by welding applied at a construction site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: David Houghton, Jesse E. Karns, Enrique A. Gallart
  • Patent number: 8176703
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is a shelter structure, in particular for electrical equipment, totally modular, simple and inexpensive to make, and extremely quick to assemble, also on the place of use. Such structure comprises angular connecting joints (11), horizontal bars (13) and vertical uprights (14) that connect to said joints, and a series of panels (16, 17) of suitable materials suitable for forming the walls, the roof and the floor of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Smitt Carpenteria S.r.l.
    Inventor: Alfredo Tremacchi
  • Patent number: 8146322
    Abstract: A building framework includes plural column assemblies supporting plural beams supporting floors of the building, with the union of the column assemblies and beams forming beam-to-column (or beam-to-column-to-beam) joint connection assemblies according to this invention. The joint connection assemblies inventively include novel features which remarkably and surprisingly improve the distribution of strain and plastic deformation in the joint connection structure when subjected to extreme load challenges to the building structure (as may occur during earthquake, explosion, progressive collapse load conditions, or massive impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Jesse Karns
  • Patent number: 8122671
    Abstract: An improved building structure and method for making steel frame buildings includes a beam-to-column or beams-to-column joint or connection which is most preferably shop fabricated (as opposed to on-site fabrication) and which offers a considerable savings in both steel requirements (i.e., material savings) and labor to make the joint connection. Also, because material utilization is improved in the connection, the new structure is more resistant to damage by seismic events (i.e., earthquake), by severe weather, and to damage from blast effects (i.e., terrorist attack or accident), than was the prior technology. The improved building structure also mitigates against progressive collapse of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Jesse E. Karns
  • Patent number: RE43251
    Abstract: A frame is formed of side walls that are extruded from vinyl. The side walls have interior channels. The side walls may be formed to effect a female-male connection between the ends of two adjoining side walls. Alternatively a locking member is provided that is sized to frictionally engage a selected channel. The side walls have a concrete retention fin positioned to extend away from the outer wall of the side wall to interconnect with the concrete as the and after the concrete cures. The frame may be formed into door jambs, doors, and the like. The frame may also be a window buck that may be formed into selected geometric shapes. Window bucks of different dimensions may be assembled on site by sawing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventors: Justin J. Anderson, Bruce Anderson, Thayne Anderson, Audrey E. Anderson
  • Patent number: RE43457
    Abstract: A window buck is formed of side walls that are extruded from vinyl. The side walls have interior channels. The side walls may be formed to effect a female-male connection between the ends of two adjoining side walls. Alternatively a locking member is provided that is sized to frictionally engage a selected channel. The edges of the side members are shaped for abutment to each other with a connector in the channels to hold the window buck together. The window buck thereafter may be placed before the cement wall is formed and is sized to receive a window frame. The window buck may be formed into selected geometric shapes. Window bucks of different dimensions may be assembled by selected sides of different dimensions from bins or pallets of presized side members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventors: Justin J. Anderson, Bruce W. Anderson, Thayne J. Anderson