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.

Abstract: The invention relates to a plug connector (1) for hollow profiles (4) in spacer frames for insulated glass panes. The plug connector (1) comprises at least two connector parts (2, 3) which may be plugged together and which have an essentially U-shaped or rectangular cross-section, which, in the plugged position, have adjacent side walls (6,17) and a positive fit (9). One connector part (2) has at least one retainer element (12) on the side walls (6) thereof (12) with a corresponding wall opening (13). In order to form the positive connection (9), the other connector part (3) has a projection (10) with a positive fit engagement in the wall opening (13) of the retainer element (12) when in the plugged position.

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.

Abstract: Wall and floor connection arrangements. In various embodiments, a first a joist rim is coupled to the flanges of at least some vertically extending studs such that an upper rim flange of the first joist rim is substantially coplanar with a portion of an upper track of the wall. A second joist rim is coupled to another lateral flange of at least some of the vertically extending studs such that an upper rim flange of the second joist rim is substantially coplanar with a portion of the upper track and the upper rim flange of the first joist rim. A plurality of first joists may be coupled to the first rim and plurality of second joists may be coupled to the second rim. A floor deck may be received on the upper track as well as the upper flanges of the first and second joist rims.

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.

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.

Abstract: Jamb connectors for finishing a penetration in concrete or masonry construction, the jamb connectors coupling a first jamb with a second jamb that is adjacent to the first jamb and having a first portion with two segments lying substantially in a same plane and positioned at a predetermined angle from each other, each first portion segment being configured for coupling with an associated surface portion of an associated one of the first and second jambs, and a second portion having two segments that are each coupled to corresponding segments of the first portion, each second portion lying at an angle equal to the predetermined angle from the other second portion and second portion being configured for positioning about the intermediate portions of one of the first and second jambs.

Abstract: A buckling restrained brace is for connection between two connecting plates of a framework, and includes a restraining unit and an axial member. The axial member includes a middle section surrounded by the restraining unit, two first coupling sections, and two second coupling sections. The first coupling sections are connected respectively and perpendicularly to opposite longitudinal end portions of the middle section. Each first coupling section has a portion exposed from a respective one of longitudinal ends of the restraining unit, and is formed with a first coupling groove for engaging a respective one of the connecting plates. The second coupling sections are connected respectively and perpendicularly to the opposite longitudinal ends of the middle section. Each second coupling section has a portion exposed from a respective one of the longitudinal end portions of the restraining unit, and is formed with a second coupling groove for engaging a respective one of the connecting plates.

Abstract: An interior window framing system comprising a standardized frame having predetermined dimensions proportionate to a standard window.

Abstract: A muntin bar joiner clip having a relatively flat, thin body and first and second muntin bar engagement legs extending from the body. These legs extend along a longitudinal axis of said joiner clip. The body has opposite sides defining substantially parallel major surfaces having substantially parallel opposite edges extending substantially parallel to the axis. A region of weakness such as a line of weakness allows the body to be separated into two portions between the first and second legs. One or more muntin bar abutments project from said body in a direction transverse to the axis and each abutment includes a muntin bar abutment face oriented in a direction transverse to said axis.

Abstract: An easy-to-be-assembled double face bezel structure includes at least one first frame elements having a top joint portion and a lateral joint portion with built-on rivet units; at least one second frame element having a top joint portion and a lateral joint portion with rivet holes penetrating therethrough. The method for assembling the easy-to-be-assembled double-face bezel structure involves placing the built-on rivet units into the corresponding rivet holes whereby the top joint portions and the lateral joint portions of the first frame element and the second frame element are aligned, and punching each rivet unit so that it tightly joins with the corresponding rivet hole. No further welding or adhesion is necessary for joining the first frame element and the second frame element. The double-face bezel structure not only provides double-face protection, but also provides a stronger structural connection of the first frame element and the second frame element.

Abstract: A glass retrofitting system with an adaptor is configured to mount a glass member to a wall or window frame. The glass member may be an upgraded insulated glass unit to replace an existing glass in a wall or window frame. The adaptor may include a mating portion (or an anchor member) which fits into an existing glazing pocket of the existing window or wall frame. The width of the existing glazing pocket may not be wide enough to accommodate the upgraded insulated glass unit. Thus, the adaptor may form a new glazing pocket suitable to hold the upgraded insulated glass unit, and the insulated glass unit may be mounted or installed into the new glazing pocket formed by the adaptor. The adaptor may be formed of low thermal conductivity material, or of a single piece or a plurality of pieces.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a unitized overhead glazing system of the present invention includes an array of assembled structural framing cassettes each having at least five photovoltaic modules. In an embodiment, each cassette forms one electrical string and is pre-wired, tested, and shipped ready to install for a variety of applications, including, but not limited to, parking canopies, covered walkways and specialty awnings. The unitized overhead glazing system can be utilized to generate electricity, provide shade, collect water, reduce heat island effect, provide more controlled lighting and support infrastructure for plug-in vehicles. The unitized overhead glazing system is designed to be installed and maintained from below, eliminating safety concerns associated with conventional canopies where work must be performed while on top of the canopy. The unitized overhead glazing system incorporates sealing methods and components to manage water, limit debris build up, and maximize energy yield.

Abstract: A corner joint between two frame lineals of a pultruded window frame is defined by inserting a leg of a corner member into a hollow interior of each lineal and attaching the legs to the lineals by adhesive. Each leg has a plurality of surfaces thereof each having a first portion at the corner which lies closely adjacent a corresponding surface of the first lineal and a second portion, at the end of the first portion remote from the corner which tapers inwardly away from the corresponding surface of the first lineal such that a spacing therebetween increases in the direction away from the corner. The adhesive is applied to the tapered portion and the taper acts to force the adhesive along the leg to the first portion and to the ends of the lineals where the excess can be wiped away.

Abstract: A garage door window has an outside frame member which has an inside frame member connection. The inside frame member has a protrusion connecting with the inside frame member connection. There is also an outside retainer channel, an inside retainer channel and an outside retainer fitting within the outside retainer channel, with an inside retainer fitting with the inside retainer channel. The inside retainer is nondestructively removable relative the inside retainer channel by a snap fit. An outside track is formed on the outside frame member, between a central inside face of the outside frame member and the outside retainer. An inside track is formed on the outside frame member, between the outside retainer and the inside retainer. A screen is mounted on the outside track, a fixed window mounted on the outside track; and an active window is mounted on the inside track.

Abstract: An integrally molded window spacer bar connector for joining opposed spacer bar end passages in the form of a hollow tube with a longitudinal axis of symmetry and a transverse axis of symmetry includes inclined leading edge ramps, a medial rib to control the insertion of the connector into spacer bars, and external channels to receive a sealant material for sealing the connector to the spacer bar at the seam of the joint of the spacer bar.

Abstract: A frame assembly is provided for a solar module. The frame assembly includes a plurality of frame members that are structured to collectively support and hold a first solar panel. At least one of the plurality of frame members is structured to adjoin a frame member of a second solar module in forming a joining with the frame member of the second solar module over a length where the frame member of the first and second solar module adjoin.

Abstract: A portable platform-support system provides an external platform comer for supporting a platform surface structure; the system having a rigid comer-support apparatus having a non-integrating outer-facing portion with opposing outer edges, an inner portion, and a recessed pocket; a channel member having an elongated shape, a slot aligning with the recessed pocket, and an upper surface to provide support to the platform surface structure; and a reinforcement member securely coupled to and extending from the inner portion with the reinforcement member to securely support the channel member.

Abstract: A shutter having a unitary frame formed by four perimeter rails, each having a receptacle at each of its distal ends, with four connection members, each having structure inserted into and secured within one receptacle of each of two of the perimeter rails. Optionally, a latch pin is movable through a guide hole formed in one of the corner connection members. A further option is louvers extending through a center support.

Abstract: A prefabricated building component, e.g. for incorporation in a wall, a floor, a roof or another building component, comprises a frame formed by lengths of lumber with heat insulating foam material provided in spaces between the lumber so as to form a heating insulating barrier. To reinforce the frame against racking forces, a reinforcement sheet of fiber reinforced composite material is provided on the barrier and the lumber at least one side of the frame.

Abstract: A frame for supporting one or more cells that provide one or more services to a site. The frame includes a plurality of footings disposed on the site and a frame assembly disposed on the footings. The frame assembly includes a plurality of support rails, a plurality of connecting rails extending between and joined to the support rails, and a plurality of locking mechanisms disposed on the frame assembly. Each of the locking mechanisms selectively retains a portion of at least one of the cells to the frame assembly. The footings and the frame assembly contribute to define a service area between a lower surface of the cells and grade of the site. In one embodiment, one or more of the support rails includes one or more through-holes. The through-holes are configured to receive conduits for providing one or more services to and between the one or more cells.

Abstract: A joint structure for aluminum windows which includes a first vertical frame having a first side provided with two joint members, and a sliding guide arranged at a center of the first side and between the first joint members, a second vertical frame having a first side provided with two second joint members, and a sliding guide arranged at a center of the first side and between the two second joint members, and a joint plate having two sides each provided with two joint members and a sliding rail between the two joint members, the joint members of the joint plate being adapted to engage with the joint members of the vertical frames, the sliding rail being adapted to engage with the sliding guide, the joint plate having two ends each provided with an accommodating groove, and a leak proof rubber fitted in the accommodating groove.

Abstract: Various floor and wall constructions are disclosed. One embodiment includes a second vertical wall supported over a first vertical wall. One or more joist rims may be attached to the first vertical wall and pluralities of joists may be attached to the joist rims. Decking material may be supported on the plurality of joists. The second vertical wall may be fabricated from spaced second studs that extend between a top track and a bottom track. The bottom track comprises a web and two upstanding legs. The ends of the second studs serve to define open areas within the bottom track between the respective stud ends. A cementitious material may be applied onto the decking material and into the open areas within the bottom track to form the floor surfaces and barriers within the open areas.

Abstract: The present invention provides for track for use in constructing metal stud walls. The track is a generally U-shaped channel having a base and upstanding side walls extending along either side of the base. The base is provided with a plurality of embossed indicator means evenly spaced along the length of the base. The spacing of the embossed indicator means provides a guide for the proper spacing of the studs placed in the base.

Abstract: A clip or connector is provided for assembling part of a door or window frame having first and second sheet material frame members to be retained in abutting relationship and in a particular predetermined position relative to each other. Each frame member has a concave channel formation along its length. The clip has a head and a body with a neck therebetween. The head engages with a tight interference or frictional fit within the channel formation of the first frame member and the body engages with a tight interference or frictional fit within the channel of the second frame member, such that the frame members are located and held in their particular predetermined position.

Abstract: The present invention is a door with a modular frame which can be installed and removed easily. In several embodiments the door is constructed to fit in a standard interior doorway without modifications to the existing door frame. In several embodiments the opening is constructed in the upper half of the door. In several embodiments the screen is constructed in a modular frame for easy replacement of the screen if damaged or if other material such a glass or acrylic glass is desired in the opening. In several embodiments the modular frame can be replaced without tools. In several embodiments the modular frame could hold a number a different inserts. In several embodiments the door has a regular door panel on one side and an opening with a modular frame on the other side. In several embodiments the door has a self supporting screen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a window frame. According to the present invention, there is provided a window frame, which comprises: a frame unit having a pair of side jamb frames for defining both side ends of the frame unit, an upper jamb frame for defining an upper end thereof, and a sill frame for defining a lower end thereof coupled to each other to have a rectangular frame shape, the frame unit having at least one receiving groove formed in an outer wall surface thereof along a length direction thereof; and corner angles coupled to the frame unit to surround the outer wall surface of the frame unit at corners thereof, each of the corner angles having a concavo-convex portion to be received in the receiving groove, the corner angle having at least one rib protruding from an outer wall surface thereof along a length direction thereof.

Abstract: A connecting device, which is provided for a separation element with a panel, in particular a glass panel, comprises at least one profile strip, which comprises a back element and a first and second side element, which define a mounting channel, within which the edge of the panel is held by means of an adhesive. According to the invention the profile strip comprises an anchor channel, which is connected by a through slot to the mounting channel, within which a separation profile which is provided with window openings, through which adhesive applied to the panel can penetrate into the anchor channel, separates with a middle part the back element and with a first and a second side part the first or second side element respectively of the profile strip from the panel. The profile strips mounted according to the invention, which preferably form a frame, can be connected to further profiles, e.g. a holding grip, or to at least one guide device, in particular to a carriage guided in a rail.

Abstract: A shapeable framing element for the construction of panels comprising mounting means to affix said shapeable framing element to a substrate, said mounting means being divided into a plurality of mounting tabs defining a plurality of channels, thereby allowing said framing element to be shaped into curvilinear forms prior to being mounted upon said substrate. A shapeable element for attaching objects to a substrate.

Abstract: Support device (1) for a panel (2), comprising: a profile (4) defining a housing section (5) into which a border (3) of said panel (2) is inserted, said housing section (5) being delimited by a base (6), by a first lateral wall (7) and by a second lateral wall (8) of the profile (4), said profile being constituted by a first portion (4a) and by a second portion (4b) different from each other; adjusting means (10) installed at the height of the panel (2) in relation to the base (6) of the profile (4), said adjusting means (10) being located inside the housing section (5) and being at least partially arranged nearby said first lateral wall (7) so that, with the border (3) of the panel (2) inserted in the housing section (5), these adjusting means (10) can be accessed through a first passing slot (11) located between the border (3) of the panel (2) and the first lateral wall (7); joining means (21) of the two portions (4a, 4b) of the profile (4), said joining means (21) including a bent plate (24) with a first e

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.

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.

Abstract: A joint structure for antiseismic reinforcement includes at least one structural member having a longitudinal axis and at least one antiseismic reinforcement member. Each antiseismic reinforcement member has a longitudinal axis located in a plane that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the structural member. The longitudinal axis of the antiseismic reinforcement member is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the structural member. A metal fitting connects each of the antiseismic reinforcement members to the structural member. The metal fitting is not fixed to the structural member. At least one constraining member is fixed to the structural member close to or abutting an edge portion of the metal fitting. The constraining member bears a force applied to the metal fitting in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the structural member.

Abstract: A closure frame includes at least one end rail, at least one side rail and a corner joint between ends of the corner and side rails. The corner joint includes a rail insert secured within a first of the rails. A threaded fastener is secured against rotation within the insert and extends from an open end of the first rail into a second of the rails. A nut is disposed within the second rail in threaded engagement with the end of the fastener and clamps the second rail against the open end of the first rail. The corner joint preferably is a butt joint, and a pair of rail inserts preferably are disposed within the end of the first rail so that a pair of threaded fasteners extend into the second rail and are engaged by associated nuts in the second rail. A washer plate preferably is disposed in the second rail beneath the nuts, and a gasket preferably is disposed between the second rail and the open end of the first rail to seal the corner joint.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing steel studs to make a wall includes a first and second track each having a center portion, an inner lip extending from the center portion and an outer lip extending from the center portion. A first flange goes on each side of the inner lip of the first track. A second flange goes on each side of the inner lip of the second track. A U-shaped stud is provided having at least a portion of an inner lip of the stud being disposed between the first tab and the inner lip of the first track and at least a portion of the inner lip of the stud being disposed between the second tab and the inner lip of the second track.

Abstract: A system for mounting a frame (e.g., a mirror frame) allows the frame to be easily installed, securely mounted and readily replaced without damaging the mounting surface (e.g., the surrounding wall or mirror) or the frame. No tools are required to mount or unmount the frame. The mounting hardware is concealed within the frame.

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.

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

Abstract: A closure assembly includes a frame having at least one hollow end rail and a pair of side rails coupled in butt joints to opposed ends of the end rail. The butt joints include a core extending through the hollow end rail and from opposed ends of the end rail through openings in the side rails into the interiors of the side rails. A saddle within each side rail interior straddles a corresponding end of the core. A fastener extends through each of the saddles into engagement with a corresponding end of the core firmly to clamp to side rails against opposed ends of the end rail. The core preferably is of uniform cross-section throughout its length, having edges that internally engage the hollow end rail against lateral movement of the core within the end rail. A resilient washer preferably is captured in compression between each saddle and the opposing end of the core. One of the saddles preferably has an integrally formed extension within one of the side rails for securement of a hinge to the side rail.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bearing frame for a panel, of the type comprising a peripheral structure (1, 1?) for receiving a panel (20), including at least three mounts (2, 3, 4, 5, 2?, 3?, 4?, 5?) defining a frame in which the lower face defines a reference plane (P, P?), in which at least one mount (2, 5; 5) includes a wing (90,100; 90?) extending on the entire length thereof towards the outside of the frame in parallel with the upper face of the frame, the frame comprising at least one precut metal strip (30) stamped, folded and assembled by welding, in particular laser welding, characterised in that the peripheral structure (1, 1?) is hollow and in that it further comprises inner and outer connection means (14, 16, 17) and an electric linking means (18) between the inner and outer connection means, provided inside the hollow peripheral structure.

Abstract: Connection plates for constructing buildings are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a connection plate includes a generally planar insert member and a support member. Insert member has a first side configured for receipt in a slot defined by a structural member and a second side configured for receipt in a slot defined by another structural member. First and second sides collectively define inner and outer edges. Support member is coupled to first and second sides is generally perpendicular to insert member in two directions. Either (1) a portion of inner edge corresponding to first side is angled relative to a portion of inner edge corresponding to second side and support member is coupled to inner edge; or (2) a portion of outer edge corresponding to first side is angled relative to a portion of outer edge corresponding to second side and support member is coupled to outer edge.

Abstract: The present invention provides a spacer frame for making a multi-sheet unit. The frame includes a spacer stock member having a first end and a second end, and a corner key comprising a bendable elongated body having a first end in the first end of the spacer stock member, an opposite second end in the second end of the spacer stock member, and a cut out between the ends, the ends of the corner key bendable relative to one another to decrease the spacing of the cut out.

Abstract: A door threshold may include upper and lower members for sandwiching carpet and/or carpet padding therebetween. The threshold may, in certain example embodiments, grip the carpet in order to prevent it from being pulled out from between the upper and lower threshold members. Thus, in certain example instances, the need for tacks (or carpet tack strip(s)) proximate the threshold can be reduced and/or eliminated. In certain example embodiments of this invention, the threshold structure may include a locating bracket that is provided proximate the door frame for frame alignment and security purposes, and/or one or more pans located under the threshold for locating and/or securing purposes. Levelers, shims and/or the like may be used in certain example embodiments in order to compensate for non-level flooring proximate the door.

Abstract: Various building components and building construction techniques are disclosed. One embodiment comprises a joist end bearing condition wherein a joist rim is supported on a support structure adjacent to a bearing wall and attached thereto. Joists are attached to the joist rim and noncombustible board may be supported on the joists to form a floor surface. Other embodiments include metal joist rims that also function as headers for walls and headers for window and door openings in walls. Various methods of constructing walls from prefabricated panels formed from cold-formed steel components are also disclosed.

Abstract: A spring bracket for installing a framing stud between a ceiling and a floor, the spring bracket including at least one clamping portion configured for gripping an end of the frame stud; and at least one leg attached to the clamping portion and configured for engaging the ceiling or floor, wherein the spring bracket is the sole device for securing the framing stud in place relative to the floor upon installation.

Abstract: A closure frame includes at least one end rail, at least one side rail and a corner joint between ends of the corner and side rails. The corner joint includes a rail insert secured within a first of the rails. A threaded fastener is secured against rotation within the insert and extends from an open end of the first rail into a second of the rails. A nut is disposed within the second rail in threaded engagement with the end of the fastener and clamps the second rail against the open end of the first rail. The corner joint preferably is a butt joint, and a pair of rail inserts preferably are disposed within the end of the first rail so that a pair of threaded fasteners extend into the second rail and are engaged by associated nuts in the second rail. A washer plate preferably is disposed in the second rail beneath the nuts, and a gasket preferably is disposed between the second rail and the open end of the first rail to seal the corner joint.

Abstract: A framing system (1) comprises track frame elements (3) and stud frame elements (4) which are interconnected at joints (2). The framing system comprises connection means for interconnecting the frame elements (3, 4) on assembly. The connection means comprises an adaptor (10) for a frame element and fixing means for fixing the adaptor to the frame elements. The adaptor conforms to at least part of the profile of at least one of the frame elements. In one case the adaptor (10) is of generally channel profile comprising a web (11) and side flanges (12). The side flanges of the adaptor (10) are engagable in the end of the stud frame element (4) such that the flanges (12) of the adaptor engage with the flanges (8) of the stud frame element (4). Rivets (30) are used to fix the stud frame element (4) to the adaptor (10). Track fixing means comprising a fixing bolt (25) extending to engage with a receiver (26) which is captive in the web (11) of the adaptor (10).

Abstract: A modular structural system includes a hub in the general shape of a polygon, such as a hexagon or octagon, which may be somewhat rounded or may have a regular shape. The system includes a plurality of other structural members, such as hub spokes, for interfacing adjacent the hub, and leg spokes, for interfacing with the hub or with the hub spokes. The system also includes cross braces for providing additional support between the hub spokes and leg spokes. The hub, the hub spokes, leg spokes, and cross braces are joined by bores in the individual pieces and a plurality of dowels or rods placed into the bores. From these modular pieces, and currently available structural members, many useful and recreational structures may be assembled and then disassembled, such as frames, garden structures, furniture, shelving, and the like.

Abstract: A shutter having a unitary frame formed by four perimeter rails, each having a receptacle at each of its distal ends, with four connection members, each having structure inserted into and secured within one receptacle of each of two of the perimeter rails. Optionally, a latch pin is movable through a guide hole formed in one of the corner connection members. A further option is louvers extending through a center support.

Abstract: A shutter assembly mounts adjacent an opening of a building. The shutter assembly includes a right stile and a left stile disposed in a spaced and parallel opposing relationship with one another and each having a U-shaped cross section presenting a base and side walls. The side walls extend from the base to spaced distal edges to define a channel open at each end of the respective stiles. A top rail and a bottom rail extend in a spaced and parallel opposing relationship between the bases of the stiles. The top rail is disposed in one of the open ends of each of the stiles and the bottom rail is disposed in the other open ends of each of the stiles. Each of the rails define a glue manifold for distributing an adhesive onto the rails and into the channels for securing the rails to the stiles.