Interfitted Edge Slot Patents (Class 52/668)
  • Patent number: 6148834
    Abstract: A modular tent platform system for elevating a tent structure from a ground surface to enhance comfort within the tent structure and prevent saturation of the tent structure due to ground moisture, runoff, or precipitation includes substantially planar support panels, support braces, support legs for interlocking adjacent support panels, and attachment assemblies for securing a tent to the platform. In a preferred embodiment, the support legs and adjacent panels are coupled together using channeled connecting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Tally R. Grooms, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6132129
    Abstract: A joint system having one or more tetrahedral joints formed by three edge lapped flat pieces having complimentary open-ended slots which interlock in a construction composing one vertex of a tetrahedron. A plurality of tetrahedral joints can be interconnected by one or more interlocking flat pieces having open-ended slots at both ends to form a part of two or more tetrahedral joints in various configurations with other tetrahedral joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Robert G. Frazier
  • Patent number: 6131356
    Abstract: An apparatus of a muntin bar clip to secure the position of muntin bars during and following the fabrication of multi-pane sealed glass window units. The disclosure relates to securing and positioning muntin bars at multi-pane sealed glass window unit perimeters and in joining hollow false muntin bars within such units. The invention relates particularly to muntin bar clips intended to fix the position of hollow false muntin bars at the perimeter of the window unit utilizing the sealing methods including foam strips and or butyl as the sealing medium. The disclosed invention more particularly relates to muntin bar clips for the purpose of fixing the position of hollow false muntin bars at the perimeter of the window unit where the false muntin bar is other than orthogonal in relation to the perimeter of the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Gerald G. Gieseke
  • Patent number: 6123378
    Abstract: The invention provides a vehicle frame joint structure that is used in a ladder frame structure and in space frame type structures. The joint includes at least a first member, a second member, and a third member extending thereinbetween. Each of these three members has an upper surface, a lower surface, and opposed side walls. The third member, which is adapted to extend thereinbetween has an upper surface that extends beyond its opposed side walls and lower surface. Each of the first and second members has therein a relief adapted to receive the third member such that the third member's extending upper surface is in close relationship with the first and second members' upper surface. Also, the third members' side surfaces proximate the extending upper surfaces at each end thereof are in close relationship with the opposed side walls of each of the first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Aluminum Company of America
    Inventors: Jan L. Teply, Jonathan Vallis
  • Patent number: 6065255
    Abstract: A structure for mounting a planar array of photovoltaic panels to a roof is formed from a set of parallel spaced juxtaposed rails which are intersected by a set of parallel spaced juxtaposed runners that extend perpendicular to the rails. Both the runners and the rails are formed of sheet metal and are shaped in cross section so as to partially surround a space. Both the rails and the runners have upwardly opening apertures bordered by flanges. The flanges of the rails are coplanar with the flanges of the runners. The photovoltaic modules rest on the flanges, thereby covering the apertures and enclosing the space within the rails and the runners. This space serves as a protective raceway for the electrical interconnections and wiring. Because the entire structure is a single electrical conductor, grounding of the modules is simplified. Compared to other mounting systems, the structure is lighter in weight, simpler to install, extremely strong, and protective of the electrical interconnections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: Kyocera Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J Stern, Gilbert Duran, Kevin K. Mackamul
  • Patent number: 6049932
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprising a plurality of longitudinally extending primary load-bearing members having an upper portion, a lower portion and a web located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the primary load-bearing member having a plurality of spaced-apart, generally rectangular-shaped openings in the web, the openings in each of the primary load-bearing members being aligned with the openings in adjacent primary load-bearing members. A plurality of secondary and tertiary load bearing members are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Mangone Enterprises
    Inventor: Ronald M. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5964072
    Abstract: A framework construction, e.g. for buildings, is made with intercrossing beams (2, 4, 4') of profiled plate material, the beams being prepared with side incisions (14) enabling them to be joined crosswise in a common plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Gunnar Vestergaard Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 5901524
    Abstract: A framework type building panel, having opposed first and second sides, is formed of a plurality of primary and secondary structural members each of which has a web and a flange providing the member with a T-shaped cross-sectional shape; each member also has a series of transverse notches spaced along its web. The panel includes a first series the primary members which are spaced apart and parallel to each other with their flanges defining the first side of the panel, and a second series of the secondary members which are spaced apart and parallel to each other and extend transversely to the primary members and have their flanges defining the second side of the panel, with the webs of the primary members having their transverse notches of their webs engaging areas of opposed webs of the secondary members. The edges of the panel may also be formed by the primary or secondary members, rotated 90.degree. about their axes, so that their webs extend inwardly and engage the ends of the other panel members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Jerauld George Wright
  • Patent number: 5864910
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprising a plurality of longitudinally extending primary load-bearing members, a plurality of secondary load-bearing members, a plurality of tertiary load-bearing members, a first rod member extending through the lower part of the tertiary load-bearing members and through the primary load-bearing members for locking purposes, and a second rod member extending through the upper part of the tertiary load bearing members, the upper portion of the tertiary load bearing members and the second rod member designed to be encapsulated in a layer of concrete to anchor a wear layer of concrete to the weldless grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Ronald W. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5806121
    Abstract: A lightweighted weldless grating comprising a plurality of substantially parallel, longitudinally extending primary load bearing members, a plurality of secondary load bearing members, and a pan member positioned between the primary load bearing members and supported on the flanges adapted to contain wet concrete, the pan member having a portion thereof extending upwardly against the lower edge of the secondary load bearing member to maintain the secondary load bearing members in web slots in the primary load bearing members, thereby forming the weldless grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Mangone Enterprises
    Inventor: Ronald W. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5797236
    Abstract: An auxiliary bottom insert apparatus for a container includes first panels, each of which includes a first panel top edge, a first panel middle portion, and a first panel bottom edge. Each of the first panels includes first keyways spaced at predetermined first increments along the first panel top edge and extending from the first panel top edge to the first panel middle portion. Second panels are provided, wherein each of second panels includes a second panel top edge, a second panel middle portion, and a second panel bottom edge. Each of the second panels includes second keyways spaced at predetermined second increments along the second panel top edge and extending from the second panel top edge to the second panel middle portion. The second panels are inverted with respect to the first panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventors: John T. Posey, Jr., Julea Ruth Posey
  • Patent number: 5784741
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprising primary, secondary tertiary members wherein top and bottom slots in the secondary load bearing member form a locking engagement with the web surrounding openings in the primary load bearing members, the secondary load bearing members having secondary downwardly extending slots through the upper edge, the slots having an upper portion extending downwardly from the upper edge and a lower portion located below the upper portion, the upper portion having a first extent and the lower portion having a second extent, the first extent being greater than the second extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Mangone Enterprises
    Inventor: Ronald W. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5735008
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending primary load bearing members having an upper portion having an upper edge, a lower portion and a first web located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the primary load bearing member having a plurality of spaced-apart openings in the first web, the openings in each of the primary load bearing members being aligned with the openings in adjacent primary load bearing members, the openings having a top portion and a bottom portion, at least one of the top portion and the bottom portion having a protuberance extending from the first web into the opening, and a plurality of secondary load bearing members having an upper edge and a lower edge and a secondary web between the upper edge and lower edge, the secondary load bearing members provided with secondary slots in the secondary web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Mangone Enterprises
    Inventor: Ronald W. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5642549
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprising: (a) a plurality of longitudinally extending primary load bearing members having an upper portion, a lower portion and a web located between said upper portion and said lower portion, the primary load bearing member having a plurality of spaced-apart openings in said web, the openings in each of said primary load bearing members being aligned with the openings in adjacent primary load bearing members; (b) a plurality of secondary load bearing members having an upper edge and a lower edge, the secondary load bearing members provided with first slots extending downwardly through the upper edge to provide top slots and with upwardly extending slots through the lower edge to provide bottom slots located substantially opposite said top slots, the secondary load bearing members positioned in the aligned openings in said web of the primary load bearing members, said top and bottom slots in said secondary load bearing member forming a locking engagement with said web surrounding said ope
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: Mangone Enterprises
    Inventor: Ronald W. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5604949
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprising: (a) a plurality of longitudinally extending primary load-bearing members having an upper portion, a lower portion and a web located between the upper portion and the lower portion, the primary load-bearing member having a plurality of spaced-apart openings in the web, the openings in each of the primary load-bearing members being aligned with the openings in adjacent primary load-bearing members; (b) a plurality of secondary load-bearing members having an upper edge and a lower edge, the secondary load-bearing members provided with first slots extending downwardly through the upper edge to provide top slots and with upwardly extending slots through the lower edge to provide bottom slots located substantially opposite the top slots, the secondary load-bearing members positioned in the aligned openings in the web of the primary load-bearing members, the top and bottom slots in the secondary load-bearing member forming a locking engagement with the web surrounding the openings in t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Mangone Enterprises
    Inventor: Ronald W. Mangone
  • Patent number: 5555699
    Abstract: An improved cross-stiffened panel structure, such as used on bridges, load bearing floors, large haulage containers and dump trucks, is composed of a deck plate to which are attached a plurality of spaced apart stiffening ribs. A plurality of transverse beams, each having a cut-out shaped to fit over the external contour of the stiffening ribs, are welded to the deck plate except at the cut-outs. The cut-outs are dimensioned so that a nominal gap is maintained between the cut-outs and the stiffening ribs. In another embodiment, saddles are fabricated to fit over the stiffening ribs and welded to the deck plate while maintaining a nominal gap between the stiffening ribs and the saddles. The transverse beams cut-outs conform to the contour of the saddles and the transverse beams are welded to the deck plate and the saddles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Terex Corporation
    Inventors: William R. Borthick, Steven J. Fujan
  • Patent number: 5533305
    Abstract: Treatment booth provides patient isolation for sputum induction and aerosolized treatment. The booth is provided with a seat assembly to enable a patient to comfortably recline in a number of positions. Hazardous microbial airborne particles within the booth are filtered using a removable HEPA filter and U.V. germicidal radiation lamps supported by a rigid floor assembly constructed from a grid of interconnected longitudinal and transverse members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: Mark Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: James J. Bielecki
  • Patent number: 5485794
    Abstract: Diametrically cut lengths of half- or quarter-logs positioned side-by-side with their cut flat surfaces forming a pallet platform, a floor, wall panelling or a fence are mounted on support rails held together by interlocking tongue-and-groove or dovetail joints and fastening elements where needed. Support rails are hollow converted log beams made from three-sided lengths of logs arranged to form a rectangular cross-sectional outline and held together by spacers at intervals. Provision is made to assure a level surface by adjusting depth of grooves to offset log taper. Pallets may be made to be readily disassembled for space-saving storage, shipping or repair, and four-way fork-lift access may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Peter Sing
  • Patent number: 5469681
    Abstract: A vinyl ceiling grid structure for supporting ceiling panels comprising a two-way connecting member, a one-way connecting member, an angled slat, an inner angled plate, an outer angled plate and a receiving base. Each of these components is formed integrally with plastics and can be selectively assembled together to form a grid system. The one-way and the two way connecting members are provided for the connection of the partitioning board to form the grid structure suspended in the ceiling. The angled plates can either be selected from the inner type or the outer type depending on the application. The receiving base is inserted at the end of the partitioning board so as to be able to connect to the angled slat, forming the vinyl ceiling grid structure for supporting the ceiling panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: Ming-Hsin Wu
  • Patent number: 5463786
    Abstract: A weldless grating comprising a plurality of longitudinal load bearing members, secondary load bearing members and/or tertiary load bearing members having a rod extending through the tertiary load bearing members and primary load bearing members locking the tertiary load bearing members in slots in the secondary load bearing members and locking the secondary load bearing members in slots in the primary load bearing members to form the grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Assignee: Grate-Lok Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald W. Mangone, Dennis Imm
  • Patent number: 5448870
    Abstract: The invention concerns a transom construction for the mounting between two glass panes, in particular window glass panes, in which the transoms that are assembled to form a transom cross consist of hollow profiles and at least two transverse profiles that are flush with each other are attached to a main hollow profile at a predetermined angle to create a transom cross and encompass the main profile in an overlapping manner. The connection of the hollow profiles to the transom construction is executed with the aid of connecting elements with insertion openings that extend in the longitudinal direction and can be solidly inserted into the transverse hollow profile. A four-edged connecting pin is also provided, which penetrates the insertion opening in the main hollow profile and is fitted into the recess in the connecting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Helmut Lingemann GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Siegfried Glaser
  • Patent number: 5437136
    Abstract: Known lattice girders consist of two structural chord members joined to each other by a so-called lattice snake welded at its points of inversion to said structural chord members. To circumvent this welding, structural chord members 11 are used which comprise mutually opposite longitudinal slots 18 and thereunder a longitudinal chamber 19. The lattice-snake of the prior art is replaced by individual struts 13 evincing an I section and matching the structural chord members 11. The longitudinal ends of the struts 13 are cut at acute angles and parallel to each other. The two flanges 16 of the struts 13 comprise slots 21 at both ends and parallel to the longitudinal ends of the struts 13. Thereby the struts 13 can be snugly inserted into the longitudinal slots 18 and the chamber 19 of the structural chord members 11 wherein they butt each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: MERO-Raumstruktur GmbH & Co
    Inventor: Thomas Triebel
  • Patent number: 5428930
    Abstract: A concealed suspension ceiling system advantageously uses a `T` bar grid network used for lay-in ceiling panels. Butterfly clips are secured to upper beads of the `T` bar grid network allowing torsioning springs to releasably maintain the panels suspended beneath the grid. The system can be used for entirely new installations or used in a retrofit application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Assignee: Decoustics Limited
    Inventors: Claude E. Bagley, Dwight D. Robbins, Wm. Steve Wilson, Charles B. Stormer, Gary H. Peddle, Heikki Kolga, Ronald G. White, John Balog, Conrad Marini
  • Patent number: 5417453
    Abstract: A lightweight structure for a flatbed trailer having a cellular stiffening structure formed from a plurality of vertically arranged partitions which form a multiplicity of polygonal cells is disclosed. The cellular structure has the advantage of providing a strong lightweight structure which efficiently transmits load forces from the floor structure to the base upon which the wheels, suspension system, kingpin and landing gear are mounted. The resulting trailer has about a 4000 pound weight advantage over conventional steel frame trailers and about a 2500 pound weight advantage over conventional aluminum frame trailers, which translates directly into increased payload capacity as the trailer of the invention is capable of carrying loads up to the maximum legal weight limits in most states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Inventor: Ervin VanDenberg
  • Patent number: 5359828
    Abstract: A wood post assembly for supporting signs or mail boxes is constructed entirely of wood parts without metal fasteners and without adhesives. It includes a post, cross beam and beam support member. A mortise runs through the post and the cross beam has a tenon extending through the post mortise. A first dowel pin extends through an aperture in the tenon and bears against the rear of the post. The support beam lies against the front face of the post with its upper end supporting the cross beam. A second dowel pin extends through axially aligned apertures drilled through the support member and post. The top surface of the support member has an inclined plane matching that of a recess formed in the lower surface of the cross beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Inventor: John E. Day
  • Patent number: 5331727
    Abstract: A method to assemble a two sided colonial grid assembly for a closure and an assembly, such as but not limited to a glass pane door or window wherein the grid structure incorporates both real and false muntin bars as well as integral and false glazing beads. The assembly is structured to allow a snap-fit type of attachment of the glazing beads into the grid assembly and in engagement with the glass panes such that the entire assembly is structured to facilitate and reduce cost of assembling and manufacturing while providing an authenticate and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventor: Selig Golen
  • Patent number: 5325629
    Abstract: Gratings for windows/doors, and more particularly window/door gratings which are structured with a plurality of integrally formed top members and a plurality of integrally formed bottom members. The top members each has a plurality of lower notches or cuts which can engage with corresponding upper notches or cuts on the bottom members and thereby enable the top members to easily, quickly, and firmly intersect with the bottom members to provide different patterns. The sections on the top and the bottom members between two notches or cuts may be of different shapes, such as, for example, a convexo-convex body with two concave horizontal surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Inventor: Chi-Lu Hsu
  • Patent number: 5291704
    Abstract: This invention relates to a modular construction joint made up of a high-strength, composite plastic material, possibly embedding a glass fiber or similar filling material, said joist being suitable for realizing grid-like and closure members which can stand the traffic of pedestrians and vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: EDIL Plast S.R.L.
    Inventor: Sandra Savorani
  • Patent number: 5291710
    Abstract: A two sided colonial grid assembly for a closure and an assembly, such as a glass pane door or window, wherein the grid structure incorporates both real and false muntin bars as well as integral and false glazing beads. The assembly is structured to allow a snap-fit type of attachment of the glazing beads into the grid assembly and in engagement with the glass panes such that the entire assembly is structured to facilitate and reduce cost of assembling and manufacturing while providing an authenticate and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventor: Selig Golen
  • Patent number: 5291714
    Abstract: A grating assembly comprising end rails, substantially J-shaped, with a bottom, outside wall and substantially parallel inside wall, about one-half the height of the outside wall. The inside wall is formed with slots to hold intermediate spacer bars that support tread rails which are in a spaced relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Architectural Gratings & Grillwork, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce H. Wright, George Gillis
  • Patent number: 5267421
    Abstract: A window grid includes plural pairs of orthogonally intersecting plate members adhesively mounted onto a window pane for simulation of a grid structure, as well as providing for strengthening of the window in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Inventor: Thomas L. Salisbury
  • Patent number: 5251417
    Abstract: A decorative art glass grid system is intended for use in a double window pane unit. The unit itself fits into a window frame. The grid system comprises at least two elongated members to form a grid, a set of holding feet slidably positioned in the terminuses of the elongated members and, optionally, a set of resting pads positioned in the elongated members. Each elongated member has a first groove extending along one side of the member to receive an edge of an art glass pane, a second groove extending along an opposite side of the member to receive an edge of another art glass pane, and an interior channel. Each holding foot has a substantially flat base which has a groove in one face to receive the edge of an art glass pane and a post extending substantially vertically from the flat base to fit into the interior channel of the elongated member to hold it in place. Each resting pad has a flexible head portion which rests in the grooves and receives an edge of an art glass pane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventor: H. Dale Yates, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5243804
    Abstract: A grating-like floor comprises a plurality of slats each having a flat upper surface and a longitudinally extending substantially perpendicular bottom projection. The bottom projection may be barbed and have grooves provided in the projection of the plurality of slats where they intersect in a transverse fashion, such that a series of upright slats plug into at least two slats turned upside down in order to form the floor. Except for the grooves, the same slat is used for forming the floor surface and for forming a base of the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignees: Jean-Francois Clement, Francois Briere
    Inventors: Martial Therrien, Rejean Rheaume
  • Patent number: 5174090
    Abstract: A grid ceiling comprising the support grid 10, 12 having first openings 16 therein in at least some of which are mounted first grid elements 24 defining second openings 30 in which second grid elements 40 are mounted. In this way several grid elements of progressively smaller size can be mounted in openings in preceeding grid elements, e.g. to provide a pyramidal structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Architectural Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan P. Teli, John J. Heichberger
  • Patent number: 5157892
    Abstract: The invention involves a structural interlocking joint system for structural panels used in building construction. A skeleton is formed of interlocking ribs which engage panel skins which are grooved in a pattern to receive the edges of the interlocked ribs. The grooves of each panel skin are formed with their edges angled away from the groove to provide both a wider opening for insertion of the rib skeleton into the grooves, and to provide, after such joining insertion, a reservoir for any excess glue forced out by the joining process. Along the longitudinal edges of the ribs is formed a uniform channel which provides a defined reservoir for glue of substantially even width and depth between the edge of each rib and the bottom of the corresponding groove within the skin. Thus, in the insertion of a rib within a groove, the glue is directed into a substantially uniform strip within the rib edge channel, maximizing strength and minimizing localized glue overflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Inventor: Ronald R. Ryther
  • Patent number: 5148647
    Abstract: A roof mounting curb which may have its sides formed with hinge ears and hinge pin inserted into the ears to secure the curb sides to each other. Slots are provided in the curb sides and may be provided in the duct supports to position the duct supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Rooftop Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip R. Rutledge
  • Patent number: 5076546
    Abstract: A modular barrier and restraint for children or infants. The device has several interchangeable pieces, including substantially elongated barriers, rectangular end pieces, pyramidal end pieces, and castle end pieces. This interchangeability allows a one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional, or four-dimensional barrier. Each piece is fitted with either a slot or counter slot to be fitted together to easily form the barriers. Holes may be placed through the pieces to form a handle. Other holes may be placed into or through the pieces to either provide a place through which a child or infant can see or into which a mirror can be placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventor: Winsome A. Henry
  • Patent number: 5063717
    Abstract: A sashless bay window which has a sill (20) with a curved front (22), a pair of jambs (32) and a header (34), all attached together on the ends forming a frame. A number of curved muntins (42) are joined together inside the frame creating a horizontal sub-division with vertical straight muntins (44) connected at the intersection forming a series of rectangular or square openings. Curved window panes (46) either of a uniform thickness or with beveled edges are mounted into the openings with glazing putty (48) or stops (50) completing the window. In a second embodiment the glazing and muntins (44) and (62) are straight forming a segmented arc curve. In either embodiment, a sash is not employed in the window construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Inventors: Susan S. Quaranta, Michael E. Quaranta
  • Patent number: 5024550
    Abstract: A trench grate includes angular frame members having a number of spaced apart rectangular openings along a downwardly extending leg to receive L-shaped tabbed ends of cross members located transversely between the two angular frame members. The portion of the L-shaped tabbed member extending through the opening in the downwardly projecting leg is welded to an outer face of the downwardly extending leg to form an ingegral unit. The trench grate is a single piece unit and rests on the lip surface of a subterranean drainage structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Inventor: Jack Mainville
  • Patent number: 5018332
    Abstract: A grating including longitudinal tubular elements and transverse tubular elements wherein each of the longitudinal and transverse elements is intermittently staggeringly provided with a plurality of indentations respectively positioned on the upper and lower portions thereof. Such grating permits an upper (lower) indentation of a longitudinal (transverse) element to match thereabove (thereunder) a lower (upper) indentation of a transverse (longitudinal) one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Inventor: Choi Ying-Kit
  • Patent number: 5003744
    Abstract: A glass block panel construction and method of fabrication useful for decorative and functional purposes. The panel includes a frame rigidly assembled from interlocking components to form a grid-like pattern of adjacent pockets, each pocket sized to receive and support a glass block by way of support lips extending around each pocket, the blocks bonded to the frame and therefore to one another in structurally stable and weather sealed relation. Improved thermal condition characteristics are provided by serpentine thermal conduction paths through members of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Assignee: Innovative Building Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 4984404
    Abstract: A floor (1) with built-in resilience which makes it suitable for use in different sports both indoors and outdoors. The resilient floor is built up of mutually parallel studs (3) with recesses extending in the transverse direction. In the recesses, fillets (5) are arranged which extend beyond the upper side of the studs (3) and support surface planks (6). The recesses which are mirror-symmetrically arranged about a center axis transversely of the respective stud (3) have at least one inclined wall, the walls of the recesses intended for the same fillet (5) and positioned in adjoining studs (3) being inclined in the opposite direction. The fillets (5) are clamped in a wave-like manner in the associated recesses, in that they engage the inclined walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Nils Fabricius
  • Patent number: 4950508
    Abstract: First and second panel members each formed with an elongate slot extending from one edge of the panel member and an enlarged opening into which the slot extends are connected together at an angle by sliding the slot of one of the panel members lengthwise through the slot and opening of the other panel member and into embracing engagement with material of the other panel member beyond the opening therein until the openings of the respective panels are mutually aligned in the lengthwise direction of the slots. A locking key device having substantial rigidity lengthwise of the slots is fitted in the openings when the panels are assembled to prevent their separation. The locking device may be provided in various decorative forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Inventors: Thierry Cherouse, Christophe Riviere
  • Patent number: 4945689
    Abstract: Collapsible gridworks for confining fluent materials within cells defined by the gridworks to form stable columns capable of withstanding substantial vertical and horizontal loading are each made up of a plurality of interwoven/intermeshed longitudinal and latitudinal strips. In the preferred embodiment, the strips include slots formed on alternating sides thereof, with the gridworks being formed by interweaving the slots on one side of the longitudinal strips with corresponding slots on the opposite side of the latitudinal strips such that the gridwork is defined by mechanically interlocking joints which permit motion for collapsing the gridwork into both a multilayer strip and a substantially flat sheet. The open state of the grid work and both of its collapsed states are similarly stable and can be freely handled without fear of the gridwork falling apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Inventor: Robert H. Johnson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4943534
    Abstract: A tray assembly for a germination floor assembly having a perforation tray sheet affixed to a rectangular frame assembly. The frame assembly includes a pair of parallel side members interconnected by a pair of end cross frame members. A plurality of longitudinal ribs extend parallel to the side members between the cross frame members. Reinforcing cross bars further extend between the side members and the longitudinal ribs. The cross frame members and reinforcing cross bars have a unique configuration to provide unimpeded flow of liquid wash through the tray assembly during cleaning. A tray assembly is attached to an adjacent tray by a bolt assembly. The tray assembly may be attached to supporting I-beams by hold down clamps. In one embodiment risers are employed for enhanced free flow of liquid wash during cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Inventor: Norman Andreasen
  • Patent number: 4928471
    Abstract: An improved grating construction of the type intended for closing or flooring an opening. The construction preferably is formed of aluminum and includes a plurality of spaced, parallel, elongated bearing bars and a plurality of spaced, parallel, elongated, transversely extending crossbars. Each bearing bar has a generally flat, rectangular shape and has a plurality of spaced cutouts formed along a top longitudinal edge thereof. Each cutout comprises an upper rectangular-shaped portion and an outwardly flared lower portion. Each crossbar has a rectangular-shaped top portion and an outwardly flared lower portion, which portions are complementary in shape and size to the upper and lower portions of the bearing bar cutouts. The crossbars are slideably received within a plurality of transversely aligned bearing bar cutouts. The crossbars are deformed or swaged at locations adjacent to and on opposite sides of the cutouts engaged by the crossbars to lock the crossbars in the bearing bars to form the grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Assignee: Ohio Gratings, Inc.
    Inventor: David W. Bartley
  • Patent number: 4907389
    Abstract: A lattice consisting of first and second flexible resilient criss-crossed strips each having beveled edges and mating dovetail cutouts oriented in face-to-face relationship with the dovetail cutouts of each of the strips having dovetail sides engaging the beveled edges of the other of the strips. A lattice with criss-crossed strips with one strip having dovetail cutouts with sides which engage mating beveled edges of the other strip. Lattice structures of the foregoing types which utilize hollow strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Inventor: Frederick M. Pettit
  • Patent number: 4903444
    Abstract: A floor grating assembly is disclosed, which comprises tread rails arranged in closely spaced parallel relation and held by spacer bars. The spacer bars, which are notched, are inserted in alignment openings of preferably triangular shape in the tread rails. After insertion, the spacer bars are rotationally reoriented to a position securing the tread rails in spaced apart relation. Flange means extending along the lower edges of the spacer bars are locally deformable into locking notches formed in the alignment openings. The spacer bars are thus locked against rotation out of their operative positions. Manufacturing economies and structural improvements are realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1990
    Inventor: Fred P. Berndt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4894974
    Abstract: A structural panel for use in building construction and other applications has an internal rib structure with the ribs interlocked to form a two dimensional matrix. The ribs have tabs that are fitted into openings of facing sheets of the panels. This structure results in a strong prefabricated building panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1990
    Assignee: Walter J. Jaworski
    Inventors: David Mayhew, E. Nolan Scheid
  • Patent number: 4785604
    Abstract: Collapsible gridworks for confining fluent materials within cells defined by the gridworks to form stable columns capable of withstanding substantial vertical and horizontal loading are each made up of a plurality of interwoven/intermeshed longitudinal and latitudinal strips. In the preferred embodiment, the strips include slots formed on alternating sides thereof, with the gridworks being formed by interweaving the slots on one side of the longitudinal strips with corresponding slots on the opposite side of the latitudinal strips such that the gridwork is defined by mechanically interlocking joints which permit motion for collapsing the gridwork into both a multilayer strip and a substantially flat sheet. The open state of the gridwork and both of its collapsed states are similarly stable and can be freely handled without fear of the gridwork falling apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Robert H. Johnson, Jr.