Roof Movable As Entity Relative To Its Substructure Patents (Class 52/66)
  • Publication number: 20090013614
    Abstract: A retractable roof assembly that includes at least two main hinges each connected to a telescope arm assembly used to support the opposite ends of a plurality of overlapping elongated shingles. The telescopic arm is made of a plurality of longitudinally aligned couplers designed to slide and lock together. Attached to the opposite ends of each elongated shingle is a coupler. During operation, couplers allow the shingles to be retracted and slide together into a stack configuration or extended with their adjacent edges overlapping. In one embodiment, the roof assembly extends outward from a fixed vertical support surface and supported at its opposite ends by two support arms. In a second embodiment, the roof assembly is supported by an RV slide out and automatically extends and retracts therewith. A drive rod is used that connects to a scissors frame that supports the shingles when extended. As the telescopic arms retract, the scissors frame retracts as the shingles slide together into a stacked configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Kim Rogers
  • Patent number: 7469506
    Abstract: A retractable cover for a surface includes a first section configured to be movably coupled to the surface and covering at least a first portion of the surface. The first section is movable relative to the surface between an open orientation in which said first portion of the surface is uncovered and a closed orientation in which the first portion of the surface is covered. The retractable cover further includes a second section configured to be movably coupled to the surface. The second section is movable between a lowered orientation relatively closer to a second portion of the surface and a raised orientation relatively more remote from the second portion of the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Vincent J. Hosey
  • Patent number: 7444784
    Abstract: A system for temporally or permanently securing a removable window well cover or grid over a window well at, for example, a construction site is disclosed using adjustable mounts. The window well cover or grid may be pivoted open and closed without having to fully remove the window well cover from the opening of the window well. The adjustable mounts may include a grid sleeve unit slideably attached to the window well cover, and a lock keeper slideably mounted on the grid sleeve unit. In one aspect, the adjustable mounts include theft-deterring features that inhibit unauthorized removal of the window well cover from the window well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Safe-T-Rail Co.
    Inventor: Alexander Brown
  • Publication number: 20080184632
    Abstract: A thermal protection system for an ISO container includes roof panels attached to factory installed corner fittings on the container roof. The roof panels may be level or inclined and may include cavities for insulation. The standoff distance between the roof panels and the container roof is adjustable in certain embodiments. The roof panels may be layered to enhance thermal protection. Reflective coatings applied to the panels further enhance thermal protection from solar radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Craig Hartzell, Kevin Koch, Zenovy Wowczuk, John Ruth, Kenneth H. Means, James E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20080134588
    Abstract: A roof assembly for a transportable building construction includes a plurality of ceiling joists and at least one roof unit rotatably secured to at least one ceiling joist, the at least one roof unit formed from a plurality of rafters wherein the at least one roof unit is moveable between a collapsed position whereby the plurality the plurality of rafters of the at least one roof unit lie in a plane substantially parallel to the plurality of ceiling joists, and an assembled position whereby each of the plurality of rafters of the at least one roof unit extends entirely to an apex of the at least one roof unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: All State Homes Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Stephen Thomas Knight, Darryl John Pinchen
  • Publication number: 20070289227
    Abstract: A personal observatory structure including a base having an open top, and a hemispherical dome having a center point, the dome being shaped to be mounted on the base and to selectively enclose the open top. The hemispherical dome includes a first dome segment and a second dome segment pivotally connected to the first dome segment. The second dome segment has an outer radius smaller than the inner radius of the first dome segment. The first dome segment at second dome segment are connected together by pivotal connectors for movement about a pivot axis. One of the domes can be pivoted from a lowered position, in which the dome segments together enclose the open top of the base, to a raised position which exposes the interior and nests one dome segment within the other. The pivot axis may be a horizontal pivot axis that extends through the center point, and the dome segments may be shaped generally in the form of a quarter sphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Applicant: 1537636 Ontario Inc. d.b.a. SkyShed Observatories
    Inventors: Wayne J. Parker, Farhat Hanna
  • Patent number: 7290372
    Abstract: A container, especially intended for use as a workroom, with an adjustable volume includes a base container with a floor panel and a roof panel, and at least one box-shaped expansion element that can be extended from the base container. The expansion element includes a floor panel, a roof panel, a side that is open to the base container, a front panel that is opposite the open side, and two side panels. The container further includes a device with which a box-shaped expansion element can be lowered, such that, once the expansion element has been extended, the floor panels of the expansion element and the base container are at the same height, and with which an expansion element can be raised such that, once the expansion element has been lowered, it can be reinserted into the base container. The roof panel of the box-shaped expansion element is designed to fold along a horizontal axis on the upper edge of the front panel of the expansion element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Ingo Aust, Heiner Koch
  • Patent number: 7263805
    Abstract: A low shelter swimming pool roof system is provided. The system can include, over a portion (P?) at least of its length, juxtaposed roof elements (I?) and juxtaposed roof elements (I). The distance that delimits the external chord of each of the longitudinal edges (220a?) and (220b?) of the roof elements (I?) resting on the support edge (S) of the pool and connected by two roof arcs (210?) can be shorter than the distance which delimits the internal chord of the two longitudinal edges (220a) and (220b) the roof elements (I) of the other portion (P) resting on the support edge (S) of the pool and connected by two roof bows (210). Such an arrangement enables the first portion (P?) of roof elements (I?) to be nested in the second portion (P) of relatively larger roof elements (I) thereby partially exposing the pool over a length corresponding to the displacement of the mobile portion (P?) of roof elements (I?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Abrisud
    Inventor: Serge Chapus
  • Patent number: 7086445
    Abstract: Waste materials are composted in an elongate pit which is maintained covered to retain odors. The pit includes two rails each arranged along a respective side of the opening for receiving operating machines and a carriage for supplying a covering sheet. Each side edge of the sheet has attached thereto a channel shaped support member arranged for engaging over the respective rail so as to attach the side edge to the rail. A reel is mounted on the carriage and is arranged to roll the sheet and the two support members onto the reel and to un-roll the sheet and the two support members therefrom for deployment. An arch support bridges the support members and can flex to a flat condition from rolling on the reel. The carriage includes guides for moving the support members apart to a wider spacing for rolling on to the reel with the sheet flat and for guiding the support members onto the rails and for bowing the arch upwardly in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventors: Walter John Curry, Michael Francis Curry
  • Patent number: 7051481
    Abstract: A shelter to enclose articles of personal property such as motorcycles, bicycles, lawn and garden equipment, etc. comprising a base frame mounted coextensively in horizontal fashion to the ground, a plurality of u-shaped rib members covered by a suitable covering material which articulate around a novel hinge mechanism and which are essentially equally spaced in spanning relation over the base when in the first, covering, position and which are collapsed upon themselves in stacked relation when in the second, opened, position. A motor and gear assembly may be employed to permit automated operation of the device, or the device may be manually operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventors: Diana Delavega, John Delavega
  • Patent number: 7028433
    Abstract: An aseismatic device applied to an overhead hoist transport (OHT) system in a fab has a spring pin and a positioning ball installed in a cavity of a first platform. The spring pin has at least a spring for fixing the positioning ball and is mounted on a second platform positioned on the surface of the first platform. When the earthquake occurs, the second platform will move horizontally corresponding to the first platform for preventing the OHT system and the fab from being damaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Powerchip Semiconductor Corp.
    Inventor: Kuo-Tai Liu
  • Patent number: 6959513
    Abstract: A deck covering apparatus for selectively covering a portion of a deck from the elements. The deck covering apparatus includes a pair of support assemblies each having a base portion and a rail member. The base portion is designed for coupling to a support structure. The rail member is coupled to the base portion whereby the base portion of each of the support assemblies is designed for supporting the rail member of an associated one of the support assemblies in a spaced relationship above the deck. Each of a plurality of panel assemblies is slidably coupled to the rail member of each of the support assemblies. Each of the panel assemblies is slidably positionable along a length of the rail member of each of the support assemblies whereby each of the panel assemblies are designed for covering a portion of the deck from the elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Raymond A. Ruscito, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6944996
    Abstract: A residential structure preferably has an N-sided polygonal footprint which has a central vertical axis. Inner walls separate a central common area from a number of outer individual residential units, each such unit occupying a sector of the footprint along an associated side thereof. Advantageously, the central common area includes a pool in a courtyard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Drawings Plus, LLC
    Inventor: William C. Rowe
  • Patent number: 6938386
    Abstract: A composite roof structure, and a corresponding method of fabricating the structure, are disclosed which includes use of a layer of non-cellular adhesive material (preferably a two-component non-cellular polyurea polyurethane adhesive material), roof insulation panels, along with a flexible roof membrane, preferably made of thermoplastic olefin rubber, including a rubber-like sheet having a fleece-like matting secured to the underside thereof. The non-cellular adhesive is preferably sprayed onto a roof substrate and prior to complete solidification thereof the roof membrane or roof insulation is pressed into the adhesive so that the matting becomes embedded therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: R.S. Associates
    Inventors: Norm Ritland, Paul Scheafbauer, William Shackelford
  • Patent number: 6923498
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle cover rests on the roof of a recreational vehicle. The cover is lightweight, portable and is easily installed or removed by two people. The cover requires no modification to the recreational vehicle. The recreational vehicle cover is capable of protecting the vehicle from harsh weather and heavy snow. The height of the cover above the recreational vehicle roof can be adjusted to adapt to rooftop obstructions such as air conditioner, skylights and vents and also to accommodate uneven rooflines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Brent Alan Mecham
  • Patent number: 6907695
    Abstract: A substantially preassembled modular frame system for erecting permanent school buildings. The system design, materials, and construction have been pre-approved by state inspectors. The system provides a roof that is extensible from a low position that is configured to permit the system to be transported on highways and fit under common overpasses and bridges to a pitched position that provides a sloped roof profile to improve insulation factors of completed buildings and better shed rain, snow, and debris. The system includes anchor assemblies that are rigidly connected to the frame to inhibit uplift forces acting on the building from distorting or dislodging the building from the foundation. The system also includes preassembled wall panels and a convenient mechanism for emplacing and securing the wall panels within the modular frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Turnkey Schools of America
    Inventor: Alan Pierce
  • Patent number: 6857236
    Abstract: A slatted roofing device, includes a frame (1) receiving a lower series (2) of grid-type mounted slats and at least a support (3) superimposed on the frame (1) receiving an upper series (4) of grid-type mounted slats, the support (3) being transversely mobile with respect to the longitudinal direction of the slats on the frame (1) to modify the lateral position of the slats of the upper series (4) relative to those of the lower series (2), the slats shifting from a completely overlapping position when the roof is open to a partial overlapping position when the roof is closed. The device includes an apparatus for lifting the support (3) relative to the frame (1) to allow air to pass through the roof even when the series of upper (4) and lower slats cover the whole roof surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Philippe Mangeard
  • Patent number: 6854218
    Abstract: A system and method of panelized construction for use in construction of a building module, such as a residential housing addition. A plurality of pre-fabricated panels, such as wall panels, roof panels, floor panels, and ceiling panels may be provided to decrease on-site building time. The panels may comprise one or more covering layers pre-installed on a frame. The panels may also comprise pre-installed insulation or other core materials. The panels may further comprise a pre-installed portion of a house system, such as an electrical system. Additionally, the panels may comprise pre-installed windows, doors, or skylights. The panels may be designed to meet the residential building code requirements of one or more jurisdictions to decrease permitting time and inspection delays. The panels and other materials may be included in a building kit for a building module to be constructed by contractors or do-it-yourselfers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Fairfax Express Corp.
    Inventor: Arvin Weiss
  • Patent number: 6851227
    Abstract: The invention concerns a structural and mechanical means to build a large retractable roof, that can have the shape of a barrel vaulted roof or a pitched vaulted roof or a flat roof. The roof is moved as one monolithic roof on and off a mall walkway or other structure. The roof cover is a glass skylight or other material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Adam T. Schildge, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6843019
    Abstract: A roll-up cover system includes a tarpaulin (30) having a fixed edge (30-1) and a free edge (30-2) secured to a winding shaft (31), in which the tarpaulin is of the double-membrane inflatable type (30a, 30b) and all or part of the unwinding of the tarpaulin is carried out by inflating the tarpaulin, the inflating pressure occurring in the tarpaulin unwinding the tarpaulin or contributing to the unwinding force. The roll-up cover system has particular application to horticultural greenhouses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventors: Joseph Mercurio, David Mercurio
  • Patent number: 6840572
    Abstract: The object of the invention is an arrangement in hatch structure (1) to be installed in a vehicle body (2). The arrangement comprises a hatch, the edges of which are bent downwards, which hatch is mainly horizontal when in the closed position, an opening (6) in the vehicle body (2), which opening (6) is smaller than the said hatch, a packing (4) for sealing the hatch and the opening (6) in relation to each other when the hatch is closed, and a hatch operating mechanism that incorporates at least one body part (7), which has sliding faces (8, 18) for a slide (9) on which the slide (9) rests, a lever (11) that is connected to the slide (9) by means of a first joint (12) and is supported near the edge of the opening (6) in the vehicle body (2) by means of a second joint (13), and a compression spring (10) located in the slide bed, which compression spring constantly exerts force on the slide (9) so as to push it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Webasto-Parabus LTD
    Inventor: Jukka Sillanpåå
  • Patent number: 6832452
    Abstract: A mega stadium-convention center complex is disclosed comprising an impressive pyramid building with a 670-foot pinnacle and a base covering more than 20 acres. The complex contains a 60,000-seat football stadium with a central playing field located more than 180 feet above the ground. The four-sided pyramid can be clad in tinted reflective glass or the like and has 8 or more floors below the playing field that provide several million square feet of floor space for a variety of different business and entertainment facilities. The pyramid roof structure above the stadium and the playing field is adjustable and convertible and includes more than a dozen narrow retractable roof panels or strips and associated guide rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Robert R. Simens
  • Patent number: 6804918
    Abstract: The roof window assembly comprises a main frame component and a window component including a glazing element. In order to reduce the influx of light an external screening accessory is provided. The screening accessory comprises an elongate housing extending in parallel with the top and bottom members of the frame and from which a screening member is retractable by movement parallel to the side members of the frame. An end member connected with a free end of the screening member extends throughout the width of the window frame and includes engaging means at either end of the end member for engagement with a transverse inwards recess in the outer side of each side member of the window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventors: Claes Lindgren, Birgitte Hansen, Samuel Howard Darmer, Morten Falk Reventlow, Brent Møller, Lars Erdmann
  • Patent number: 6789360
    Abstract: A convertible stadium includes an exhibition area, a seating area and a plurality of roof support locations for supporting a movable or retractable roof assembly. The roof assembly includes a first major truss that spans a distance between a first and a second of the roof support locations and a second major truss that spans a distance between a third and a fourth of the roof support locations. Both of the first and second major trusses are preferably structurally configured as a tied arch, each of which has a generally convex upper portion and a lower portion that is adapted to assume gravity induced stresses within the trusses as tension. In order to keep the center of mass of the major trusses generally positioned within a plane including the roof support locations, which optimizes lateral stability of the major trusses, the major trusses are most preferably given a lenticular shape, meaning that the lower portion of the trusses is convex and in fact preferably generally symmetrical to the upper portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Uni-Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Cyril Silberman, David Sadinsky, Bart Riberich, Andrew Cheng, Lennart Nielson, Terry Thompson, Timothy J. Kline
  • Patent number: 6766619
    Abstract: The invention provides a kit of structural building elements for rapid erection and assembly to form a living space having a ridged roof, wherein the elements (1, 2) are linked together and comprise a central prism-like element (1) and corresponding outer elements (2), said elements being arranged so that in a first state, suitable for transportation, they form an essentially cuboid structure having overall dimensions not equivalent to those of a standard 40 foot freight container and, in a end, erected state, the outer parts are raised to form a roof ridge line (3). Erection of a prefabricated building using the kit of parts can be effected without the need for heavy lifting machinery by pushing the outer elements (2) inwardly so that they slide up the sloping faces of the prism like central part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Viktor-Martin Franz
  • Patent number: 6763842
    Abstract: A collapsible vehicle storage system having a pair of spaced apart, tapered side walls, where the distance therebetween is sufficient to accommodate a vehicle. The respective sides walls pivotally mount plural U-shaped support members, with adjacent members hinged together, where the members are covered by a flexible canopy, such as canvas. At least one ratchet arm is provided to manually pivot the respective U-shaped members from an open position to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry M. Blount
  • Patent number: 6754994
    Abstract: A system for operating a retractable roof having at least two moveable roof sections, the system comprising: a first support having a first pulley; a second support positioned opposite to and across from the first support means and having a second pulley; a tie member which passes around the first and second pulleys to form an elongate loop having a crossover point between the supports; wherein the first roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the first support and the crossover point and the second roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the crossover point and the second support such that, in use, the roof sections move in opposite directions when the tie member is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Farahmand Jahanpour
  • Publication number: 20040074157
    Abstract: Sliding roof shed, especially apt to provide shelter from the sun, rain, hail, snow to large surfaces such as parking lots in shopping centers or the like, which consists of a supporting structure defined by L profiles separately arranged, among which the surface to be covered is defined, from which the vertical post is integral of the ground and the remaining longitudinal beam is away from the ground as much as necessary. A laminar sheltering surface is placed between two horizontal posts, away from each other, which may be defined by a cloth, canvas, plastic sheet or the like, rectangular frame, which presents, in correspondence with its lateral edges, several interface accessories each of which holds at least one wheel that slides on a rail affixed to the above-referred longitudinal beam. Devices helping operator move the sheltering surface may be added, such as a rod affixed to its free extremes or a mechanism having steel wires affixed to its edge, together with an operating handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Felix Chazal
  • Patent number: 6705051
    Abstract: A method of transporting a module of a modular structure to a building site on a transporter with a roof of the module in a horizontal position, and an apparatus for coupling the roof to the base structure of the module to permit movement of the roof between the horizontal position and a final sloped position. The coupling apparatus includes a coupling assembly adapted to be detachably coupled in a C-shaped rafter or guide rail of the roof so as to guide movement of the rafter or guide rail relative to the coupling mechanism, and an anchor assembly pivotally coupled to the coupling assembly so as to permit pivotal and vertical movement of the coupling assembly. Each of the anchor assemblies is adapted to be secured to an attic floor panel of the module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Harlin J. Wall
  • Patent number: 6698141
    Abstract: A convertible public exhibition facility includes a stadium having an exhibition area and a seating area that is situated about the exhibition area for permitting spectators to view activities taking place in the exhibition area. The exhibition facility further includes a movable natural grass activity platform that has a surface area of natural grass that is at least 10,000 square feet and that is constructed so as to have a characteristic frequency of at least 6 Hz. Situated within the natural grass activity platform is a transport mechanism that is constructed and arranged so as to be able to move the natural grass activity platform as a complete unit from a location that is outside of the stadium to a location that is within the exhibition area. Preferably, the location that is outside of the stadium is an outdoor location that provides optimal conditions for the growth of natural grass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Uni-Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Cyril Silberman, David Sadinsky, Bart Riberich, Andrew Cheng, Lennart Nielson, Terry Thompson, Timothy J. Kline
  • Patent number: 6681544
    Abstract: A method of transporting a module of a modular structure to a building site on a transporter with a roof of the module in a horizontal position, and an apparatus for coupling the roof to the base structure of the module to permit movement of the roof between the horizontal position and a final sloped position. The coupling apparatus includes a coupling assembly adapted to be detachably coupled in a C-shaped rafter or guide rail of the roof so as to guide movement of the rafter or guide rail relative to the coupling mechanism, and an anchor assembly pivotally coupled to the coupling assembly so as to permit pivotal and vertical movement of the coupling assembly. Each of the anchor assemblies is adapted to be secured to an attic floor panel of the module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Inventor: Harlin J. Wall
  • Patent number: 6675539
    Abstract: A seismic roof motion-absorbing gap cover assembly includes an elongated y-axis slideway affixed to a building unit B on one side of the gap and extending parallel to the gap and a y-axis slider slidably received on the y-axis slideway. Roof support members are secured to the y-axis slider in spaced apart relation against horizontal movements. A roof having one end affixed to a building unit A on the other side of the gap spans the gap and is supported on the roof support members by elongated spaced-apart x-axis slide members for movement along an x-axis perpendicular to the gap. Each x-axis slide member has a length such that it is supported by the roof support member throughout a range of displacements in the x-axis direction of the building units between maximum and minimum design displacements in an earthquake from a neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Construction Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Shreiner
  • Publication number: 20030205004
    Abstract: A seismic roof motion-absorbing gap cover assembly includes an elongated y-axis slideway affixed to a building unit B on one side of the gap and extending parallel to the gap and a y-axis slider slidably received on the y-axis slideway. Roof support members are secured to the y-axis slider in spaced apart relation against horizontal movements. A roof having one end affixed to a building unit A on the other side of the gap spans the gap and is supported on the roof support members by elongated spaced-apart x-axis slide members for movement along an x-axis perpendicular to the gap. Each x-axis slide member has a length such that it is supported by the roof support member throughout a range of displacements in the x-axis direction of the building units between maximum and minimum design displacements in an earthquake from a neutral position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Construction Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Shreiner
  • Patent number: 6640504
    Abstract: A vertically moveable swimming pool floor apparatus includes a rigid planar platform configured to fit the planform area of a swimming pool, and a plurality of hydraulically powered hoists coupled to the platform to raise and lower the platform. The hoists are controlled by a control system operated by the user. The hoists controllably actuate the platform into and out of a swimming pool cavity, such that effective depth of the swimming pool is variable in a continuous range. The platform is equipped with depth indicators to allow users to observe the effective depth of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: FLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James Pearlson, Raymond Pearlson
  • Patent number: 6637160
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a plurality of movable transparent arcuate sections 12 that can roll on their own designated tracks 14 to enclose or expose a sun room or pool area 18. Thus, the present invention 10 is comprised of a plurality of overlapping transparent arcuate arches or sections 12 positioned on parallel tracks 14. The arches 12 can be selectively moved to any position on the parallel tracks 14. The two distal end arches have removable end closure panels 20. Each of the transparent panel members 22 or arch 12 are positioned within a frame member 16 having a plurality of wheels 36 engaging the spaced apart track members 14. Track members 14 are fixedly positioned to the ground or foundation structures 58 in a spaced-apart parallel configuration. Each side of an arch 12 consists of a plurality of wheels 36 fixedly positioned between spaced apart track elements 14 having hook-like terminations 53 to prevent dislocation of the frame member 16 from the track member 14.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Bob Brooks
  • Publication number: 20030192262
    Abstract: A shelter to enclose articles of personal property such as motorcycles, bicycles, lawn and garden equipment, etc. comprising a base frame mounted coextensively in horizontal fashion to the ground, a plurality of u-shaped rib members covered by a suitable covering material which articulate around a novel hinge mechanism and which are essentially equally spaced in spanning relation over the base when in the first, covering, position and which are collapsed upon themselves in stacked relation when in the second, opened, position. A motor and gear assembly may be employed to permit automated operation of the device, or the device may be manually operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Diana Delavega
  • Patent number: 6615550
    Abstract: A space-dividing covered work space arrangement including a pair of opposed side modules each of a three-wall construction defined by an upright panel arrangement and a pair of upright end walls disposed at opposite ends thereof and projecting inwardly therefrom. A pair of canopies project inwardly from each of the opposed modules and are attached along inner edges thereof so as to define a continuous canopy assembly which overlies and encloses the work space from above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Reuschel, Ralph E. Reddig
  • Publication number: 20030115808
    Abstract: A low profile, expandable, mobile rigid structure with unique a unique assembly and support system, that can easily be transported by an average sized vehicle. The structure features a central structure with a central roof section, a pair of endwall assemblies, and a central floor mounted to a base. The endwalls are two pieced having a bottom endwall panel and a top endwall panel. From the side of the central structure one or more side sections are retractable and expandable to increase the size of the floor space inside. The two pieced endwalls allow for compaction of the structure for travel by translating the lower portion of the endwall from supporting the upper portion. A two pieced door allows entry into the structure when it is expanded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Floyd L. Morrow
  • Publication number: 20030106272
    Abstract: A substantially preassembled modular frame system for erecting permanent school buildings. The system design, materials, and construction have been pre-approved by state inspectors. The system provides a roof that is extensible from a low position that is configured to permit the system to be transported on highways and fit under common overpasses and bridges to a pitched position that provides a sloped roof profile to improve insulation factors of completed buildings and better shed rain, snow, and debris. The system includes anchor assemblies that are rigidly connected to the frame to inhibit uplift forces acting on the building from distorting or dislodging the building from the foundation. The system also includes preassembled wall panels and a convenient mechanism for emplacing and securing the wall panels within the modular frames.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: Alan Pierce
  • Publication number: 20030097803
    Abstract: A durable, secure small storage device that protects small vehicles from the elements and theft, as well as provides a platform upon which sponsors can advertise. Sponsors can include any entity that seeks to advertise or convey a specialized message such as corporations, universities, non-profit organizations, individuals, or governmental entities. The storage device includes a frame having a cross rod component and an upwardly extending rod component for laterally supporting a vehicle. A rigid shell is pivotally connected to the frame at the cross rod component and provides shelter and protection for the vehicle stored inside. The invention further includes an advertising means for displaying advertisements of sponsors. In another aspect, the invention comprises a method of providing site owners with such small vehicle storage devices at little or no cost using funds received from advertisers in return for advertising space in conjunction with the devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen C. Voorhees
  • Publication number: 20030089070
    Abstract: A method of transporting a module of a modular structure to a building site on a transporter with a roof of the module in a horizontal position, and an apparatus for coupling the roof to the base structure of the module to permit movement of the roof between the horizontal position and a final sloped position. The coupling apparatus includes a coupling assembly adapted to be detachably coupled in a C-shaped rafter or guide rail of the roof so as to guide movement of the rafter or guide rail relative to the coupling mechanism, and an anchor assembly pivotally coupled to the coupling assembly so as to permit pivotal and vertical movement of the coupling assembly. Each of the anchor assemblies is adapted to be secured to an attic floor panel of the module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Harlin J. Wall
  • Publication number: 20030056446
    Abstract: A transportable building module including structure defining a floor sub-frame (13) and at least one wall structure (16) about a room space. The building module further includes at least one roof sub-module (20). This roof sub-module is hingedly mounted to the wall structure for pivotal movement between an extended position and a retracted transport position, in which retracted transport position the height of the building module is less than when the roof sub-module is in its extended position. In separate aspects, there are disclosed a transportable building with a separate roof module, and a building with a transversely arranged roof module beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Donald Stewart Napier
  • Publication number: 20030046879
    Abstract: A system for operating a retractable roof having at least two moveable roof sections, the system comprising: a first support having a first pulley; a second support positioned opposite to and across from the first support means and having a second pulley; a tie member which passes around the first and second pulleys to form an elongate loop having a crossover point between the supports; wherein the first roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the first support and the crossover point and the second roof section is supported, in use, by the tie member between the crossover point and the second support such that, in use, the roof sections move in opposite directions when the tie member is moved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Farahmand Jahanpour
  • Patent number: 6523308
    Abstract: A rotating-cover storage shed for storing drums of material which is potentially hazardous to the environment. The shed provides a means for containing any leaking material and also provides for protection from the weather and from unauthorized access to the stored contents. Access to the contents is easily made by rotatably opening one of a pair of rotating cover sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Eagle Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: John G. Gillispie
  • Patent number: 6519900
    Abstract: A substantially preassembled modular frame system for erecting permanent school buildings. The system design, materials, and construction have been pre-approved by state inspectors. The system provides a roof that is extensible from a low position that is configured to permit the system to be transported on highways and fit under common overpasses and bridges to a pitched position that provides a sloped roof profile to improve insulation factors of completed buildings and better shed rain, snow, and debris. The system includes anchor assemblies that are rigidly connected to the frame to inhibit uplift forces acting on the building from distorting or dislodging the building from the foundation. The system also includes preassembled wall panels and a convenient mechanism for emplacing and securing the wall panels within the modular frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Turnkey Schools of America
    Inventor: Alan Pierce
  • Publication number: 20030019166
    Abstract: There is provided an opening assembly for an extended end of a stressed membrane structure having a fixed part, said opening assembly comprising: at least a part of said end separated from said fixed part and moveable relative to said fixed part; a pivot assembly for permitting movement of said at least a part of said extended end between an open and a closed position relative to said structure; a support frame for maintaining the integrity of said part in stressed membrane condition at all times during said movement and when in said open and closed position; rolling transport means for supporting said frame and said assembly during said movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Philip D. Sprung
  • Publication number: 20030014927
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a plurality of movable transparent arcuate sections 12 that can roll on their own designated tracks 14 to enclose or expose a sun room or pool area 18. Thus, the present invention 10 is comprised of a plurality of overlapping transparent arcuate arches or sections 12 positioned on parallel tracks 14. The arches 12 can be selectively moved to any position on the parallel tracks 14. The two distal end arches have removable end closure panels 20. Each of the transparent panel members 22 or arch 12 are positioned within a frame member 16 having a plurality of wheels 36 engaging the spaced apart track members 14. Track members 14 are fixedly positioned to the ground or foundation structures 58 in a spaced-apart parallel configuration. Each side of an arch 12 consists of a plurality of wheels 36 fixedly positioned between spaced apart track elements 14 having hook-like terminations 53 to prevent dislocation of the frame member 16 from the track member 14.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Bob Brooks
  • Publication number: 20030000154
    Abstract: A retractable covering (10) for areas, such as tennis courts, swimming pools, vehicle or trailer bodies, sheds, and so on, which includes several substantially identical covering elements (12), equipped with rollers or in any case with movable support means on two opposite sides, and pairs of parallel runways along two opposite sides. The front and back rollers of each covering element are laterally offset, and the rails have end portions deflected upwards or downwards, and parallel to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Sanna Ignazio
  • Patent number: 6474027
    Abstract: A mobile aircraft hangar designed to provide a temporary enclosed working environment for workers performing aircraft maintenance, evaluation and support. The hangar includes a mobile housing assembly designed to enclose a section of the wing or fuselage of an aircraft. The housing assembly is assembled over a chassis with four wheels and steering mechanism that enables the housing assembly to be easily driven around an aircraft. The housing assembly includes one end wall and two vertical side walls, forming a three-sided enclosing structure. Formed on the housing assembly opposite the end wall is a main opening through which a section of the fuselage or wing may extend. The housing assembly also includes moveable floor panels that can be arranged in different configurations for working on different sections of the aircraft. Optional lift actuators are provided which enable the housing assembly to be raised or lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Michael S. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20020129564
    Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary bungalow, comprising a cabin forming an inner space therein; a hollow rotary shaft extended downward from the cabin; a support unit rotatably supporting the rotary shaft; a water tank installed under the cabin; a water pipe extended between the water tank and the cabin through the rotary shaft; and a water pump drawing in the water within the water tank through the water pipe to the cabin. With this configuration, the user is allowed to use the rotary bungalow conveniently and pleasantly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Byoung-Ki Park