Wall Extension Convertible To Roof Patents (Class 52/68)
  • Patent number: 11584839
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a process for the production of an additive composition intended to be mixed into a bituminous conglomerate for road paving. The process includes grinding a mixed waste material containing a mixture of plastic materials, which includes at least one plastic material based on a polyolefin thermoplastic material, washing the ground mixed waste material and separating a portion of low-density material which contains the plastic material based on a polyolefin thermoplastic polymer from the mixed waste material. This portion of low-density material is then ground to a particle size between 10 mm and 20 mm; and then mixed with a material based on polyvinyl butyral. The resultant mixture is further ground to produce an additive composition having a particle size between 4 mm and 6 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: ITERCHIMICA S.R.L.
    Inventors: Federica Giannattasio, Sergio Cisani, Elisa Bertuletti
  • Patent number: 11473292
    Abstract: Expandable container shelter, where the container comprises elements pivotally connected to the container in vertical mounts at the ends of longitudinal side of the container, provided for creating a structure designed for extending the inner space of the container to a shelter connected with this container at the longitudinal side of the container characterized in that elements provided for creating the structure designed for extending the inner space of the container (1) to the shelter (2) connected with this container (1) are at least on one longitudinal side of the container (1) composed of one pair of supporting frames (3), where the supporting frame (3) comprises at least one horizontal beam (31), wherein the supporting frame (31) has length in the range up to dimension equal to inner length of the container (1), where the shelter (2) roof (6) supports (5) are connected to the supporting frames (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: ZEPELIN, S.R.O.
    Inventors: Juraj Brezan, Henrich Hodák, Pavol Ochodnický
  • Patent number: 9464428
    Abstract: A self-contained structure configurable as a shipping container and as a dwelling is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: MESOCORE, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph Esposito
  • Patent number: 9085890
    Abstract: A method for rapidly deploying and erecting a HUD-certified structure includes providing an ISO-certified container. The container includes a container frame including a horizontal floor section, an opposed horizontal roof section and first and second opposed vertical end sections, and a pair of opposed vertically-disposed floor panels. The container frame and the opposed floor panels define an interior cavity with a plurality of dwelling members disposed therein. The method further includes transporting the ISO-certified container to a desired location and forming a HUD-certified structure at the desired location, including manipulating at least some of the dwelling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Rapid Fabrications IP LLC
    Inventors: Joseph George Strickland, Jack Arthur Paquin
  • Patent number: 8991105
    Abstract: A structure includes a base, a first side wall rotatably attached to the base, a second side wall rotatably attached to the base, a roof guidingly coupled to both the first side wall and the second side wall, and a biasing assembly selectively urging the building into a fully erected configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Donald L. Harvey
  • Patent number: 8869463
    Abstract: A mobile service station includes a deployable structure configurable between a first closed configuration wherein the structure is a container having two side walls, a roof, a floor, a front wall and a rear wall, and a second deployed configuration as an operating service station. The station includes service station accessories mounted on at least one of the side walls. At least one side wall of the structure is foldable between a first vertical position, wherein the side wall acts as a vertical side wall for the closed configuration, and a second position wherein the side wall acts as additional floor space for the structure in the deployed configuration. The service station is adaptable for use as a high-end food stand, among other applications. A method configures the mobile service station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: 6943977 Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Noiseux, Pierre Maheu, François Lampron, Joseph Lacerte, Alain Neveu
  • Patent number: 8826601
    Abstract: A modular assembly capable of converting from a shipping container configuration into a building unit, and from a building unit into a shipping container configuration. From the shipping container configuration, a plurality of frame panels and unit panels moveably connected to a frame of the modular assembly are selectively positioned to form the floors, walls, and ceilings of the building unit configuration thereby forming a living and/or commercial structure complete with electrical, water and sewage connections. The assembly may include an automated erection system, which may include a system of electric motors, gears, pulleys, cables, automated mechanical arms and electronic controls, located within the container structure of the modular assembly, and which interact with a plurality of frame panels and unit panels to deploy and retract the plurality of frame panels and unit panels for constructing the shipping container configuration and building unit configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Modular Container Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Janos B. Gyory, Istvan Gyory
  • Patent number: 8707631
    Abstract: A modular housing system, also known as “Maisons Demontables” may utilize a plurality of lightweight composite construction panels to create modular housing units that have high degrees of resistance to environmental factors like wind, hurricanes, floods and so forth. The housing units may have a very high thermal insulating rating. The panels may comprise expanded polystyrene (EPS) panels to create a bent which is a plurality of panels that are hinged to one another so that they can be compressed for shipping, and expanded or unfolded to be used as part of a housing unit. The panels may be mated together to form a section of a housing unit such as a wall. The housing unit may be easily assembled or disassembled using basic tools. A hinge technique is provided for joining the panels together to form the bents, and may include a tensioning system to bind multiple panels together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Alan Scouten
  • Patent number: 8347560
    Abstract: A modular assembly capable of converting from a shipping container configuration into a building unit, and from a building unit into a shipping container configuration. From the shipping container configuration, a plurality of frame panels and unit panels moveably connected to a frame of the modular assembly are selectively positioned to form the floors, walls, and ceilings of the building unit configuration thereby forming a living and/or commercial structure complete with electrical, water and sewage connections. The assembly may include an automated erection system, which may include a system of electric motors, gears, pulleys, cables, automated mechanical arms and electronic controls, located within the container structure of the modular assembly, and which interact with a plurality of frame panels and unit panels to deploy and retract the plurality of frame panels and unit panels for constructing the shipping container configuration and building unit configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Modular Container Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Janos B. Gyory, Istvan Gyory
  • Patent number: 8256166
    Abstract: The invention relates to an openable roof or openable wall, comprising at least one section (1) extending along a longitudinal axis, each section comprising a plurality of panels (2a, 2) overlapping in pairs along said longitudinal axis, whose longitudinal edge portions (39) are movably received in guide rails (4) for the purpose of opening and closing. Each panel (2, 2a) has, on its second transverse edge portion (38), a first (21) and a second (27) sealing strip, which between them define a gap (28). This gap (28) cooperates with a bottom surface (31) of the inner longitudinal surfaces (14) of the guide rails (4) to form a draining channel (29) along said bottom surface and away from said first sealing strip (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Benth & Mirja Lonnberg AB
    Inventor: Benth Lonnberg
  • Patent number: 8201362
    Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable enclosure intending as a building or portion of a building that may be transported to a desired site in a folded configuration and then expanded into its intended form. The enclosure has a floor and two wall or roof support section extending upwardly from opposed sides of the floor section. A first roof section spans across the gap between the wall or roof support sections. At least a second roof section in provided that is pivotally mounted to the structure to overlie the first roof section in transit and fold out to extend outwardly substantially in plane with the first roof section in the expanded form. Similarly, second floor sections may be pivotally mounted to lie adjacent the wall/roof support sections in transit and extend outwardly substantially in plane with the first floor section when expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: SmarTech Designs Pty Limited
    Inventors: Arnold Alford, John Demartins, Razvan Gornoviceanu
  • Publication number: 20120090250
    Abstract: Described herein is a retractable enclosure that includes a sequence of upright arches, such that the arches are substantially parallel and such that the two ends of each upright arch are disposed on a base. The arches are configured to leave a gap between adjacent arches. The retractable enclosure also includes a plurality of extendable covers attached to the arches such that at least one extendable cover is disposed between adjacent arches and such that each extendable cover can assume an extended state and a retracted state. The gap between adjacent arches can be mostly closed when the at least one extendible cover therebetween is in its extended state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicants: INSITUT CURIE, CENTRE NATIONAL LA RECHERCHE SCIENT
    Inventor: Jerry Moscovitch
  • Patent number: 8156691
    Abstract: Modular building structures and methods of forming such structures are disclosed. A modular building structure may include a plurality of walls, a ceiling and a landing. The plurality of walls may include a front wall. The ceiling may be positioned at a top portion of each of the plurality of walls and may have a top surface. The landing may be connected to the ceiling by one or more pin assemblies. The one or more pin assemblies are configured to enable the landing to be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. An upper surface of the landing may be adjacent to a top surface of the ceiling when the landing is in the retracted position. The landing may extend from the front wall when the landing is in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: New Enterprise Stone and Line Co., Inc
    Inventors: Russell George Dickson, Gregory James Gorman
  • Patent number: 8141304
    Abstract: A prefabricated container house includes a container type main frame member when on a chassis capable of being pulled by a trailer truck; and dwelling forming members which can be housed in the main frame member, and which can be drawn out of the main frame member at an installation site, and assembled into a house.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventors: Kangna Nelson Shen, Coen Germeraad
  • Patent number: 8117670
    Abstract: A container has a variable volume, wherein a basic container has a bottom panel and a roof panel. One or more hinged side panels are rotatable about a horizontal axis, and one or more expansion elements are telescopable out of the basic container and have a bottom panel, a side open toward a front the basic container and a front panel opposite the open side. Each expansion element is open toward the top and, in a telescoped state, the roof panel is formed by a raised side panel of the basic container. One or more hoisting devices is associated with each expansion element and with which the expansion element is lowerable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Bucher, Andreas Serden
  • Patent number: 8037644
    Abstract: An arrangement for the cooling of computer data centers. More particularly, the arrangement eliminates the problems present in the uneven or inadequate cooling of computer racks due to unwanted airflows, which are encountered between so-called hot aisles and cold aisles present in a computer data center. Specifically, this problem is solved through the provision of partitions which, under normal circumstances, prevent the unwanted airflows by standing in a vertical orientation, yet which, in the event of a fire, collapse from the vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation, thereby avoiding interference with water sprays from sprinkler heads, and thus complying with fire codes and ordinances. Moreover, also employed is a method of preventing the unwanted air flows by utilization of the novel arrangement comprising the fire-code-compatible, collapsible partitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Shawn A. Hall
  • Patent number: 7992351
    Abstract: An apparatus for protecting susceptible objects comprises a bracket having a pin receiving portion and hinge portion. The apparatus also includes a cover pivotally connected to the hinge portion of the bracket wherein the bracket is securable to a wall and the cover is pivotable over a susceptible asset to protect the object from harmful forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: James J Kramer
  • Patent number: 7921608
    Abstract: A container has a variable volume, wherein a basic container has a bottom panel and a roof panel. One or more hinged side panels are rotateable about a horizontal axis, and one or more expansion elements are telescopeable out of the basic container and have a bottom panel, a side open toward a front the basic container and a front panel opposite the open side. Each expansion element is open toward the top and, in a telescoped state, the roof panel is formed by a raised side panel of the basic container. One or more hoisting devices is associated with each expansion element and with which the expansion element is lowerable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Bucher, Andreas Serden
  • Patent number: 7913460
    Abstract: An observation shelter includes a plurality of generally upright walls including a first wall having a first window opening positioned therein and a second wall having a second wall positioned therein. First and second shutters are movable between respective raised and closed positions. The first and second shutters have respective shapes configured such that the shutters when in their respective raised positions meet at a joint extending from said corner to provide substantially continuous shelter from the sun for the first window opening and second window opening, and wherein with the first and second shutters in their respective closed positions, an extension portion of the first shutter is received in a pocket portion of the second shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Industrial Design Research, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Stollery
  • Publication number: 20100050540
    Abstract: A container has a variable volume, wherein a basic container has a bottom panel and a roof panel. One or more hinged side panels are rotatable about a horizontal axis, and one or more expansion elements are telescopeable out of the basic container and have a bottom panel, a side open toward a front the basic container and a front panel opposite the open side. Each expansion element is open toward the top and, in a telescoped state, the roof panel is formed by a raised side panel of the basic container. One or more hoisting devices is associated with each expansion element and with which the expansion element is lowerable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: EADS DEUTSCHLAND GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert BUCHER, Andreas Serden
  • Patent number: 7658037
    Abstract: A container is constructed to have a variable volume, wherein a basic container has a bottom panel and a roof panel, one or more hinged side panels are rotateable about a horizontal axis, and one or more expansion elements are telescopeable out of the basic container and having a bottom panel, a side open toward a front the basic container and a front panel opposite the open side. The one expansion element(s) is/are open toward the top and, in a telescoped state, the roof panel is formed by a raised side panel of the basic container. One or more hoisting devices is associated with each expansion element and with which the expansion element is lowerable. Thereby, after the one or more expansion elements are telescoped out, the bottom panels of the expansion element(s) and of the basic container are at the same height and also so that the expansion element(s) is insertable back into the basic container after being lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Bucher, Andreas Serden
  • Patent number: 7549255
    Abstract: Modular system for platform and shelving structures. In an assembled configuration, a module has a central vertical member hingedly-coupled to a second vertical member extending perpendicular to a first side of the central member, and a horizontal member hingedly-coupled to the central member and extending perpendicular to a second side of the central vertical member. The upper edges of the central vertical member and the second vertical member of a first module provide support to a horizontal member of a second module, whereby various structures can be formed from a plurality of modules. Each module is stowable by rotating the second vertical member and the horizontal member about their hinged edges toward the central vertical member. One or more of the members can include key portions adapted to interlock with a member of an adjacent module when in an assembled configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: David Kirkwood
  • Patent number: 7546706
    Abstract: Modular system for constructing platform and shelving structures. Each module is configurable in either a stowable or assembled configuration. In the assembled configuration, a module has a central vertical member hingedly-coupled to a second vertical member extending perpendicular to a first side of the central member, and a horizontal member hingedly-coupled to the central member and extending perpendicular to a second side of the central vertical member. The upper edges of the central vertical member and the second vertical member of a first module provide support to a horizontal member of a second module, whereby various structures can be formed from a plurality of modules. Each module is easily stowable by rotating the second vertical member and the horizontal member about their hinged edges toward the central vertical member until they are substantially parallel and adjacent thereto, whereby a plurality of modules in the stowable configuration can be stored in substantially the minimum possible space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: David Kirkwood
  • Patent number: 7117645
    Abstract: A shelter for the protection of for the protection of persons, animals, equipment, materials, property, and similar things of value from potentially damaging environmental conditions is disclosed. Various embodiments include the use of a frame structure and hinged panels which are unfolded to create the walls of the structure. Optionally flexible surfaces may be added to the ends of the shelter to at least partially close the end of the shelter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: BWXT Y-12, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Fariborz M. Bzorgi
  • 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.
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6453627
    Abstract: A skirt assembly system for use on a mobile home. The skirt assembly system includes a plurality of telescoping studs. The skirt assembly system also includes a plurality of tracks wherein the stud are secured within the tracks with an edged of the stud facing out. The skirt assembly system also includes studs fastened to a side wall of the tracks. The skirt assembly system also includes a brace connected to the telescoping studs on one side thereof and connected to a bottom of the mobile home on an opposite end of the brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy Powers
  • Patent number: 6253498
    Abstract: Self-contained, modular building systems that create temporary structures consisting of various panels that fold compactly for shipping, but that deploy into complete building segments, such that a large surface area of panels sufficient to provide a structure of superior size as compared with like known modular structures may be efficiently stored and conveniently deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Kazak Composites, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerome P. Fanucci
  • Patent number: 6243992
    Abstract: An expandable and collapsible mobile structure is provided that includes a central structure having a floor, a roof, front and rear end walls, and at least one longitudinal side wall that is movable out from the central structure. Foldable floor sections are hinged to a bottom edge of the longitudinal side wall and a bottom edge of the central structure, and foldable roof sections are hinged to a top edge of the longitudinal side wall and a top edge of the central structure. The foldable floor sections and foldable roof sections are adapted to be unfolded as the longitudinal side wall is moved out from the central structure. And front and rear side walls are hinged to respective outermost side edges of the front and rear end walls of the central structure. In an expansion operation, the front and rear side walls are adapted to be initially swung out perpendicular to the longitudinal side wall and positioned by ground supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Thorbjörn Gyllenhammar
  • Patent number: 6223479
    Abstract: An extendable and retractable building includes floor and roof assemblies, each having a number of components movable between respective stowed and extended positions. A support structure may be provided to couple the floor assembly and the roof assembly. A cable coupling a component of the floor assembly and a component of the roof assembly preferably extends through at least two pullies in order to at least partially balance the weights associated with the respective components of the floor and roof assemblies. In one embodiment, the floor and roof assemblies may each include first, second, and third sections. A first cable may be coupled with support beams associated with the second floor section and a support beam connected with the third roof section. A second cable may also be provided coupled with a support beam connected with a third floor section and a support beam connected with the second roof section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Jakob Stöckli
  • Patent number: 6161341
    Abstract: A simulated time ship dining and entertainment arrangement includes a building structure shaped like a dome and having outer side walls hingedly connected to a roof, inner side walls spaced from the outer side walls and forming display chambers therebetween, a ceiling supported by a simulated engine which is a transparent column resting upon a floor and supporting a dining table; multiple seating members disposed about upon the floor; multiple overhead display modules suspended from the ceiling and floor display modules both of which having image/sound producing equipment, lighting members and memorabilia disposed therein for simulating travel through various time periods; feet members and wheels for supporting and moving the building structure; and communications system for operating the image/sound producing equipment and for communicating to the host and for selecting the time period desired for a unique dining and entertainment arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Kent G. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6108982
    Abstract: A collapsible, folding play structure including wall members which are integrally connected to each other and roof members which are integrally connected to the wall members. Two end roof members lend support to two side roof members which connect to end roof members with tabs. The two side roof members join at the top of the roof with interlocking tabs. The play structure may be folded and stored by folding the roof members outward to the corresponding wall members. The roof and wall members are then folded flat and again folded together to form a flat compact storage state for reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Julie McClendon Davison
  • Patent number: 6079163
    Abstract: A retractable weather shield for protecting an outdoor structure from the elements, the weather shield having a base panel; a mounting bracket for mounting the structure to a substrate; the base panel being slidably mounted to the mounting bracket; the mounting bracket having a storage space for storing the base panel in a substantially vertical stored position between the substrate and the structure; the mounting bracket having a guide channel for engaging a corresponding guide member on the base panel and guiding said base panel between the stored position and a substantially horizontal deployed position above the structure for protecting the structure from the elements when in the deployed position; and wherein the shield may further have a telescoping panel being slidably mounted and supported within the base panel, the telescoping panel being stored within the base panel when in a stored position and extending substantially outside the base panel when in a deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Bassel Hage Daoud
  • Patent number: 5921033
    Abstract: An expandable retract able portable structure is provided having a stationary portion and a movable portion. The movable portion pivotally encloses the stationary portion in the retracted configuration. A hydraulic, pneumatic or gear driven actuator carried by the floor of the stationary portion co-operates with a linkage mechanism to rotate the movable portion through approximately 90.degree. to the expanded position. The roof of the movable portion is hingedly connected to one wall. The unit expands or retracts in one single pivoting motion through approximately 90.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Redi-Bilt Homes, Inc.
    Inventor: Jose Ramon Molina
  • Patent number: 5829204
    Abstract: An arrangement for openable roofs, especially for glazed verandas and balconies. The arrangement is a horizontal supporting section (10) which defines an elongated guiding channel (11) having an elongated side opening (12), and a horizontal roofing panel (20) which is movable in the longitudinal direction of the supporting section (10). The roof panel (20) has a lateral edge (21) that extends into the guide channel (11) of the supporting section (10). A plurality of separate guiding and spacing members (40) are mounted spaced from each other in a direction of the guiding channel (11), on the lateral edge (21), received in the guiding channel (11), and abuts against the inner wall of the guiding channel (11) to thereby ensure that there is a play both upwards and downwards in the side opening (12) between the panel (20) and the supporting section (10). The guiding and spacing members (40) are designed so as to allow a turning movement of the panel (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Benth Lonnberg
  • Patent number: 5815988
    Abstract: An expandable retractable portable structure having a movable portion hingedly connected to a stationary portion and wherein the movable portion pivotally encloses the stationary portion of the structure in its retracted position and wherein, in its expanded position, the structure provides maximum interior space for use. An actuating mechanism includes one or more hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders connected to a linkage system. The actuator is located inside the structure on the floor of the stationary portion and the linkage system driven by the actuator is connected to the floor of the movable portion so that the movable portion is rotated by the actuator and linkage system between its expanded and retracted positions. The actuator and linkage system are removably mounted inside the structure and may be readily removed from the structure and used to open or close other structures. Alternatively, the actuator may be left inside the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Jose Ramon Molina
  • Patent number: 5765316
    Abstract: A building module collapsible for transport and expandable for use, includes an elongated core section which has substantially vertical, lateral and longitudinal walls and a core floor section which together define a partially enclosed interior area. A floor assembly is connected to the core floor section for movement between folded and unfolded positions. Telescopic, as well as foldable wall, ceiling, floor and roof sections are provided and allow the building module when in its collapsed for transport condition to comply with the current United States Department of Transportation regulations pertaining to the maximum shipping sizes for standard ground transportation, as well as the current International Standards Organization codes pertaining to maximum shipping sizes for standard ground and water transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Raymond R. Kavarsky
  • Patent number: 5761854
    Abstract: Currently portable industrial camp shelters will be either wood frame construction or fabric tents. The former have restriction on size and require special skills and equipment to install on site. The latter require plumbing and electrical installation to be installed on site. The present invention combines the advantages of frame structures and tents in a portable collapsible shelter by modifying standard shipping container structures to provide fold-down side walls which extend the floor space of the container and are provided with a retractable fabric cover to enclose the extended space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Weatherhaven Resources, Ltd.
    Inventors: Brian D. Johnson, Glen V. Thorne
  • Patent number: 5701705
    Abstract: A prefabricated modular portable livestock shelter shipped unassembled includes a pair of end walls 22 and 24 attached to a side wall 26. In addition a roof 28 is attached to the end walls 22 and 24, and the side wall 26. The end walls 22 and 24 are connected by a front tubular side rail 30, a back tubular side rail 32, and a pair of tubular skids 34 by means of a tubular connector 36 and tubular connector fastener 38. Upturned ends 40 allow the shelter to slide easily over the surface of the ground. The shelter is secured by placing metal earth anchors 42 into the ground and fastening them to the shelter with a steel cable and clamp 44. The shelter can be configured in the winter to provide protection from wind while allowing exposure to sun. The summer configuration provides additional shade while allowing breeze to pass through the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Land Resource Associates
    Inventors: Richard L. Davis, Philip G. Balch
  • Patent number: 5649392
    Abstract: An improvement for allowing service jobs to be performed on and around the tower top of wind-power plants, where it is very important that sufficient space is available to the personnel for the tools and the machine parts during service and maintenance jobs on the machinery and the turbine. At least one section (1) of the engine hood is articulated to an engine support floor (3) with the aid of a hinge connection (4), thus allowing the hood section (1) to be folded outwards and downwards to assume a horizontal position wherein it serves as a floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Sven Svenning
  • Patent number: 5596844
    Abstract: A foldable portable building can be collapsed to fit within the outside dimensions of an internationally standardized (ISO) goods container to facilitate mechanical handling and transportation. The building comprises a rigid main support having a main floor section, a main wall section and a main roof section. When the building is extended, generally horizontal and planar, hingedly interconnected floor sections and roof sections extend from the main floor and roof sections respectively, and wall sections extend between the said sections. The wall sections comprise an end wall section, two first wall sections and two second wall sections which are hingedly interconnected similarly to a bellows. When the building is collapsed, the wall sections are located adjacent the main wall section, the roof sections are disposed vertically on a side of the wall sections remote from the main wall section, and the floor sections are disposed vertically outwardly of the folded wall and roof sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Juan R. Kalinowski
  • Patent number: 5502929
    Abstract: A wind and sun barrier includes a barrier panel with a barrier screen effective to reduce wind velocity and to produce shade, the barrier panel pivotally mounted between a pair of support posts. The barrier panel may be pivoted from a vertical position, for blocking wind, to a horizontal position, providing shade thereunder. Releasable lock mechanisms are provided to maintain the barrier in the desired position. A plurality of barrier panels may be aligned between a plurality of posts, to form an elongated barrier wall oriented either vertically or horizontally, depending upon the weather conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Duane D. Daniels
  • Patent number: 5400551
    Abstract: A mobile erectable stage. In one preferred embodiment, in a stored condition, the stage has the form of a trailer which can be transported from one location to another. At least one bell crank assembly is used to erect the stage by raising at least one side wall panel and the interconnected roof panel, so that a stage with a sloped roof canopy which overhangs the stage floor is deployed. The stage floor can be enlarged by adding floor panels. The stage contains a powered light truss which extends out beyond the stage floor toward the audience to shine light back onto the stage. Further, the stage contains reversible acoustic panels, one side of which is used when the stage performers are using microphones to deflect audio waves to reduce possible echoing through the microphones and the other side of which is used when the stage performers are not using sound amplification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Century Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert D. Uhl
  • Patent number: 5327698
    Abstract: A mobile erectable stage. In one preferred embodiment, in a stored condition, the stage has the form of a trailer which can be transported from one location to another. At least one bell crank assembly is used to erect the stage by raising at least one side wall panel and the interconnected roof panel, so that a stage with a sloped roof canopy which overhangs the stage floor is deployed. The stage floor can be enlarged by adding floor panels. The stage contains a powered light truss which extends out beyond the stage floor toward the audience to shine light back onto the stage. Further, the stage contains reversible acoustic panels, one side of which is used when the stage performers are using microphones to deflect audio waves to reduce possible echoing through the microphones and the other side of which is used when the stage performers are not using sound amplification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Century Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert D. Uhl
  • Patent number: 5252641
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of bituminous compositions containing residues of polymers and in particular sterile car waste resulting mainly from the crushing and cutting into small pieces of car bodies. The process involves five successive stages, namely a grinding of the polymer mixture, washing with water to eliminate soil, drying, mixing with pulverulent bitumen and shaping, preferably by extrusion and granulation or compacting by compression. The polymer residue-concentrated bituminous compositions can be advantageously used in the diluted state for improving the use and stability characteristics, as well as the mechanical properties of bitumens for use in roads or industry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventor: Francois Dawans
  • Patent number: 5148646
    Abstract: A convertible enclosure particularly adapted to cover an outside hot tub installation. The enclosure includes a tubular frame with sliding cross-pieces. A cover is attached to the cross-pieces such that the cover may be extended to encompass one side and the top of the space desired to be enclosed with the opposite side remaining open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventor: Leonard A. Lutostanski
  • Patent number: 4887402
    Abstract: A structural glazing system for obtaining continuous glazed facades, comprising a supporting structural framing including a plurality of uprights and transoms securable to the supporting structure of a building to be glazed, a plurality of panels, concealed support and mounting means arranged to secure each panel to the structural framing to form, in use, a mosaic of co-planar panels forming a continuous glazed facade, each panel being separated from the others by gaps, and a plurality of gap-covering slates designed to be removably secured to the structural framing and to provide uniformity and continuity in the panel mosaic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1989
    Assignee: Diego Da Col
    Inventor: Diego Da Col
  • Patent number: 4780996
    Abstract: The invention relates to improved means used to fold and/or unfold a portable building of the type in which members are hingedly connected to a rigid central section to reduce its external volume and facilitate transportation of the building. The rigid central section comprises a floor, walls and roof. Additional roof members are pivotally connected to the roof along opposed parallel edges so as to be movable between an extended position in which they form a continuation of the central roof, and a further position in which they are disposed parallel with the vertical walls of the central section. Additional floor members are connected to opposed parallel edges of the central section floor which are parallel with the additional roof members. The additional floor members are moveable to form an extension of the central section floor or to be parallel with the central section walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1988
    Assignee: Les Maisons Quebeco Inc.
    Inventor: Romeo Julien, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4742653
    Abstract: A collapsible structure for use as temporary accommodation is in modular form, with a base upon which fold the walls and roof of the structure. The roof is hinged to one side wall and supported by the opposite side wall during erection of the structure, erection being possible by one man.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1988
    Inventors: Valda C. Napier, Donald S. Napier
  • Patent number: 4726158
    Abstract: A transportable structure to form houses and the like, for immediate use in case of calamities and for other uses, comprises a supporting framework made up of closed longitudinal frames, floor platform, roof covering and head walls, all of which delimiting a useful volume, and mobile panels that are able to form additional side rooms. The mobile panels are finished with protruding elements, which form, at least in part, cylindrical surfaces slidingly cooperating to form articulations. Angle bars are provided at the ends of the structural sections to make up the seats for pins that are able to prevent the cooperating cylindrical surfaces from incidentally moving away from each other. Further angle bars perimetrically complete the panels while seals mounted on the sections coact with the sections being coupled at the articulations to ensure sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Assignee: Edil.Pro S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giovanna M. Fagnoni