Diagonal Bracing Patents (Class 52/693)
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Patent number: 5491949Abstract: The invention relates to cross bracing for wooden structures, formed by vertical posts (21), horizontal beams (22) intersecting each other at junctions, braces (23, 24, 25) situated diagonally between two adjacent junctions, and gussets (35-40) which connect the braces to the beams and the posts. The braces comprise transverse grooves (41) near their ends, and the gussets comprise a heel (45) at least one of their ends which can engage in one of the grooves in the braces.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1994Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Assignee: Hamon Thermal Engineers & Contractors S.A.Inventor: Charles H. De Moor
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Patent number: 5491950Abstract: The present invention relates generally to construction and building toys, blocks and the like for children and structurally similar construction and building materials and components for building retaining walls, support structures and lattices, trellises, and enclosed structures and other self supported units comprised of a plurality of individual, modular, high-shear panels, and more particularly, to a plurality of cross members having discrete and individual openings at various and specific locations within the cross members and a plurality of tubular or cylindrical or other cross-sectional shaped lateral members, the lateral members being set into the openings within the cross members such that, upon assembly, modular, high shear strength panels are created.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1994Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Inventor: Joseph Obegi
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Patent number: 5457927Abstract: A truss fabricated of cold rolled sheet metal structural members having chord members, web members, and connectors for joints thereof, of such construction as to enable fabrication of the truss with the chord members lying flat on a fabrication table and further of such construction as to allow a plurality of trusses to be stacked flatwise one on another for storage and delivery.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1993Date of Patent: October 17, 1995Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Pellock, Larry R. Daudet
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Patent number: 5437135Abstract: A diagonal strut for a system for the construction of arrangements used for mounting workpieces on machine tool tables in a defined and reproducible position. The system includes a base plate and receiving members connected to each other by the diagonal strut. The base plate and the receiving members have connecting bores whose axes are arranged spaced from each other at unit spacings. The diagonal strut has transverse connecting bores whose axes are spaced apart at a distance which corresponds to five times the unit spacing or a multiple thereof. Two end faces are arranged at each end of the diagonal strut. The end faces extend at a right angle relative to each other and one of the end faces includes an angle of 36.87.degree. with a centerline extending through the axes of the transverse connecting bores and the other end face includes an angle of 53.13.degree. with the centerline.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1993Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: Horst Witte Entwicklungs und Vertriebs-KGInventor: Horst Witte
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Patent number: 5437136Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 30, 1993Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: MERO-Raumstruktur GmbH & CoInventor: Thomas Triebel
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Patent number: 5433055Abstract: A truss member for the erection of a building structure being fabricated in twenty eight foot lengths having top and bottom full length 2.times.4 members having intermediate angled hardwood members with spaced vertical hardwood members and plywood full length at each side thereof and at either outer side the full length thereof angled iron members and at each end thereof transverse bolts forming a unitary parallel metal truss box beam member requiring no bearing walls in providing overhead support reducing the cost of fabrication relative to a prior art truss member on the order of fifty percent and reducing the time and cost of erecting a frame structure by substantially a like amount of savings.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1993Date of Patent: July 18, 1995Inventor: Edward J. Schliep
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Patent number: 5417028Abstract: A top chord for a roof truss, the top chord has a cross section so that the chord has a top web joining to side flanges. The side flanges have converging flange portions which are corrugated so as to have corrugations extending away from the web.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1992Date of Patent: May 23, 1995Assignee: Uniframes Holdings Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Dolph A. Meyer
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Patent number: 5390455Abstract: A system for modifying existing wood frame buildings to protect them from damage due to seismic and wind forces. At least one (preferably several) deadman is formed adjacent to a peripheral foundation that supports rim joists on foundation sill plates at the foundation and plural crossed beams and floor framing joists. The deadman preferably comprises concrete. A plurality of transfer blocks and compression blocks are fastened along said rim joists between at least some of the framing joists. Elongated transfer ties are secured to the transfer blocks and pass adjacent to the deadman. At least one anchor embedded in the deadman and is fastened to the transfer tie. At least one additional anchor may be secured to the deadman and fastened to an adjacent framing joist. Framing joists preferably have short tie straps overlapping all joist connections and fastened to the joists. Exterior wall covering material may be removed adjacent to the foundation sill plate and any wall sill plates.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1992Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Inventor: Douglas R. Antolini
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Patent number: 5350265Abstract: A reinforcing fitting which widely distributes lateral stresses applied to wood members at the location where the wood is bolted to another member. The connection may be a wood member bolted to concrete, or bolted to steel, or two or more wood members bolted to one another. The fitting is generally comprised of a cylindrical metal tubular member having substantial wall thickness and a smooth-walled central bore in which an appropriately sized bolt shank may be positioned. A first or top end of the tubular member is affixed with a metal plate having a multiple of spikes projecting downward from the bottom surface of the plate. The tubular member is structured for insertion into a pre-drilled circular hole in a wood member, with a second or bottom end of the tubular member extending just short of the opposite side of the wood.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1993Date of Patent: September 27, 1994Inventor: David M. Kinner
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Patent number: 5311706Abstract: An inflatable truss frame member for use in the frame of a large inflatable device such as a ship or satellite decoy. A first embodiment, developed for use in satellite decoys, comprises three main inflatable tubes separated by shear load carrying interlacing inflatable tubes. The first embodiment may be manufactured by laminating two MYLAR sheets together using a triangular pattern of adhesive print to form a series of inflatable tubes. Excess material is removed from between the tubes and the edges of the MYLAR are bonded together forming a cylinder to complete the inflatable truss frame member. A second embodiment, developed for the heavier shear loading of ship decoys, comprises three main inflatable tubes separated by a shear load carrying web. The second embodiment may be manufactured by bonding an inner and outer tube made of MYLAR along arcuately spaced strips. The bonded MYLAR forms the separating web and unbonded MYLAR forms three inflatable tubes.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1991Date of Patent: May 17, 1994Assignee: Tracor Aerospace, Inc.Inventor: Bradley Sallee
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Patent number: 5301486Abstract: A cross-brace for a pair of joists has inclined brace members extending in vertical X-shaped array and a horizontal member rigidly connecting outer ends of two of the brace members and forming a horizontal strut between the outer ends. The cross-brace has flat lateral extremities, with flat vertical laterally outermost surfaces, for surface-to-surface abutment with opposed sides of the joists, the flat lateral extremities allowing the cross-brace to be entirely accommodated between the opposed sides of the joists.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1991Date of Patent: April 12, 1994Assignee: Western Interlok Systems, Ltd.Inventor: John W. R. Taylor
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Patent number: 5234279Abstract: A connector plate is provided which includes a plurality of connecting prongs which are, in use, pressed into wooden members to form a joint and which include at least one row of edge prongs that is folded down from the edge of the plate and that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector plate. A joint formed by a chord member and at least two abutting diagonals is connected together by connector plate which has a prong density that is asymmetrical with respect to longitudinal axis of the plate and has increased prong density at one side thereof. A joint structure provides a stiff, nonplastic joint.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1991Date of Patent: August 10, 1993Inventor: Tuomo T. Poutanen
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Patent number: 5230190Abstract: A joist bridge and duct support device for spanning parallel spaced apart joists or other longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart support beams. The device is integrally formed with a centrally located duct support member within a joist bridge frame member. The joist bridge and duct support member additionally has feet members for ease in placing and securing the bridge to the joists or support beams between which it spans. The joist bridge and duct support member provides a optimum load bearing capacity as a joist bridge while additionally providing duct support.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1992Date of Patent: July 27, 1993Assignee: Empak, Inc.Inventor: Gail Schuette
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Patent number: 5218801Abstract: A roof truss and decking system having trusses constructed with multiple truss blocks (8) stacked end to end with crush plates (14) in between. Keystones (16) are placed at the apex of the trusses or the crush plates (14) wedge shaped forming the trusses into arches. Truss blocks (8), keystones (16) and crush plates (14) are compressed together and strengthened with wire ropes (20). Wire ropes (20) run through wire rope receiving channels (30) in the truss blocks (8), through the curved wire rope receiving channels (46) in the keystones (16), and through wire rope slots (34) in the crush plates (14). Tensions of the wire ropes (20) are transmitted to the feet of the trusses at the tie plates (12). Tiebeam wire ropes (21) are added to each truss from the tie plate (12) on one foot to the tie plate (12) on the other foot preventing the truss' feet from spreading. The trusses are spaced apart and the spaced between is covered with spacer plates (10) resting in grooves (26) at the top of the truss blocks (8).Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1991Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Inventor: Judson A. Hereford
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Patent number: 5214900Abstract: A joist support beam is comprised of an elongated substantially flat horizontal flange with a plurality of spaced upstanding brackets or web segments secured to the flange. Joist gripping elements are secured to the upper ends of the brackets and are comprised of hollow sleeves having threaded bolts therein which protrude in opposite directions therefrom. Plates are secured to the outer ends of the bolts for tight engagement with transverse joists extending across the plate in-between the upstanding brackets. A method of providing more headroom under joists using the aforementioned beam structure comprises positioning the beam structure so that the joists extend transversely across through the spaces between the upstanding web segments or brackets, extending the bolts from the sleeves for tight engagement with the joist extending across the beam. Alternatively, apertures are cut in the joists with a rigid member or sleeve placed within the aperture for the joist gripping means to tightly bear against.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1991Date of Patent: June 1, 1993Inventor: Cornelius Folkerts
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Patent number: 5201546Abstract: A towable unified floor frame assembly derives lengthwise strength from two elongate I-beams disposed symmetrically about a longitudinal axis. The I-beams are separated by a plurality of angle-sectioned metal cross members welded therebetween. A plurality of trusses, corresponding in number and location to the metal cross members, is disposed to support an outer perimeter and a floor thereabove. Each truss incorporates upwardly inclined bracing elements located outwardly of the I-beams connected to flat metal connecting elements individually unified to the I-beams, preferably by welding. A waterproof and dirt-excluding cover entirely covers the underneath of the floor frame assembly. Heating and ventilating ducts, power and telephone wires, water and waste pipes, thermal insulation and the like, are installed within the floor frame assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1991Date of Patent: April 13, 1993Assignee: Lindsay Industries, Inc.Inventor: Fredrick H. Lindsay
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Patent number: 5105598Abstract: A brace member that braces structural members against movement in an environment where a pair of structural members are joined together and orthogonally disposed with respect to one another. The brace member has two parts that are telescopically coupled together and which are selectively lockable in a plurality of positions of longitudinal and rotational adjustment. Each part includes a tubular section and a flattened section which are bendable relative to one another along a folding line. The flattened ends of the brace members overlie and are fastened to any preselected surface of a structural member to be braced. The tubular parts are lockable to one another in two positions of rotational adjustment that are disposed circumferentially ninety degrees from one another so that the flattened parts may selectively overlie preselected surfaces of said structural members that are coplanar or disposed at right angles to one another.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1991Date of Patent: April 21, 1992Inventor: Robert Wilcox
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Patent number: 5090166Abstract: An improved rectilinear building structure using diagonal tension members to resist racking to improve the tolerance of transitory transverse loads such as those that are produced by seismic occurrences. The improvement comprises placing a resilient pad in compression between at least one end of a tension member and a structural member whereby the resilient pad is compressed when the tension member is under tension so that the resilient pad deforms under the transitory transverse load thereby increasing the ductility of the structure before fracture of the tension member occurs.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1990Date of Patent: February 25, 1992Assignee: Butler Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Donald L. Johnson, Roger A. LaBoube, Suresh C. Satsangi
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Patent number: 5072570Abstract: A method for providing earthquake reinforcement for existing wood frame buildings by providing two truss members, the first for securing the building to the foundation and the second to prevent the building cripple walls from collapsing during an earthquake.The first truss member comprises a lower brace member supported between two L-shaped beams, a bolt through the brace member and through one L-shaped beam joining the first truss member to the concrete foundation, the second truss member comprising a brace member having a height determined by the height of the cripple wall and supported between upper and lower L-shaped beams, the lower L-shaped beam being bolted to the adjacent L-shaped beam of the first truss member.The lower beam member of the second truss member is secured to a wood beam which in turn is fixed to the cripple wall. The upper beam member of the second truss member is secured to a wood beam fixed to the cripple wall.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1990Date of Patent: December 17, 1991Inventor: Michael I. Johnson
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Patent number: 5008967Abstract: A triangular truss walkout cantilever for displaying railroad warning signals above the individual lanes of a road or highway at a railroad grade crossing is disclosed. The cantilever includes a cantilever arm attached to a vertical roadside mast. The cantilever arm has three parallel truss members that form a triangular cross section. These members are reinforced by a system of struts and braces. A catwalk allows a worker access to the warning signals for maintenance and no braces interfere with such access.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1989Date of Patent: April 23, 1991Assignee: Modern Industries, Inc.Inventors: Richard C. Barrios, Philip A. Hayes
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Patent number: 5003748Abstract: A metal frame structure of the type employing two chords (11) extending in generally the same longitudinal direction and having a plurality of webs (12) extending in zig-zag configuration between the chords (11). The webs (12) are secured to the chords (11) at a plurality of frame joints (13). At each frame joint adjacent webs have opposed flattened end portions (22) which extend in overlapping relation along the inner sides of a respective chord (11) and are secured to the chord by transversely spaced fasteners (14).Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1990Date of Patent: April 2, 1991Assignee: Supertruss Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Noel R. Carr
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Patent number: 4986051Abstract: The upper chord of a metal roof truss which comprises an elongated beam (10) formed of rolled form metal strip which is of a constant cross-section having longitudinally extending portions (13, 14, 15 and 16) providing flat surfaces of such dimensions that with the application of excessive load upon the beam breakdown of substantially all of said portions occurs simultaneously, and wherein most of the flat surfaced portions are of a width not exceeding that which will comply with following formula (I), where: F.sub.a =maximum permissible compression stress expressed in Mpa, .OMEGA.=load factor, Q=form factor which allows for the effective cross-sectional area, F.sub.oc =elastic buckling stress expressed in Mpa, F.sub.y =yield stress expressed in Mpa.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1989Date of Patent: January 22, 1991Inventors: Dolph A. Meyer, Wyatmodjo Sardjono
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Patent number: 4958473Abstract: A frame has elongated upper and lower angle members each comprising two parts both having L-shaped cross sections and joint portions of T-shaped cross sections formed at adjacent end portions of the two parts. The legs of the T-shaped joint portions are connected by a coupling member disposed on the legs and secured thereto by fastening members.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1989Date of Patent: September 25, 1990Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventor: Hiroumi Iyoda
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Patent number: 4947612Abstract: A cross-brace for connection to a pair of parallel conventional joists comprises elongate brace members assembled to form a X-shaped array, with a pair of vertical reinforcement members extending between outer ends of the brace members. The brace members and reinforcement members are connected to one another and, when the cross-brace is assembled with the joists, the reinforcement members abut mutually opposed sides of the joists. When I-beams are employed, the outer ends of the brace members and the opposite ends of the reinforcement members cooperate to form right-angled notches for snugly receiving longitudinal beam members, which are interconnected in pairs by web members against which the reinforcement members abut. The web members are connected by dovetail joints to the beam members instead of simply being inserted in a conventional manner into slots in the beam members.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1988Date of Patent: August 14, 1990Inventors: John W. R. Taylor, John M. Palmer, Emanuel Butkovsky
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Patent number: 4937997Abstract: An open web metal structural beam for use in building construction has a generally Z-shaped transverse cross section and is capable of being nested and joined in a lapped position with like beam members. The beam has a top chord defined by an elongate longitudinal angle having an L-shaped transverse cross section, a bottom chord member defined by an elongate longitudinal angle having an L-shaped transverse cross section. The top and bottom chords are secured by an open web member in vertically opposed relation with the vertical leg portions of the L-shapes aligned vertically and horizontal leg portions of the L-shapes in laterally opposed relation and the laterally opposed longitudinal edges of the horizontal leg portions of the L-shapes are bent to form vertically opposed longitudinally extending stiffener lips on the chord members. One or more metal angle members welded vertically between the vertical legs of L-shaped chord members on the side opposite the web increase the rigidity of the structural beam.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1989Date of Patent: July 3, 1990Inventors: William G. Thomas, Jr., John C. Gussett, Clarke H. Stevenson
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Patent number: 4930930Abstract: The invention relates to a connective apparatus between a truss beam and another object, e.g., a second truss beam or another device, for rigidly joining the two together. The connective apparatus comprises a unitary attachment device which is connected to one of the frame elements in a truss beam. The device includes a rabbet member capable of attachment to a pair of struts of the frame element and a connector member attached to the rabbet member. A connector strut is provided for joining two or more truss beams to each other by interconnecting two nodes of the respective beams.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1988Date of Patent: June 5, 1990Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Anthony P. Coppa
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Patent number: 4930809Abstract: A unified floor frame assembly has two elongate outer load supporting beams formed of elongate beam sections that are butt-spliced to be cambered in parallel vertical planes to counter forces that may tend to cause sagging of the floor frame assembly during transportation. At inner vertical perimeter surfaces of the elongate beams are provided attachment plates for attachment, first, of a wheel carrier assembly detachably mountable thereto with a plurality of wheels partially recessed within the floor frame assembly and, second, a towing hitch assembly attachable to a forward end of the floor frame assembly for applying a towing force thereat. A moisture, dirt, insect and pest excluding thin covering is provided underneath the floor frame assembly and sections of heating and ventilating ducting, piping, wiring and the like are includable during manufacture of the floor frame assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1988Date of Patent: June 5, 1990Assignee: Lindsay Industries, Inc.Inventor: Frederick Lindsay
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Patent number: 4891927Abstract: A joint in which wooden beams are made up of beam members, located side by side in the longitudinal direction of the beams, and in which beam joint elements, provided with nails, are fitted on the inner surfaces of the beam members in such a way that they do not extend all the way to the outer surface of the beams. The joint may be used in trust structures.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1988Date of Patent: January 9, 1990Assignee: Metsaliiton Teollisuus OYInventors: Matti O. Kairi, Markku S. Lehtonen
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Patent number: 4890429Abstract: The invention relates to a building truss having an intermediate flexible section and two end stiff sections. The truss is formed of upper and lower chord(s) with the lower chord(s) of the intermediate section having a plurality of lengths of tube slidably received over a tensioning cable. By tensioning the cable the truss is bowed upwardly to form an arcuate truss.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1987Date of Patent: January 2, 1990Assignee: Starch Industries, Pty. Ltd.Inventors: Bruno G. Gatzka, Christopher J. Olsen
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Patent number: 4887406Abstract: A structural member that is adapted to be used as a joist purlin, or girt which is used in a roof, floor, or vertical support. The structural member comprises spaced apart, parallel chords joined to one another by spaced apart struts. Each chord is composed of a pair of angular elements having vertical flanges joined in back to back relation, the vertical flanges being joined to upper flanges which extend in opposite directions from the joined flanges and are either horizontal or inclined to correspond to the pitch of the roof.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1987Date of Patent: December 19, 1989Inventor: Wilburn H. F. Saia
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Patent number: 4872299Abstract: The present invention provides a support member for use with a truss having upper and lower chords with web members extending therebetween. The chords have staggered recesses, and the web members have flattened ends which overlap within the support member. The support member includes a plurality of cases, with one such web case positioned in each of the recesses. Each web case includes a pair of opposed case elements, one of which is positioned to each side of the flattened web member ends, and wherein each case element includes a planar side portion having an interior edge facing the opposing chord, and a flange portion extending normally outwardly from the interior edge. The support member also includes a joining member for joining the web case to the adjacent web member ends.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1988Date of Patent: October 10, 1989Assignee: Trus Joist CorporationInventors: Arthur L. Troutner, Kevin B. O'Sullivan
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Patent number: 4863189Abstract: A floor frame assembly, formed principally of wood material, has two load-bearing outer beams and front and rear end members defining a periphery and a plurality of transverse load-supporting trusses connected normal to the outer beam between the end members. In a preferred embodiment, each truss has an upper elongate member, a shorter central elongate member attached parallel thereto by vertical cross-braced elements, and on either side of the central member a braced vertical member spaced therefrom to provide gaps of predetermined height and width. Each truss also has an end portion of the upper elongate member in cantilever form for contact thereat with a load-supporting surface at the permanent location of the floor assembly, so that additional external beams or continuous wall surfaces to support the completed floor frame assembly and any superstructure thereon is rendered unnecessary.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1988Date of Patent: September 5, 1989Assignee: Lindsay Industries, Inc.Inventor: Fred Lindsay
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Patent number: 4831797Abstract: A concrete forming structure. A pair of first and second chord members are positioned generally parallel and spaced a distance apart. Beam members extend between the pair of chord members. A plurality of rigid web members are mounted between the first and second chord members and are generally movable parallel with and relative to the chord members.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 1988Date of Patent: May 23, 1989Assignee: Hy-Rise Scaffolding Ltd.Inventor: Predrag Vladikovic
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Patent number: 4829739Abstract: A truss structure for use in a gravity-free environment is disclosed together with methods and apparatus for constructing the same. The structure, characterized by high stiffness and a precise self-determined geometry and having a prism-form with square right cross section, is constructed from a plurality of substantially identical triangular frame elements. The truss structure may be manually constructed from a multi-row chain of interconnected elements or from a four row network of elements. The structure may also be constructed using an automatic method wherein individual frame elements are fed from four stack support and feed units to a holding fixture having a square cross section.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1987Date of Patent: May 16, 1989Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Anthony P. Coppa
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Patent number: 4819400Abstract: A beam having flanges (10, 11) of wood and a web interconnecting said flanges and consisting of metal rods (13) inclined relative to each other in the plane of the web like the bars in a trapezoidal curve and having end portions (14 and 15, respectively) bent in the same plane and at the same angle but in opposite directions and fixed in recessed bores (26) in the flanges (10, 11). Between the central portions and the end portions (14, 15) of the metal rods, washers (28) are accommodated in the recesses with close fit. The end portions (14, 15) are fixed either in blind bores (26) by engaging the wall of the bore, or in throughbores by means of a nut or the like engaging the end portion and abutting against the bottom of a recess of the end of the bore remote from the web. Preferably, the end portions (14, 15) are glued in their bores and the washers in their recesses.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1987Date of Patent: April 11, 1989Assignee: Bjorn LarssonInventor: Bengt A. Kindberg
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Patent number: 4803824Abstract: A truss structure for use in a gravity-free environment is disclosed together with methods and apparatus for constructing the same. The structure, characterized by high stiffness and a precise self-determined geometry and having a prism-form with square right cross section, is constructed from a plurality of substantially identical triangular frame elements. The truss structure may be manually constructed from a multi-row chain of interconnected elements or from a four row network of elements. The structure may also be constructed using an automatic method wherein individual frame elements are fed from four stack support and feed units to a holding fixture having a square cross section.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1985Date of Patent: February 14, 1989Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Anthony P. Coppa
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Patent number: 4790113Abstract: An adjustable depth truss for a flying table comprised of an upper and lower chord held in spaced relationship to each other by diagonal supports attached by connectors received within holes spaced along the length of the chords. The connectors are selectively positionable in the holes to change the angle at which the diagonals are mounted to the chords, thereby varying the distance between the chords and adjusting the depth of the truss.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1987Date of Patent: December 13, 1988Inventor: Robert K. Gregory
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Patent number: 4781009Abstract: A method for manufacturing an elongated, box-like structural component comprising two mutually opposing side-members (1, 2) which define a cavity therebetween. The mutually opposing surfaces of the side-members present longitudinally extending grooves into which projections on distance pieces (3) located between the members engage. In the process of manufacturing the structural component pairs of boards or the like are advanced in spaced relationship in the longitudinal direction of the boards into a receiving station (7) with the grooved inner surfaces of the boards facing one another, the distance pieces (3) being placing between the boards as they enter the station (7). As the boards leave the station, they are pressed towards one another in a manner to bring the projections on the distance pieces (3) into engagement with the grooves on the inwardly facing surfaces of the boards.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1987Date of Patent: November 1, 1988Inventors: Erik A. Jonsson, Sven-Erik Fernaeus
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Patent number: 4776534Abstract: A warpable beam allowing a controlled degree of torsional resistance. The beam is formed with an open cross-section channel-shaped structural element (24) that includes a plurality of planar structural elements (28) or (32) that are positioned within the open section and that define the cross sectional shape. A plurality of diagonal structural element s(46) or (48) positioned transversely within the open section and interfaced with the planar elements transmitting shear across segments. A plurality of points of restraint (50) control the warping of the beam as a result of their relative motion. Further, oppositely inclined diagonal elements in different segments are connected in such a manner as to allow relatively free longitudinal motion while transmitting loads. The beam may be used for bridges or boat docks or as a leading edge spar (57) of an airfoil.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1987Date of Patent: October 11, 1988Inventor: Robert M. Bamford
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Patent number: 4750309Abstract: A bracket apparatus for attachment of a structural support, such as a truss, receives a pin in the form of a bolt which extends laterally through side edges of chord members of the support and a hole in a web member. The bracket apparatus includes two cooperating bracket members each including an upper plate portion, an internal tab portion, and external flange portion which extends in the same direction as the tab portion generally perpendicular from the upper plate portion. The tab portion and flange portion include holes which receive the pin extending laterally through the chord member. The bracket apparatus provides additional support to the pin in providing additional bearing surfaces in the form of the inner surface of the holes in the tab portion and external portion and thus reduces the amount of pin bending. Accordingly, lower grade steel can be used in the pin or a higher reaction load can be carried by the truss for a given pin.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 1986Date of Patent: June 14, 1988Assignee: Trus Joist CorporationInventor: William R. Reetz
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Patent number: 4735029Abstract: A roof system comprises roof support members, such as rafters and purlins, to which truss members are connected. These members are formed as sheet metal beams. The truss members are joined to the other members by spring truss pins or clips. These clips are generally formed as a spring bight having first and second legs, with key portions formed at the free end of the legs. The key portion of the first leg includes an indentation which faces away from the second leg, and a short stub member. The second leg key portion includes an offset which extends transversely in the direction towards the line of the first leg, and a stub member which extends in the direction generally parallel to the second leg.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1986Date of Patent: April 5, 1988Assignee: Etco Building Systems, Inc.Inventor: Wesley T. Murphy
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Patent number: 4724647Abstract: A diagonal ceiling brace for ceiling suspension systems. The ceiling suspension system contains a plurality of parallel longitudinal beams and a plurality of parallel cross beams. The longitudinal beams and the cross beams are connected to each other at intersecting junctions. The diagonal ceiling brace comprises an elongated main bar having a horizontal plate formed at each end thereof. Each horizontal plate has a front edge containing a pair of surfaces defining a generally 90.degree. angle for enabling the plate to abut a junction of one of the longitudinal beams and one of the parallel cross beams. A releasable hook locks the brace to the beams at the junction.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 1987Date of Patent: February 16, 1988Inventor: Carey F. Baird
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Patent number: 4706436Abstract: A lattice bridge construction system is characterised by the provision of lattice panels (A,B,C) which are of substantially identical length but of different depths relative to one another such that when variously combined one with another, with or without additional reinforcement, trusses having considerably more economic increments of bending strength may be achieved.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1986Date of Patent: November 17, 1987Assignee: Mabey & Johnson LimitedInventors: Bevil G. Mabey, David G. Mabey
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Patent number: 4682460Abstract: A mounting apparatus including a mounting bracket, for attachment of an open web structural support to an end support such as a support wall enables the upper chord member of the structural support to be mounted flush to the top of a bearing plate on the top of the support wall. The bracket is comprised of an angled plate member which is securable to the bearing plate and includes a chord receiving portion having outwardly extending channel members which receive opposite side edges of the ends of the upper chord member. Adjustable length end web members are connected to the angled plate member to accommodate a change of length of the structural support. An adjustable spacer apparatus is provided in the channel members between the end of the upper chord member and angled plate member for accommodating structural supports of different lengths.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1986Date of Patent: July 28, 1987Assignee: Trus Joist CorporationInventor: William R. Reetz
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Patent number: 4680912Abstract: A structure is proposed for metal constructions, in particular of the trestlework type, with at least an angle iron having equal legs, each one of which being extended at its free and with a first and a second extension length having a width substantially equal to half width of a leg, the first extension length being positioned at right angle relatively to the first extension length, the second extension length being positioned at right angle relatively to the first extension length, in such a direction as to depart from the other leg of the angle iron. The structure is moreover provided with jointing elements each constituted by a plate suitable to be fastened on to the angle iron at least in correspondence of the inner surface of one of its legs, and in correspondence of the inner surface of the second extension length of its second leg.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1986Date of Patent: July 21, 1987Inventor: Antonio Pantalone
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Patent number: 4665677Abstract: A truss assembly and truss hanger, bracing clip and attachment member for use with trusses is disclosed. The bracing clip is used for supporting a beam running transverse to a plurality of wooden trusses and includes a connector plate disposed within a first plane having a plurality of sharp projections extending generally perpendicular from the plane of the plate for use in fixedly attaching the connector plate to the top wooden member of the truss. A truss hanger in accordance with the invention comprises a bracket having a first leg with first and second ends, the first leg having a side which is adapted to engage the width of a beam, a base disposed in a first plane having first and second ends, the first end of the base being attached to the first end of the leg at approximately 90.degree. angle, the base being adapted to engage the top of the beam and a second leg disposed in a second plane which is parallel to the first plane and is attached to the second end of the base at an approximate 90.degree.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1985Date of Patent: May 19, 1987Assignee: Gang-Nail Systems Inc.Inventors: Joaquim J. Palacio, Carlos C. Cristobal
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Patent number: 4660346Abstract: The frame system, especially for racks and interior fixtures comprises elongate lattice girders, including three chords not disposed in one plane and interconnected in transverse direction by ties. The ties are so arranged with respect to the chords that their legs define the sides of regular pyramids having square bases. Each of the pyramid surfaces is suitable for the connection of two lattice girders.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1985Date of Patent: April 28, 1987Inventors: Frank Burger, Thomas Herzog
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Patent number: 4655021Abstract: The reticular structure comprises a plurality of substantially rectilinear axis beams (1) having at least one lower bar (2) and at least one upper bar (2') having different length. Each of these beams (1) is articulated to the adjacent beams at the ends of the bar (2) having larger length and the link between the bars (2') having smaller length is obtained for interposition of an intermediate element (9) having a length to be prearranged according to the outline of the structure to be realized.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1985Date of Patent: April 7, 1987Assignee: Antonio Eliano PagliantiInventors: Franco Franchin, Paolo Bellomo
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Patent number: RE34022Abstract: A structural member for bracing adjacent wooden studs of a wall frame comprised of an elongated body portion having mounting portions at the ends thereof, which mounting portions include outwardly facing end surfaces generally parallel to each other and oblique to the body portion, side surfaces perpendicular to and laterally offset from the end surfaces, and means for forming a third surface facing and parallel to the first surface wherein three surface engagement between the structural member and the stud is provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1989Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Assignee: Better Building Products, Inc.Inventor: Roy E. Davis
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Patent number: RE34103Abstract: A lattice bridge construction system is characterized by the provision of lattice panels (A,B,C) which are of substantially identical length but of different depths relative to one another such that when variously combined one with another, with or without additional reinforcement, trusses having considerably more economic increments of bending strength may be achieved.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1989Date of Patent: October 20, 1992Assignee: Mabey & Johnson LimitedInventors: Bevil G. Mabey, David G. Mabey