Elongated Supported Track Type Patents (Class 52/710)
  • Publication number: 20070180780
    Abstract: The instant invention relates to an infinitely adjustable anchoring system for attaching structural members to a support member. The system comprises a continuous, elongated, removable retaining track secured to the outer surface of a support member and configured to receive at least one adjustable connector plate therein. The adjustable connector plates are capable of attaching to structural members having various dimensions and pitches relative to the track. The invention includes a reusable centering bracket assembly used to install a retaining track assembly along an upper portion of a support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Inventor: Silvino R. Foglia
  • Patent number: 7237368
    Abstract: An anchor system for attaching a series of structural members to a wall comprises an elongate horizontal track and a plurality of anchor plates. The horizontal track has a pair of spaced apart sidewalls defining therebetween an upwardly facing channel with a restricted opening. The anchor plates each include an enlarged head portion, nailing plate and a relatively narrow strap extending between the head portion and the nailing plate. The head portion is sized to fit within the channel and engage the sidewalls to retain the anchor plates at selected longitudinal positions. The strap is sized to pass between the sidewalls to position the nailing plate normal to the track for attaching a structural member thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Richard B. Richardson, John E. Nemazi
  • Patent number: 7234566
    Abstract: Inserts (10 or 10A) for mounting rails (302) for rollers (301) on a cab in a shaft (300) of an elevator are described. Also, insert 10A is particularly useful for mounting flooring in the elevator shaft (300). The insert can be used as a support for a hoist or winch (310).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: The Vertical Solutions Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John Scott Simmons
  • Patent number: 7104024
    Abstract: A connector for interconnecting two building members together. The connector, in one embodiment, includes first and second plates secured together. Each plate includes one or more elongated slots wherein the elongated slots of one plate are oriented at an angle of approximately 90° with respect to the slots formed in the other plate. Fasteners extend through the slots in the plates and connect the plates of the connector to two building members such as a horizontal building member and a vertical building member. Once connected, one of the building members is free to move with respect to the other building member while the connector is connected to the two building members. In another embodiment, the connector is slidable within a track. In this embodiment, a portion of the connector extends from the track and connects to one of the building members while the track connects to the other one of the building members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, Michael Torres, Gary Bennett, Michael Booth
  • Patent number: 6817156
    Abstract: A device (10) for positioning a U-channel (20) in a concrete structure, the device (10) including an attachment tube (22) to be secured to two reinforcement bars (80) of the concrete structure, and a body (12) housing two coil springs (7), the body (12) including an upper part (14) and a lower part (16) which are biased away from each other by the springs (7) and the lower part (16) is engageable with the U-channel (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Chiu Pang Mok
  • Patent number: 6782668
    Abstract: A roof-screen system for supporting a roof screen on a roof, comprises a plurality of frame elements of round galvanized steel tubing configured as separate frames. The frames have a front element, a bottom element, and a diagonal brace element. A plurality of base supports are secured to the frame elements and sleeve connectors, including a base connector, an end connector, and a field connector which secure the frame elements together and to the base. A plurality of support elements are used for supporting the face panels to the front element of the separate frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Ryan W. Bruce
  • Publication number: 20030217525
    Abstract: A stud-support frame for quick and easy installation of a window, particularly of a non-rectangular window, such as an oval, octagonal, or circular window. The stud-support frame has a shape and size that corresponds to that of the window. The frame is typically used together with a template that serves as a guide for cutting a window opening of a specific shape and size in a studded wall construction for receiving the stud-support frame and the window casing of the window. After the window opening is cut, the stud-support frame is inserted into the opening, fastened to the wall studs, and the window casing inserted into the frame. A finishing window trim is assembled around the window casing and covers the face of the stud-support frame that is on the face of the wall, thereby eliminating finish work on the wall around the window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Keith
  • Publication number: 20020148191
    Abstract: A building construction framing system utilizes studs and joining members which are respectively extruded and molded from a composite plastic/wood flour material. Along its length, each stud has a central web with transverse outer edge flanges and an intermediate transverse flange that defines with the outer edge flanges a separated pair of longitudinally extending lateral pockets on each side of the web. A series of first studs are arranged in a spaced apart, parallel relationship with their opposite ends abutting parallel, spaced apart second and third studs. The joining members are positioned at the opposite ends of the first studs, are recessed in the lateral pockets of the first, second and third studs, and are secured to their adjacent studs using suitable fastening members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas C. Hynes
  • Publication number: 20020078657
    Abstract: An anchoring device for prefabricated concrete components comprises an anchoring insert, for embedding in the concrete body of a prefabricated component and has a slot in one of its portions, a connecting element provided with a head insertable through the slot and movable to engage or disengage the face of the anchoring insert lying opposite with respect to the insertion face by rotation, of the head and elements for locking rotation of the head in the engagement condition. The locking elements allow sliding of the connecting element, with the head engaged, along the slot with respect to the anchoring insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Sergio Zambelli, Benito Zambelli
  • Patent number: 6305650
    Abstract: A mounting system providing protection to the mounting surface and flexibility to accommodate movement of the mounted structures. In one application, a pipe mounting system for rooftop mounting which provides a base conforming to the roof and protects the roof from penetration of the roof membrane by the base. The pipe mounting system providing freedom of motion in every direction to prevent damage to the roof structure. The pipe mounting system designed to withstand weather extremes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Pipe Pier
    Inventors: Patrick A. Hawkins, Andrew J. Gross, Danti J. Osland
  • Patent number: 6286277
    Abstract: A sliding panel system whose sliding panel elements are aligned in a row next to each other when the sliding panel is closed and are positioned orthogonally in relation to the sliding panel when it is in its parked position. The individual sliding panel elements are guided on a first rail arrangement, a curved or bent rail section being adjacent to said slide rail in the transitional area leading to the parked position. The invention is characterized in that the slide rail has a curved or bent rail section in the transitional area leading to the parked position itself. When a point is switched immediately, said rail section opens up onto a parking rail running orthogonally or at an angle to the slide rail. The free end of the parking rail is configured so that it extends into the area of the sliding panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Dorma GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Ernst-Udo Blöbaum, Reinhard Janutta
  • Patent number: 6260711
    Abstract: A shielding device 23, 24, in apparatus 1 for screening ore or like material includes an elongate body portion 25 for location over the top surface 7 of a support beam 3 of a support frame for screen panels 6. The shielding device includes at least one skirt 26 projecting from a side of the body portion 25. The device is locatable between the screen panels 6, a fixing member 13 for the screen panels and the beam 3 and provides a surface 27-27a for collecting fines material that ingresses between the screen panels 6 and fixing member 13 and deflecting it away from the beam 3. Use of the shielding devices reduces wear on the support beams 3 due to the abrasive fines material. The shielding devices are consumable items and can be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Lettela Pty Limited
    Inventor: Raymond Maxwell Woodgate
  • Patent number: 6205719
    Abstract: A roof screen system comprises a number of triangular frames assembled from aluminum beams held together with pivotable clamps. Such clamps also bolt down onto roof footers with flashing boots that prevent roof leaks. A number of clips are attached to the upright triangular frames. Horizontal rails are then attached with the clips to the triangular frames, and screen panels are hung and attached to the rails. The pivotable clamps allow a slip-connection anywhere along the aluminum beams that can be locked down with ordinary wrenches. As such, the screen panels can be tilted back or forward to accommodate painted signs, electric signs, advertising, and even solar photovoltaic panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Royal Roofing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Ryan W. Bruce
  • Patent number: 6161355
    Abstract: A system of tracks, brackets and containers, typically empty beverage cans, assembled and used for temporary storage, temporary emergency shelters, toys, or other uses involving inexpensive and light weight building materials. The system is implemented by releasably attaching the containers to the tracks, then releasably attaching the tracks to each other either horizontally, vertically, or both to form structural elements such as beams, columns, or panels. The rigid tracks are made from a material which allows for apertures in the tracks to be sized to resiliently snap onto portions of the containers. The track may be formed in a variety of different shapes, such as straight, angled, curved, T-shaped or cross-shaped. Additionally, the brackets may be formed in a variety of different shapes to attach the track assemblies to each other in various orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Lawrence B. Gratt
  • Patent number: 6151843
    Abstract: A connecting system for prefabricated panels for forming walls and roofs of buildings which includes a non-structural concrete corner piece for attachment between abutted prefabricated wall panels. The wall panels having geometrically configured channels for securing roof truss members with complimentary geometrically configured straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: We-Mar, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Weaver, Robert G. Martin, Jan L. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6131359
    Abstract: A spacer clip for securing side-by-side joists and a method for using such clips is provided. The spacer clip, constructed from sheet metal or a rigid composite includes a bridging section and a pair of legs that extend transversely to the bridging section. A draw bar is provided along the legs at positions remote from the bridging section. The draw bar is movable to vary the pressure applied by the legs to confronting sections of joists. The draw bar can be locked in a pressure-applying orientation with respect to each of the legs. In this manner, the joists are spaced by the bridging section at one end of their height and the draw bar pressurably spaces them at an opposing end of their height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Owen D. Duff
  • Patent number: 6119427
    Abstract: A structure wall includes first and second cooperating building panels. The first building panel includes first and second skins forming respective first and second opposed panel faces and a first foam filled core between the first and second skins. A portion of the foam filled core defines a groove that extends substantially continuously across the first building panel. A slotted rail extends substantially continuously across this groove. The second building panel includes third and fourth skins forming third and fourth opposed panel faces. A second foam filled core is provided between the third and fourth skins. The second foam filled core has at least one latch which may be extended from the panel to selectively engage the slotted rail at substantially any position along the rail. In this way, it is possible to provide substantially infinite adjustability of the position of the second building panel relative to the first building panel while also providing a secure and reliable connection therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Louisville Cooler Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Larry W. Wyman, James V. Kinser, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5970675
    Abstract: A connector attaches panel elements such as wall panels, shelves, columns and the like to assemble modular structures. The connector frictionally engages the surfaces of elongated channels at the edge of the panels to be joined. The connector includes a contoured base section complementary with the channel of a first panel, to which the connector can optionally be screwed. A deformable cam section is carried on an intermediate section for receipt in the channel of the second panel. The cam section preferably has opposite cantilever arms which engage flanges of the anchor channels and the arms are tapered to deform inwardly of the channel for friction and inwardly from the joint so as to draw the panels together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: James D. Wright
    Inventor: Steven Schray
  • Patent number: 5890340
    Abstract: Concrete inserts are disclosed which are preferably embedded in the rear surface of a concrete wall panel and used to mount and support the wall panel from a building frame. The insert preferably comprises a U-shaped metal housing defining a longitudinally extending channel, the housing comprising two side members in spaced, facing relation to one another and a bight portion between the side members, the bight portion having a longitudinally extending slot therethrough. The insert is adapted to be embedded in the rear surface of the wall panel with the bight portion flush with the rear surface and the side members embedded in the concrete of the panel. The side members are preferably of a trapezoidal shape which provides the insert with high resistance to withdrawal from the concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Zygmunt Grant Kafarowski
  • Patent number: 5746029
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a heavy load above a tile roof without causing damage to tile members, comprising: an elongated base member adapted to lie upon the surface of the roof underneath a tile member; a lag bolt for securing the the base member to a rafter in the roof; a slidable carriage having a threaded hole therethrough, the carriage slidably engaging the base member; a threaded elongated shaft capable of being inserted through a hole in the tile member and into threaded engagement with the carriage so that the end of the shaft may be caused to engage the base member and thereby fixedly secure the shaft; and a means associated with the shaft for attaching a heavy load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Stanley A. Ullman
  • Patent number: 5743062
    Abstract: An anchoring device for housing/building construction has at least one anchoring member with a shaft and a first and a second end. The anchoring track to which the first end is form-fittingly connected has an inner and an outer surface. The second end has a fastening element for anchoring the device in a substrate such as concrete. At least the shaft is made of a pipe section. The anchoring track has an opening with an inner edge. The first end of the shaft penetrates the opening whereby the first end has at least one appendage formed at the free end penetrating through the opening, whereby the at least one appendage engages the opening from behind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Halfen GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft
    Inventor: Siegfried Fricker
  • Patent number: 5481842
    Abstract: An assembly block and system for connecting a plurality of bars. The block has a cross-section which is the same size as the cross section of the bars. A plurality of holes are formed in the block and cutouts extend from the holes to sides of the block. The bars can be coupled in various configurations by screws which extend through the holes formed in the block. The block does not extend outside of the dimensions of the bar in cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Andre Gautreau
  • Patent number: 5371988
    Abstract: A modular building system having two or more elongated hollow profiled frame members and female and/or male fasteners which separably connect the frame members to each other. Each frame member has smooth, plane and at least substantially uninterrupted external surfaces, at least one longitudinally extending stiffening core with a longitudinally extending at least partially tapped hole, at least one longitudinally extending outer wall adjacent an external surface and spaced apart from the core, and at least one pair of longitudinally extending sidewalls which connect the core with the outer wall. The outer wall, the core and the sidewalls define a longitudinally extending chamber which is located between the outer wall and the core and is flanked by the sidewalls. Male fasteners can extend transversely of the outer wall and core and into the holes in the cores of adjacent frame members or into transversely extending tapped bores of adjacent frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Paul Hannes
  • Patent number: 5369927
    Abstract: A floating support system for attaching flooring to a floor base comprising a plurality of transversely spaced sleepers arranged in longitudinal lines across a base floor. Each of the sleepers consists of rectangularly shaped studs arranged end to end along the longitudinal lines. Outwardly directed shoulder members extend along opposed sides of the studs so that a plurality of longitudinally spaced floor clips which are attached to the base floor along the longitudinal lines may extend over the shoulder members to secure the sleepers to the base floor. Cushion members are arranged below the studs in longitudinally spaced relationship. This provides sleepers which are restricted from lateral motion but have limited vertical movement through compression of the cushion members. This provides a level resilient flooring attached to the floor base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventor: James Counihan
  • Patent number: 5357721
    Abstract: An adjustable beam holder to be used with parallel spaced apart forming boards. The holder includes an elongated case with a longitudinal and centrally disposed slot that receives an elongated removably mounted connector member with an elongated protruding platform member on one side and the opposite side having perpendicularly mounted walls that are removably attached to the slot. Headed threaded shank members are inserted inside the case through openings defined by removable tabs formed on removable cap members mounted to the ends of the case. Readily detachable arms are mounted to the connector mounted to the case member in order to rest over the edges of forming wall and thereby aligning the upper wall flush with the plane defined by the upper edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventor: Gustavo O. Alvarez
  • Patent number: 5326204
    Abstract: A dunnage support bar for supporting and retaining dunnage is formed with a number of longitudinal extending semicircular indented ribs for strengthening the bar and resisting bending. The dunnage bar has a T-shaped channel for slidingly receiving the dunnage, which supports an article to be transported. The bar is formed of at least two members, one folded within another, so as to affix the members together and prevent relative motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignee: Wolpac, Inc.
    Inventors: Bret M. Carlson, Stephen M. Tobias
  • Patent number: 5277512
    Abstract: A simple joint is disclosed for detachably connecting structural members. The connection is made with a resilient T-shaped tongue on a first member which can be engaged in a T-shaped slot on a second member. The tongue is engaged in the slot by rotating it about its axis. Rotation of the tongue causes the end of the tongue to be drawn into the slot by wedging action between the tongue and sloped inner surfaces of the slot. The first and second members are held tightly together by tension which is developed in the tongue as the tongue is drawn into the slot. The invention is well adapted for use in many fields which require parts to be detachably connected to one another such as constructing panel display systems, building modular cabinets or shelving units and building modular furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: PDL Holdings Ltd.
    Inventor: Paul K. L. Dwillies
  • Patent number: 5240213
    Abstract: A holder for mounting a guide rail on a ceiling comprises a carrier defining a plane and comprised of two separate and unconnected plates attachable to the ceiling and defining a gap therebetween completely separating the two plates from each other. Guide rail holding extensions on the carrier plates at opposite sides of the gap have parts extending in a plane parallel to the carrier plane, the holding extension parts symmetrically projecting into, and engaging, grooves in the guide rail. The guide rail holding extensions have distal inclined abutment faces facing away from the groove-engaging parts, and a single wedge element is arranged between the inclined abutment faces in mating contact with therewith and wedged therebetween below the gap. Lock screws pass vertically and centrally through the wedge element and through the guide rail for affixing the guide rail to the holder, the lock screws being freely accessible through the gap between the carrier plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Inventor: Willi Horcher
  • Patent number: 5200240
    Abstract: A railing member comprising a hollow extrusion having a picket-receiving channel along the bottom thereof. The channel has an open bottom. The sides of the member have bottom edges which extend downwardly at least as far as the bottom of the channel. A railing assembly includes the top railing member, a bottom railing member below the top railing member, a plurality of spaced-apart support posts extending between the members and a plurality of pickets between the posts. The support posts have flat tops which are received against the bottom of the top railing member and are connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Inventor: Neill E. Baker
  • Patent number: 5175971
    Abstract: A utility power pole system comprises a pultruded hollow primary pole having an external hexogonal cross section and a number of longitudinal exterior grooves along its length. The hollow primary pole also has an internal hexogonal cross section rotated 30.degree. relative to the external hexagonal cross section. One or more pultruded hollow liners are provided which are also hexagonal in cross section and which may be internally or externally concentric with the primary pole. These liners vary in length to achieve an effective structural taper to the power pole system. The insertion of a tapered liner in the lower portion of the utility pole results in a utility pole having the effective load bearing capability of a tapered utility pole. By using a plurality of overlapping liners of varying lengths, an effective taper can be provided to the utility pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Inventor: P. Roger McCombs
  • Patent number: 5170606
    Abstract: An axially extending sleeve (1), for use as an anchor secured by grout or a hardenable mass in a blind bore (2a) in a structural component (2), has an outside surface with a radially outwardly projection extending in the axial direction of the sleeve. The sleeve has a closed first end leading in the insertion direction and a trailing second end. The projection extends from the second end in the axial direction toward the first end. An elastic layer (3) is placed over the surface of the structural component containing the bore and a hole (3a) in the elastic layer is aligned with the bore in the component. When the sleeve (1) is inserted into the bore (2a), the projection (1d) forms a passageway through the elastic layer, so that air and excess grout can escape from the bore through the elastic layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Franz Popp
  • Patent number: 5134812
    Abstract: The invention is a connector to join structural members.In particular, the invention is a connector to assemble and join structural members where the members can be formed from dissimilar materials; for example, an aluminum plate joined by the connector to a steel plate. The connector can be formed in part or in whole from a shape memory metal that exhibits dimensional change upon assembly to complete the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Assignee: Ingalls Shipbuilding, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Hoffman, Gerald D. Embry
  • Patent number: 5090171
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a movable partitioning panel which can be moved along a hanger rail disposed in a ceiling to thereby form a suitable partitioning wall within a room. Runner devices arranged within the hanger rail are rotatable irrespective of the attitude of a panel body and can be smoothly moved with the hanger rail. In addition, the panel body can be simply moved at a branch path, a bend in the path and the like through upper and lower guide rollers and a controller device for the runner devices. Furthermore, the panel body in its horizontal attitude can be closely positioned with respect to a fixed wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Assignee: Komatsu Wall Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Minoru Kano, Kiyoshi Negami, Mikio Nakatani
  • Patent number: 4955172
    Abstract: The present veneer anchor includes a tie and a plate wherein the lateral movement of the tie relative to the plate is minimized while maintaining a longitudinal sliding motion of the tie relative to the plate. Such lateral movement is minimized by at least two features, including a transverse tie portion with bears against slot-forming edges of the plate and the lateral tie portion which bears against channel-forming inner faces of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1990
    Inventor: Neil W. Pierson
  • Patent number: 4949523
    Abstract: An anchoring system for securing an elastomeric membrane to the upper surface of a roof has a rigid anchoring plate which has a planar bottom surface, apertures to facilitate securing the anchoring plate to the roof, and a pair of raised reinforced sidewalls to aid in interlocking the device. A spacing insert is provided which employs a pair of flanges, a pair of horizontal lips, and a central hinge to snap into the anchoring plate after the membrane has been laid out over the anchoring plates. A planar wedge is also provided which includes a lip to facilitate inserting the wedge into, and withdrawing the wedge from, the spacing insert. A special fastening device is provided to secure the anchoring system to the roof surface. When the components of the present anchoring system are fitted together, an elastomeric membrane may be substantially immobilized. The structure of the device is also easily disassembleable, as may become necessary in order to inspect or service the elastomeric membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Inventor: Gary M. Kassem
  • Patent number: 4948313
    Abstract: An improved device for securing a structural member to a generally U-shaped longitudinally extending channel member is set forth. A bridge section connects together two generally parallel sidewall sections with the sidewall sections each having a respective lip which extends inwardly laterally towards the other sidewall section and bends towards and ends a spaced distance from the bridge section. A first nut has oppositely extending lateral arms which are adapted for positioning beneath and are engageable with the lips. A bolt can be threaded into a threaded opening in the nut. The improvement is a support member positionable between the bridge section and the lips and between the sidewall sections. The support member has a pair of lateral sides, each positionable adjacent and facing a respective one of the sidewall sections. It also has a pair of ends alignable along the channel member. The support member defines a cavity generally orthogonal to the lateral sides and to the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Wesanco, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Zankovich
  • Patent number: 4944122
    Abstract: A demountable partition system is provided having horizontally oriented panels and bands for wire management and attachment of wall supported furniture. In the system, a horizontal runner has upper and lower edges engaging wall panels disposed above and below. A recess is formed in the runner between the upper and lower edges and a cap engages the runner and covers the recess. The runner may be used to route and conceal wiring and to support hang-on furniture at any location along the length of the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Inventor: Alan C. Wendt
  • Patent number: 4905444
    Abstract: A system for mounting building wall panels to building frames, and a method of its use, are disclosed. The system is comprised of a multiplicity of insertional frames, at least some of which provide a mounting means element therein with two degrees of motion freedom, which insertional frames are secured to building wall panels. The system provides for quick, easy and economical mounting of building wall panels to building frames by construction personnel as the mounting means elements in the insertional frames can be adjusted to match the location of the corresponding mounting means on a building frame. The invention also, most importantly, provides protection against the development of potentially damaging stresses in building wall panels mounted to a building frame as a result of seismic activity, thermal expansion, wind induced building shape changes etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Assignee: Connection Specialties Inc.
    Inventors: Robert I. Semaan, Ezzat S. Semaan
  • Patent number: 4858412
    Abstract: An anchoring system for securing an elastomeric membrane to the upper surface of a roof has a rigid anchoring plate which has a planar bottom surface, apertures to facilitate securing the anchoring plate to the roof, and a pair of raised reinforced sidewalls to aid in interlocking the device. A spacing insert is provided which employs a pair of flanges, a pair of horizontal lips, and a central hinge to snap into the anchoring plate after the membrane has been load out over the anchoring plates. A planar wedge is also provided which includes a lip to facilitate inserting the wedge into, and withdrawing the wedge from, the spacing insert. When the components of the present anchoring system are fitted together, an elastomeric membrane may be substantially immobilized. The structure of the device is also easily disassemblable, as may become necessary in order to inspect or service the elastomeric membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Inventor: Gary M. Kassem
  • Patent number: 4843776
    Abstract: A brick tie for anchoring a brick wall to a vertical channel-shaped member open on one side and to which a drywall has already been secured. The brick tie has a first part with a body portion insertable into the channel-shaped member through the open side thereof and wedgeable therein, and a second part attachable to the first part and positionable between adjacent bricks as the wall is being constructed, with one of the parts passing through the drywall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1989
    Inventor: Alvin Guignard
  • Patent number: 4829732
    Abstract: An improved anchor socket and jig assembly for holding implements in concrete is provided which facilitates assembly of the socket element on the base member of the jig assembly and which affords substantially expanded adaptability of the jig for varied size implements and avoids the need for bolts or other extraneous means to secure the socket member to the rail member.The improved jig assembly comprises a longitudinal base member preferably of substantially rigid plastic composition which is provided with locator openings which fit one of the feet of the socket member and, cooperating therewith, a mating turn slot. Both the openings and the turn slots are formed to accommodate the feet of the socket member. The assembly of the socket in the base member in a secure position is readily effected by positioning the socket member between the rails of the base member and locking the two by a manual quarter turn rotation of the socket member in the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Assignee: Quaker Plastic Corporation
    Inventors: Donald E. Dahowski, Scott E. Crandall
  • Patent number: 4790701
    Abstract: A fastener assembly for floatingly retaining or captivating at least one fastener is disclosed. The fastener assembly includes a flexible channel member with discrete projections extending from opposed flange portions towards each other and at least one fastener having a base which is captivated between the discrete projections and a web portion of the channel member. The projections extending from at least one flange portion are configured to present a camming surface to a fastener base as it is being inserted into the channel member through the opening between opposed projections to cause the channel member to elastically flex and to move at least one flange portion outwardly to permit the fastener base to be seated in the channel member through the opening. The projections are further configured to present removal of the fastener base from the channel member through the opening as long as the channel member remains unflexed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1988
    Assignee: Jacobson Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Baubles
  • Patent number: 4787767
    Abstract: The twisting of studs within the ceiling and floor rails of a partition is prevented by a quickly installable stud clip which may be moved along the rail to its desired position before being fastened to the rail and stud.The channel form top rail in this system has a pair of longitudinal slots just below the web which are defined by inwardly extending longitudinal tracks which are parallel to the web. The stud clip has a base plate from whose central portion a stud-engaging standard depends at a right angle. On the lateral portions of the plate there are skid elements which fit into the slots and engage the tracks. Extending from one lateral portion of the plate beyond the plane of the standard is a relatively narrow locking tab which is in edgewise abutment with a track. The abutment of the locking tab with the track prevents rotation of the stud clip within the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan C. Wendt
  • Patent number: 4750310
    Abstract: A thermally insulated framing system for storefronts and the like includes inner and outer framing elements connected by a combination twist-in/snap-on insulating clip. The base of the clip is twist-lockable into a locking channel on one frame member, and compressible ridges on the lower face of the base wedge the base securely within the locking channel. A pair of legs at the other end of the clip are snap-fittable onto a locking flange formed on the other frame member. By providing a plurality of pairs of retaining grooves on the locking flange, the clip can be locked into any one of a plurality of locking positions relative to the locking flange, enabling the framing system to accommodate glazing panels of different thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: Kawneer Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert D. Holcombe
  • Patent number: 4742655
    Abstract: There is described a one-piece, elongated, hollow plastic section which is useful in the support of reinforcing steel in the casting of concrete structures and the formation of recesses in said structures. The section has a trapezoidal configuration and includes (1) a pair of converging wall portions, (2) a wall portion connecting said converging wall portions at their converging ends and (3) a covering strip portion parallel to said connecting wall portion and connecting the opposite ends of said converging wall portions, said (2) connecting wall portion having areas of reduced thickness formed therein and adapted to be perforated by rigid members whereby said wall portion is self-sealing at the area of perforation, said (3) covering strip portion having reduced thickness areas formed therein adjacent to the converging wall portions whereby said covering strip portion may be manually removed from said trapezoidal cross-section so as to form an elongated, U-shaped plastic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1988
    Assignee: KaBe Industrier AB
    Inventor: Lars P. Kovasna
  • Patent number: 4739601
    Abstract: An anchor channel for use in the construction industry is provided having outwardly directed protuberances in the web of the channel with openings therethrough which are penetrated by the shaft of an anchor bolt. The bevel of the countersunk head of the anchor bolt is fitted tightly in the protuberance the inner surface of which due to material deformation is attached by a press fit to the circumferential surface of the anchor bolt. The inner surface of the opening is the shape of a truncated cone and arranged with the smaller diameter directed toward the web of the channel. The thereby formed wedge between the surface of the opening and the anchor bolt is filled by squeezing or upsetting a connecting section of the anchor bolt which has a greater cross-section or diameter and projects along the anchor bolt shaft from the countersunk head of the anchor bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1988
    Assignee: Halfeneisen GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft
    Inventor: Karlheinz Beine
  • Patent number: 4738070
    Abstract: A brick tie unit comprises a base plate attached to a drywall construction with a plurality of brick ties slideably engaged thereon. The ties are sized to engage the mortar between successive brick layers in a brick veneer. The structure provides a means for frictionally engaging said brick ties to said base plate to prevent longitudinal movement thereof or to selectively release said brick ties to permit movement thereof to a location adjacent the surface of a brick layer to which the tie is attached using wet mortar and successive layers of bricks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1988
    Inventors: Gary W. Abbott, deceased, by Betty F. Abbott, heiress
  • Patent number: 4719724
    Abstract: A top concrete section for a manhole assembly is cast with a plurality of bolt slot inserts each insert having a substantially inverted T-shaped hollow interior for slideably receiving a nut which may be moved to any desired position along the base of the insert for threadedly engaging a threaded rod employed to rigidly secure a cast iron cover frame to the top section.The method for casting a manhole top section comprises the steps of releasably mounting each insert within the mould assembly by means of a retaining slide which itself is slideably received within a pair of holding brackets provided on each of the inner and outer mould members, the insert being substantially fully closed on all sides thereof and having a top surface formed of a thin web which is easily fractured or cut away after the top manhole section is cast. The fully enclosed insert prevents any concrete from entering into the interior thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Assignee: A-LOK Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack Ditcher
  • Patent number: 4708554
    Abstract: An elongated strut which has a pair of inwardly depending flanges formed to receive and secure fittings inserted into the continuous slot of the strut anywhere along the length of the slot. The flanges define an interior cavity to receive and hold strut fittings and accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Inventor: William A. Howard
  • Patent number: 4677794
    Abstract: A support assembly including a clamp assembly and support bar designed to be removably mounted in one of a plurality of vertically oriented slots in a mounting panel wherein a clamp assembly includes a keeper bar dimensioned and configured for placement on the interior pocket portion of one of the slots in movable, cooperative relation to a force distribution plate disposed in flush, abutting engagement with the exterior surface of the mounting panel and in overlapping relation to an entrance or throat portion of the slot, the latter being of lesser width than the pocket portion as well as the length of the keeper bar to prevent inadvertent removal therefrom. A connecting element interconnects the keeper bar to the fourth plate wherein relative movement therebetween provides a clamping action on the mounting panel in the area of the entrance to the vertical slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1987
    Inventors: Ivan Parron, Michael R. Rosenthal