Separably Connected Sections Patents (Class 52/713)
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Patent number: 8516768Abstract: A two-piece masonry anchor including a plate having opposing faces, an attachment feature extending from one of the faces, and a leg extending from the other of the faces having an insulation thickness guide and an elongate slot transverse to the extension direction of the leg, and an anchor adapted to attach to the leg of the plate and having first and second portions arranged to define a right angle therebetween. A seismic wall anchoring system including a plurality of masonry anchors interconnected by a rod.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Masonry Reinforcing Corporation of AmericaInventor: Ralph O. Johnson, III
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Patent number: 8511032Abstract: A building structure is provided that includes a floor structure and a series of studs extending vertically adjacent the floor structure. A clip is provided. The clip is connected to the floor structure and projects outwardly therefrom and includes a stud retainer for engaging and retaining a flange of a stud. The stud retainer includes a channel through which the flange of the stud extends. The stud retainer is connected to the flange of the stud in such a manner that the stud can move vertically in the channel.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2011Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.Inventors: Nabil Abdel-Rahman, John C. Herrmann, Thomas C. Boyd
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Patent number: 8505261Abstract: A sliding bracket assembly permits adjacent metal roof panels to move relative to one another to accommodate differential thermal expansion. The assembly includes a center element which is bolted across a purlin, and a pair of wing elements, one on either side of the center element. Roof panels are attached to the wing elements on either side. The wing elements can side lengthwise on the center element; thus the wing elements and their attached roof panels can move lengthwise relative to one another as the roof panels differentially expand and contract.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2007Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: BlueScope Buildings North AmericaInventor: Richard R. McClure
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Patent number: 8459604Abstract: A cable tray expansion splice plate for connecting first and second cable tray sections end-to-end is disclosed. The splice plate includes an elongate body having a central section, an upper flange section, and a lower flange section. In one embodiment, the lower flange section defines a channel for receiving components of the first and second cable tray sections such that the lower flange section underlies the components. Fastener openings in the central section and the lower flange section receive fasteners to fasten the body to the cable tray sections. These openings include slots which permit the cable tray sections to move relative to one another in a longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2012Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventors: Robert David Smith, Brandon Michael Tally
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Patent number: 8424250Abstract: An apparatus for retrofit connection of a roof frame to a support member therebelow includes a claw member having a load bearing flange to be driven into an interface between a roof sheathing and a top edge of the roof frame, and a tie-down member to be mounted to a vertical surface of the support member. The tie-down member is connected to the claw member to allow various angular positions of the load bearing flange depending on roof slopes.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2009Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Building Performance Americas Ltd.Inventor: Robert E. Platts
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Patent number: 8418422Abstract: A masonry anchor and method of use for connecting first and second spaced-apart walls defining a cavity therebetween, the anchor including an anchor bracket including a slot and a pintle engaging and carried by the anchor bracket and extending outwardly from the anchor bracket and bridging a cavity between the first and second walls. The pintle includes first and second laterally spaced-apart hooks for being positioned and locked in the slot of the anchor bracket. The hooks have a nominal spacing between them that is greater than a width of the slot, and are deformable into a position wherein the hooks are spaced apart by a distance that is less than the width of the slot for allowing the hooks to be inserted into the slot, and have sufficient positional memory to return from its deformed position to its nominal spacing when manual pressure is released.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Masonry Reinforcing Corporation of AmericaInventor: Ralph O. Johnson, III
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Patent number: 8402701Abstract: A handling anchor for lifting, raising, turning over, transporting, and laying building elements, such as precast blocks or panels, essentially made of concrete and to be connected to a building element. The anchor includes a connecting head for connecting the building element to a handling machine, and a body portion including active parts that, when the anchor is connected to the construction element, ensure the adhesion of the anchor to the material of the building element. The body includes at least one land including at least one face.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2011Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Inventor: Marcel Arteon
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Patent number: 8397467Abstract: Methods and apparatus for coupling adjacent concrete panels increase the tolerance for setting. Connections members are placed in at least one of the adjacent concrete panels. In one embodiment a first connection member is placed in a first panel and a second connection member is placed in a second panel. A plate is placed over the first and second connection member. Fasteners are inserted through the plate and into each connection member to secure the adjacent panels together. In a second embodiment a rotatable connection member is placed in a first panel. The rotatable connection member includes a first rod rotatably coupled to a second rod. The second panel is placed on the first panel. The connection member is rotated from its first position to its second position and is secured to the second panel. The connection members may be cast in the panels during production.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2008Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: The Spancrete Group, Inc.Inventor: Clinton C. Krell
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Patent number: 8397463Abstract: The present invention includes a system for connecting tubes or rods, which are preferably uni-directional pultruded, filament wound, or roll-wrapped carbon-fiber tubes or rods, together to form trusses and other structures using a series of connector pieces preferably bonded together with adhesive.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Allred & Associates Inc.Inventors: Jimmie B. Allred, III, Michael D. Griswold, Michael J. Hall, Matthew A. Bush, Joseph Kummer
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Patent number: 8387321Abstract: A connector for a wall structure wherein the connector connects to and reinforces a stud within the wall structure, or in some cases, the connector actually functions as a stud. The connector includes an elongated web and a pair of flanges that project from the web. About the lower portion of the connector there is provided a series of tabs that extend from the web and the two flanges and are turned so as to overlap and form a transfer structure that extends between the flanges about the lower end of the connector. In use, the connector can be connected to respective studs in a wall structure and at the same time anchor to an underlying structure such as a floor. In other cases, the connector itself can be utilized in the wall structure as a stud.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: The Steel Network, Inc.Inventors: Edward R. diGirolamo, John Herrmann, Nabil Abdel-Rahman
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Patent number: 8371543Abstract: There is provided a device for hanging an object on a wall. The device includes a wall mount and an object mount. One mount has a first bracket portion and a second bracket portion each being u-shaped and configured to receive the other mount. The bracket portions have a space between the bracket portions. The other mount has a projection disposable in the space between the bracket portions. The projection also acts as a safety tab. The bracket portions enable horizontal positioning of the object mount relative to the wall mount to be adjustable. The projection is configured to interact with the bracket portions and limit horizontal movement of the object mount relative to the wall mount to within a set range spanning the space from a first position, where the projection abuts the first bracket portion, to a second position where the projection abuts the second bracket portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2010Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Inventor: Timothy Wayne Schneider
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Publication number: 20130000238Abstract: A lateral displacement preventing member is provided with a back-side locking piece that extends from a lower end of an upper fixing plate of the lateral displacement preventing member downward and parallel to a lower fixing plate. Thus, during disposition of the lateral displacement preventing member in a horizontal joint portion of exterior wall boards, the lateral displacement preventing member can be attached in a state in which an upper end portion of an upper horizontal portion of a first fastening member disposed in a vertical joint portion of the exterior wall boards is inserted in an inverted U-shaped groove formed by the back-side locking piece, an extended portion, and the lower fixing plate of the lateral displacement preventing member.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventor: Gou MINAMI
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Patent number: 8307583Abstract: A truss assembly including truss hold-down connectors for attaching metal trusses to a bearing member. One embodiment of the truss hold-down connector has a vertical connector web that has a bottom attachment leg protruding therefrom for attachment to a bearing member and first and second attachment tab portions for attachment to the flanges of a vertically extending truss web. Stiffeners may be embossed into the vertical connector web to provide the connector with additional strength. The first and second attachment tabs may be configured to enable pairs of identical connectors to be attached to vertically extending truss webs that have one or more diagonally extending truss webs attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2010Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: MiTek Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Travis J. Keys, Michael A. Pellock
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Patent number: 8281551Abstract: A prefabricated shearwall including a central diaphragm having a height generally defined by top and bottom edges, and a width generally defined by a pair of end sections. The diaphragm further includes at least one corrugation extending in the height direction at least partially between the top and bottom edges. The corrugation increases the ductility and ability of the shearwall to withstand lateral forces such as those generated in earthquakes, high winds, floods and snow loads.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2011Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.Inventors: William F. Leek, Jose L. Perez, Jerry G. Gridley
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Patent number: 8276323Abstract: A take-up fastener is disclosed for fastening a level in a frame construction to the level below so as to resist upward forces generated by wind and other sources on the framed construction. The take-up fastener in general includes a take-up plate, or washer, fastened to a portion of the upper level and a take-up screw fit through the take-up plate and fastened to the adjacent level below. Once the take-up fastener is fully assembled, the take-up plate includes a pair of tabs which are capable of engaging threads on a take-up screw in a way that allows one-way motion of the take-up screw relative to the take-up plate. In particular, the take-up plate can move downward relative to the take-up screw, for example on constricting of the wooden members to which the take-up plate is affixed. However, the engagement between the take-up plate and take-up screw prevents movement of the take-up plate upward with respect to the take-up screw, for example upon an upward load due to wind or other external force.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.Inventors: Daniel M. Gray, Samuel T. Hensen, Bryan Ables
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Patent number: 8256614Abstract: Interconnected and on-site severable deck clips with cooperating installation tool for joining two adjacent decking planks to an underlying support structure. The deck clips are interconnected and on-site severable, are attached to the underlying support structure, and engage the two adjacent decking planks so as to fasten the two adjacent decking planks to the underlying support structure without a need for nails or screws to pass through the two adjacent decking planks. The installation tool is hand-held, removably receives a number of the deck clips, and feeds the deck clips one at a time to fasten to the underlying support structure, and when a deck clip is fastened to the underlying support structure, the deck clip is severed from the other deck clips in the installation tool and a next deck clip is feed by way of the installation tool and attached to the underlying support structure to engage the two adjacent decking planks.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Inventor: Keven R. Wadsworth, Sr.
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Patent number: 8245479Abstract: A hinged connector for use in pivotally connecting structural components has improved robustness to carry greater loads through a hinged joint formed using the hinged connector. In one aspect ribs are formed in the hinged connector adjacent the pivoting location. Parts are shaped and arranged to resist tearing in tension and buckling in compression.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Gary N. Gannon, David C. Wert, Melvin E. Mittendorf, Robert A. LePoire
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Patent number: 8225575Abstract: A bracket system for assembling playground equipment includes a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. The at least two horizontal frame brackets fix at least one horizontal frame beam to the at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at the second points; the horizontal frame brackets and the vertical frame brackets interconnect. The swing bracket fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The at least two ladder brackets connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: PlayCore Wisconsin, Inc.Inventors: Scott Gadd, Giovanni Piccione
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Patent number: 8215072Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of this invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Hurricane Fabric, LLCInventor: Robert Gorman
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Patent number: 8215073Abstract: Weather protection systems, for use in protecting structures and structural elements during severe weather events, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of assembling and installing weather protection systems. Weather protection systems of this invention provide fabric to cover a structural element; the fabric is connected to the structure via a clip. A clip of is invention may include features such as fastening points, anchor points, and engaging members; a clip may also introduce a desirable point of flexibility into a system of the invention. Other features of weather protection systems of this invention may include resin and straps.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Hurricane Fabric, LLCInventors: Robert Gorman, Yehuda Ozari, Aaron Belmont
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Patent number: 8141319Abstract: A bracketing system is provided having two brackets joined by a flexible adhesive material that allows bridging or backing members of variable lengths and widths to be mounted between vertical studs to enhance stability of the wall construction. A wall construction assembly according to an embodiment of the invention comprises two vertical studs and a bridge backing member mounted there between by a bracketing system, which includes a left bracket and a right bracket connected by a flexible adhesive material. Because the bridge backing member can be adjustably sized to be secured on the brackets, it can be sized to fit between studs regardless of any variation in the spacing of the studs. This obviates the need to prefabricate bridge backing members to fit between variably spaced studs. The bridge backing member can be mounted flush with the stud to eliminate unevenness in the wall structure. Bridge or backing members of various widths and lengths can be mounted to the bracketing system.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Brady Innovations, LLCInventor: Todd A. Brady
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Patent number: 8122663Abstract: Anchor and reinforcement devices for a cavity wall are disclosed. The devices are combined with interlocking veneer anchors, and with veneer reinforcements to form unique anchoring systems. All the components of the system are wire formatives, including therewithin truss or ladder reinforcements and the eye extensions. The wall anchor portion of the device is fusibly attached to the exterior of the truss or ladder reinforcement by various metalworking techniques. Beyond the portions of the wire formatives inserted in the backup wall, the wire formatives are optionally reduced in height by cold-working thereof. The combined wall anchor and reinforcement devices are compressively reduced in height for spanning insulation mounted on the exterior of the backup wall. The low-profile portions are disposed between thick strips of insulation and maintain the insulative integrity thereof by preventing air leakage.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Ronald P. Hohmann, Jr., Ronald P. Hohmann
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Patent number: 8122667Abstract: A seam clip assembly is disclosed. The seam clip assembly includes a seam clip attachable to a thermal barrier. The seam clip is connected to the thermal barrier, and the thermal barrier is connected to a structure, such as a roofing structure. The thermal barrier prevents or at least limits heat conduction from the seam clip into the roofing structure. The thermal barrier improves uplift strength of the seam clip attached to adjoining roofing panels.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: A. Raymond et CieInventors: Dan Ferge, Doug Wilburn
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Patent number: 8112963Abstract: A decorative accessory unit, a decorative accessory assemblage, a kit for a personal accessory craft project and a method for creating a personal accessory are described. A plurality of decorative units having at least two linking ends protruding therefrom are provided along with a plurality of connector elements for coupling the linking ends of two decorative units together.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Inventor: Aubren M. Johnson
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Patent number: 8087208Abstract: A frame member fastening device and method of manufacture provides a single configuration fastening device which can be used singly in connection with a frame member, or which can be combined with another identical fastening device to form a fastening device assembly for use with frame members of different internal widths, by interlocking two identical fastening devices in an opposed, base-to-base assembly configuration. The fastening device is manufactured in a progressive metal forming process with successive stages in which the features of the device are formed.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Inventors: Mark Quintile, Michael Bittner, Dale Maynard
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Patent number: 8051618Abstract: A clip for suspending ceiling panels from a horizontal channel having a C-shape formed by a vertical web and integral opposed horizontal upper and lower flanges, the clip comprising a sheet metal body, the body including a vertical web extending between upper and lower portions, the upper portion being configured to overlie the horizontal upper flange of the channel when installed thereon, the lower portion being configured to lie below the horizontal lower flange of the channel, the lower portion including a generally upstanding hook section adapted to be received in a downwardly open channel on the ceiling panel beneath the C-shaped channel to enable the clip to support the panel by transferring the weight of the panel to the C-shaped channel, the hook section being fixed against horizontal movement relative to the body vertical web.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2009Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.Inventors: Gregory M. Ahren, John D. Bankston, James A. Fletterick
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Patent number: 7987636Abstract: A seat and anchor assembly for mounting and securing a wood joist or roof truss to a tie beam of a building including a central web portion and an upwardly extending wall portion disposed along a longitudinal edge thereof wherein a lower portion of the roof truss or joist fits within what may be considered a seat defined by the web and the upstanding wall portion. An elongated anchor strap is adjustably attached to the wall portion and is adapted to be secured by nails or like connectors to the top portion of the roof truss and further wherein the anchor strap includes a lower length disposed and adapted to be embedded in wet concrete initially defining the tie beam of the building on which the seat and truss rests.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Simpson STrong-Tie Company, Inc.Inventor: Andrew Paschal Hunt
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Patent number: 7966784Abstract: A masonry anchoring system for use in commercial and residential construction is described. In one aspect, the invention includes a brick tie that interfaces the masonry veneer and interlocks with an anchor plate mounted on a structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2009Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: The ECI Group, LLCInventor: Stephen F. Wobber
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Publication number: 20110146195Abstract: Anchoring systems for use in cavity wall structures having an inner wythe and an outer wythe constructed of rubble stone are disclosed. The anchoring system employs an anchor fastened to or set within the inner wythe that extends into the cavity and connects to a J-hook. A vertically adjustable veneer tie enwraps the J-hook, limiting lateral movement and front-to-back displacement, and is set within the bed joint of the outer wythe. The anchoring system minimizes cavity size and provides stability for an uncoursed outer wythe equivalent to that of anchoring systems for standards coursed bed joints.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: MITEK HOLDINGS, INC.Inventor: Ronald P. Hohmann, JR.
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Patent number: 7918054Abstract: Various novel roofing brackets and roofing systems are disclosed. A first embodiment can be considered a roofing bracket to be coupled to a vertical post and a horizontal purlin of a roofing system whereby the horizontal purlin is positioned to support roof panels at a requisite pitch. The roofing bracket includes a reference brace and a clip. The reference brace includes a first brace face positioned planarly parallel with the vertical post and a second brace face extending at an angle angle from the first brace face and positioned planarly parallel with the vertical post. The clip includes a first clip face positioned to be fastened generally flush with the horizontal purlin and a second clip face extending at an angle from the first clip face and positioned to be fastened planarly parallel with the vertical post. The second clip face is coupled to the first brace face at a pivot point such that the clip can be rotated a particular angle relative to the reference brace.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2008Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: GP Innovative Concepts, LLCInventors: Michael Anthony Grafton, Ernest Graham Perry
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Patent number: 7861986Abstract: A bracket and method for supporting a cubicle wall on a movable wall having at least one horizontal mounting channel. The bracket has a lower bracket member and at least an upper bracket member that attaches to a movable wall module. A cubicle wall start is then coupled thereto. If a higher cubicle is needed, the bracket will have at least one intermediate bracket member to increase the overall length of the bracket.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2009Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Inventor: Jonathan Cline
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Patent number: 7856763Abstract: A truss hold-down connector for attaching metal trusses to a bearing member. One embodiment of the truss hold-down connector has a vertical connector web that has a bottom attachment leg protruding therefrom for attachment to a bearing member and first and second attachment tab portions for attachment to the flanges of a vertically extending truss web. Stiffeners may be embossed into the vertical connector web to provide the connector with additional strength. The first and second attachment tabs may be configured to enable pairs of identical connectors to be attached to vertically extending truss webs that have one or more diagonally extending truss webs attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2006Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Mitek Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Travis J. Keys, Michael A. Pellock
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Patent number: 7827757Abstract: A bracket system for assembling playground equipment includes a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. The at least two horizontal frame brackets fix at least one horizontal frame beam to the at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at the second points; the horizontal frame brackets and the vertical frame brackets interconnect. The swing bracket fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The at least two ladder brackets connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2010Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Playcore Wisconsin, Inc.Inventors: Scott Gadd, Giovanni Piccione
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Patent number: 7823362Abstract: A splice plate for stringers designed to connect two adjacent stringers at least three independent pieces, a connection rod being designed to be fixed by two opposite extremities to two adjacent stringers, and at least two connecting plates, each connecting plate being designed to be fixedly joined to a first extremity of one of the two stringers, and by a second extremity of a cross bar disposed between the two stringers. The disclosed embodiment also relate to a device for orbital fixation including at least one stringer splice plate splice bar.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Airbus FranceInventor: Cedric Meyer
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Patent number: 7805894Abstract: A construction connector incorporating one or more fasteners can be formed by a plate including a plurality of openings, at least one fastener aligned with a corresponding opening in the plate and oriented substantially perpendicular to the plate, and a breakable connection coupling the fastener to the plate. The breakable connection further can comprise a weld. A second fastener also can be aligned with a second corresponding opening in the plate such that it is oriented substantially perpendicular to the plate, and a breakable connection can be used to couple the second fastener to the plate. Additionally, a second plate can be coupled to the plate, wherein the second plate includes at least one opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2006Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Inventor: Andrew Contasti
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Patent number: 7797906Abstract: An improved anchoring system for fastening an elastomeric membrane to a roof comprises an anchoring plate with a top planar surface, spaced apart, raised sidewalls over which the membrane may be laid and at least one aperture for securing to a roof. Each sidewall has a retaining lip that extends inwardly from the top planar surface for retaining a spacing insert, a top surface of which has raised flanges, each flange having a retaining lip with a plurality of longitudinally extending gripper ridges. Preferably, the retaining lips on the spacing insert extend over the top surface of the anchoring plate and taper toward one another at one or more areas between their end points. The system further includes a wedge for inserting into a cavity defined by the spacing insert.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Single Source Roofing CorporationInventor: Gary Kassem
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Patent number: 7793476Abstract: A non-top-supported column attachment bracket assembly is provided, that includes a generally W-shaped bracket to provide a strong connection between non-top supported wood fences and masonry walls such as concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls or cast in place (CIP) walls. The W-shape provides a matrix inside the hardening structure of the wall, while simultaneously engaging the horizontal reinforcing bar of the wall. The W-anchor further includes a cover plate disposed onto the bracket. The W-shaped bracket can be installed to the upper portion of the wall just prior to grouting or during grouting, where the bracket can be pressed onto the horizontal bar before the grout has hardened. After the hardening structure is cured, fencing posts are attached to a column connection portion of the W-anchor that extends from the top of the wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2007Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Inventors: Steven H. Sanders, Thomas R. Sell, Andrew J. Cowan
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Patent number: 7730694Abstract: An improved sliding clip for a standing seam roof, the clip having a clip base supporting a clip tab adapted to connect to a standing seam, the clip tab slidably supported by the clip base along a slide track on the clip base, the clip tab permitted to travel a selected range along substantially the full length of the clip base so that the length of the travel path can exceed or be less than the length of the clip base. Stop members on the clip base and clip tab are positioned to abut when the clip tab is moved in either direction along the slide track. Alternate tab stops can be provided to selectively determine the extent of travel of the clip tab along the travel path.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Harold Simpson, Inc.Inventors: Harold G. Simpson, Leo E. Neyer
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Patent number: 7712273Abstract: Thermal breaker or thermal barrier structures are disclosed for use in connection with roof decking assemblies wherein the thermal breaker or thermal barrier structures effectively prevent the respective transmission of heating gradients from the interior or exterior building environments to the exterior or interior building environments by thermal conductivity so as to render buildings more energy efficient.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Cheryl L. Panasik, Yongping Gong, Jeffrey M. Stupar, Madhav S. Puppala, Owen J. McGarel
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Patent number: 7712283Abstract: A bracket system for assembling playground equipment includes a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. The at least two horizontal frame brackets fix at least one horizontal frame beam to the at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at the second points; the horizontal frame brackets and the vertical frame brackets interconnect. The swing bracket fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The at least two ladder brackets connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2005Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Playcore Wisconsin, Inc.Inventors: Scott Gadd, Giovanni Piccione
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Patent number: 7707785Abstract: An adjustable connector with a rounded, concave seat and matching washer, a connection and a method of making a connection that ties a first building structural member to a second building structural member in conjunction with fastener means and an anchor member, especially a girder truss to the supporting wall in conjunction with screws and an anchor rod.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.Inventor: Jin-Jie Lin
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Publication number: 20100037552Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a load transfer system includes a back-up wall and at least one panel disposed adjacent the back-up wall. A veneer wall is spaced from the back-up wall. A drill bolt having a generally cylindrical shaft extending between first and second ends is provided. A portion of the shaft adjacent the first end is secured to the back-up wall and a portion of the shaft adjacent the second end extends through a penetration hole in the at least one panel. A clip is disposed on the second end of the drill bolt within the space between the back-up wall and the veneer wall. A wire tie extends between the clip and the veneer wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2009Publication date: February 18, 2010Inventor: Joseph Bronner
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Patent number: 7654058Abstract: A connector for coupling a veneer panel to a back-up wall includes a veneer connector and a support member. The support member includes a mounting flange. The mounting flange is adapted for securing the support member to the back-up wall. The support member further includes a first support member side wall and a second support member side wall. The first and second support member side walls extend outwardly from the mounting flange, and are connected to the mounting flange along a generally vertical line. The veneer connector is adapted to support a generally horizontal edge of the veneer panel. The veneer connector is connectable with respect to the support member for support by the first and second side walls.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Inventor: Michael Hatzinikolas
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Patent number: 7637065Abstract: A clip for suspending ceiling panels from a horizontal channel having a C-shape formed by a vertical web and integral opposed horizontal upper and lower flanges, the clip comprising a sheet metal body, the body including a vertical web extending between upper and lower portions, the upper portion being configured to overlie the horizontal upper flange of the channel when installed thereon, the lower portion being configured to lie below the horizontal lower flange of the channel, the lower portion including a generally upstanding hook section adapted to be received in a downwardly open channel on the ceiling panel beneath the C-shaped channel to enable the clip to support the panel by transferring the weight of the panel to the C-shaped channel, the hook section being fixed against horizontal movement relative to the body vertical web.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.Inventors: Gregory M. Ahren, John D. Bankston, James A. Fletterick
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Publication number: 20090301026Abstract: Methods and apparatus for perpendicular attachment of a first structural member to a second structural member, or of a first structural member between a pair of parallel structural members that uses a uniquely designed angled connector bracket that is formed with angled plates from which a plurality of teeth or nails extend. The teeth on one plate are intended to be driven into the end of the first structural member, and the teeth on the other plate are to be driven into an upper or outer surface of the second structural member to effect a generally perpendicular joint between such members.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2009Publication date: December 10, 2009Applicant: MITEK HOLDINGS, INC.Inventors: Martin J. Kaczmarek, Joseph A. Kaczmarek
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Patent number: 7611107Abstract: A mounting bracket and structural bridging fastener comprises an angle mounting bracket attached to a stable base, the bracket comprising a substantially planar main body and a mounting plate oriented perpendicular to the main body, the mounting plate and main body being connected through a complex formation in the angle mounting bracket, a loaded subcomponent configured to be attached to the mounting bracket so that the attachment point of the loaded subcomponent is aligned directly with the main body, a fastener comprising a structural portion adapted to lie between and be rigidly fastened to the mounting plate and to the main body adjacent the complex formation, with the fastener further comprising a threaded portion adapted to connect the loaded subcomponent to the mounting plate. The threaded portion may be an extension of the structural portion adapted to receive a nut, or the threaded portion may be internal to the structural portion and adapted to receive a bolt.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2005Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: Multimatic Inc.Inventor: Robert Howell
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Patent number: 7574842Abstract: Rectangular photovoltaic (PV) modules are mounted on a building roof by mounting stands that are distributed in rows and columns. Each stand comprises a base plate and first and second different height brackets attached to opposite ends of the base plate. Each first and second bracket comprises two module-support members. One end of each module is pivotally attached to and supported by a first module-support member of a first bracket and a second module-support member of another first bracket. At its other end each module rests on but is connected by flexible tethers to module-support members of two different second brackets. The tethers are sized to allow the modules to pivot up away from the module-support members on which they rest to a substantially horizontal position in response to wind uplift forces.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2005Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Schott Solar, Inc.Inventor: Miles C. Russell
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Patent number: 7568320Abstract: The present invention relates to a wall reinforcement system, in particular for tying a veneer wall (21) to a back up wall (22). The system can protect a building against adverse seismic or wind loading conditions. A helical wall tie (1) is driven into a back-up wall (22) using a percussion tool. A connector (10) is then placed over the end of the wall tie, the connector engaging with the helical fins to prevent its removal without unscrewing the connector (10). A reinforcement wire (20), which preferably extends around a building, is then threaded through a hole in the connector to lock the rotation of the connector (10). The reinforcement wire is used to link a series of connectors together. The wire is then encased in mortar (24) within the bed joint between two courses of bricks. In preferred embodiments, more than two reinforcement wires extend in parallel along the bed joint.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2004Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Helifix LimitedInventors: Robert I. Paterson, Brian A. Breeze
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Publication number: 20090139177Abstract: Adjacent precast reinforced concrete modules or members are secured together by a plurality of coupler systems each including a cast metal coupler body embedded in an edge portion of the first concrete member and connected by a coupling member to a reinforcing bar within the first concrete member. The coupler body has an internal cavity with a side opening and an end opening extending to the cavity, and reinforcing wings border the side opening. The second concrete member has another coupling member rigidly connected to an axially aligned reinforcing bar and includes an end portion with a threaded bore. A bolt is inserted into the cavity through the side opening, aligned with the end opening and then threaded into the bore where the bolt is tightened with a wrench extending into the cavity through the side opening. A reusable locating pin may be used to align the concrete members.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2008Publication date: June 4, 2009Inventors: Steven E. Holdsworth, John W. Hanlon
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Patent number: 7506479Abstract: A wall either wholly or partially made from a shear-resisting assembly that has a shear transfer device, or plate, disposed between the bottom strut and the underlying foundation. The shear transfer device joins the two anchor bolts, eliminating intermediate foundation bolts by transferring lateral shear loads to the anchor bolts in combination with the bottom strut.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2004Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.Inventor: Steven E. Pryor