Abstract: An artificial hill is disclosed protecting a habitable area from tornados, having a predetermined height and slope angles. The hill is capable of dispersing tornados and protecting the area therefrom. The hill comprises a top portion having a predetermined height and including solid bodies, a footing portion having a predetermined height, and a means for heating the solid bodies. Preferable configurations and locations of the hill, sizes of the heights and slope angles, and weights of the solid bodies are specified. Preferable materials for building the hill are described, including rocks, concrete slabs, used auto tires and auto bodies, etc. Preferable types of the heating means are discussed. A method for constructing the hill is included. Various objects can be built on or in the hill, including windmills, antennas, solar panels, recreation zones, as well as agricultural, entertainment, storage, and industrial facilities, which increases economical effectiveness of the structure.

Abstract: A building process that offers better qualities in terms of value, structural integrity, and comfort and energy conservation for industrial, commercial and residential building industries. The present invention starts with a single component which is the vertical composite insulated supporting steel members, then the plates, the beams, the composite insulated wall system, the floor joist system, the temperature regulated roof system and the multiple insulation patterns to create the active thermal force air cavities and inactive cavities. The entire concept of utilizing the invention is that the design of all of the components and parts, the objectives are focused on to facilitate the prefabrication process and conserve energy.

Abstract: A wildlife deterrent for a utility support structure member between two conductors includes a bracket for attachment to the supporting member, a center support piece with a variable height arm connector, and two adjustable arms pivotally attached to the arm connector. No tools are required for the adjustments or attachments. Since the effective lengths of the support and arms are adjustable, either by elongation or using different length parts, the same angle of the arms can be achieved no matter what the separation between the conductors, and the gap between the arms and the conductor can be optimal for both deterrence and flashover prevention. The different pieces forming the deterrent can be selected by the lineman to quickly build an optimal deterrent in the field.

Abstract: There is disclosed an acoustic mount for dampening vibrations between two structures mounted or coupled in use to each other. The mount includes a vibration dampening member having a first portion, a neck and a second portion. The second portion has a head. The dampening member has a bore running through the first portion, neck and head to receive a component, such as a fixing member such as a screw, for engaging or coupling to a first one of the two structures. A support member is also described to which a second one of the two structures is secured or coupled in use. The support member has an aperture to receive the dampening member. The dampening member is an integral unit and the head can be passed through the aperture and positioned such that said head resists withdrawal through the aperture. The support member is interposed between the first portion and the second portion.

Abstract: A moisture vapor permeable metalized composite sheet is formed by coating a moisture vapor permeable sheet with at least one metal layer and at least one outer organic coating layer. The moisture vapor permeability of the composite sheet is at least about 80% of the moisture vapor permeability of the starting sheet. The composite sheet provides a barrier to air and liquid water infiltration while having high moisture vapor permeability and good thermal barrier properties. The composite sheet material is suitable for use as a building construction wrap such as roof lining and house wrap.

Abstract: A method of strengthening a roof is disclosed. Preferably, the roof is first cleaned of at least some of any existing roofing materials to expose at least a portion of a roof deck, which is also preferably cleaned. A layer of high viscosity resin may then be rolled or brushed onto the roof deck. Once the roof has been adequately prepared, a plurality of strips of composite material may be provided and saturated with a low-viscosity saturating resin. Each such saturated strip is preferably long enough to fit along an entire first side of the roof, the first such strip hanging partially over the first side of the roof. Each end of the first strip also overhangs the roof. A second saturated strip is then placed generally parallel to and overlapping the first strip. The ends of this second strip likewise overhang two sides of the roof.

Abstract: A building material comprises a plurality of transparent sheet layers, adjacent transparent sheet layers of which are disposed so as to have a gap interposed therebetween; and a vapor supply system for supplying humidified air into the gap between the adjacent transparent sheet layers. A building including the above-mentioned building material. A method for controlling the indoor environment in a building including the above-mentioned building material comprises supplying humidified air into the gap between adjacent transparent sheet layers; and generating dew condensation on a gap-side surface of the adjacent transparent sheet layers.

Abstract: A drain support plate for mounting and securing a drain assembly to a deck in a building structure.

Abstract: A wooden joist comprises wooden top chord and bottom chords. Wooden boards are adhesively connected to the chords to form an I-joist section along a portion of the wooden joist. Wooden webs may be adhesively connected to the chords to form an open-joist section along another portion of the wooden joist. A bearing extension is defined by the wooden top chord extending beyond an end of the wooden joist Metal webs are in alignment on opposed sides of the wooden joist. Each metal web comprises a top connector end fixed to the bearing extension, a bottom connector end fixed to the bottom chord, and a structural arm between the connector ends. The metal webs are solely provided in an end region along the wooden joist, whereby the wooden joist is adapted to be in a top-chord bearing relation with a beam.

Abstract: Non-limiting, illustrative systems and methods for collecting rain water are disclosed. Given by way of non-limiting example, a down spout interface bladder is removably attachable to an end section of a down spout. A rain water holding device is hydraulically couplable to the down spout interface bladder.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a stand alone system for generating electrical power using hydraulic supports on which a weighted object is mounted. A pump injects fluid into the supports to raise the weighted object and thereby store energy in the elevated object. A valve can be opened to deliver fluid under pressure to a turbine or hydraulic motor driven generator to generate electricity.

Abstract: A device for separating water from debris and collecting rain water includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion includes an inlet and a structure for separating water from debris with surface tension and surface area. The lower portion is removably mounted to the upper portion and includes a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to a downspout and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to a container for holding collected rain water. A rain water collection system including the device is also provided, as well as a method of using the device.

Abstract: A structural building system includes a plurality of pultruded fiberglass reinforced structure components configured to be used as a structural frame member of a building and a plurality of connectors.

Abstract: A method of installation comprises providing at least two trim molding pieces and providing a molding block configured to be positioned over a joint between the end portions of the trim molding pieces and to fit substantially flush against the molding. The method includes forming a decorative profile on the front surfaces of the molding pieces and forming an inverse profile on the rear surfaces of the molding block. The inverse profile mirrors the decorative profile formed on the front surfaces of the molding pieces. The method further includes installing the trim molding pieces such that the end portions are positioned adjacent each other and form a joint and installing the molding block over the joint between the pieces. The inverse profiles on the rear surfaces engage flush with the decorative profiles on the front surfaces of the trim molding pieces.

Abstract: An overhead arrangement, for use in a suspended ceiling system having a grid framework of frame elements lying in a ceiling plane and bounding a plurality of openings for supporting a corresponding plurality of ceiling members, includes an electrical apparatus, such as a DC power supply, a support for supporting the electrical apparatus on the framework at an elevation above one of the ceiling members supported in one of the openings, and a slanted control panel on the housing and having manually accessible controls and visually accessible displays. The slanted control panel is obliquely and downwardly inclined relative to the ceiling plane to enable manual access to the controls and visual access to the displays through the opening to the slanted control panel from below the framework after the ceiling member is at least partially removed from its opening without mechanical interference between the ceiling tile and the electrical apparatus.

Abstract: An electric junction fixture is provided for preparing a wall or ceiling to accept an appliance such as an electric light fixture, inserted and mounted through a hole in the drywall or panel. Reduced stress levels in the drywall or panel are obtained by providing large areas of contact between the fixture and the drywall or panel.

Abstract: A shoothouse with a shoothouse cleanout with the shoothouse having an upper bullet retaining member that can remain on the shoothouse wall and a lower shoothouse cleanout that can be quickly removed from the shoothouse wall to enable one to remove accumulated bullet residue from a bullet collection chamber behind the shoothouse cleanout.

Abstract: A method of using an assembly and a method of finishing an uppermost course of siding installed at a corner of a building with a cornice molding. A cornice molding cap is provided as an accessory to cover or eliminate gaps created where cornice molding meets at a corner of a building. The cap covers gaps where cornice molding meets at a corner structure formed by two walls. The cap is particularly useful in exterior siding installations at corners not employing corner posts having receiver pockets for cladding material end edges.

Abstract: A telescoping structure includes an alignment mechanism to keep aligned an inner structure member and outer structure member, as the members translate relative to one another to extend or retract the telescoping structure. The alignment mechanism includes multiple parts that are mechanically coupled to respective of the structure members. For example, the alignment mechanism may include sprockets or pinions (rotating, toothed elements) on one of the structure members that engage racks or chains (linear, tooth-receiving elements having recesses therein) on the other of the structure members. By keeping the telescoping structure members in alignment with other during telescoping translation, jamming is prevented or at least made less likely. The parts of the alignment mechanism may also be used to provide force for extending or retracting the telescoping structure, for example using a motor move the tooth elements and/or the tooth-receiving elements to cause relative translation of the structure members.

Abstract: An air beam structural member having an elongate pneumatic tubular column, a plurality of stiffening members, and means for connecting the tubular column and the stiffening members. An inflatable shelter includes pneumatic tubular columns (arches) covered on both sides by flexible membranes. The columns are placed side by side to create a wall and enclosure of the space. The pneumatic columns are pressurized and keep their shape by means of a set of cables reinforcing them in the plane of the columns. The structure may be supported by an external support structure.

Abstract: An aesthetic cover assembly includes first mounting portion of a cover wall for concealing a portion of a building structure that is secured to the building structure. An alignment pin is secured on one of the first mounting portions and the building structure. The alignment pin supports a second mounting portion of a cover wall for concealing a portion of the building structure. A method of installing an aesthetic cover assembly is also included.

Abstract: In constructing a home, a plurality of upwardly opening U-shaped channel members are installed onto a floor structure. Wall sections are then set into the plurality of U-shaped channel members. The result is that the U-channel members locate the wall sections. Each wall section may be pre-fabricated with lines for service (e.g., electrical lines or plumbing conduit) running through it. After the wall sections are set in place, the lines for service may be interconnected. Cut-outs may be provided at the sides of the wall sections to provide access to the lines for service to allow their interconnection.

Abstract: An optical fiber terminal apparatus includes an optical fiber protection jacket including a pre-defined, longitudinally extending seam that can be opened at a selected location along the jacket to define an opening into the optical fiber protection jacket at the selected location. The apparatus further includes an adapter terminal configured to mate with an outer profile of the optical fiber protection jacket. The adapter terminal includes a body portion that is configured to support a coupling between an optical fiber extending from the opening in the optical fiber protection jacket to a customer optical fiber. The seam may be repeatably and selectively closable.

Abstract: The retainer for cut wallboard is a device for repairing a piece of wallboard from which a smaller piece has been removed. The retainer includes a closed band having opposed inner and outer faces and opposed first and second edges. A plurality of outer retaining members are attached to the first edge of the closed band, with the plurality of outer retaining members extending outwardly therefrom. Further, a plurality of inner retaining members are attached to the second edge of the closed band, with the plurality of inner retaining members extending inwardly therefrom. A plurality of resilient members are further attached to the first edge of the closed band and also extend inwardly therefrom.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an attachment and an air beam comprising a hug strap attached to a hug strap pad, the hug strap adapted to connect with the attachment, and the hug strap pad adapted to attach to the air beam. A method of securing an attachment to an air beam comprising providing an air beam, attaching a hug strap to a hug strap pad, securing the hug strap pad (with the hug strap attached) to the air beam, and securing the attachment to the hug strap.

Abstract: A swiftlet breeding facility, for use in creating and harvesting edible bird's nests. The facility includes sub-systems for injecting live insect and worm prey, and water, into an aerial enclosure to provide a feeding system imitative of a natural swiftlet feeding environment.

Abstract: A drilling derrick (2) comprises a lower section (4) and an upper section (6) separated by a racking module (8). The lower section (4) of the derrick (2) is constructed from a number of sections of metal scaffolding (10). The upper section (6) of the derrick (2) is constructed from a similar number of metal sections (12).

Abstract: A multi-piece interconnected body for use in at least structural support and/or in creating internal cavities for an improved strength-to-weight ratio in a variety of structures is nestable prior to its assembly and use. When assembled, the device preferably forms a generally spherical and hollow body, with (1) one or more ribs or similar structural support network associated with and/or integrally formed in the body; (2) at least one latch mechanism to help hold the pieces in a desired assembled relationship with each other; and (3) a hinge or other interconnecting element that facilitates nesting and/or stacking of a plurality of the bodies with each other prior to assembly, association of the multiple parts of each body with each other prior to assembly, and ready repositioning of those parts into a desired assembled position.

Abstract: Methods for fabricating sidings and methods for securing those sidings to structures are disclosed. Additionally, this disclosure teaches embodiments of sidings that can be secured to structures. For some embodiments, the siding comprises an insulation and a panel. The insulation and the panel are coupled to each other prior to installation of the siding. This coupling is achieved by non-adhesive coupling mechanisms.

Abstract: A removable downspout system for use with conventional gutter systems includes a spout mated with a gutter of the gutter system, a box mated with a downspout for the gutter system, and components for removably mating the downspout fitted with the box to the gutter fitted with the spout. The spout and the box mate with one another, as nested structures, to prevent leakage at the junction between the spout and the box. A base is provided for attaching the downspout to the receiving structure, and a clip cooperates with the base for removably retaining the downspout to the base. As an alternative, a support structure is provided for mating the downspout with an underground system of pipe, and is fitted over the entrance to the underground system of pipe. A clamp is also provided for attaching the downspout to the receiving structure, in cooperation with a clip for removably retaining the downspout to the clamp.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for attaching solar modules that enables an agreeable integration into a roof and which is easy to install. A frame is provided which consists of two lateral frame members, an upper and a lower frame member. Each of the four frame members comprises an area having a rectangular cross section with two long and two narrow sides. The four frame members are interconnected such that the long sides are disposed perpendicular to the main surface of the solar module or the solar cell. It is thereby achieved that the frame is torsion-resistant. Therefore, the solar module can be transported and mounted with comparatively few problems. Such a solar module is attached to a batten of a pitched roof with a projecting portion, in particular by bolting.

Abstract: A door security system serves to substantially improve the reliability of the entire door assembly with sidelights. The system may comprise five or six components generally having an L-shaped cross section. Several doorjamb stanchion shields may be mounted around a door jamb stanchion on the side of the door jamb corresponding to the door slab free swinging edge. Similarly several door jamb stanchion shields may also be mounted on a door jamb stanchion on the hinge side of the door jamb. The shields include sleeves that wraps on two sides around the door jamb stanchion to reinforce and stabilize the door system.

Abstract: This invention refers to a variety of mechanical joints-nodes used to interconnect between them straight parts tubes, rods, beams to construct trusses. In all cases of truss constructions the main question is how to interconnect the straight parts and the usual up to now practices have limited possibilities for mass production of standardized joints-nodes or straight sections that can secure uniform-fixed mechanical strength at the point of interconnection and flexibility in the architectural design.

Abstract: A captive bolt mechanism joins planar structural members. In an exemplary embodiment, a first structural member has an opening defined there through. The head of a bolt is captured in a fastener slot within a second member, such that the threaded shaft of the bolt protrudes, in-plane, beyond the end of the second member. The threaded shaft is then passed through the opening in the first member and secured with a nut. As the nut is tightened, the underside of the bolt head is drawn against the interior surface of the fastener slot, binding the end of the second member against the surface of the first member. In an alternate embodiment, a nut is similarly confined within the fastener slot, and a bolt or screw is extended through the hole in the first member and the slot in the second member, and is then fastened to the nut.

Abstract: The invention comprises a completely recessed wall-wash lighting fixture capable of being installed within a ceiling. The lighting fixture comprises a housing, which contains a lamp. The invention may comprise a lighting fixture further comprises a reflector disposed within the housing and adjacent to the first end of the housing. The invention may also comprise a flared lamp shield attached to the housing, which is capable of protecting the lighting fixture from damage. The lamp shield extends below the ceiling when the lighting fixture is installed.

Abstract: A muntin clip supports a muntin grid inside an insulating glazing unit. The clip includes a positioning arm that allows the clip to be positioned with respect to the spacer. In one embodiment, the clip has a flat base adapted to be positioned on the inwardly facing surface of the spacer. The positioning arm extends from one side of the plate with the muntin-engaging body extending from the other side of the plate. The arm has an outer end that projects beyond the outer edge of the plate. A method for using the clip includes the step of using one of the glass sheets to engage and position the positioning arm of the muntin clip. Stops may be provided to limit the insertion of the clip into the spacer.

Abstract: An adapter (22) for attaching a solar-shading bracket (30) to a curtain walling mullion (10), comprises a body element (24) for location on the curtain walling mullion (10) and adapted to support the solar-shading bracket (30), mullion attaching means (26) for attaching the body element (24) to the curtain walling mullion (10), and bracket attaching means (28) for attaching the solar-shading bracket (30) to the adapter (22). A method and a apparatus having an energy break device are also provided.

Abstract: An extender is used with a hole saw or other cutting or drilling bit to drill/saw a passageway, through thick or distant materials in a residential or commercial building, for installation of a fluid pipe, an electrical conduit, or other conduits or elongated members. The extender and methods of using the extender comprise a hollow pipe with only external threads at each end. After the passageway is created, the externally-threaded pipe may be left in place in the passageway for use in its plumbing capacity. No internal threads are present in the interior surface of the pipe, so that turbulent fluid flow through the pipe is prevented or minimized, and, as a result, pitting, damage, and disintegration of the interior wall of the pipe is prevented or minimized.

Abstract: System, device and method for providing screened protection to gutters from clogging debris. Protection is provided by using a panel that includes rain siphoning louvered technology covered by a filter or screen. The rows of louvers are offset to direct water into the vertical openings. The louvered portion is dome shaped to permit the louvers to be vertical and to help debris roll off the sides. The filter is molded to the rows of louvers to conduct water to the vertical openings of the louvers. The filter or screen is secured to the panel by being laid in opposing hems on the two sides of the louvered portion of the panel and then by rolling beads or ribs onto the hemmed portions. The panel ends in one side in alignment ribs that are used to mount the gutter protection system under the roofing material.

Abstract: A mounting and attachment system, which can easily mount a continuous snow rail for snow protection above the seams of a metal roof and also attach lower members or snow flags which are located between the seams to stop the snow from sliding under the height of the seam. This system reduces the requirement for holes and threaded holes to be drilled into the mounting block, saving manufacturing time and money. The mounting block is configured so that there is a slot which runs through the mounting block to fit over a raised seam. This slot can have parallel walls or can be shaped to match the form of a particular seam. This block will also have slots or linear indentations on the sides or ends of the block in a direction perpendicular or parallel to the slot for the seam. A second piece of the assembly is a snow rail long enough to connect two or more of the seam-mounted blocks together. Finally, a top rail may be secured to be positioned parallel to said seam and be mounted on two or more seam mounted blocks.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the creation, selection, ordering, shipping and constructing of personalized living environments that can be customized in almost unlimited configurations through the use of an architectural process, unitized assemblies, and assembly joineries is presented. The architectural process allows for the initial creation, design and selection of the unitized assembly collections based upon human factors behavioral based criteria. The unitized assemblies are fixed and/or flexible, trade-integrated modules in unitized, shippable configurations designed and incorporated with high touch finished crafts, allowing for dimensional flexibility in both the vertical and horizontal planes. The combination of the unitized assembly and human factors behavioral analysis combine for an experience blueprint of a homeowner's lifestyle portrait.

Abstract: A formliner and method of use are provided in order to minimize and/or eliminate visible seaming between interconnected formliners. In some embodiments, the formliner can comprise raised sections that define interrelated inner and outer dimensions. In this manner, a given portion of a first formliner can mate with another given portion of a second formliner in a nested manner. As such, edges of the interconnected formliners can be discreetly hidden along features of the formliner pattern to reduce and/or eliminate visible seaming between the formliners.

Abstract: A method for supporting manufactured home structures by preventing their deterioration and devaluation through the installation of a robust foundation system. The foundation system comprises of a concrete footing, long lasting wall panels and roof panels made from steel and cellular concrete. The manufactured home can be modified to accommodate the said installation. The wall panel is attached to both the manufactured home and foundation footing below the manufactured home to provide foundational supports for the manufactured walls of the manufactured home. Roofing panels can then be installed to the top of the manufactured home and newly installed wall panels for further protection. The benefits of this method allows the owner of the newly retrofitted or installed manufactured home to claim their home as real property instead of personal property thus allowing them qualify for long term mortgages.

Abstract: A wire management system and method for protecting wires originating from roof-mountable photovoltaic panels, including system components made up of base support (s), an elongated tray and an elongated cap or cover piece. The base supports are mountable to the roof, the elongated tray fits within the base supports, and the cap or cover piece overlies the tray and interlocks with the base supports. Wires from the photovoltaic panels are threaded within the base supports, through the tray, and protected by the cover piece.

Abstract: A method and system for fabricating a geometrically versatile composite lattice support structure having a seamless three-dimensional configuration. The lattice support structure is created by forming two or more cross supports, such as helical, longitudinal, circumferential and/or lateral cross supports, which intersect to form a plurality of multi-layered nodes. The lattice support structure may be designed without any protrusions extending outward from the overall geometry, thus enabling efficient tooling, and thus enabling ease of mass production. The lattice support structure may comprise a completely circumferentially closed geometry, such as a cylinder, ellipse, airfoil, etc. The method for fabricating the lattice support structure comprises laying up a fiber material, in the presence of resin, within rigid channels of a rigid mold, thus creating a green, uncured three-dimensional geometry of unconsolidated cross supports and multi-layered nodes where these intersect.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for extending a assembly shop in an automobile manufacturing plant in order to increase the vehicle production rate and in order to obtain a new assembly shop from a former assembly shop that is older by several years, wherein the former assembly shop includes an assembly line including a body trim portion and a vehicle assembly portion, the body trim portion including one or more existing body trim sections (1), the vehicle assembly portion including one or more vehicle assembly sections (2), wherein: several sections are added to said existing sections, the location of which at least is preserved; the added sections are not arranged as an extension of the preserved existing section(s) nor as an extension of the preserved location(s) of existing sections; and the location of the former workshop is preserved.

Abstract: A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. An apparatus for cleaning solar mirrors on a frame of a solar trough system. A method for cleaning mirrors on a framework of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller.

Abstract: A method of increasing the volume of a portable building which has a tilt up roof extension and a tilt down floor extension by attaching temporary rams and brackets on the roof extension and floor extension to give favourable thrust angles and deploying the extensions. The roof extension is braced with diagonal cross braces. Thereafter the rams and brackets are removed and the perimeter of the extension is closed in with panels carried to the site inside the core of the building. When the building is to be transferred to another site, the procedure is reversed. The core of the building when collapsed is only 2.5 m wide which enables truck delivery on a highway.

Abstract: A fascia vent for a roof structure includes a fascia board for attachment along the lower ends of roof rafters that support a roof deck above an attic space. The fascia vent has an exposed outside face and an inside face at least partly exposed to the attic space. A plurality of slots are formed along the inside face of the fascia board with a lower end of the slots communicating with ambience along the bottom edge of the fascia board and an upper end of the slots communicating with the attic space. In use, hot air vented from the attic is replaced by fresh air that flows through the lower ends of the slots and into the attic space.

Abstract: A system for location-based management of construction is provided. A plurality of location systems generate one or more locations where construction activities associated with one or more elements in each location can be performed. A construction activity location system associates each of a plurality of construction tasks with one of the locations. An element splitting system receives an element selection and associates one or more construction tasks of the element with two or more locations. A construction activity association system associates one or more of the plurality of construction tasks with one or more of the other construction tasks. A construction sequence system generates a sequence of construction tasks based on the layer associated with each construction task and based on the other construction tasks associated with each construction task.