Abstract: An interlocking panel, and structures formed therefrom, are described herein. Embodiments of the present invention provide a panel including a protruding end including a receiving member for engaging a complementary engaging member of a first adjacent panel, and a receiving end including two flanges, at least one of the two flanges including an engaging member for engaging a complementary receiving member of a second adjacent panel, one or both of the two flanges configured to flex to allow the complementary receiving member of the second adjacent panel to engage the engaging member.

Abstract: An appliance is provided for fitting a corner piece in the form of a module for a floor and wall covering. The appliance comprises a floor base comprising a rear part to support the operative's knees and forwardly having a fixed shaped bracket. An upper part of the bracket accommodates a support yoke which can be angularly oriented relative to the bracket. The support yoke is designed to receive a first structure for centering the appliance against the corner of the wall which receives the module, a second structure for gripping by the operative and a third structure for actuating and transmission and pressing against the module in order to obtain final shaping of the module. The third structure contributes to creep deformation of certain parts of the module to be fitted.

Abstract: A frame extender for attachment to a stud is formed as an L-shaped body having two orthogonal legs, a short leg and a long leg. The short leg serves as a mounting surface to which a wall surfacing material can be attached, while the long leg is fastened to the stud. The long leg terminates in an outer edge which preferably has a toothed profile. An indexing mark is provided on the long leg, extending parallel to the short leg and spaced apart therefrom, and substantially traversing the long leg. The indexing mark is preferably provided by a discontinuity in the surface of the long leg that is placed against the stud. A preferred method for fabricating the frame extenders uses stock that can be pressed or extruded, and which is cut along a serpentine path to form a pair of frame extenders.

Abstract: A method for constructing factory prefabricated and finished load bearing wall panels and monolithic ceiling/floor sections and modules comprised of the same for use in a single family or single story building as well as a multi-level and multi-unit building. The integrally formed wall panels are constructed of modified steel studs, rigid insulating material, and metal lathe and are factory finished with plaster or stucco like material. A void is defined by the modified steel studs window casings and door jambs. Upon erection and assembly at the job site, steel rebar is placed in such voids that are then filled with concrete, thereby eliminating the need for any additional concrete form work.

Abstract: The invention is a structural element including an elongate member having a first end and second end and defining a cross-section. The structural element further includes a sensor, secured to the elongate member, for detecting at least one pre-selected indicator. Advantageously, the elongate member is responsive to the pre-selected indicator.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for sticking edging material (12, 10) onto lightweight building boards (1) comprising two thin-walled outer layers (2, 4) and a core layer (6) of lightweight filler material disposed between the outer layers, having the steps: provision of a lightweight building board (1), a decor edge (10) and a stabilising edge (12), and sticking on of the decor edge (10) and/or the stabilising edge (12) in the region of a narrow surface (1?) of the lightweight building board (1). The process according to the invention is characterised in that the stabilising edge (12) is introduced into a section between two outer layers (2, 4) in the region of the narrow surface (1?) without having first created a recess of at least one outer layer and/or of the core layer in this section, said recess corresponding substantially to the stabilising edge.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for sticking edging material (10, 12) onto lightweight building boards (1) comprising two thin-walled outer layers (2, 4) and a core layer (6) of lightweight filler material disposed between the outer layers (2, 4), having the steps: provision of a lightweight building board (1), a decor edge (10) and a stabilizing edge (12), and sticking on of the decor edge (10) and/or the stabilizing edge (12) in the region of a narrow surface (1?) of the lightweight building board (1). The process according to the invention is characterized in that at least the stabilizing edge (12) comprises a synthetic fibre material, preferably a cellulose-based fibre material, particularly paperboard material.

Abstract: The disclosure pertains to a method of constructing structures and the resulting structures with SEP technology but with additional building components that create very strong buildings, including the ability to withstand high winds. The disclosure includes the option of constructing vertical concrete columns and horizontal concrete beams within the joined panel walls. This results in combining structural insulated panel technology with insulated concrete form technology. The disclosure also teaches use of compression fasteners that extend through both layers of the panel skin to achieve a mechanical attachment of the panel skins and not relying totally on the adhesive bond found on the typical SIP thus creating a “true” box beam effect of the panel itself. The fasteners have large chambered heads. These fasteners can be used at the junction of abutting panels. The panels are block lap cut and the fastener extends through both block extensions.

Abstract: A tool (10) for pressing together flooring panels (12) to be fixed in place one relative to the other(s), wherein a first part (14) of the tool has a foot portion (18) for abutting against a surface (20), a second part (16) of the tool has a head portion (22) for abutting against an end one (12a) of the flooring panels, and the second part is movable relative to the first part for exerting force on the end flooring panel.

Abstract: The present invention involves the recycling of asphalt based roofing materials by comminuting the roofing material and subsequently separating a rock component from an asphalt component of the roofing material. The asphaltic component is separated into a feed stream having a mesh size of less than about 50 mesh while the rock component is separated into a feed stream having rocks in the size of 10 mesh or larger. A portion of the comminuted material may be recycled back for additional comminuting. The separated asphaltic component is placed in contact with the solvent to dissolve the asphalt in the asphaltic component providing a mixture of filler, fiber and dissolved asphalt. The liquid may then be applied to a surface of a wall to form a substantially continuous solidified film on the wall to provide waterproofing and an air barrier.

Abstract: An overmolded building product having a frame and a thin shell base. The frame has a periphery and a first aperture. The frame further has an overmolding adapted to receive a pane, which has an interior side and exterior side in contact with the overmolding. The pane covers the first aperture and transmits light. The thin shell base has an exterior side opposed to a portion of an interior side forming a first cavity. The first cavity selectably receiving a filler. The thin shell has a first distal end of the exterior side which may be selectably positionable adjacent to and securable to a roof member. The roof member defines a second aperture leading to a room in a building. The interior side of the thin shell defines a second cavity adjacent to the pane. The frame is securable to the thin shell base. The frame and thin shell base are molded using a process selected from thermoforming, rotomolding, compression molding, or injection molding.

Abstract: A wallboard construction method is provided and comprises the following steps. First, a prefabricated wallboard and a wall are provided, the prefabricated wallboard comprising a substrate, a frame and a solar energy board, wherein the frame is disposed on the substrate, and the solar energy board is fixed in the frame. Finally, the prefabricated wallboard is disposed on the wall.

Abstract: A machine for fabricating a composite structural panel is provided that receives trusses vertically and feeds them into a foam spray chamber driven by first and second drive mechanisms. The drive mechanisms form the filler material and maintain the trusses in place while a cutting blade trims off excess foam.

Abstract: A building manufacturing system is provided. The system includes a temporary assembly facility configured to substantially cover one or more permanent building locations. The temporary assembly facility is further configured to enable one or more buildings to be assembled up the one or more permanent building locations. The temporary assembly facility can include a manufacturing facility. The temporary assembly facility can include a transportation system. The transportation system can include an overhead rail system. The temporary assembly facility can include a roof configured to divert precipitation. The roof can be flexible. The roof can include a canvass portion. The roof can include a plastic portion. A method of building a building is also provided. The method can include covering a permanent building location with a portion of a temporary assembly facility, assembling the building upon the permanent building location and removing the portion from the permanent building location.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cushioned impervious flooring usually formed in place. At least one layer of closed cell cushion is overlaid with a reinforcing mesh having interstitial spaces, a layer of adhesive is applied to adhere the reinforcing mesh to the cushion and to adhere the reinforcing layer to a layer of sheet flooring. Tapered edges provide gentle transition from the cushioned impervious flooring to adjacent surfaces at a different elevation. Joints in the closed cell cushion, reinforcing layer and sheet flooring are offset from each other to provide smooth installation and more strength.

Abstract: A building framework includes metal columns (e.g., tubular or I-beam), wood-product beams, and bracket connectors for joining the beams to the columns to form a building joint of sufficient strength and durability for buildings suitable for human occupation. First mechanical fasteners (such as bolts and nuts) secure a selected connector to the column, and second mechanical fasteners (such as lag bolts) secure a selected beam to the connector. The columns include double rows of holes. A plurality of different connectors with differently angled flanges are provided, such that beams can be connected at a wide variety of different angles. Further, the system allows columns and/or beams to be cut at the construction site, or at a building supply company. Thus, basic building components can be inventoried in a manner not previously possible, yet the system supports a wide variety of different building frames for on-site customization and adaptability.

Abstract: An improved flashing for sealing an opening of an architectural structure, comprising a generally vertically disposed substantially planar forward portion having an upper end and a lower end. A base portion rearwardly projects generally from the upper end of the forward portion and has an upper surface that includes a generally inclined portion and also includes a plurality of outwardly projecting spaced apart ribs. Kits and methods employing the flashing are described as well.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods used to assemble trusses composed of wooden components. The system comprises at least one station for cutting lumber into truss components (i.e., cords and web members), a station for position the cord members relative to one another, a station for positioning the web member relative to the cord members for attachment, and a station for securing the web members to the cord members and/or other web members in a predetermined sequence.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for reinforcing building structural components. The system includes a rigid continuous stirrup elongated along a longitudinal axis. Portions of the stirrup may be inserted from a lateral direction into cells between webs of the building structural component in an unobstructed fashion. The system also includes at least one reinforcing member situated within a corridor along the length of the stirrup.

Abstract: A method and system for determining fastener locations at the joints of chord and web members of a roof truss determines an allowable area within which fasteners can be placed at the joints. Fastener locations within the allowable areas are determined, and additional information is associated with each fastener location. The additional information may include a fastener installation parameter than can be compared to a parameter measured during installation of the fastener to determine if the fastener has been properly installed. The fastener locations within the allowable area may be arranged to form a non-linear zig-zag pattern.

Abstract: A bolt has a pointed end with cutting edges. The cutting edges may have knurls (grooves) or ridges, and may have a spiral arrangement. The bolt may have a convex end, such as a cone end or a curved end. A plurality of bolts may be used as part of a reinforcing bar splice that also includes a sleeve. The bolts engage threaded holes of the sleeves. As the bolts are tightened, they bore into the receiving bar ends, securing the bar ends within the sleeve. Cutting edges on the bolts aid in boring the ends of the bolts into the reinforcing bar ends. Using cutting edges on the bolt ends allows deeper penetration of the bolts into the reinforcing bar ends, without increasing the amount of torque used.

Abstract: A wall fabrication system and method is provided. In an embodiment, an assembly line comprises one or framing stations and one or more insulation stations. The frame stations are configured to build a wall frame consisting of wall studs and a covering such as drywall. The wall studs and drywall define cavities in the frame which are to be insulated. Optionally, mechanical components such as electrical and plumbing can be installed. The wall section is then transferred to the insulation station. The insulation station is configured to fill the cavities in the wall frame with closed cell foam which is injected in flowable form into each cavity.

Abstract: An impact resistant door including a frame (24) presenting an inner wall (36) and defining a pane slot (58) and a flap slot (60) and a groove (62) along each side of the pane slot (58). The door includes a pane of laminated glass (46) having an inside sheet of glass (48) and an outside sheet of glass (50) sandwiched together and having oppositely facing outside surfaces (56) to define a pane width (Wp) therebetween. An interlayer (52) is adhesively sandwiched between the sheets of glass and presents an edge flap (54) extending along the periphery of the pane of laminated glass (46). The pane width (Wp) is disposed in the pane slot (58) and the edge flap (54) is disposed in the flap slot (60) of the frame (24). A plurality of inserts (64) engage the outside surfaces (56) of the glass, and each insert (64) includes a projection (68) extending into the groove (62) of the frame (24) along the adjacent outside surface (56) of glass.

Abstract: A traffic door panel is formed by an extrusion process that includes at least one pattern roll having both textured and smooth areas, the textured areas forming generally translucent or opaque areas of the traffic door panel and the smooth areas forming generally transparent areas of the traffic door panel. The textured areas can be formed to be thicker than the transparent areas. Some selected areas of the door panel can be cut out. Inserts can be bonded or welded into selected cut out areas of the door panel.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing floor covering strips or slabs (1) comprising support panels (2) which are covered with a decorative layer (3) by means of surfacing. The invention is characterised in that it comprises the following steps consisting in: applying glue to ail or part of at least one face (5) of a support panel (2), applying a decorative sheet (7) to the glued face (5) of the support panel (2), in particular by means of calendering; and cutting the panel (2) into floor covering strips and/or slabs (1). The invention also relates to a facility that is used to implement said method and to a floor covering strip thus produced.

Abstract: A cementitious masonry block that exhibits the appearance of finished natural stone comprises at least two substantially parallel stacking sides operable to be installed on or over other blocks to form a block wall. At least one hollow cell is formed in the block to provide a void for structural reinforcing. One or more display faces each exhibits a finish applied by natural stone finishing techniques. The block is formed from a cementitious mixture that is substantially homogenous throughout the masonry block and that, when cured, is substantially matched in color or grain, or both, to the natural stone that is being replicated.

Abstract: Invention relates to a room arrangement (20) comprising at least two superposed prefabricated load-bearing room units have a ceiling (24), a floor (2) and at least two walls (3, 4, 5, 6) that are at least mainly of cellular board. The invention also related to a ship, building and method for constructing a room arrangement. The invention relates especially to a new manner of constructing multi-story rooms, for example, cabin compartments in ships or block of flats without middle decks or intermediate floors.

Abstract: A window muntin apparatus and system, and methods for forming the same is disclosed. The muntins are formed from a substrate of expanded cellular polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”) that has been applied with a desired muntin shape and machined by a computerized numerically controlled (CNC) machine such as a 3-axis router. Muntins are then sealed between two pieces of glass to create a sealed insulated glass unit.

Abstract: A method of producing an engineered composite structural panel by selecting a structural panel having at least two structural shells, an insulating material extending therebetween, and a plurality of truss members extending therebetween. A determination is made if the two or more structural shells act as a unitary composite structural panel. If the structural panel is not a unitary composite structural panel, then parameters of the panel are adjusted and it is further determined whether the panel is a unitary composite structural panel. Combined truss systems for strengthening the structural panels may be formed by combining ladder truss members with warren truss members, by superimposing the ladder truss members and warren truss members, and by superimposing ladder truss members with a warren truss member and another warren truss member that is inverted.

Abstract: A joining arrangement for use in the construction of stud frames and for releasable attachment of a first structural member to a second structural member forming part of the frame. The first member includes in at least one side wall a female recess which, when the members are joined, engages a corresponding male protrusion in at least one wall of the second member. The respective formations in the first and second members engage such that they are generally in alignment thereby securing the first member to the second member and wherein the first member is a stud and the second member is a plate.

Abstract: A construction block is provided that includes at least one base member that includes a plurality of lower side wall receptacles. The construction block further includes a plurality of side wall assemblies. Each of the side wall assemblies includes a plurality of interconnected panels. Each of the panels is hingedly connected to each adjacent one of the panels of the respective one of the side wall assemblies. Each of the side wall assemblies defines a hollow load chamber having an open top and an open bottom. At least some of the panels of each of the side wall assemblies are angled relative to one another. Each of the lower side wall receptacles receives one of the side wall assemblies.

Abstract: A beam-like structural component (1) made up of individual parts, comprising a flange (2) and two webs (3, 4) is characterized in that a flange (2) is provided with one web (3, 4) each on its two longitudinal sides, wherein each web is attached to a longitudinal sidewall of the flange (2) preferably by means of an adhesive material, and that the end regions (7) of the webs (3, 4), which end regions are facing away from the flange (2), are planarly interconnected with the surfaces (8, 9) facing each other preferably by means of an adhesive material, wherein the webs (3, 4), in their cross-sections, have in each case the shape of a “stretched S”.

Abstract: A lateral bracing system is disclosed for affixing a column to a beam in a construction. The lateral bracing system includes a pair of buckling restraint blocks, one each affixed to a top and bottom flange of a beam. Each buckling restraint block includes one or more bores formed through a center of the block. The lateral bracing system further includes at least one yield link for each buckling restraint block. Each yield link includes a first end affixed to the column, and a second end fit through a bore in a buckling restraint block and affixed to an end of the buckling restraint block.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a reinforced wood panel comprising a first lignocellulosic layer, and a prepreg layer.

Abstract: A flexible fiber reinforced composite rebar structure includes a plurality of continuous fibers embedded within a thermoplastic resin. The rebar structure has an elliptical cross sectional shape with an aspect ratio of about two to one and a twist with a twist pitch of about 30 cm. The thermoplastic resin matrix enables the rebar structure to be bent in the field by the application of heat to soften the structure and thereafter cooled to return to a rigid state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for joining two or more components and/or construction parts, at least one of which consists of a dispersion-strengthened alloy having the following composition (in % by weight): C up to 0.08 Si up to 0.7 Cr 10-25 Al 1-10 Mo 1.5-5 Mn up to 0.4 balance Fe as well as normally occurring impurities by the fact that the cross section in the joint is enlarged by forging before joining and where the product manufactured according to the method can be used in high-temperature applications at temperatures above 900° C.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for selectively dispensing reinforcement material into a concrete component. The apparatus is capable of providing, positioning and embedding any form of rolled reinforcement materials into both prefabricated concrete components and cast-in-place concrete components which can be operated by a minimal number of personnel in a timely and economical manner, and which can be used to mass produce concrete components.

Abstract: Floor panels (1, 1?) are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system having a flexible tongue (30) in a displacement groove (40), which during a vertical folding motion is displaced. Moreover, a tongue blank (50), a production method and an installation method are shown.

Abstract: A method of making tough, water-proof building panels depositing a first fiber-rich layer onto a support, the first fiber-rich layer having a width defined by first and second side edges, a length direction, and a top surface; placing foam blocks on the first layer, lengths of the foam blocks extending generally between the first and second side edges of the first fiber-rich layer; depositing a second fiber-rich layer onto the combination of the first fiber-rich layer and the foam blocks, thereby to develop an uncured precursor to the building panel; and curing the uncured precursor to the building panel thereby to make a generally rigid structural building panel.

Abstract: The panel 1 comprises a steel skin or backing tray (2) and an external steel skin (3) with a layer of foam insulation material (4) such as a phenolic or polyurethane based foam material therebetween. One of the skins, in this case the external skin 3 has a plurality of mountings for fixing cladding elements such as tiles (5) to the panel to form a cladding. The mountings comprise rails (10) and fasteners (12) for fastening the rails (10) to the external skin (3). Each fastener (12) comprises an internal clamping sleeve (15) and a bolt (16). A hole is first drilled through the skin (3) and the sleeve (15) is inserted. On tightening of the bolt (16), the sleeve (15) splays and is clamped against the inside surface of the external skin (3), and the rails (10) are fixed to the panels. To enhance the peel strength of the composite panel a layer (30) of an adhesive is applied to the internal face of the external skin (3).

Abstract: A method of constructing a building or building appurtenance, optionally without structural use of concrete except for floor slabs. The method contemplates excavating a hole to establish a natural base on which the structure is to be constructed, establishing layout locations where upright walls or other supports of the structure are to be erected, establishing a fabricated footer, optionally a fiber-reinforced polymeric footer, along the laid-out locations of the supports, placing pre-fabricated load-bearing fiber-reinforced polymeric building panels or other supports on the fabricated footer, and connecting the pre-fabricated wall panels or other supports to each other according to the structure plan thereby developing load-bearing walls or other supports, and erecting overlying structure on the load-bearing walls or other supports.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a door skin having an exterior surface with an woodgrain pattern formed therein, and an etched plate for use as an embossing plate or with a molded die set, for forming the woodgrain pattern in the door skin. The exterior surface has outer portions lying on a first plane, spaced grooves recessed from the plane of the outer portions, and halftone portions. The halftone portions have spaced protrusions defined by channels, wherein the channels are recessed from the plane of the outer portions.

Abstract: A structural sandwich plate member is manufactured by adhering perimeter bars to the faceplates rather than by welding. This method enables the production of plate members with reduced distortion. Alternatively a sealant strip may be used between the perimeter frame and the faceplates.

Abstract: A tough, water-proof building system, and methods of making the system elements and constructing buildings, which provides wall, ceiling, and floor structural panels and corresponding walls, ceilings, and floors,. The walls can be designed to have vertical and horizontal strengths sufficient to be used in place of concrete, as an engineered solution, both above grade and below-grade, including in severe weather conditions, such that no concrete need be used except for floor slabs. Panels have inner and outer layers, and structurally reinforcing members. Structurally-reinforcing members extend, typically as a layer and/or stud, the full height of a wall, at spaced locations along the length of the wall. Spaces between the structurally reinforcing members are optionally filled with rigid foam. An optional reinforcing stud is attached to, or overlaid by, the inner layer, and extends inwardly into the building from what is otherwise the inner surface of the building panel.

Abstract: Concrete lumber replacement can be made to exact measurements and cuts. Once placed in the structure, it would make the structure more durable under severe weather conditions. It also deters insects that can destroy the structure over time. Concrete is a fire retardant. If a fire happens, the foundation and frame will still be intact. To date, concrete has never been used in framing. In return, it will conserve trees and lower the overall cost to build the structure.

Abstract: A wire insulation hanger comprises an inner core of rigid wire and includes an exterior coating of a flexible, environmentally-resistant material. The wire insulation hanger is arranged between two adjacent floor joists to secure insulation there between and includes sloped ends for optimizing a surface area between the wire insulation hanger and each adjacent floor joist.

Abstract: A joint between wood pieces, as of timber, laminated timber, LVL, plywood etc., where one or more bars (2, 3), as the diagonal of a truss, is connected the side of other bar (1), as the side of the truss chord whereby in the produced joint all said bars are connected to each other by a finger joint. From chord (1) wood is cut either so that asymmetrically from the one side less is cut than from the other side or so that from the middle less is cut than from the ends.

Abstract: Manufacture of roll formed one piece sheet metal grid tees that affords different load ratings with the same gauge and quality of sheet stock and the same overall cross-section dimensions by varying the width of the strip used to make the tees and disposing material added for increased load rating at the area of the hollow reinforcing bulb of the tees.

Abstract: The current invention provides a runner for constructing curved surfaces. The runner has at least two sections with each section having at least two layers. The layers used to prepare the sections are substantially identical. However, when assembled to form a section one layer is reversed compared to another layer. Alternatively, each section may be integrally formed. Adjacent sections are pivotal with respect to one another until secured on a desired radius. The runner of the current invention is suitable for constructing curved walls, archways and other curved structures.

Abstract: An insulated glazing unit has controllable radiation transmittance. Peripheries of first and second glazing panes are attached and spaced apart facing each other and then attached to a supporting structure. A conductive layer is atop the first glazing pane inner surface as a fixed position electrode. A dielectric is atop the conductive layer. A coiled spiral roll, variable position electrode is between the first and second glazing panes, a width of its outer edge attached to the dielectric. A first electrical lead is connected to the variable position electrode's conductive layer. A second electrical lead is connected to the conductive layer atop the first glazing pane. Applied voltage between the first and second electrical leads creates a predetermined potential difference between the electrodes, and the variable position electrode unwinds and rolls out to at least partially cover the first glazing pane, at least reducing the intensity of passing radiation.