Machine Or Implement Patents (Class 52/749.1)
  • Patent number: 11795707
    Abstract: The invention relates to a spacer for keeping a wall connection-side joint free, for example when laying a rigid floor covering, comprising a spacer element (2, 2.1) with a thickness, which corresponds to the width of the joint to be kept free, and an angle bracket (3, 3.1) with a strip-shaped holding limb (4, 4.1) and a holding shaft (5, 5.1) which is connected to the holding limb (4, 4.1) at the end thereof and which protrudes from the holding limb (3, 3.1). A bore (7) which extends in the vertical direction of the spacer element and into which the holding shaft (5, 5.1) engages is introduced into the spacer element (2, 2.1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventor: Ralph Schulze
  • Patent number: 11655600
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to the technical field of bridge construction, in particular to a method for installing steel tube arches, which comprises the following steps: step S1, erecting steel tube arch assembling brackets; step S2, assembling a steel tube arch of longitudinally moving segment; step S3, installing temporary tie rods; step S4, dismantling the assembling brackets; step S5, longitudinally moving the steel tube arch of longitudinally moving segment; step S6, erecting an arch springing bracket and assembling small mileage arch springing segments; step S7, closing the steel tube arch; S8, arch falling and temporary auxiliary facilities dismantling; step S9, construction of concrete and suspenders in arch. The method for installing steel tube arches provided by the disclosure is safe, standardized and reliable, and the construction standard is prone to control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Assignee: China Railway No.3 Engineering Group Co.Ltd
    Inventors: Yugen Zhang, Chenghong Liu, Liang Ma, Yubo Chen, Changyong Ji, Yingmei Wang, Boxuan Zhang, Guoying Song, Tengfei Dong
  • Patent number: 10322499
    Abstract: A screwing device, which serves for screwing boards (2) onto underlying crossbeams (3) in such a way that the screws are screwed tilted in from the edges (5) of the boards (2). The screwing device includes a base (7) with an oblong foot (8) which in use stands on the upper side of the boards (2), two arms (9) extending tilted out from each their end of the foot (8), and two opposite screw drivers (10), which are mounted on each their arm (9) and each is arranged with means for conveying a disposable belt (34) of releasable screws (6) and for stepwise screwing in screws (6) from the belt (34). With the present invention, the components of a terrace can be screwed faster together than hitherto known, and at the same time the terrace obtains optimal strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Inventor: Lars Mikkelsen
  • Patent number: 9763584
    Abstract: An optical measurement module is disclosed that includes three or more recessed regions separated from each other by two or more barrier walls, the recessed regions including at least two distal recessed regions. The optical measurement module may also include first and second photo-emitter elements that emit light in different spectrums and first and second photodetector elements. One or more of the second photo-emitter elements may be located in one of the distal recessed regions, and the second photodetector element may be located in one of the other distal recessed regions. The first photodetector element may be located in a recessed region other than the recessed region where the second photodetector element is located, and the one or more photo-emitter elements may be located in one of the recessed regions other than the one where the first photodetector element is located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Fitbit, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Freschl, Chris H. Sarantos, Peter W. Richards, Anthony Alexander Cacace, Ritika Sahai, Lindsey Michelle Sunden
  • Patent number: 8991128
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one aspect thereof, is a portable drywall/plaster repair kit comprised of at least one pencil like structure comprised of a first end and a second end; a sharpener for sharpening at least one of said first end and said second end; and a cutting device for scoring or cutting the sharpened first or second end. The drywall/plaster repair kit eliminates the waiting time typically associated with other drywall/plaster repair methods and devices, and enables a user to repair a hole in drywall and/or plaster with a single application, thereby saving time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Howard James
  • Publication number: 20150040514
    Abstract: An installation method and tool facilitate the installation of decking members onto an elongated fastening track in an integrated fastening track systems. The installation tool comprises a base having a distal portion and a proximal portion. Imparting a striking force to the rear face of the base distal portion urges the front surface of the base proximal portion laterally into contact with fastening tangs integral with and extending upwardly from the fastening track, thereby engaging the fastening tangs to secure a decking member with longitudinal side edge slots to the fastening track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Donald G. Hinkle
  • Publication number: 20150020473
    Abstract: An extrudable keder rail and a clamping anchor for the keder rail are cooperative to secure keder fabric to a building support beam. The clamping anchor allows the keder rail to be securely attached to a standard beam without drilling holes or strapping about the beam. A temporary clamp and movable tensioning device allow the keder rails and keder fabric to be applied to the building support beams after the support beams have been assembled and installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Benjamin D. Fox
  • Patent number: 8910429
    Abstract: A fastener installation guide for securing a top plate to a roof support member comprises a grip assembly, a roof support member alignment wall and a fastener retention assembly transverse to the grip assembly. The handle portion has first and second top plate alignment members oriented generally perpendicular to one another. A gripping surface extends between the first and second top plate alignment members and the roof support member alignment defines a first plane oriented transversely to the grip assembly. The fastener retention assembly defines a fastener retention channel and has a fastener alignment wall which defines a second plane, a roof support member alignment edge and a bottom edge. The fastener retention channel is oriented at an angle ? with respect to the second plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Handy & Harman
    Inventor: Michael W. Maziarz
  • Publication number: 20140331595
    Abstract: Embodiments of the Protective Wall Molding Fastener System are comprised of protective wall molding, protective wall molding backing, a wall molding grove apparatus, a wall molding bending apparatus, and an adhesive means. The protective wall molding backing is comprised of thin long of polymeric strips. The protective wall molding backing provides the structural strength and stability not present in the protective wall molding. In addition, the protective wall molding backing provides a more suitable surface for the adhesive means to anchor the backing to both the molding and to the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: BASE BACKER LLC
    Inventor: Mark Alan Seaver
  • Patent number: 8875774
    Abstract: The invention relates to the general field of construction, and more specifically, the protection of construction work sites. At least two vertical poles are positioned between two surfaces such as ceilings and floors. A center frame with one or more rotatable segments may be mounted between the vertical poles and secured to a window sill. Construction materials may be passed over the rotatable segment and through the center frame with minimal or no damage to the window sill or surrounding structure. The vertical poles may be used with a sheet material to form a protective tunnel. Construction materials may be passed through the tunnel with minimal or no damage to the surrounding environment. Debris left by the construction materials is captured within the tunnel and can be safely and conveniently removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Garrett Flores
  • Patent number: 8875473
    Abstract: A gutter installation assembly for holding a gutter, a ferrule and a fastener proximate a roof edge includes a holder that may be positioned proximate the roof edge. A vertical portion of the holder may be gripped by a user. A U-shaped portion of the holder is coupled to the vertical portion of the holder. The U-shaped portion of the holder may position the ferrule and the fastener proximate the roof edge. A retainer is coupled to the U-shaped portion of the holder. The retainer may retain the fastener on the U-shaped portion of the holder. A horizontal portion of the holder is coupled to the vertical portion of the holder. The horizontal portion of the holder may support the gutter. The user drives the fastener into the roof edge so the fastener retains the gutter on the roof edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Richard K. Frombach
  • Publication number: 20140305069
    Abstract: The present invention disclosed an apparatus for reverse rectification, relating to the field of civil engineering technology. The apparatus for reverse rectification comprises two sets of steel plate hooks, which are reversely arranged and respectively fixed on the building and the skewed large-scale structure that needs to be rectified, and a jack which is horizontally placed on the steel plate hooks. The steel plate hooks, which are driven by the jack, push the skewed structure towards the existed building, whereby the skewed structure and the existed building can be spliced correctly. This present invention has more advantages, e.g. simple structure and convenient operability, which can improve the construction efficiency and reduce the construction costs. Therefore it can be widely used in the field of civil engineering technology. Further, the present invention also discloses a method for reverse rectification by using the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicants: Guangzhou Construction Engineering Co., Ltd., Guangzhou DI-ER Construction & Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhenying CHEN, Long WANG, Junyue GAO, Mingqiu YAO, Shaobin TANG, Han HUANG, Jingwen HU, Qianyi HE, Weijian YU, Guoxiong WANG
  • Publication number: 20140305067
    Abstract: A method for installing a truss-wall stud unit includes coupling a set of bottom plates with a foundation, coupling a set of hinge brackets with the set of bottom plates, coupling a first partial truss with a second partial truss to form a truss-wall stud unit, coupling the truss-wall stud unit with the bottom plates and hinge brackets, and hoisting the truss-wall stud unit into a substantially vertical position. A system includes truss-wall stud units which are connected to bottom plates using hinge brackets. Once connected to the hinge brackets and bottom plates, the truss-wall stud units are hoisted upright into a substantially vertical position using a cable system with a cable support system. Temporary interlocking spacer bars are used to brace the truss-wall stud units at predetermined intervals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Steve Ventling
  • Publication number: 20140260075
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for mounting a door frame into a door opening of a building and includes a pair of substantially similar brackets, a door support frame, and a trim frame. The brackets are connectable to the door opening, the door support frame is connected to the brackets, and the trim frame is connected to the door support frame. The brackets may have a slotted aperture for adjusting the brackets horizontally along a fastener. The brackets may also have an inward taper or ramp for adjustably receiving the door support frame. The brackets are connected to the door support frame through the use of mounting pins, slots, spring clips, integral pins, or a frame insertion tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Sci-Pro.Org, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin John Rucinski, Scott Allen Behr
  • Publication number: 20140260008
    Abstract: Provided herein are devices for installing jamb assemblies and like structures within a rough opening. In certain embodiments, the installation device comprises a guide portion attached to a jamb assembly and a spacer portion operatively connected to the guide portion and configured to selectively move relative to the guide portion to provide adjustment of the jamb assembly relative to the rough opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Therma-Tru Corp.
    Inventors: Scott B. Eis, Seth Gillen, Thomas A. Topp, Caleb A. Ziebold
  • Patent number: 8814555
    Abstract: The drywall tapering device has a drive roller and two idler rollers extending from the front face of a frame in a triangular configuration with the drive roller above the idler rollers. The drive roller has an annular groove defined around its base and tapers in diameter from wide to narrow as the roller extends from the base to its free end. The butt end of a drywall panel is supported against an elongate track. The frame is clamped over the butt end and the track, a spring-biased adjustment screw assembly being used to clamp the drive roller against the butt end with the track engaging the groove. A drill grips a mandrel extending from the drive roller and causes the drive roller to rotate and ride along the track, forming a tapered recess in the butt end of the drywall, the idler rollers following below the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventors: Alex G. Hensley, Sr., Paul H. Balentine
  • Patent number: 8789809
    Abstract: Disclosed is an auxiliary device (1) for alignment of floor boards (2) when laying plank flooring. The auxiliary device is a tensioning unit (10) with two floor-side, protruding, lower contact jaws (12, 14) for resting against board side edges. The contact jaws are joined together via a displacement guide (16) for changing of their mutual internal distance (X1, X2), and with an upper lever mechanism (18) positioned opposite the lower, floor-side contact jaws (12, 14). The lever mechanism (18) is designed according to the toggle principle and is connected to the contact jaws (12, 14) such that by pivoting of the lever mechanism (18) the contact jaws (12, 14) can be moved from a starting position with a larger distance (X1) into a tensioned position with a smaller, defined distance (X2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Spax International GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Christian Lehmann
  • Publication number: 20140157719
    Abstract: A decorative concrete product and method of making the same is provided. The concrete surface carries a unique textural and visual decorative pattern that is troweled over the uncured surface. The decorative pattern strategically conceals any imperfections in the concrete surface. A decorative finishing tool is utilized to create a unique and consistent pattern throughout the exposed surface of the concrete. Unique visual patterns may include any aesthetic design including wood grain, or lightly finished honed or cut stone. The decorative finishing tool may be configured so that varying textures and contours may consistently be imprinted throughout the concrete. Advantageously, the cured concrete retains the durability of a concrete surface while carrying a visually and texturally appealing appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: LITHOCRETE, INC.
    Inventor: RONALD D. SHAW
  • Patent number: 8733059
    Abstract: A plank assembly for use in an attic safely supports an individual on an attic surface whether moving across or remaining stationary on the surface. The assembly includes a plank having a top surface opposite a bottom surface and a perimeter edge extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The plank is configured for coupling to a pair of joists supporting an attic when a top side of the joists abuts the bottom surface of the plank. A pair of extensions is coupled to the plank. Each of the extensions is coupled to opposite ends of the perimeter edge. Each of the extensions is slanted downwardly relative to the top surface of the plank. An inner side of each of the extensions is configured for positioning above an outer side of an associated one of the joists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Mark S. Hamra
  • Patent number: 8738280
    Abstract: Methods for pedestrian unit (PU) communication activity reduction in pedestrian-to-vehicle communication networks include obtaining safety risk information for a pedestrian at risk for involvement in an accident and using the risk information to adjust a PU communication activity. In some embodiments, the activity reduction is achieved without implementing understanding of surroundings. In other embodiments, the activity reduction is based on risk assessment provided by vehicles. In some embodiments, the activity reduction includes PU transmission reduction. In some embodiments the transmission activity reduction may be followed by reception activity reduction for overall power consumption reduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Autotalks Ltd.
    Inventor: Onn Haran
  • Publication number: 20140102041
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one aspect thereof, is a portable drywall/plaster repair kit comprised of at least one pencil like structure comprised of a first end and a second end; a sharpener for sharpening at least one of said first end and said second end; and a cutting device for scoring or cutting the sharpened first or second end. The drywall/plaster repair kit eliminates the waiting time typically associated with other drywall/plaster repair methods and devices, and enables a user to repair a hole in drywall and/or plaster with a single application, thereby saving time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Howard James
  • Publication number: 20140090253
    Abstract: A tool for use in installing panels, especially for laying floor panels, is provided. The tool includes an elongate body portion having a projecting edge portion configured to be inserted along a side of a panel to retain a sealing member along the side of the panel from interfering with laying of an adjacent panel, A length of the projecting edge portion is selectively adjustable to suit a variety of panel dimensions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Sven Bendel
  • Patent number: 8667765
    Abstract: Applicant has disclosed a method and device (i.e., support tool) for installing sheathing (e.g., drywall or plasterboard). This tool enables a single person to easily attach the sheathing (e.g., by nails or screws) to an underlying structure (e.g., a wall stud, joist or rafter). In the preferred “device” embodiment, Applicant's tool is generally J-shaped with four tapered spikes (“teeth”) on its backside. The spikes are equally spaced from one another. By hammering the tool, its spikes can be driven into the underlying structure. No separate nail or screw is needed to hold the tool in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jennifer M. McCarthy
  • Publication number: 20140059973
    Abstract: A front adjustable wall panel mounting device that is adjustable from the front of a wall is disclosed. The front adjustable wall panel mounting device has a fixed channel configured to be coupled with a wall frame and a moving channel configured to be coupled with wall panel mounting hardware. The fixed channel and the moving channel are configured to be nested together. The tilt of the wall panel is adjusted by turning first or second adjustment bolts. The depth of the wall panel can be adjusted by turning both the first and second adjustment bolts in the same direction, by the same amount. The vertical height of the wall panel can be adjusted by turning the third adjustment bolt. A thin wrench can be inserted into the wall panel gap, engage and turn the adjustment bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Andre Duranleau
  • Publication number: 20140059972
    Abstract: A spacer for retaining a cladding element on a building element in a spaced apart relationship has a constant cross-section in its longitudinal direction. The spacer is an at least substantially hollow structure having at least one external wall enclosing an interior space. At least one fastener insertion path extends through the interior space. The fastener insertion path is capable of holding a fastener disposed therein prior to mounting the spacer and cladding element on the building element. The spacer preferably comprises planar surfaces on opposite sides thereof that are configured to abut the cladding element and the building element, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Technoform Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Dirk Moses, Sebastian Ossadnik, Thomas Orth, Viktor Maranditsch, Ferdinand Bebber, Thorsten Poehlmann, Björn Hubrich
  • Publication number: 20140053498
    Abstract: The present invention is a drywall ceiling device that includes a base plate held and maneuvered by a user, a vertical telescoping pole perpendicularly attached to the base plate, a turn lock that releasably secures the first telescoping portion and the second telescoping portion together at a first adjustable predetermined length and a height adjustment handle. The drywall ceiling device also includes a threaded square attachment attached to a top of the vertical telescoping pole, a flat plate attached to the top of the vertical telescoping pole by the threaded square attachment. The flat plate is in contact with a ceiling that is held-up by the drywall ceiling device and a plurality of self-opening clips disposed on the flat plate, the self-opening clips are utilized to a hang the drywall ceiling device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2012
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventor: Albert Gonzales
  • Publication number: 20140033641
    Abstract: The auxiliary device (1) for the installation of plate-shaped products (M) for covering floors and/or walls includes: a first element (2) having: a substantially flat base body (3) for supporting two or more adjacent plate-shaped products (M) and a gripping body (4) which is associated substantially at right angles with the base body (3), the base body (3) being suited to support the plate-shaped products (M) from opposite sides of the gripping body (4); a second element (6) associable with the gripping body (4) for fastening the plate-shaped products (M) between the base body (3) and the second element (6) to define the coplanarity of the plate-shaped products (M); and screw connection elements (7) suited to allow the coupling by screwing of the second element (6) on the first element (2) around a rotation axis (R) substantially at right angles to the base body (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: S.I.R.I S.R.L.
    Inventor: Franco TREVISI
  • Publication number: 20140026496
    Abstract: A foundation support driving apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a drive head which may be coupled to a hydraulic ram assembly for driving a foundation support. The drive head has sleeve plates that form a sleeve through which the foundation support may travel. The sleeve plates also form a pair of opposed yokes. The drive had has a pair of opposed rotating plates that rotate about respective pins positioned in opposed yokes. Gripping portions disposed at the inward ends of the rotating plates are adapted to engage the exterior surface of a foundation support extending through the sleeve. The hydraulic ram assembly rotates the rotating plates back and forth to move the gripping portions into and out of engagement with the foundation support in order to move the foundation support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Gregory Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. Gregory, Joe McCullar, David C. Logan
  • Publication number: 20140013703
    Abstract: The present drywall installation tool is configured to facilitate the installation of drywall panels to wall or ceiling structures and to avoid the necessity of having more than one person to install each drywall panel. Specifically, the installation tool can comprise a clamping section and a shelf section. The clamping section can be used to secure the installation tool to wall studs or ceiling joists and can comprise at least one fixed-arm and at least one sliding-arm. The shelf section can be configured to support a drywall panel horizontally or vertically, relative to the ground, depending upon how the installation tool is positioned. The shelf section can comprise a shelf having a flange that can help support the drywall panel. The installation tool can be configured to support the weight of a drywall panel, allowing a single person to install drywall panels comprising either wall or ceiling structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy A. Gower, Ryan P. Malone
  • Patent number: 8627862
    Abstract: Floor panels are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system including tongue and grooves provided with protrusions and cavities which are displaceable in relation to each other and configured such that the protrusions can obtain a vertically unlocked position where they match the cavities and a vertically locked position where the protrusions overlap each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Valinge Innovation AB
    Inventors: Darko Pervan, Niclas Håkansson, Mattias Sjöstrand, Christian Boo, Agne Pålsson
  • Patent number: 8621821
    Abstract: The combination of a gutter piece and a gauging apparatus. The gutter piece has a length, a front, a rear, a bottom and a top. The gutter piece has an upwardly opening “U” shape, as viewed in cross-section taken transversely to the length of the gutter piece, for accumulating water and guiding accumulated water in a lengthwise direction. The gauging apparatus is operatively attached to the gutter piece and has a front and rear and a projecting portion to abut a surface on a structure to which the gutter piece is attached so as to thereby allow the gutter piece to be consistently aligned with the structure in a direction lengthwise of the gutter piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Robert J. Wallace, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8584428
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of multi-component spin hardware for connecting structural framing members to other structural framing members while allowing desired portions of the framing members to pivot, selectively displacing the framing members to variable positions. The spin hardware generally includes a top bracket, a bottom bracket, and a counter bracket assembly. The spin hardware bracket assemblies can be installed along a vertical axis to provide maximum flexibility and creativity while pivoting structural framing members in any number of configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Timothy Pulver
  • Publication number: 20130298493
    Abstract: A concrete anchor point system provides for an anchor point, a receptacle for embedding into a concrete structure for removably receiving the anchor point, and a tool for remotely installing the anchor point in the structure, or removing the anchor point from the structure. The receptacle is preferably tapered, and an anchoring end of the anchor point is preferably tapered to match.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Karl Guthrie, Ivan A.J. Kekahuna, Eric Shawn Patrick, Ben Sy
  • Publication number: 20130263550
    Abstract: This is directed to systems, processes, machines, and other means that all a user to install flashing without removing exterior siding. The invention can allow a user to quickly and easily allow flashing which enables a structure to be more weather resistant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: Lee Welty
  • Patent number: 8549816
    Abstract: A panel installation support apparatus versatile and convenient for temporary attachment of the panel to a frame member includes an adjustable support surface for accommodating various panel thicknesses, a sloped surface to support the leading edge of the panel when positioning in place, and an alignment support shelf to properly align an edge of the panel with the joist or stud while supporting the edge of the panel. An accessory block may be used when standing a panel against a wall or when hanging drywall on sloped ceilings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: James F. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8528301
    Abstract: A method of facing a roof structure includes securing a facing to respective lower flanges of first and second spaced-apart purlins of the roof structure, with the facing extending directly between the respective lower flanges of the first and second purlins. A carriage is suspended from purlins of the roof structure and supports a roll of facing. The facing is dispensed and adhesively secured to the purlins by moving the carriage relative to the purlins and/or by maintaining the carriage in a stationary position and pulling facing from the roll of facing supported on the carriage. The resulting faced roof structure provides an enhanced appearance and more uniform and higher R-value insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Lamtec Corporation
    Inventors: Hal J. Robbins, John A. Post, Thomas Florian
  • Publication number: 20130205712
    Abstract: A siding panel spacing and installation tool includes a first side surface for aligning with a first siding panel, a second side surface for aligning with a second siding panel, and a top surface for positioning a third siding panel above at least one of the first and second siding panels in a level and partially overlapping manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Rhett Butler, James Yancey
  • Patent number: 8505264
    Abstract: A tool connects a stud in place to a longitudinal track in a metal stud wall system installation. The tool includes a tool head having an upright slot in which a track flange is received and a pair of rams mounted on the tool head for linear movement transversely of the track. The rams are spaced apart and straddle opposite sides of the stud. The rams have leading tips with cutting edges. An actuator moves the rams into cutting engagement with the track flange in the upright slot to cut hinged tabs in the track flange, and to bend the hinged tabs into frictional engagement with the opposite sides of the upright stud to connect the upright stud in place to the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Eyal Glisko
  • Publication number: 20130199124
    Abstract: A panel installation support apparatus versatile and convenient for temporary attachment of the panel to a frame member includes an adjustable support surface for accommodating various panel thicknesses, a sloped surface to support the leading edge of the panel when positioning in place, and an alignment support shelf to properly align an edge of the panel with the joist or stud while supporting the edge of the panel. An accessory block may be used when standing a panel against a wall or when hanging drywall on sloped ceilings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: James F. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20130186037
    Abstract: A portable doorframe installation jig is disclosed, adapted to allow a construction worker to readily install a new doorframe plum, level, and in plane. It also may be used as a brace to retain doorframe position during installation of framing and/or drywall. It may also be used as a reinspection tool after installation of drywall. The door jig further serves the purpose of stabilizing the doorframe, in some embodiments, during construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: Don C. HOKANSON
  • Publication number: 20130174498
    Abstract: A carpenter's deck board and fastener positioning tool has a first, proximal part which rests temporarily on the top of a joist, and a second, distal part which rests temporarily on the top of a deck board to be installed. The first, proximal part has a pair of spaced-apart, downwardly extending tabs, one for extending along each side of the joist. This way, when the tool is placed on the joist, the tabs center the tool on the joist. The second, distal part is a longitudinal, substantially flat plate extending from the first, proximal part parallel to the joist, for resting on top of the deck board to be installed when the board is resting transversely on the joist. On or in the flat plate are fastener placements for enabling or indicating the proper location of fasteners for effectively connecting the deck board to the joist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: James D. Hovren
  • Patent number: 8479474
    Abstract: A shingle installation device comprises a body that maintains an alignment stop and a positioning stop that are parallely spaced by a predetermined distance to provide suitable overlap of successively installed shingles. The body also maintains a retainer that forms a gap that is configured to receive and retain the position of a shingle that is being installed. Thus, when the installation device is positioned such that the alignment stop rests against an edge of an installed shingle, an edge of the shingle to be installed is placed within the gap where it is retained in its correct position until the shingle is fastened to the surface being covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: John P. Chestnut, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8474217
    Abstract: A portable jig used in light frame construction has a rigid body formed from a resilient material that is approximately rectangular in shape with a central planar web with a peripheral, perpendicular flange, and at least three saddles, attached to the central planar web. The jig also possesses a vertical framing flange that extends from one of the saddles and is parallel to the central planar web. The longitudinal axes of at least two of the saddles are parallel to each other and are spaced apart in conformity with standard building code spacing. The longitudinal axis of at least one of the remaining saddles is perpendicular to the aforementioned parallel saddles. These saddles are used to position the vertical framing elements at the desired spacing and at the same time ensure that they perpendicular to the horizontal framing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Gordon Andrew Paton
  • Patent number: 8453392
    Abstract: An overhead panel installation system consisting of three components that hold drywall or other panels onto ceiling joists thereby allowing workers to place the panels and let go while they nail or screw the panels to the joists. Component “A” is placed over two top plates of a wall whereby a bent portion of component “A” extends away from the wall and creates a first ledge for a first panel to be held in place. Component “B” is subsequently placed over the end of the secured first panel opposite the wall and creates a second ledge for a second panel to be placed and held. Lastly, component “C” is fitted under a ceiling joist, turned, and locked in place to create a third ledge to further support the second panel. Each of the three components can be simply removed with a twist of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Ralph G. Hurst
  • Patent number: 8397471
    Abstract: A tool for straightening flooring material laid over floor joists having a thickness includes a square “U” shaped wedge having a pair of spaced apart legs running in parallel. The legs are spaced apart a distance slightly greater than the thickness of the floor joist. A wedge body has a planar bottom side and an upper side tapering with respect to the bottom planar side from a head end downwardly to the distal ends of the legs. A planar chisel plate shaped to conform with the shape of the bottom planar side of the wedge body includes a pair of legs spaced apart a distance slightly smaller than the thickness of the floor joist. The chisel plate includes a chisel edge on each of the distal ends of the legs and further includes a chisel edge along the inside spaced apart edges of the legs of the chisel plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Jones
  • Patent number: 8397387
    Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for constructing prefabricated foam panels is provided. While making a longitudinal pass over a foam block, the apparatus flattens the foam block, cuts longitudinal kerfs in the foam block, and draws metal studs into the kerfs. The apparatus comprises a unique, heated blade having a shape similar to the cross section of a metal stud. The blade kerfs foam blocks, including blocks made of recycled or low-grade foam. The associated method includes kerfing the foam blocks by passing the blade through the foam blocks and drawing metal studs into the kerfs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Systeco Ltd SECZ
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Cole, Keith Leroy Cole, John Ray Cole
  • Publication number: 20130047550
    Abstract: A method and system for installing a first course of shakes or shingles on either a wall or a roof of a structure. The shake starter jig comprises an anchor leg with a first end and a second end, a suspension mechanism located adjacent the first end of the anchor leg to facilitate securing the shake starter jig to a desired surface, a ledger shelf supported adjacent the second end of the anchor leg, a ledger support rigidly affixed to a remote end of the ledger shelf, the second end of the anchor leg, the ledger shelf and the ledger support are all sized so as to facilitate receiving and accommodating a ledger board therebetween. The suspension mechanism is located a predefined distance away from the ledger shelf so as to facilitate spacing the ledger shelf a desired distance from a level line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: GRANITE STATE INNOVATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Dan R. DUQUETTE, Gerald F. BRIGGEMAN
  • Publication number: 20130025230
    Abstract: A spacer and fixing apparatus for deck boards on supporting timber joists or metal tracks has a track member with a fixing portion secured to the top face of the joist or metal track and a web portion pivotally supporting a plurality of spaced fixing members. Each fixing member has a fixing head with a pair of opposed fixing teeth or spikes. One of the fixing teeth or spikes is driven into the side face of a deck board placed on the joist or metal track; and the side face of a second deck board is driven into fixing engagement with the other fixing tooth or spike on the fixing head, the fixing head spacing the deck boards apart. To omit the track member, the body of each fixing member has a fixing tongue driven into a side face of a respective joist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Arthur Raymond Turner
  • Publication number: 20130014448
    Abstract: A gutter hanger system includes a gutter having an outer wall, an inner wall in spaced relation to the outer wall, and a base connecting the outer wall and the inner wall; a support surface supporting the inner wall; and a gutter hanger including opposing top and bottom ends, a coupling member located at the bottom end, and a retainer located at the top end. The gutter hanger is positioned intermediate the inner wall and the support surface, oriented in a downward direction, and the retainer is positioned atop the inner wall. A method for installing a gutter hanger system includes the steps of providing a gutter, providing a support surface to which an inner wall of the gutter is attached, inserting a gutter hanger intermediate the support surface and the inner wall of the gutter, and retaining a top end of the gutter hanger on the inner wall of the gutter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Dennis J. Jones
  • Publication number: 20130008128
    Abstract: A machine for cutting eavestrough into two segments. The machine has a guide plate and a pair of cutting wheels. The guide plate has an opening of a shape similar to that of the cross-section of the eavestrough but slightly larger so that as the eavestrough is fed through the opening, it is guided by the guide plate. The cutting wheels are positioned such that after the eavestrough exits from the opening, its bottom wall passes between the wheels where it is cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventor: Scott Tripp