Abstract: Drywall Shark is a specialized drywall cutter. The preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes a housing containing blades and rollers and having two levels, a lever operatively connected to the blades and a measuring line on the exterior. To use Drywall Shark, an individual slides the lever in the channel of the housing to the appropriate demarcation on the measuring line. He then locks the lever and consequently the blades in place inside the appropriate slot. The user then places the housing over the drywall to be cut and positions the blades on the outside edge of the drywall, insuring that the levels show that the housing is being held parallel to the cutting surface. The housing is then slid across the drywall leaving a groove on both sides of the drywall that extends approximately one-eighth of an inch into the drywall. The rollers near the top of the interior of the housing make this sliding motion simple to complete with one hand, leaving the operator's other hand free for other tasks.

Abstract: A self-securing clip comprises a first clip member having a first end and a second end; and, a second clip member, pivotally connected to the first clip member and having a first end and a second end. The first ends of the clip members are biased toward and engaging one another, and the second ends of the clip members are biased away from one another. Gripping members on the first ends of the first and second clip members engage one another when the clip is closed so that the first and second clip members are disposed substantially parallel to one another. The clip may be attached to the surface of a fixture so that a first article may be attached to the second clip member, and a second article may be secured between the gripping members.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for applying reference or grid markings to wallboard during the manufacturing process is disclosed. Reference or grid markings are applied to one sheet of cover paper at a location between the originating cover paper rolls and the cover paper creaser or creasers. This is accomplished by locating and aligning multiple print heads across the width of the continuously passing cover paper, such that markings are ejected onto the cover paper in a specific and coordinated fashion. In addition to using any suitable commercially-available computer equipment to coordinate printer head activity, this function is accomplished by attaching each print head to a common horizontal support element and provide individual adjustments that are perpendicular to, and with the directional flow of the passing cover paper.

Abstract: A method for transforming a waste product containing or completely formed of amiantus comprising subjecting the waste product to several working phases and adding of components such as calcined alumina, clay and material having a given porosity so to produce a final manufactured product free of any amiantus.

Abstract: A thatch eave member formed of a plurality of individual thatch elements, either natural or synthetic, having a backing member retaining a plurality of individual thatch elements such that the free ends present a generally planar exposed face, wherein the backing member is adapted for attachment along the eave of a roof such that the exposed face matches the ends of a lowermost thatched roofing shingle or roll to give the illusion of a thicker roof, and the system comprising the combination of such eave members and roof members.

Abstract: A block set for assembling solid creations uses at least two types of cylindrical blocks. The cylindrical blocks are a thin cylindrical block and a thick cylindrical block. The thick cylindrical block may include a hole on a side face thereof for receiving the thin cylindrical block. A fabricating apparatus for fabricating the thin and thick cylindrical blocks has at least two types of rollers for rolling up paper, and a paper thickness notifying apparatus for notifying the user of the diameter of the cylindrical paper roll on a cylindrical paper roll up core.

Abstract: A method and system for analyzing the security of a facility. The security system evaluates whether the elements of a facility comply with security requirements and provides a graphical representation of the facility with the results of the evaluation displayed. The security system provides a user interface through which security personnel can provide information describing the characteristics of each element of a facility. The security system then applies a rule for each security requirement to determine whether each element complies with the security requirement. The security system then displays a map of the facility with elements highlighted to indicate whether they comply with the security requirements.

Abstract: In some embodiments, alternate sources of aluminum or calcium are provided in various ways including the desired compounds. The further object of the present invention contemplate in situ creation of the compound in interest in fresh concrete and as a slurry which can be employed in remediation of existing concrete structures. A method of resisting corrosion in concrete containing metal elements is provided. It includes introducing into fresh concrete, containing metal elements, at least one compound capable of sequestering chloride ions. The method may also involve employing a compound which is capable of establishing a corrosion resistant oxide layer on the metal reinforcing elements. The invention also includes certain compounds which may be employed in the method as well as concrete structures containing the compounds.

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

Abstract: A flooring material having a textile pad substructure with a density of greater than 10 pounds per cubic foot is provided. The textile pad has reinforcement and binding fibers. The binding fibers are thermoplastic and are used to bind the reinforcement fibers together. The pad is created by heating and compressing a fibrous textile batt so that it has a density of greater than 13 pounds per cubic foot.

Abstract: A flexible blast curtain will reduce casualties and property damage in the event of a terrorist bombing by intercepting flying debris and dissipating over pressure through deflection of the curtain. The blast curtain may be attached directly to buildings or mounted on frames anchored in close proximity to buildings. The curtain provides complete visibility and easy pedestrian ingress and egress for the buildings.

Abstract: An insulating unit for an electrical box for insulating an electrical box. The insulating unit for an electrical box includes a rear portion, a lower portion extending from the rear portion, an upper portion extending from the rear portion opposite of the lower portion, and a side portion extending from the rear portion defining a rectangular cavity for receiving the electrical box within. A cutout may be made within the upper portion, side portion or lower portion for receiving a wire. Sealants are preferably utilized for sealing and securing to a wall stud. The rear portion, lower portion, upper portion and side portion are preferably comprised of an insulating material.

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

Abstract: A medical facility structure that allows a patient to navigate their way through the facility in a straightforward manner. The medical facility includes a long main corridor that extends from an entrance to an exit of the medical facility. The medical facility also includes at least two short dead-end hallways that extend perpendicularly from the main corridor. Each room within the medical facility is provided with a unique room number, with room numbers being provided in sequential order based on a distance of each room from the entrance. When a patient goes to the facility for treatment, the patient first goes to a counter located nearby the entrance, and it is determined if a facility staff member is currently available to treat the patient, If so, the patient is told to go to a particular room number, which can be accessed either directly from the main corridor or from one of the short dead-end hallways.

Abstract: A composite suitable as an integral portion of a building affording protection from wind blown debris such as from a tornado comprises in order a lightweight material, a layer of fabric of high strength fibers bonded with a resin and a layer of a structural sheathing material such as plywood.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a modular dock system with louvered planks which can be rotated away from their horizontal configuration. The planks have bristles along their upper edge to discourage bird roosting.

Abstract: A method of resisting corrosion in concrete containing metal elements is provided. It includes introducing into fresh concrete, containing metal elements, at least one compound capable of sequestering chloride ions. The method may also involve employing a compound which is capable of establishing a corrosion resistant oxide layer on the metal reinforcing elements. The invention also includes certain compounds which may be employed in the method as well as concrete structures containing the compounds.

Abstract: Described is a covering element for buildings comprising at least one, preferably fixedly arranged support apparatus and at least one film pillow that displays two outer film layers, between which is formed at least one hollow space closed in a gastight manner and containing gas, especially air, and displays a fastening section in which the two outer film layers are connected to each other and by which section the film pillow is anchored to the support apparatus. The special aspect of this covering element for buildings consists in the fact that at least one thermally insulating element is arranged in the fastening section of the film pillow and in the fact that the two outer film layers are spaced apart from each other by the thermally insulating element and thereby rest upon the latter.

Abstract: Both positive and negative wind loads acting on the surfaces of standing seam roofing often exceed the design capabilities of a particular metal roof, causing the standing seam interlocking vertical seams to disengage. This often results in the roof panels blowing off the roof, causing damage to the roof, the building contents and possible danger to people in the vicinity. A transverse bar is provided across the standing seams of the metal roof. Clamps hold the transverse bar onto the standing seams. At the midsection of each flat panel section of the metal roof a brace descends from the transverse bar. The brace must have a flexible foot member to press down on the panel, otherwise the brace would puncture or otherwise damage metal roof panel. The brace may have an adjustable height adjustment mechanism. Various clamp, bar and foot embodiments are disclosed, all of which provide a structural anti-lift bracket on the roof panel.

Abstract: Machine supports are provided for a spinning preparation machine. A machine casing is arranged along the sides of the machine and includes casing elements attached to the supports. The casing elements are arranged to open up or close off openings in the machine casing so that free access is given to at least one side region and one end region of the machine.

Abstract: A decorative simulated thatch unit includes a clamp, flexible decorative cords, and a press strip. The clamp includes a top wall, two side walls confronting each other, and spaced teeth provided longitudinally along at least one of the side walls and distally from the top wall, and extending toward the other one of the side walls. The top wall cooperates with the side walls to define a receiving space. The decorative cords have U bent portions received in the receiving space and clamped by the side walls, and two end portions extending out of the clamp from the U bent portions through gaps among the teeth. The press strip is received in and is straddled by the U bent portions. The press strip presses the U bent portions against the top wall, and is retained in the receiving space by the teeth.

Abstract: Disclosed is a building structure (1) formed with a living space available for our daily life therein, comprising a partition wall (25) partitioning the living space into a plurality of living sections (24); a wall assembly (20) including inner wall members made of transparent material, closing an outer circumference of the living space and meeting each living section (24), and outer wall members forming predetermined scene-production spaces (23), spacedly positioned relative to the inner wall members, corresponding to each living section (24); a supplying means for supplying a predetermined scene-producing object to inside of each scene-production space; and a controller (81) for activating and deactivating the supplying means so as to allow each of inner scene-production spaces to be produced independently.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and systems to form structures from predefined elementary parts. In the invention at least two predefined elementary parts are combined for forming a desired structure. The part comprises desired features for the desired structure. A control means handles the combining of the elementary parts.

Abstract: A decorative simulated thatch unit includes a clamp, flexible decorative cords, and a press strip. The clamp includes a top wall, two side walls confronting each other, and spaced teeth provided longitudinally along at least one of the side walls and distally from the top wall, and extending toward the other one of the side walls. The top wall cooperates with the side walls to define a receiving space. The decorative cords have U bent portions received in the receiving space and clamped by the side walls, and two end portions extending out of the clamp from the U bent portions through gaps among the teeth. The press strip is received in and is straddled by the U bent portions. The press strip presses the U bent portions against the top wall, and is retained in the receiving space by the teeth.

Abstract: A method for constructing a modular building subdivision includes the steps of planning a plurality of residences, selecting an area of land, selecting sites on the land to place residences, selecting a construction yard, building facilities on the construction yard to construct building structures, having the facilities authorized by a governmental authority, using the facilities to building permanent unitary modular building structures to construct over 10,000 square feet of livable space, constructing a foundation at each of the sites, and moving the permanent unitary modular building structures to the sites to be installed on foundations at the sites. The permanent unitary modular building structures are moved along paths excluding public thoroughfares.

Abstract: A picture target amount-of-code calculating unit calculates a target amount of codes for each picture type that corresponds to an encoding rate that has been determined by an audio/video encoding rate determining unit. An amount-of-code controlling unit controls the quantizing scale of a quantizing unit so as to make the target amount of codes for each picture type match with a total amount of codes of a unit as a whole. A unit address calculating unit calculates the addresses used when a search is made, as navigation data, on the basis of the target amount of codes for each picture type and the encoding rate. A unifying unit makes a construction of the unit while, on the other hand, a navigation data producing unit depicts navigation data at a foremost position of the unit.

Abstract: A tool and method for installing building panels, particularly flooring planks is described. The tool is shaped with an arcuate outer surface and is provided with a groove which can be placed over the edge of the floor planks. The tool and method facilitate the installation of the planks by one person.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an airborne attack prevention system utilizing a plurality of high strength cables attached to one or more buildings so as to shield the buildings from collisions from aircraft and the like.

Abstract: A system for retrieving building structure data. The system includes a building structure data base which stores building structure data and a retrieval unit for retrieving the data base. The building structure data includes a plurality of house plan data and a plurality of attribution information, each of which corresponds to each of the plurality of house plan data. The retrieval unit further includes an extraction unit for referring the plurality of attribution information to a house plan information entered externally, and extracting at least one house plan data which has an attribution information which is identical or similar to the house plan information.

Abstract: A shell for providing impact protection to a marine drilling riser, the shell comprising a body having at least one hollow chamber defined by inner and outer faces of the shell, the body being provided with a plurality of holes allowing flooding of the chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing an ocherous panel for use as an interior building material that has excellent insulating properties and that is superior to conventional building materials such as cement, concrete, rock wool and soundproofing boards in strength, fire resistance and soundproofing, and interior aesthetic appeal. The method according to the present invention is characterized in that it uses about 45 wt % of ocher, about 45 wt % of sawdust and about 10 wt % of sodium silicate liquid instead of the composition that was used in the prior art which caused contamination of the air and decomposition of the panel due to absorption of moisture in the air.

Abstract: A building for use as a drive-by retail store, including a floor, a roof, a plurality of walls extending from the floor to the roof and defining a perimeter, at least one access door, and at least one cashier's station located at one end of the building. The perimeter is substantially formed by a plurality of temperature-controlled display cabinets, wherein the display cabinets have transparent exterior walls and interior access doors.

Abstract: A wooden beam (1) has several sections which are subjected to a transversal tension and which affect in particular the areas in which there are recesses or openings (3). Rod-shaped elements are provided in the form of screws (4) which are introduced in such a way that they extend crosswise to the longitudinal direction of the beam (1) in order to absorb this transversal tension. These screws are screwed in from the top side (5) or the underside (6) of the beam (1) and each extend over part of the height (H) of the beam (1) only and are therefore directly associated with the area (2) that is subjected to transversal tension.

Abstract: A method and lightweight apparatus (100) that provide linear actuation effected by the controlled inflation of a deployable tube (120) permits the deploying end (125) of the tube (120) to be guided out in a linear motion by a yoke (140) that constrains the inflated portion of the tube (120) immediately behind it A means for imparting resistance to deployment facilitates a smooth actuation by controlling both the rate and the directionality of deployment, and by maintaining a uniform internal pressure in the tube being deployed. A frame assembly (180) at the deploying end (125) of the tube (120) can be configured to interface with a variety of components to be linearly deployed.

Abstract: A subdivision system providing alternating one-way traffic on all subdivision streets, said system comprising, a plurality of traffic circles, each traffic circle having a traffic lane surrounding the traffic circle, a plurality of development circles, each development circle containing one or more buildings, each development circle having an inner parking lane, and an outer traffic lane, surrounding the development circle, the rotational direction of traffic flow around a traffic circle being opposite to the rotational direction of traffic flow around a development circle, wherein certain parts of the traffic lane of each traffic circle overlap certain parts of the traffic lanes of at least two immediately adjacent development circles, and wherein said certain overlapping parts of the traffic lanes of the traffic circles, and the opposite rotational directions of traffic flow around the traffic circles and around the development circles, provide alternating one-way traffic on all subdivision streets

Abstract: A safety device for the building field, for individually protecting against falls workers assigned to walking at high elevations in buildings under construction. The device comprises at least one pole, a detachable connection for the pole base with the surface of a building, the pole having at its top end, an engagement for a cable element forming a safety parapet, at least one leg connected laterally to rest, with its lower end, on the surface of the building, laterally to the region engaged by the base of the pole, to form, for the pole, an auxiliary resting element for pushing against the surface of the building.

Abstract: A barrier sheet having a first side and a second side, a top edge, a bottom edge, and a laterally located midpoint, wherein the sheet is folded along its length to form a folded sheet defined by at least one fold with an adhesive strip positioned at a predetermined distance from the top and bottom edges, and preferably approximately at the sheet midpoint. When making a roll of barrier material, a barrier sheet material is provided and folded at least once laterally. The sheet then incorporates an adhesive strip applied to one side of the sheet at a predetermined distance from the top and bottom ends, preferably approximately at the midpoint. The adhesive strip is oriented lengthwise such that when the sheet is unrolled from the roll and unfolded, the strip will approximately bisect the sheet lengthwise. The sheet is then folded in a predetermined fashion, and rolled onto a roll.

Abstract: A tie device (1) is provided, for tying objects together, such as reinforcing bars (7, 8) prior to pouring concrete therearound. The tie device (1) comprises a pair of arms (2, 3) in a U- or V-shaped configuration, and has a hook (5, 6) at each end thereof. The hooks (5, 6) are designed to automatically interengage when brought together. An apparatus and method for tying the tie device (1) are also provided.

Abstract: A wedge shaped form is mounted on the splash plate of a black liquor nozzle with the sharp edge of the wedge located at the exhaust of the nozzle to split the black liquor from the nozzle into two flat sheets on each side of the wedge with no droplet formation at the center of the nozzle exhaust.

Abstract: A masonry construction aid that enables novice and professional masons to easily construct a masonry structure such as a sidewalk, patio, driveway or vertical wall. The aid allows its user to insert masonry into a pre-determined, pre-formed, soluble pattern that contains within it a bonding material. After applying a catalyst such as water to the pattern, the pattern will disintegrate, the bonding agent will activate and bond the masonry together and harden into a permanent structure. This will result in a masonry structure that does not require any special skills to construct. The user will not be required to prepare or apply mortar, or manually align the masonry.

Abstract: A barrier device for preventing unwanted penetration of finishing materials from one surface onto another is disclosed. The barrier device is particularly useful to protect one surface from unwanted penetration of paint or varnish while the adjacent surface is coated. The barrier device includes a flexible sheet having a substantial width and a narrower strip capable of retaining an impression. The strip and sheet are applied to a textured surface by pressing the strip onto the surface with sufficient force such that the strip material retains an impression of the texture.

Abstract: An enclosure for housing people in the event of a serious air quality degradation is provided. A pressurized enclosure, either permanent or temporary, includes an air supply system for filtering and subsequently supplying clean air to the interior of the enclosure. The structure will be deployable and/or activated from a remote control station or from the protective structure itself. Life support elements are stored in the enclosure for use as needed.

Abstract: A set of first and second detecting units detects an emergency. First and second pseudo-emergency generating units generate a pseudo-emergency for the first and second detecting units. A driving unit alternately drives the first and second pseudo-emergency generating units. An abnormality detecting unit detects operation of the first and second detecting units detecting the pseudo-emergency from the first and second pseudo-emergency generating units, the abnormality detecting units performing a predetermined indication when thus-detected operation is abnormal. An emergency detection outputting unit, in an emergency, outputs an emergency detection signal in response to reception of emergency detection signals from both the first and second detecting units.

Abstract: A barrier device for preventing unwanted penetration of finishing materials from one surface onto another. The barrier device is particularly useful to protect one surface from unwanted penetration of paint or varnish while the adjacent surface is coated. The barrier device includes a flexible sheet having a substantial width and a narrower strip capable of retaining an impression. The strip and sheet are applied to a textured surface by pressing the strip onto the surface with sufficient force such that the strip material retains an impression of the texture.

Abstract: Roofing components and method for roofs includes a flexible base and one or more ranks of integrally formed thin blades, vanes or fins extending outwardly from the base. The blades, fins or vanes are spaced substantially parallel to each other and overlap to shadow lower elements and to provide air circulation and between blades, which are designed to sluff-off heat and impede thermal energy being transmitted to the roof. The blades, fins or vanes are flexible and resilient so as to absorb the impact of falling material (limbs, etc.). One edge portion of the base is free of blades to provide an overlapped area for installation on a pitched roof. Various overlapping and interlocking arrangements are disclosed for sealing purposes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gypsum-based cementitious composition capable of upon mixing with fine aggregate in a weight ratio to said gypsum-based cementitious composition of from about 1.25:1 to 2.5:1; and sufficient water to provide a pumpable, self-leveling wet gypsum-based cementitious composition having a flowability such that the wet gypsum-based cementitious composition completely self-levels to produce a topographically smooth surface without floating or finishing, providing, upon hardening, a sub-floor resistant to delamination from its substrate having a dust-free surface and compressive strength in the range of about 2500 to 6000 psi. The invention further relates to methods for making floor underlayments using these compositions, and for making the compositions.

Abstract: A system for forming a blocking layer of water-saturated soil surrounding the foundation of a building to be protected from ingress of radon gas or other soil gas contaminents. The system includes at least one set of parallel positive and negative electrodes positioned in the soil, adjacent and spaced from the foundation. Typically, the negative electrode will be positioned closest to the foundation. A low level voltage is applied to the electrodes from a DC power source. One or more sets of such electrodes will be positioned in the soil surrounding the foundation or at least that portion of the foundation most susceptible to gas ingress.

Abstract: At least one scored screw is driven into the squeak area with a specialized driving bit and an alignment and depth control fixture. The alignment and depth control fixture is used to direct the scored screw to the proper point into the floor so that the scored area is at or beneath the surface of the floor. The driving bit can stop driving the screw at the desired position. After the alignment and depth control fixture is removed, a gripping tool is used to apply force to the screw and break the screw at the prescored position. The barrel of the screw being left in the floor locks the floor or the step to the desired support. One screw or series of these screws in usually an arcuate or a radial fashion around the squeak area, can eliminate the squeak.

Abstract: Squeaks in a floor or stair are eliminated by driving screws in the area. At least one scored screw to be driven into the squeak area combines with a specialized driving bit and a alignment and depth control fixture to eliminate the squeak. The alignment and depth control fixture can be used to direct the scored screw to the proper point while the driving bit can stop driving the screw at the desired position. After the alignment and depth control fixture is removed, the screw is broken at the prescored position. To minimize damage to an in place carpet, a tape is wrapped around the threads of the screw.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for repairing a knot hole in a piece of lumber includes a rod of compressible polyethylene material and an adhesive caulk. The caulk is applied to the knot hole. The rod is forcibly inserted into the knot hole being secured by a force fit and the adhesive caulk. The rod is cut flush with the surface of the wood being repaired. The surface can be stained or painted along with the remainder of the structure.