Frame Member Fabricated From Thin Walled Material Patents (Class 52/781)
  • Patent number: 10370858
    Abstract: A system for supporting exterior panels on a substrate of a building structure. The system has a plurality of polymeric bracket members, and each of the bracket members have at least one anchor section, at least one web section and at least one support section. The polymeric bracket members provide a thermal break from the exterior panel to the substrate of the building structure. A plurality of exterior cladding units are held in place by the bracket members. A plurality of vents are disposed between the panels and the exterior panels, and a plurality of vents are also disposed between the panels and the substrate, thereby forming a ventilation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Advanced Architectural Products, LLC
    Inventor: G. Matt Krause
  • Patent number: 9803363
    Abstract: A building floor structure and a process for constructing the building floor structure comprising two or more spaced-apart beams, each beam comprising an upwardly facing support surface on at least one side of the beam; and one or more frameworks positioned between and adjacent two of the two or more spaced-apart beams, each of the one or more frameworks having two side regions, each side region comprising a downwardly facing bearing surface adapted to be received on the upwardly facing support surface of the respective beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: HOLDIP PTY LTD.
    Inventor: John Trenerry
  • Patent number: 9410360
    Abstract: A door assembly comprises a stationary frame, a movable frame, and an adjusting assembly. The adjusting assembly comprises an adjusting element detachably connected with the stationary frame and having a rod portion; a fixing element connected with the movable frame and having a cavity for receiving the rod portion; and a cam member disposed adjacent to the cavity and movable between an open position in which the movable frame is movable relative to the stationary frame and a closed position in which the movable frame is fixed relative to the stationary frame. The door assembly can be assembled without drilling, minimizing risk of damage to the frames, and can be assembled by a single person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Foshan Ideal Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wuxiang Wei
  • Patent number: 9169640
    Abstract: A frameless mounting system for glass or the like includes one or more bracket assemblies that adjustably interconnect a sheet of material along an upper edge of an existing partition system. The bracket assemblies permit the sheet of material to be adjusted upwardly or sidewardly to align the sheets of material with adjacent sheets of material. Furthermore, the sheets of material can be tilted as required to align adjacent sheets. The sheet of material is preferably transparent glass, but may comprise various other materials such as polymers, translucent materials, frosted, or opaque materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Jeffers, Roy Fink
  • Patent number: 8720155
    Abstract: A system and method used in residential and commercial construction of floors, ceilings and roofs, where a beam and hanger together support a joist/rafter to which sheathing is applied. Hanger design features include bendable stiffeners that provide pinching structural support for opposing sides of an engineered wood I-joist web after the joist/rafter is seated into the bridge of the hanger, providing a superior structural interface connection, less material cost, and no contact between the hanger and sheathing which reduces unwanted noise in finished construction. Additional strengthening of the structural/load-bearing interface between the joist/rafter and beam may include selected horizontally-extending dato, groove, cut, or other detail formed in the support beams during their manufacture/milling and rearwardly-extending protections on the hanger configured to engage the detail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Glenn Robell
  • Patent number: 8511017
    Abstract: An apparatus constituting the walls and frame of a building with a series of interlocking panels, preferably composed of two sheets of metal, bound together by polyurethane foam injected between them. The panels are secured to the floor via metallic columns found at each juncture between two panels. Electric assemblies and setups, as well as plumbing outlets are preinstalled within the panels, facilitating rapid installation. Windows, doors, and A/C vents are also crafted into the panels at their inception, prior to their transport to the construction site. It is the intent of the present invention to provide an avenue for affordable, durable, and efficient housing that may be constructed quickly with minimal effort in the absence of heavy machinery, and without any advanced tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Senen Semidey
  • Patent number: 8402714
    Abstract: The system includes a plurality of mullion retrofit adaptors, each having a rear side configured and disposed to fit over the front side of at least some mullion of the existing supporting framework. It also includes a plurality of new mullions, each having a rear side configured and disposed to fit over at least some of the retrofit adaptors. A method for refurbishing an existing curtain wall attached to a base structure is also presented. This proposed concept can significantly reduce the time and costs for refurbishing an existing curtain wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Groupe Lessard Inc.
    Inventor: Normand Labrecque
  • Patent number: 8051612
    Abstract: A wall system suitable for use in applications such as a fence or a wall of a building which comprises posts and panels which are interconnected or interengaged so that the wall may comprise a series of inline panels or corners formed by two panels and a single post, the interconnection or interengagement of the panels being effected without use of mechanical fasteners, glue, welding, or similar modes of attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Kramer E. Woodard
  • Patent number: 7895809
    Abstract: A support beam and attachment clevis assembly having a pair of “J” beams, each “J” beam having a stem and a tail, each “J” beam's tail having a distal end and a longitudinal extension, each “J” beam's stem having an upper end and a longitudinal extension, the longitudinal extension of each “J” beam's stem being greater than that of said each “J” beam's tail; and incorporating a plurality of blind rivets interconnecting the pair of “J” beams so that the distal end of each “J” beam's tail contacts the upper end of the other “J” beam's stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Wolfe Electric, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald D. Wolfe
  • Patent number: 7784229
    Abstract: The invention provides a wall panel system including a supporting structure; and a plurality of plates (3), each plate having a first pair of edges (6) for engaging with the support structure and a second pair of edges (9), each plate being shaped such that the second pair of edges (9) conceal the engagement of corresponding adjacent plates with the support structure. In one preferred embodiment the supporting structure includes a mounting board (1) including a plurality of retaining elements (2) adapted for engagement with the first pair of edges (6) of each plate. Preferably each retaining element (2) includes a supporting lip (5), wherein the support edge (6) of a plate is engagable with a supporting lip (5) of a retaining element. The retaining elements may, for example, be arranged in a rectangular or square grid on the mounting board (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Wovin Wall IP Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Allan Ismay
  • Patent number: 7757510
    Abstract: A cabinet for an air handling unit includes a cabinet assembly being formed framelessly of a plurality of panel assemblies, each panel assembly being formed of two spaced apart metallic panels embracing an intermediate core and wherein the plurality of panel assemblies provides the structural strength of the cabinet assembly. A method of forming a cabinet for an air handling unit is further included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: AAF-McQuay, Inc.
    Inventors: Jose A. Rosete, George Calienes, Oscar Enrique Barrios González
  • Publication number: 20090217617
    Abstract: A building structure with a tubular frame structure in a hut shape may be provided with cladding in the form of curved panels to provide a temporary or emergency shelter. These panels may consist of two spaced-apart plastic sheets fused together by parallel ribs serving as webs to provide parallel channels therein, e.g., Coroplast™-like sheeting. Such sheeting is preferably stiffening with one or more battens that are inserted through the hollow channels of the panel allowing them to be used as semi-rigid cladding over the entire building structure. The outer tubular members of the frame are all curved to improve rigidity. The frame includes channels for seating the panels as well as contribute to the structural integrity of the shelter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: Look North Products Inc.
    Inventors: Miles Kennedy, Mark Edey, Reinier Halbertsma, Aldo Balatti
  • Patent number: 7302780
    Abstract: A modular rail system for holding a panel includes individual components that can be mixed and matched making it easy to customize to fit any length and provides for the use of an array of accent materials. The modular rail system includes at least first and second columns and first and second rails extending between the columns, wherein the columns and first rail each includes a recess for securing one edge of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: C. R. Laurence Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary Sprague
  • Patent number: 7017320
    Abstract: A guardrail comprises two parallel metal tubes each having two lengthwise bent ends each having a fastening member, two inner abutment mechanisms each having a lengthwise abutment member and a mating fastening member at either end engaged with the fastening member for securing each metal tube and the corresponding abutment mechanism together, and a protective board having either end urged against the abutment member and the bent ends, thereby securing the protective board between the abutment mechanisms. Further, a number of variations are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Yuan-Kuan Chen
  • Patent number: 6807791
    Abstract: A rail profile is provided with two connection zones (1) situated opposite to each other and having an essentially C-shaped cross-section and a rear wall (4) with an essentially V-shaped cross-section. The structural height (a) of the rail profile is minimal because of the rear wall (4) design and consequently the handling of the rail profile is enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Armin Herb
  • Patent number: 6802171
    Abstract: A framing member has an elongate body with at least one elongate U-shaped trough. The side walls of the U-shaped trough define a plurality of elongate side wall protuberances having squared off edges. The framing member can be used with a fastener screw having squared off edges to assemble commercial and residential work benches, storage shelves, bookcases, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Duane McKinnon
  • Patent number: 6796101
    Abstract: A guardrail comprises two parallel metal tubes each having two lengthwise bent ends each having a fastening member, two inner abutment mechanisms each having a lengthwise abutment member and a mating fastening member at either end engaged with the fastening member for securing each metal tube and the corresponding abutment mechanism together, and a protective board having either end urged against the abutment member and the bent ends, thereby securing the protective board between the abutment mechanisms. Further, a number of variations are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: Yuan-Kuan Chen
  • Publication number: 20040168394
    Abstract: An improved plastic blow-molded panel structure is shown and described that is lightweight and provides superior resistance to sagging, warping and creeping under high stress loads, especially when used in a horizontal position. The disclosed panel structure includes a combination of transverse or lateral beams extending from the second panel towards the first panel and, in certain embodiments, a plurality of transverse ribs disposed within the lateral beams. The disclosed shelving units may be fabricated from conventional blow-molding processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Erik L. Skov
  • Publication number: 20040074204
    Abstract: A framing member has an elongate body with at least one elongate U-shaped trough. The side walls of the U-shaped trough define a plurality of elongate side wall protuberances having squared off edges. The framing member can be used with a fastener screw having squared off edges to assemble commercial and residential work benches, storage shelves, bookcases, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Duane McKinnon
  • Patent number: 6612090
    Abstract: Panel wall system including a plurality of standards, each formed from a non-combustible material and mounted in a spaced-apart upright attitude on a supporting surface. Each standard includes a planar face web and opposite side webs. A plurality of lugs project from the side webs along the length of the standard and serve to removably mount panel members between adjacent standards. All components of the wall system are of a non-combustible material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: David A. Corden
  • Patent number: 6601349
    Abstract: A free-standing panel wall system which includes at least an elongated floor rail and an elongated top rail, each of a generally U-shaped cross section, and first and second sets of upright standards of generally U-shaped cross-section and having respective side wings that project laterally from the standard, there being one set of standards releasably secured at their top and bottom ends on respective ones of the opposite side webs of the floor rail and top rail. At spaced apart locations intermediate the floor and top rails and disposed between the standards of the first and second sets of standards there is provided a plurality of horizontal connectors, each of which is removably secured to respective ones of the standards on the opposite sides of the horizontal connectors. In one embodiment, there is provided one or more wall system sections which extend generally laterally of the plane of the main wall system section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: David A. Corden
  • Patent number: 6510663
    Abstract: An in-fill panel arrangement is designed for post and beam furniture systems of the type having overhead beams supported on vertical posts. Each of the beams has a lowermost face with a horizontal slot extending therealong, and each of the posts includes outwardly extending flanges having an end face with a slot extending vertically therealong. Beam-to-post connectors are attached to the opposite ends of the beams, and are detachably retained in the slots in the posts to mount the beams on the posts. Rigid in-fill panels are shaped to be positioned directly below the beams and above the floor to partition the space into individual work areas. Panel mounting brackets are detachably retained in the slots in the posts and the beams, and are connected with the in-fill panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Jourden, Karl Heinz Mueller, Genevieve Wing
  • Patent number: 6481163
    Abstract: A partition frame includes vertically spaced apart upper and lower horizontal frame members. The partition frame also has a pair of horizontally spaced apart vertical frame members extending between and interconnecting the upper and lower frame members to form a generally rectangular frame. The vertical frame members have a vertical row of openings configured to support hang-on accessories, and the upper frame member includes a horizontal row of openings configured to support hang-on accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Alan E. Rheault, John S. Malnor, Daniel R. VanDyk, Michael L. Waalkes, Errol S. Pearsons, Bruce W. DuVall, Jr., William K. Hofman, Daniel N. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6446414
    Abstract: A utility shed is disclosed comprising modular side panels (30) which are connected together by corner connectors (26) and in-line connectors (28) to form sidewalls. The connectors (26, 28) have an I-beam cross section and comprise U-shaped ends (106, 80) which engage relatively wide channels (62, 64) to securely hold the wall panels together. A door assembly is provided for engaging the corner connectors (26) and include pivot pin members (202) which attached to the vertical channel (114) of corner connectors (26) and allow pivotal door panels (164) to be suspended therefrom. Floor panels (116, 118) and lid panels (154) are provided compatible with the I-beam edge configuration of the side panels (30) such that the lid, floor and sidewalls mutually interlock with high structural integrity. The modularity of the side panels (30) allow for enclosures of larger or smaller size to be created using the same panel componentry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventors: Hoke V. Bullard, III, William F. Croft, Gregory S. Floyd, Jonathan N. Mandell
  • Patent number: 6260828
    Abstract: A prefabricated fence post assembly comprising a slotted fence post which slideably receives an adjoining prefabricated modular panel, picket fence, lattice or ornamental section for the construction of fences, walls and other structures incorporating panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Robert F. English
  • Patent number: 6260325
    Abstract: A suspended ceiling system in which the grid runners are largely concealed by the panels to produce a distinctive high quality appearance. In various illustrated embodiments, the visual effect is produced as a result of the panels being separated by a relatively narrow gap in two perpendicular directions or by a narrow gap in one direction and essentially no gap in the perpendicular direction, and the grid being recessed above the main face of the panels. The panels are accurately positioned on the grid by metal clips, normally permanently attached to the panels, which engage upstanding flange portions of the grid runners. The accurate positioning afforded by the clips assures that visually distracting variations in the size of the narrow gaps are avoided. The clips can also serve to avoid accidental dislodging of the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan C. Wendt, David R. Stover, Gerald L. Koski
  • Patent number: 6253529
    Abstract: Reinforcement plate or mounting plate (12) for locally reinforcing a partition system, which wall comprises a number of uprights or pilars (8), and each pillar (8) of which comprises a C-shaped profile part, to which pillars (8) are attached wall parts, such as for example plaster-boards, in order in this way to form a partition (1). The reinforcement plate (12) comprises a planar metal plate which is provided with connecting means, with which the plate (12) can be connected with a clamping fit both to a first pillar (8), on one side, and to a successive pillar (8) on the other side. The connecting means comprise, on the one hand, hook-like members (17) and, on the other hand, gripping members (20), which hook members (17) can interact with an upright (8) and the gripping members (20) can interact with the next, second pillar (8), which is placed adjacent to the first pillar (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventor: Hermanus Petrus Maria De Boer
  • Patent number: 6247290
    Abstract: A wall for the booth of a coating plant is formed in the conventional manner by a sectional frame (3) composed of at least two vertical, hollow posts (4, 5) and at least two horizontal, hollow crosspieces (6, 7, 8, 9). At least one zone (10, 11, 12) which is bounded by two posts (4, 5) and two crosspieces (6, 7, 8, 9) is covered by a plate (34, 35). The corresponding plate (34, 35) is secured over the associated zone (10, 11, 12) of the frame (3) with the aid of “local” blocking devices (15 to 27) separated from one another spatially. Each of these blocking devices (15 to 27) comprises at least one retaining portion (31b, 31c) which can be inserted in a corresponding locating opening (28a, 28b, 29a, 29b) in the associated post (4, 5) or crosspiece (6, 7, 8, 9) such that a contact portion (31a) of the blocking device (15 to 27) lies against the outside of the associated post (4, 5) or crosspiece (6, 7, 8, 9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Eisenmann Maschinenbau KG
    Inventors: Walter Kimmerle, Rainer Benzinger
  • Patent number: 6230470
    Abstract: A wall for the booth of a coating plant is composed in a known manner of individual wall elements (1, 2). Each wall element (1, 2) comprises a load-bearing frame (3), which is formed from vertical posts (4, 5) made of sheet-metal sections and horizontal crosspieces (6, 7, 8, 9). The zones spanned by the posts (4, 5) and the crosspieces (6, 7, 8, 9) are covered by plates (10, 11, 12). At least the vertical posts (4, 5) have a section whose basic geometric shape is rectangular, although two of the sectional legs (15, 16), namely in each case the outer leg which is vertical to the associated plate (11) and the outer leg (16) which is parallel to the plate (11), do not extend over the entire length of the corresponding side of the rectangle. The interior of the posts (4, 5), in which fixtures and fittings can be installed, is thus accessible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Eisenmann Maschinenbau KG
    Inventors: Walter Kimmerle, Rainer Benzinger
  • Patent number: 6230459
    Abstract: A wall start panel for knock-down portable partition systems of the type having a plurality of panels, each having standard width posts interconnected by structural members in a spaced-apart relationship to define a standard panel width. The wall start panel includes at least one structural member and a standard width post having a unitary construction and including a connection port. The standard width post also has opposite side faces defining a standard post width therebetween. The wall start panel further includes a wall start post having a connection port and having opposite side faces defining a width therebetween substantially less than the standard post width. The structural member spans between and releasably interconnects the standard width and wall start posts in a spaced-apart relationship. The wall start panel has a substantially standard panel width, such that the wall start post can be secured to an existing wall without use of a trim piece to close off the wall start panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Jeffers, Michael D. Elsholz, Richard S. Hand, Karl J. Mead, Todd M. Ostrander, Fredrick M. Brickley
  • Patent number: 6185878
    Abstract: A utility shed is disclosed comprising modular side panels (30) which are connected together by corner connectors (26) and in-line connectors (28) to form sidewalls. The connectors (26, 28) have an I-beam cross section and comprise U-shaped ends (106, 80) which engage relatively wide channels (62, 64) to securely hold the wall panels together. A door assembly is provided for engaging the corner connectors (26) and include pivot pin members (202) which attached to the vertical channel (114) of corner connectors (26) and allow pivotal door panels (164) to be suspended therefrom. Floor panels (116, 118) and lid panels (154) are provided compatible with the I-beam edge configuration of the side panels (30) such that the lid, floor and sidewalls mutually interlock with high structural integrity. The modularity of the side panels (30) allow for enclosures of larger or smaller size to be created using the same panel componentry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventors: Hoke V. Bullard, III, William F. Croft, Gregory S. Floyd, Jonathan N. Mandell
  • Patent number: 6108990
    Abstract: A building panel joint support including an elongate member having spaced apart raised surfaces defining a longitudinal recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Steven M. Klamer
  • Patent number: 6044603
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lightweight, insulating panel building component comprised of a combination of a rigid insulation core in a composite structure with a plurality of structural materials, preferably steel. The steel members form a perimeter about the rigid insulation core providing structural strength, particularly taken in combination with the compressive strength of the core and the tensional and compressive strength of the structural members. These structural members include vertical members which provide support in compression, a cap member, a foot member, and optional external and interior facing. The cap and foot members are preferably in the form of a standard channel having a web dimension that is substantially similar to the thickness of the rigid insulation core and can fit thereabout at the periphery thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Harold Bader
  • Patent number: 6035598
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for attaching a panel to a building wall using an elongated channel. The panel has a main panel portion, a panel edge portion and a groove therebetween. The elongated channel has a body and a pair of rails. The body is attachable to the wall by a fastener. The pair of rails are integrally formed with the body, extending substantially perpendicularly from the body in the same direction. One, or both, of the rails ends in a flange that is contoured to engage the cavity formed by the groove when the panel edge portion is bent around the groove and toward the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: United Attachment Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald D. Sukolics, Robert C. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6006480
    Abstract: The housing system uses foam filled cement and fiberglass clad panels and cement fiberglass moldings to construct modular housing. The panels have a foam core made of polystyrene bead foam coated with an adhesion promoter and then covered with a laminate consisting of layers of continuous strand fiberglass matt and Portland cement. The moldings used to fit the sections together are also made from Portland cement and fiberglass. The panels can be shaped to serve multiple purposes, such as roof panels. Wall panels can be oriented so that the space left between the panel ends and the moldings can be filled with cement. An adhesion promoter can also be used to assist the bonding between the foam and fiberglass panels and the cement fiberglass moldings to provide greater structural strength for the resulting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: John G. Rook
  • Patent number: 6006489
    Abstract: An enclosure for a room, patio, or the like is made of modular parts that hide from view all fasteners and other functional parts. The parts include upstanding regular posts, corner posts, open back posts, horizontal beams and chair rails, as well as door frames, door jambs, door sweeps, and other parts required for an enclosure construction. Aesthetic cover members are snap-fittingly engaged to the modular parts and confronting pairs of the cover members, in a first embodiment, are very closely spaced to one another to accommodate a screen between them. In second and third embodiments, the confronting cover members have larger spaces between them to accommodate opaque, translucent, or transparent panels of about one-half inch and three-quarter inches, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Yigal Zadok
  • Patent number: 6006490
    Abstract: A glass top for boats made of a number of arched structural extrusions holding together a series of translucent panels. Some panels, the top ones and the ones on the lower sides, are fixed while the middle ones can slide upward or downward to allow ventilation. Each arched extrusions consists of three superposed extruded members of identical cross-section, held together by bolt assemblies biased by elastomeric strips to enable adjusting the width of the channel receiving the edges of the slidable panels to suit panel of various thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Sylvio Thibeault
  • Patent number: 6003275
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 5904020
    Abstract: A translucent construction block assembly, e.g. for a window or wall panel of non-standard size and/or shape, has a frame extending around an array of hollow translucent construction blocks assembled in horizontal and vertical juxtaposition, the blocks each having front and rear walls connected by a peripheral wall and the array having a periphery engaged by the frame so that the blocks are thereby retained in position. The blocks include partial blocks having openings interrupting the peripheral walls thereof, the partial blocks being juxtaposed with the openings at the periphery of the array. A seal of resilient material interposed between the array and the frame extends between the front and rear walls and closes the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Hy-Lite, Inc.
    Inventors: Marlon Carlson, Julian Carlson
  • Patent number: 5848508
    Abstract: A core for a patio enclosure wall includes a first layer formed of polyisocyanurate material and a second layer formed of plasterboard bonded to the first layer. The core may be sandwiched between a weather resistant exterior panel and an interior surface to form a panel/core assembly for a patio enclosure wall. The core of the present invention provides fine thermal insulation. The plasterboard components serve to prevent the spread of flames. Furthermore, the core serves as an efficient sound barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald Albrecht
  • Patent number: 5761869
    Abstract: A suspension ceiling grid for supporting rectangular panels. The grid members are elongated runners with a generally inverted T-shaped cross-section. Flanges on the lower side of the runners have inclined exposed portions and vertical portions concealed by rabbeted edges of the panels. The flange portions are configured with respect to the proportions of the rabbeted panels, to appear as beveled edges of the panels whereby the finished ceiling appears to be gridless. The runners are specially notched and trimmed to provide a strong but attractive faux miter joint at their intersections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Tinen, William E. Kirsop, James J. Lehane, Paul D. LaLonde
  • Patent number: 5746040
    Abstract: A modular wall construction includes a plurality of laterally spaced support posts having mutually spaced slots in commonly facing walls thereof, each slot being at least partially defined by oppositely disposed first and second edge segments. At least one panel is arranged between the support posts. In one embodiment, connecting elements are integrally formed with and extend laterally from the panel to overlie the commonly facing walls of the support posts at the slots. In an alternative embodiment, connecting elements are removably coupled to extend laterally from the panel to overlie the commonly facing walls of the support posts at the slots. The connecting elements have hook shaped portions received in the slots in engagement with the first edge segments thereof. A fastener extends into the slots between the connecting element and the second edge segments to coact in engagement with the slot and connecting element to prevent disengagement of the hook portions from the first edge segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Wireway/Husky Corp.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Young, Gregory C. Young
  • Patent number: 5724784
    Abstract: A hollow shaft wall with horizontal studs having angled stud webs forming a channel with the stud inner flanges. Core boards are held by one edge in the angled channel and the other edge held by suitable means on an adjacent horizontal stud. Wallboards are spaced from the core boards and are secured to flanges of the studs. Supports are provided at the ends of the core boards and the studs for holding the wall in a vertical orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: National Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Menchetti
  • Patent number: 5724778
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 5709058
    Abstract: A construction unit and method for forming an exterior surface on a support framework. The construction unit includes a plurality of tiles for forming a finishing layer on the support framework. Mounting brackets are attachable to the support framework to position the tiles at a distance from the support framework to define an internal cavity between the support framework and tiles. An adhesive, filler material is introduced into the internal cavity to bind together the support framework, the tiles and the mounting brackets to form a consolidated construction unit. In a stud frame building, modified mounting brackets can be used that position the tiles directly against an exterior face of the stud frame wall. The adhesive, filler material contacts and binds the tiles through the openings in the stud framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Inventor: William S. Shaw
  • Patent number: 5692341
    Abstract: A wall panel support member adapted to reinforce a wall and to support the weight of structures such as shelves, cabinets, and sinks which are attached to a wall. The wall panel support member includes a support panel which is mounted between adjacent wall studs by brackets or other mounts. One embodiment of the invention includes a support panel with a groove formed at one end of the support panel which accommodates a lip of a metal stud, thus allowing the surface of the support panel to engage the stud. A bracket which is comprised of a plurality of generally perpendicular angled surfaces is mounted on the opposite end of the support panel from the groove for securing the wall panel support member to an adjacent stud. The bracket includes slots in the surface mounted to the support panel to allow the position of the bracket to be adjusted along the longitudinal axis of the support panel in order to accommodate variations in width between studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: FGE Backerboard Co.
    Inventor: Fred G. Erlandson
  • Patent number: 5678369
    Abstract: Disclosed is a refractory/heat insulating panel used in buildings and structures which must have a refractory performance. In the refractory/heat insulating panel (801), the mechanical strength and the fireproofing performance at the joint portions, which are weak portions in the panel, are increased by integrally forming inorganic boards (831) in the male and female joint portions (832, 836), filling a light-weight aggregate in the core material located at the male and female joint portions at a high density, or making the density of the core material at the joint portions higher than that at the center of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: IG-Technical Research Inc.
    Inventors: Takashi Ishikawa, Hideki Takiguchi, Fumio Takahashi, Minoru Saitoh, Hiroaki Konta, Takanobu Niizeki, Masahiko Suzuki, Hiroyuki Umetsu, Yoshihiko Kanno, Toshihide Kokubun
  • Patent number: 5671584
    Abstract: A retaining wall for remote environments such as wilderness trails utilizes an "H-beam" post member having first and second elongate, vertical plates joined in a spaced, generally parallel relationship by first and second vertical brace portions, so that the cross-section of the resultant construction yields a central cavity between a pair of open web or channel portions. For installation, a stake member (e.g., a segment of rebar or similar material) is driven into the ground, and the central cavity of the H-beam post is placed over the rebar, so that the rebar engages the central cavity and supports the H-beam post. Additional H-beam posts are installed at spaced intervals along the line of the intended retaining wall. Boards, planks or other elongate, sectional materials are inserted into the open webs between adjacent H-beam posts, and are successively stacked to create a wall. Anchors are installed from the H-beam post into the soil or rock for stability. Finally, a cap can be placed on the boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: John F. Mueller
  • Patent number: 5664380
    Abstract: A partition frame having two parallel side walls, a flat connecting wall perpendicularly connected between the side walls, two longitudinal grooves defined between the two side walls at two opposite sides of the flat connecting wall, longitudinal rows of key holes on the side walls for mounting partition panels, and two longitudinal rows of recessed hanging holes on each side wall at an outer side for hanging things.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Jen Shiung Hsueh
  • Patent number: 5619837
    Abstract: A corrugated panel structure, for use in the construction of a building wall or other structural application, includes a corrugated panel of broad, planar configuration and a pair of elongated caps mounted on opposite edges of the corrugated panel. Each of the elongated caps has a protruding central channel which is slotted to receive the individual corrugations of the corrugated panel. Each elongated cap is secured in place over an end of the corrugated panel by a rod disposed within the central channel and extending through apertures in the corrugations and end portions of the corrugated panel. Between the end portions, the corrugations form a zig-zag pattern of diagonally oriented planes which alternate in direction. Such corrugations extend in spaced-apart, parallel fashion between the opposite edges of the panel. The slots in the central channels for receiving the individual corrugations are diagonally oriented and alternate in direction relative to the directions of elongation of the elongated cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Fabricio N. DiSanto