Having An Underlying Grid Frame Patents (Class 52/81.2)
  • Patent number: 11549255
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to an elongated geodesic dome with an arched-tunnel section. In some embodiments including: a first adjustable angle hub connector, the first adjustable angle hub connector being a connector of a first plurality of tubular struts, the first plurality of tubular struts being inserted into the first adjustable angle hub connector; a second adjustable angle hub connector, the second adjustable angle hub connector being a connector of a second plurality of tubular struts, the second plurality of tubular struts being inserted into the second adjustable angle hub connector; a third adjustable angle hub connector, the third adjustable angle hub connector being a connector of a third plurality of tubular struts, the third plurality of tubular struts being inserted into the third adjustable angle hub connector. The adjustable angle hub connectors may be removable for adjusting a length of the arched-tunnel section of the elongated geodesic dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: VivaGrow Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph William Tognoli, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10870979
    Abstract: A method for laying a plurality of objects to form a polyhedron, the method including: determining a pattern for each of a plurality of courses constituting the polyhedron based on the type of the polyhedron and the frequency of the polyhedron; determining a unique group from each of the plurality of courses; determining members of the unique group and orientation of each the member of the unique group from the plurality of objects; and laying the plurality of objects as determined from the above steps to form the polyhedron.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: Spherical Block LLC
    Inventors: Peter Andrew Roberts, Nolan Kramer, Sara Perez, Jared Mason, Naqib Shahan, Nicholas Risley, Eric Chindamo, Patrick Palmer
  • Patent number: 9152743
    Abstract: A computer process for fitting construction materials to an architectural surface modeled in CAD divides the surface into domains. Sample points are defined on each domain surface. A surface portion of a regular curved solid is matched to the sample points. The surface portion of the curved solid is defined in terms of a central reference and boundary conditions. The result is compared to stored specifications to identify construction materials capable of forming the domain. At least one construction material is identified that can form each domain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: GEHRY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Witt
  • Patent number: 9151306
    Abstract: Described herein is a structure that comprises a plurality of spherical triangular units on a plurality of levels. The structure has a superior ability to survive disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes etc. It is cost-efficient, energy efficient, extremely durable and easily maintained. The plurality of spherical triangular units on one level of the plurality of levels are essentially identical to each other, and are essentially equally spaced radially relative to a center of the sphere; each of the plurality of spherical triangular units comprises three planar panels, each with an end surface comprising a minor arc of a great circle of the sphere; a spherical triangular unit on a level above the first level of the structure is configured to be joined with two neighboring spherical triangular units on the level below; the structure is substantially a dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Inventor: Xiaoping Sun
  • Patent number: 8943760
    Abstract: The modular shelter related to temporary building for keeping goods or people. The modular shelter utilizes some standardized shells for constructing walls of the modular shelter. Each of the shells can have sidewalls or ribs for strengthening the shells' curvature and strength. These standardized shells can further be stacked such that they become compact for storage and transportation. Multiple number of the modular shelter can also be joined together for providing extended shelters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: National University of Singapore
    Inventor: Shinya Okuda
  • Patent number: 8863447
    Abstract: A hybrid geodesic structure includes a core structure and a geodesic shell surrounding the core structure. The core structure extends from a base at a center of the geodesic shell through an upper extent of the geodesic shell opposite to the base. The core structure supports the geodesic shell at an upper extent and includes a roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventors: Gregory G. Bischoff, Vicki P. Bischoff
  • Patent number: 8616328
    Abstract: A tensegrity apparatus having multiple tensegrity units for the transmission of solitary waves with adjustable profiles into a material or structure, and the detection of such waves from a material or structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Chiara Daraio, Fernando Fraternali
  • Patent number: 8555557
    Abstract: A passive indoor/outdoor stadium structure configured to reduce energy demands from the stadium structure includes a moveable roofing system and a micro-climate cooling system. The moveable roofing system covers an interior space of the stadium and has an open position and a closed position. The roofing system includes a fixed half-dome roof and a revolving half dome roof retractable beneath the fixed half dome roof, both the fixed half dome roof and the revolving half dome roof having an outer half dome clad with a plurality of solar hoods positioned in an overlapping arrangement. The micro-climate cooling system for cooling the indoor/outdoor stadium includes a full circulation mode for cooling a stadium volume when the roofing system is in the closed position, and a micro-climate mode for cooling a portion of the stadium volume when the roofing system is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8549797
    Abstract: The tornado shelter is constructed of a shell and supports forming an enclosure that is secured to a concrete slab. The tornado shelter is designed for indoor or outdoor use as a safety shelter during severe weather events including dangerous wind speeds. The shell of the tornado shelter is constructed of an inner shell layer and an outer shell layer that sandwich the supports therein. The shell includes a layer of extensive padding along an inner surface to protect occupants from injuries associated with impacting the inner layer. The shape of the shell includes a low-profile curvature that is aerodynamic in order to resist reaction to high wind speeds. A GPS locator alarm located inside of the enclosure is actuated in an emergency and provides location based date to emergency response personnel in order to locate the tornado shelter and occupants associated there with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas J. Ricketts
  • Patent number: 8387315
    Abstract: A microclimate cooling system for an indoor/outdoor stadium includes a partially rotatable roof, the rotatable roof having a first position environmentally sealing an interior of the stadium. and a second position exposing a portion of the interior to the atmosphere, a field surrounded by the stadium, and a tiered seating positioned adjacent a first side of the field. The system further includes a raised concrete barrier adjacent a second side of the pitch opposing the first side of the field, a first wall adjacent a third side of the field, and a second wall adjacent a fourth side of the field, the first and second walls perpendicular to the tiered seating extending between at least a portion of the tiered seating and the raised concrete barrier. The system further includes a plurality of air handling units for supplying cooling air to the tiered seating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8381456
    Abstract: A domed non-steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three non-steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three non-steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: S2 Holdings Pty Limited
    Inventor: Murray Ellen
  • Patent number: 8381457
    Abstract: A domed steel roof frame (12). The frame (12) has at least three corners and an outwardly convex shape with an uppermost apex (20). The frame (12) comprises at least three steel interior members (18), at least three interior cable retainers and at least three interior cables. The at least three steel interior members (18) each extend from one of each of the corners to the apex (20). The at least three interior cable retainers are each attached to, or form part of, and extending substantially along each of the respective interior members (18). The at least three interior cables are each inserted through each of the respective interior cable retainers. The frame (12) also comprises means to tension each of the interior cables relative to their respective interior cable retainers and means to maintain each of the interior cables tensioned relative to their respective interior cable retainers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: S2 Holdings Pty Limited
    Inventor: Murray Ellen
  • Publication number: 20130025215
    Abstract: An actuator is provided for reconfiguring a reversibly expandable structure, also referred to as a deployable structure. The deployable structure includes an enclosed mechanical linkage capable of transformation between expanded and collapsed configurations while maintaining its shape. An actuator coupled to the deployable structure provides a load, force or torque for actuating a transformation. The actuated deployable structure transfers the actuation force to an external body substances, or element in contact with the deployable structure. The force can be directed inwardly or outwardly depending upon direction of the transformation (i.e., expanding or contracting). The force provided by the deployable structure can be used to perform work by its application over at least a portion of the distance traveled by a perimeter of the deployable structure during its transformation. In some embodiments, the actuatable deployable structure is lockable structure supporting a static load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Patent number: 8347561
    Abstract: A domed structure (500) comprises a plurality of struts (505) of equal or a reduced number of differing lengths. The struts are held in place by hubs (510, 515, 1400). In one aspect, a first hub secures the ends of inserted struts at a constant distance from its center, while other hubs secure the ends of inserted struts at predetermined distances from their centers. The differences between the various predetermined distances is the difference in strut lengths required by the design of the structure. Thus all struts are of equal length and identical, or a reduced number of lengths, resulting in an economy of scale and ease of construction. A cover can be added after the structure is built. Alternatively, the hubs can be sewn into a fabric or plastic cover for further ease of construction. The struts can be glued in place, or removed from the hubs to disassemble the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Robert H. Howe
  • Patent number: 8336261
    Abstract: A moveable roofing system for covering an interior space includes a fixed half-dome roof fixed to and supported by a first support structure, a rotatable half-dome roof rotatable about and supported by a second support structure, the second support structure being concentric to the first support structure, and, wherein the rotatable half-dome roof is configured to rotate about the second support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8322084
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a modular room with rectangular floor space, a roof and side walls of a skeletal framework construction with sections, which is designed in such a way that it can be easily assembled, disassembled and connected to other modular rooms. The floor space is formed of a foundation consisting of grid-shaped floor plates, which form partial floor sections of the foundation. Furthermore, the modular room exhibits a support or spine portion that is attached to the roof at its top end and is attached to the foundation at its bottom end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Rolf Kestermann
  • Patent number: 8215066
    Abstract: A revolving canopy roof for a stadium includes a fixed half dome and revolving half dome. The fixed half dome has an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. The revolving half dome includes an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Qatar Football Association
    Inventors: Lee Hosking, Michael Edward Beaven
  • Patent number: 8136307
    Abstract: Roof construction having a roof skin mounted on a base construction and including a bottom skin and a top skin mounted above and spaced apart from the bottom skin, the roof skin having a two-dimensionally curved surface, the bottom skin being supported on the base construction via a grid that is formed by plane plates oriented normal to the plane of the grid and crossing one another, top edges of the plates being curved to define the curvature of the roof skin, the surface of the roof skin being divided into segments at least some of which are spanned by an associated set of straight lines, and the top skin is held at a constant spacing from the bottom skin by spacer profiles extending along the straight lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Eckard Hofmeister
  • Publication number: 20120060431
    Abstract: A method of construction by which the framework of various structures can be erected in a Geodesic manner is proposed. These structures are Geodesic in that they are comprised of a large number of a few identical parts and such that the pressure on the structure is distributed throughout the structure: In this case, the thicker the Dimensions of the parts the greater the strength of the structure. This method uses hollow hexagonal and hollow pentagonal pyramidal frustums fastened together as the main building blocks of the Geodesic structure. These structures mirror the molecular world of the Carbon-60 molecule, the strongest molecule known for it's size. Thus, this proposed method of construction would provide structural enclosures that are immensely strong; such a structural enclosure given a superior quality rating by this method would be immune from the destructive effects of Tornadoes, Hurricanes, and earthquakes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey Max Belicofski
  • Patent number: 8100814
    Abstract: Clambering device having a number of blocks defined by at least four geometrical surfaces, of which surfaces at least three have normals of which one is at an angle to the surface in which the other two are situated, wherein means for mutual coupling of the blocks are provided at those surfaces. The geometrical surfaces may be substantially flat, identical to each other in shape, or particularly congruent to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Kompan A/S
    Inventors: Koos Van Raalte, Ronald Andreas Jacobus Kazius
  • Patent number: 7992350
    Abstract: A column borne building construction according to the present invention comprises a building and one substantially vertical column for bearing the load of said building construction. The building has a polyhedron shape, this polyhedron shape having a top face defining a polygon shape by means of N1 top edges and N1 top vertices. The polyhedron shape comprises additional faces other than said top face, which additional faces are defined by additional edges and additional vertices. The top face is substantially perpendicular to the column and encircling the column. Each of the N1 top vertices join two top edges and at least one additional edge of the polyhedron. The column has a top coupling point and at least 3 of the N1 top vertices are connected to the column by means of a tension member. The extensions of these tension members coincide in the top coupling point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Four Elements N.V.
    Inventor: Luc Vriens
  • Patent number: 7992353
    Abstract: A hub joint includes a metal rod and pin for joining tubular members in three-dimensional space for assembling a frame structure. The hub joint enables rapid assembly, rapid reconfiguration, and rapid disassembly without using any specialized tools. Multiple hub joints may be used to form geodesic domes, freestanding trusses, space frame slabs, tetrahedrons, and pentahedrons. The hub joints allow different frame configurations that are lightweight, strong, durable, scalable, expandable, and portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Stephan P. Athan
  • Patent number: 7913462
    Abstract: The present invention provides structural members for buildings, methods for using the same, and building structures comprising such structural members. In particular, the present invention provides buildings that can withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, high winds such as hurricanes and tornadoes, and other natural disasters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry A. Woodcock
  • Patent number: 7770338
    Abstract: Triangular elements for forming geodesic structures each have three elongated leg members arranged end-to-end to form three apexes. At least one of the apexes is formed with a curved-shaped indentation which extends along an outer surface and perpendicular to the opposing side surfaces. The legs of each triangular element also include one or more outer grooves extending longitudinally along the outer surface. Each outer groove is sized to receive a seal member. An inwardly raised shoulder extends longitudinally along the inner surface. An inner groove is formed along a side edge of the raised shoulder and each inner groove is sized to receive a seal member. Panels are positioned over the opposing sides to form double-walled triangular element. Channels extend through the outer surface and raised shoulder of the inner surface. The triangular elements are arranged to form a geodesic structure and fasteners extend through the channels to secure adjacent triangular elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Abdessatar Nefzi
  • Patent number: 7726078
    Abstract: A dome type clear-span roof construction, having an exterior, polygonal arch frame (1), and a pre-tensioned, doubly curved membrane cover (2), which is suspended from the arch frame and is tied down to anchors (9) along its perimeter. Underneath the arch frame, a single, continuous suspension cable (4), anchored to the arch's end supports (8), is alternately taken through a series of upper pulleys (6) secured to the underside of the arch break points, and lower pulleys (5) secured at similar spacing to the membrane's ridge line (3), creating a multiple block-and-tackle suspension mechanism in the full length of the arch. The suspension mechanism converts the random membrane loads into concentrated, identical arch loads. The centerline of the polygonal arch coincides with the constant pressure line of its concentrated loads, which therefore do not cause bending moments in the arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Arpad Kolozsvary-Kiss
  • Patent number: 7694463
    Abstract: An array comprises a plurality of ring elements and a plurality of mortar elements. The ring elements comprise polyhedroids interconnected to one another to form a closed ring shape, with the polyhedroids having a generally polyhedral shape. The mortar elements are configured to connect ring elements to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Samuel J. Lanahan
  • Patent number: 7574830
    Abstract: The disclosure depicts a high-strength yet lightweight material composed of interconnected struts that typically form a tetrahedral lattice structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Baker
  • Publication number: 20090158674
    Abstract: An actuator is provided for reconfiguring a reversibly expandable structure, also referred to as a deployable structure. The deployable structure includes an enclosed mechanical linkage capable of transformation between expanded and collapsed configurations while maintaining its shape. An actuator coupled to the deployable structure provides a load, force, or torque for actuating a transformation. The actuated deployable structure transfers the actuation force to an external body substances, or element in contact with the deployable structure. The force can be directed inwardly or outwardly depending upon direction of the transformation (i.e., expanding or contracting). The force provided by the deployable structure can be used to perform work by its application over at least a portion of the distance traveled by a perimeter of the deployable structure during its transformation. In some embodiments, the actuatable deployable structure is lockable structure supporting a static load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Julio C. Guerrero, Logan Munro
  • Publication number: 20090038237
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a free-standing structure which includes an eight-sided roof perimeter; at least four geodesic structures extending from four sides of the eight-sided roof perimeter and supporting the perimeter; and at least four legs, each leg structurally corresponding with one of the at least four geodesic structures for upholding the free-standing structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventor: Norman L. Jensen
  • Patent number: 7448400
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a free-standing structure which includes an eight-sided roof perimeter; at least four geodesic structures extending from four sides of the eight-sided roof perimeter and supporting the perimeter; and at least four legs, each leg structurally corresponding with one of the at least four geodesic structures for upholding the free-standing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventor: Norman L. Jensen
  • Patent number: 7421810
    Abstract: A picture frame assembly includes a backing plate having a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of parallel grooves in one of the surfaces. The material and thickness of the backing plate are chosen so that the backing plate may be plastically deformed about a bending axis parallel to the grooves. At least one frame element, which may be formed integrally with the backing plate, is for provided for retaining a planar picture element against the front surface of the backing plate. A pair of tack elements extending from the rear surface are provided for mounting the assembly to a cylindrical object such as a tree or a candle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Margarete Schymura
  • Patent number: 7269926
    Abstract: A dome-like structure is disclosed which is non-circular in plan, the structure being formed of a plurality of substantially straight-edged panels. At each of a plurality of horizontal levels in the structure the edges of the panels each extend between a respective pair of points on a notional envelope of the structure. The structure is so designed that, at each said level, the points do not all lie upon a common circle, but that for each set of three adjacent horizontally spaced said points, either: a) all three are at equal radii from a point in the same plane, or b) two adjacent ones of the three points are at a first equal radial distance from a point in said plane and the remaining point is at the same distance as the adjoining point of said set from a point on a radius from the point to said adjoining point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Ferenc Rakosi
  • Patent number: 7137399
    Abstract: The invention is a collapsible structure comprising a plurality of panel elements, each having a coilable frame element and flexible material attached to the frame element. The panel elements are joined to define an enclosure having a roof portion and a bottom perimeter. The bottom perimeter rests on a supporting surface. The structure has at least one roof support rod having a first end and a second end. The first end of the at least one roof support rod is attached to a first location on the bottom perimeter, and the second end of the at least one roof support rod is attached to a second location on the bottom perimeter. The at least one roof support rod is in supporting contact with the roof portion of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventors: Robert M. Ransom, Todd P. Weston, Ryan L. Kubica, Scott D. Wehner
  • Patent number: 7013607
    Abstract: A monolithic dome shaped building of a size suitable to receive at least one relatively large vehicle, such as an airplane, is formed with a generally rectangular shaped access opening of sufficient size to enable passage of an airplane or other large vehicle into and out of the building. A three-dimensional unitary door is supported at an upper marginal edge on a guide track for lateral movement of the door between a first position closing the access opening and a second open position enabling passage through the access opening. The door includes a rigid frame structure having spaced upstanding frame members having outer convex surfaces similar to the convex contour of the dome wall adjacent the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: David B. South
  • Patent number: 6925762
    Abstract: An arch structure (12) comprising several struts (14) interconnected by five joints (15) to form an arch (16), and two series of cables (17, 18). The two ends of the arch (16) rest on ball joints which are fixed to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Peter Dann Limited
    Inventor: Edward Halford
  • Patent number: 6851227
    Abstract: The invention concerns a structural and mechanical means to build a large retractable roof, that can have the shape of a barrel vaulted roof or a pitched vaulted roof or a flat roof. The roof is moved as one monolithic roof on and off a mall walkway or other structure. The roof cover is a glass skylight or other material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Adam T. Schildge, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6851228
    Abstract: Structures are desirable for storing items in an attractive manner. Persons frequently have a need to store items outdoors, such as lawn care equipment. Structures are aesthetically pleasing by providing a rock-shaped storage enclosure. A pool with a circulation system may be present on the top of the cover of the structure. Additional accessories, such as fountains, birdbaths, weathervanes, bird feeders, birdhouses, and waterwheels may also be attached to the top of the cover as desired. A door hingedly attached to the side of the cover allows access to the interior of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Steve E. Forman
  • Patent number: 6832455
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a space frame structure, such as a dome, for covering an open space, with the space frame structure being assembled from beam members, which intersect at rigid mode joints. The beam members and other structural components used in the skeleton of the space frame are made from pre-cast concrete, which has not been subjected to pre-tensioning and the rigid node joints are formed in situ, for example, by casting concrete joints incorporating the ends of the beam members. The loads imposed by the weight of the beam members on the beams and the node joints effectively simulate pre-stressing of the components which act within the assembled structure as pre-stressed concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew David Tomlinson, Martin James Tomlinson
  • Patent number: 6799398
    Abstract: A modular system (10) for attaching planar panels (12) to a curved support structure (14). The system includes modules (20) that are defined between a transverse hook support panel (36) and a transverse plate support panel (38) and between a base member (78) and a pivot member (80). Each module (20) defines one or more cells (18) in accordance with the use of transverse cross-support members (30). Each panel (12) is secured on a respective cell (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Skytech Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Plevyak
  • Publication number: 20040134136
    Abstract: A spherical container having a shell formed by 6 bands, interwoven in such a way as to create 12 pentagonal openings spaced evenly around the sphere. 12 pentagonal covers, 20 disk shaped covers, and 30 struts. Building materials for the invention can be composite materials such as graphite or fiberglass fibers wherein, the parts are joined with stitching and then permanently bonded together with a suitable adhesive such as epoxy to form an airtight container. The invention can also be fashioned from sheets of weldable material, wherein all seams are welded together to form an airtight container. The 30 struts are placed inside the sphere with their end points located with reference to the vertexes of the pentagonal openings in such a way as to form a tensegrity dodecahedron. This structure may be used as a building, a pressure vessel, a vacuum vessel, or a container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: John Robert Shearing
  • Patent number: 6748712
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a scalable suspension system for domed shaped ceilings that includes a framework of suspension members interconnected to a central hub. The framework of suspension members are used to support a domed shaped ceiling fabricated from plaster or gypsum wallboard. The suspension members include primary spoke members, secondary spoke members, intercostal members and cross tees. The primary spoke members are attached to the central hub component. The intercostal members are spanned between the primary spoke members. The secondary spoke members are connected to the intercostal members, and extend between the primary spoke members. The primary and secondary spoke members are interconnected by the cross tees to create a unified structure. The hub includes radially indexed integral tabs that facilitate the attachment of the hanger wires and allows for the rigid attachment of the primary spoke members in a precise radial pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: USG Interiors, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin E. Likozar, James A. Fletterick, Alan C. Wendt, David B. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6708455
    Abstract: A polyhedron-like structural assembly comprises a plurality of polygonal frames installed in upright position on each of a pair of opposite sides of a structural assembly that is square-shaped in a plan view, a plurality of frames having H-shaped cross-sections and connecting the polygonal frames to form a plurality of triangular planes therebetween, a plurality of polygonal flat plates attached in the triangular planes to provide polyhedron-like upper walls and polyhedron-like side walls between the polygonal frames, and a joint disposed in the center of the assembly and having a plurality of arms formed to fit within the frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Housing Kousan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshimi Niiduma
  • Patent number: 6691469
    Abstract: A flashing for sealing about a roof penetration includes a first sheet having a first edge. The first sheet includes a substantially planar portion and a portion that is inclined with respect to the planar portion. The inclined portion has a recess open at the first edge. A second sheet has a first edge. The second sheet includes a substantially planar portion and a portion that is inclined with respect to the planar portion. The inclined portion has a recess open at the first edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Joel N. Miller
  • Publication number: 20030226319
    Abstract: An improved joint for connecting the ends of tubes for the purpose of assembling a geodesic dome or truss structure (FIG. 6). The tube ends form top and bottom hooks (A4) which face away from each other. The hooked ends (A4) facilitate the attachment of adjacent tubes to the unifying joint by gripping a common top and bottom washer (3). The inner washers (3) are used as tension rings for restricting the movement of the tubes by which they are hooked. The structure is stiffened when the hooks are pressed down into a flattened position by the outer top and bottom washers (2). The outer top and bottom washers are sandwiched by a single nut and bolt assembly (1,5). As the nut and bolt assembly (1,5) is tightened pressure is applied to the outer washers which press the booked ends (4A) of the tubes backwards into a flattened position. The initial condition of the joint is loose to allow adjustments of the positioning of the tubes within the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Ashton E. Richards
  • Patent number: 6615552
    Abstract: A segmented, articulated pole member structure is constructed of a plurality of pivotally interconnected, pole segments. The pole segments are arranged in an alternating or offsetting fashion such that in their disassembled state they may be folded into a compact bundle for storage. In the assembled state, adjacent pole segments are retained under tension in fixed angular position relative to each other by a pivoting connection and an engagement loop or similar structure. Applications for the pole member structure include the construction of flexible structures such as tents and shelters, and support frames for mounting, supporting, or suspending articles in a desired shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Robert E. Gillis
  • Publication number: 20030097801
    Abstract: Reversibly expanding covering elements for truss structures made up of scissor-assemblies that are connected together by hub elements structures. These covering elements are comprised of a folded sheet of flexible material such as cardboard or a plastic sheet, or alternatively, comprised of planar panels that are hinged together. As the truss structure expands and contracts, the covering element is compressed and expanded along with it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Charles Hoberman
  • Patent number: 6536167
    Abstract: A structural assembly has elongate members extending at angles to one another from connector members and forming with the connector members a lattice structure having open spaces defined by the elongate members, with the connector members at corners of the open spaces. Tension members extending between the connector members have opposite end portions extending through the connector members to anchor members on the tension members. Adjustable fasteners retain the anchor members on the end portions of the tension members and the anchor members are distributed around the connector members, with each of the anchor members in a respective one of the angles in wedging relationship with a pair of the elongate members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: John Glavan
  • Patent number: 6457282
    Abstract: A skeletal structure is provided, including a plurality of preferably resiliently flexible rings, each ring passing through and thus being interwoven with immediately adjacent rings, preferably five, so that the rings collectively form a flexible mesh, the flexible mesh being formed into a surface having a double curve substantially defining at least a part of a spherical surface. Each ring is formed from a resiliently flexible linear member having first and second member ends, preferably releasibly interconnected by an overlapping clasp. The spherical surface may be a whole sphere, and may comprise thirty two rings. The spherical surface alternatively may be a hemisphere, which is preferable when the skeletal structure is used as the frame for a building, or the roof of a building such as a domed stadium. The bending of resiliently flexible linear material around to close on itself places the resulting rings into tensile loading, or in tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventor: Edwin Donald O'Toole
  • Patent number: 6446399
    Abstract: A pre-fabricated architectural element has a curved profile and has at least one curved brace member. A bendable panel is applied to the curved brace member, bent on this brace member to form the panel with the curved profile, and fastened to the curved brace member. Finally, the pre-fabricated architectural element comprises a uniform, smooth and regular surface finish on an outer face of the panel opposite to the curved brace member. A method of pre-fabricating this curved-profile architectural element comprises providing at least one curved brace member, providing a bendable panel, and applying the panel to the brace member. Application of the panel to the brace member comprises forming the panel with the curved profile by bending this panel on the brace member, and fastening the panel to the brace member. To complete the method, an outer face of the panel, opposite to the brace member, is finished in a uniform, smooth and regular surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Yves Lecours
  • Publication number: 20020095877
    Abstract: A toy igloo device is disclosed for resting on the ground. The device includes a dome shaped housing which defines an enclosure and an entrance. The housing includes a plurality of selectively interlocking sections with each section of the plurality of sections having an edge which rests on the ground. A first section of the plurality of sections defines a first opening and a second section of the plurality of sections is disposed adjacent to the first section. The second section defines a second opening so that the first and the second openings cooperate with each other to define the entrance. Each of the sections has an external surface which defines at least two pockets for the reception therein of snow. The arrangement is such that when the sections are interlocked, with the edges of the sections resting on the ground, snow is received and gathered within the pockets such that the toy igloo takes on an appearance of an Eskimo dwelling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Anthony M. Pratola