Frangible Section Or Means Patents (Class 52/98)
  • Patent number: 5480121
    Abstract: A break-way connector for a sign post having a stud rigidly welded to two spaced-apart channel members, with a central portion of the stud between the channel members having a groove and a pair of radial bores centered on the groove to define an area for shearing upon sudden impact, the break-away connector joining together an in-ground post and an above-ground post for holding a sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: VSAR Systems of Atlanta, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald Rice, Walter A. Alexander, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5469666
    Abstract: A new and improved walkable secure patio door threshold with a lower extrusion having a lower surface and a vertical extension. The lower surface has a plurality of apertures vertically therethrough. The vertical extension is integral with the lower surface of the lower extrusion. An upper extrusion has a plurality of guide grooves and a plurality of break grooves. Each of the guide grooves function to receive a sliding door. Each of the break grooves function to allow adjustment to accommodate a various number of sliding doors. A convoluted end portion is formed adjacent the sliding groove. A plurality of countersunk apertures are formed within the plurality of guide grooves. The countersunk apertures are aligned with the plurality of apertures formed in the lower surface of the lower extrusion for securement thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: William P. Lewis, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5469679
    Abstract: Protective, sealing cover made of flexible material for easy application over an exposed end of a cut reinforcing bar. The cover contains a water impermeable sealant which surrounds the end of the cut bar during the process of applying the cover. A dual function tool facilitates the process of cover application by first positioning the cover then setting a locking means to secure the cover to the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Christopher J. Burkard, Norman G. Manley
  • Patent number: 5441230
    Abstract: A system of suspension components is provided that includes a wall bracket and a device having a pair of spreadable arms for attaching to said wall bracket. The device can be used to suspend picture frames or the like and is adjustable for various size frames. The arms of the device include a series of frangible segments that can be easily, manually removed by bending a segment at its juncture. Also included are extension members that can be easily affixed to the arms to provide additional length when necessary. The extension members likewise are formed from frangible segments, which can be broken away for length adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Assignee: William W. Sambleson
    Inventor: William W. Sambleson
  • Patent number: 5428930
    Abstract: A concealed suspension ceiling system advantageously uses a `T` bar grid network used for lay-in ceiling panels. Butterfly clips are secured to upper beads of the `T` bar grid network allowing torsioning springs to releasably maintain the panels suspended beneath the grid. The system can be used for entirely new installations or used in a retrofit application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Assignee: Decoustics Limited
    Inventors: Claude E. Bagley, Dwight D. Robbins, Wm. Steve Wilson, Charles B. Stormer, Gary H. Peddle, Heikki Kolga, Ronald G. White, John Balog, Conrad Marini
  • Patent number: 5419088
    Abstract: The invention describes plastic automobile windows that are safe during side impact collisions, including a method for installing the windows into the motor vehicle. The mounting system and window material will contain an occupant in a vehicle at low to moderate head impact velocities. The occupant is not subjected to head injuries. The occupant is not subject to lacerations.The window design uses a high modulus transparent thermoplastic, having an abrasion resistant coating. The window is attached to the window opening in a motor vehicle by using one of several mounting techniques as described herein. For fixed windows, the mounting systems will bond the window to the vehicle under normal operating conditions and provide a weather seal. For a movable window, the window frame will be equipped with a sliding track and provide a weather seal. A groove or notch in the window material inward from the edge in combination with the mounting systems enhance a safe release of the plastic window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Paul J. Raymond, Robert W. Jans, John J. Reilly
  • Patent number: 5413435
    Abstract: A fragility earth retainment wall includes a plurality of prefabricated panels. Each panel is bound by at least one complementary resistent member of the wall and has at least one hollowed out portion with an opening on the front seen face of the panel, formed by a groove or a series of holes; each hollowed out portion extends between two edges of the panel and defines therein a preferred fracture line. Thus there are formed modules between at least one hollowed out portion and at least one edge and each module is provided with association members for independent attachment to the complementary resistent member. The panels provide a flexible wall with a good flat arrangement, ease of assembly and good tightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: Juan B. Batlle
  • Patent number: 5402609
    Abstract: A concrete building block (2) has complementary projections (10) and recesses (12) to cause it to interlock with other blocks (2). A T-shaped channel (16, 26) on the top surface (4) receives an anchor member (32). A projecting end (36) of the member (32) may be secured to an anchor cable (104). The ends of a metal cable (22) are embedded in the block (2) with an eye portion (24) projecting into an increased depth channel portion (20). The lower surface (6) of the block (2) has parallel channels (28) for receiving the tines of a forklift. The channels (16, 28) have breakaway walls (18, 30) at their outer ends, which are not broken away unless the channels (16, 28) are to be used. The walls (18, 30) prevent concrete from flowing out of the channels (16, 28) when reinforcing concrete is poured through vertical openings (14) in the block (2). In molding the block (2), slugs (86) are releasably attached to opposite mold walls to form the openings (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Michael L. Kelley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5390458
    Abstract: A wallboard package having edge protective tape which connects two wallboards face-to-face, with an adhesive film on the tape inner surface adapted for use in affixing the wallboards to wall studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: National Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Menchetti
  • Patent number: 5371992
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Jon L. O'Berry
  • Patent number: 5372466
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Jon L. O'Berry
  • Patent number: 5339578
    Abstract: A support form for use in the casting of a grade beam on piles comprises an elongate rectangular body having a width equal to the intended width of the grade beam. The body is located under the intended grade beam and the grade beam cast on top of the form. The form is manufactured from polystyrene foam which is cut to form interior voids extending longitudinally of the body. The body prevents soil from entering the area underneath the grade beam. The body is formed with side walls having a wedging action and a collapsible central support so that a top wall of the body can collapse onto the bottom of the body if the forces from the soil due to exansion exceed a predetermined maximum force thus preventing the soil from causing heaving of the grade beam after installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Aerofoam Chemicals, Division of Border Chemical Company
    Inventors: Thomas C. Smerchanski, Hans Boge
  • Patent number: 5323574
    Abstract: A floor system with low resistance to impact has loosely connected separate light weight components forming a support frame upon which a plurality of floor panels is disposed. The support frame is comprised of a plurality of support elements which, in turn, are constructed of a plurality of support members each having a maximum dimension of at most a predetermined fixed size. The plurality of floor panels is disposed onto of and supported by the support elements. The floor panels preferably have mating beveled edges, which bevels facilitate the panels in kicking up and over each other upon substantially horizontal impact. The position of the floor panels is relative to the support elements is loosely maintained by cooperating short pins and holes. In one aspect of the invention, the support elements are spaced apart and are not connected to each other for support. In another aspect, the support elements are interconnected and supported by a supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Electronic Space Systems Corporation
    Inventor: William W. Ahern
  • Patent number: 5299397
    Abstract: A frangible enclosure with low resistance to impact has a curvature such that a distributed load primarily is resisted by axial stresses generated therein, in little or no bending stresses are generated. Weakened portions are made in the enclosure which reduce the flexural strength of the enclosure. The enclosure is made of a plurality of panels, which panels are constructed of a composite laminate of fiber reinforced material. The panels are interconnected to form a housing, or enclosure. Weakened portions in the panel can be made by perforating or cutting the material of which the laminate is made. A floor system can also be provided for an enclosure. Such a floor system, which is also frangible, is made of a support frame upon which the floor panels rest and loosely engage. The floor support frame can be supported by the base of the enclosure, or other supporting objects in the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Electronic Space Systems Corporation
    Inventor: William W. Ahern
  • Patent number: 5295336
    Abstract: Post anchoring and quick release device (10) having a lower post attachment section (20) and an upper anchoring section (22). the device (10) is an elongated, generally rectangular body having in the lower section at least one opening (40,42) in one configuration and at least one opening (66,68) in another configuration and a nail hole (48,50,74,76) beneath each said opening. The nail holes are separated from the openings either by a web (52,54) or a restricted slit (78,80). The device is attached to a post by nails and when the post is to be removed from the ground a bar (B) is used to strike an offset release surface (28) to rupture the web against the nail or to allow the nail so slide through the restricted slit (78,80). In the one the nail is bent down as the device is forced down and in the other the nail slides free of the nail without contacting the nail. The post can then be lifted vertically such that the nail slides free of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Inventor: Roy B. Egaas
  • Patent number: 5255488
    Abstract: The wall tie comprises a length of wire and includes a plurality of flattened areas thereon defined between end shoulders for each. A locking arm on concrete forms engaged about the tie engages over an outer half of a chosen flattened portion, and engages adjacent forms together. To keep the form from encroaching into the portion of the flattened area to be engaged by the locking arm, the outer half of each flattened area incorporates a stop member which, when abutted against an outwardly directed surface of the form, eliminates the need for repositioning of the form to allow for appropriate engagement of the locking arm thereover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventors: Kevin Johnson, Brent Johnson
  • Patent number: 5228250
    Abstract: The tamper proof anchor bolt assembly includes a frangible nut assembly and a tamper resistant skirt attached to one end of an expandable anchor bolt device. An expandable anchoring means attached to the other end of the anchoring device expands to create a secure connection between the anchor bolt and a supporting structure in response to the application of torque to the frangible nut assembly. The frangible nut assembly includes a frangible connection which ruptures at a predetermined torque corresponding to the secure connection. The tamper resistant skirt is rotatably positioned around the entire periphery of the remaining frangible nut assembly to prevent a tool from upsetting the secure connection by applying a gripping force to the anchor bolt device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Inventor: David A. Kesselman
  • Patent number: 5214886
    Abstract: A breakaway connection is mounted between a lower and an upper post section for upstandingly supporting the upper section on the lower section. The breakaway connection has a U-shape cross-section with lateral flanges. A weakened linear section extends horizontally on the flanges and partly on the U-shaped portion and is adapted to break upon a lateral impact. The linear section extending downwardly into folds between the flanges and the U-shaped portion of the connection for allowing the upper part of the connection to tilt backwardly while both the upper and lower parts of the connection remain linked together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Inventor: Denis P. Hugron
  • Patent number: 5182885
    Abstract: A one-piece, unitary, molded resin wall sleeve precursor has two cup-shaped end sections of external diameter D1 each having a hollow transition section of enlarged diameter that connects the end section to a sleeve of internal diameter D1; one transition section has an outer diameter D2 and the other has an inner diameter just slightly larger than D2. D2 is appreciably larger than D1. A wall sleeve assembly of extended length is derived from two of these precursor members by cutting off the end sections; the precursor members can then be joined with a strong, inexpensive, welded joint to afford a long wall sleeve of consistent internal diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Assignee: Thunderline Corporation
    Inventor: Bruce G. Barton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5163255
    Abstract: A woodworking machine comprising one or more sets of parallel rotating blades position in or above a flat worktable surface such that multiple sets of parallel grooves of a controlled depth can be cut into a wood block moved over the table surface and above, below or between the rotating blades. The product produced by the machine is of a unitary construction comprised of multiple wedge shaped shims held together by a breakable membrane between the shims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Assignee: Gregory Gamba
    Inventor: Gregory Gamba
  • Patent number: 5160111
    Abstract: The novel collapsible signalling post is provided with a weakened section characterized by an helical groove carved on the periphery of a tubular member to mounted between an anchoring member and a rod member supporting a sign. The groove provides a weakened section adapted to split open along a portion thereof and upon bending caused by a lateral force exerted on the signalling post, the two end portions of the tubular member remain connected to each other by the unfolded spires formed between the helicoidal thread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Inventor: Denis P. Hugron
  • Patent number: 5157881
    Abstract: A replacement window frame assembly includes bottom, sectioned-top, and first and second side cap members for placement over an existing window frame in a building from which the windows and intermediate support members have been removed. The cap members are made from a uniform aluminum extrusion which has a front lip to extend over the outside of the existing frame, and a lower depending lip, designed to rest on the window sill, or abut against the side and top of the frame opening in which the original frame is placed. The cap members are placed over the existing window frame to form a flat mounting surface for the installation of a replacement window. The entire replacement may be effected from the outside of the building, and is accomplished without destroying or damaging any of the interior or exterior finishes of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Assignee: Tashco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred F. Tashman, Dale Bargman
  • Patent number: 5155952
    Abstract: A glazing profile strip (1) which has a foot (9) with a toothing (10) for anchoring the strip (1) on a spacer (2) connected to the structure (4) of the building, has a slot (11) in that foot (9). This slot initiates at the outside (12) of the two sealing lips (6) protruding from the foot (9) and first forms a though-like enlargement (13). This enlargement serves for receiving a filler profile strip (17) that is connected to the sealing lips (6) only by thin bridges (18). The slot then continues below that enlargement by forming a narrow portion (14) having a flared mouth (141) and terminates in a larger groove (15). The narrow portion (14) is formed by two ribs opposed to each other which have a lower side (25) formed as an undercut. That side (25) serves as a rest for a head of a replacement filler profile strip which is inserted into the slot. Prior to this insertion, the present filler profile strip (17) is removed by separating its thin bridges (18) from the walls of the enlargement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Mero-Raumstruktur GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Norbert Herwegh, Wolfgang Kemmer
  • Patent number: 5146720
    Abstract: A pipe stabilizer is provided for maintaining pipes in a fixed relationship relative to a support structure during building construction or repair. The stabilizer is used, for example, to hold ascending pipes in place when pouring concrete slab foundations, and to stabilize piping under floors and ceilings and between adjacent wall studs. The stabilizer includes a preformed plate and at least one removable pop-out impression to accommodate pipes of varying diameter. When secured to wall, ceiling or floor structures, openings are provided in the preformed plate which permit attachment of the stabilizer to wall studs, ceiling joists and the like by tie-wires. The stabilizer may also be positioned within a form for a concrete slab on rebar studs. In an alternative form of the invention, the plate includes an extension which can be nailed to a form board and broken away from the remainder of the plate when the form board is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Inventor: Richard F. Turner
  • Patent number: 5127204
    Abstract: A protective lath for protection againt dirt and damage during wall plastering and against penetration of moisture at the joint to building components of different material, such as wood, plastics or metal, in particular to window and door frames or rafter ends, on which the plaster abuts; the protective lath is made of hard synthetic resin injected by an extruder into a continuous flow mold and carries a strip for adhering it to such a building component as well as a lateral protective tab which can be broken off by hand via a notch-type incision; a top part also made of hard synthetic resin is pressed onto a bottom part of the protective lath which carries said adhesive strip, with a reinforcing fabric, e.g. of synthetic resin coated silk glass, that extends as far as possible into the plaster layer, being interposed between said parts, and the free end of the top part being resiliently latched in an undercut nose piece of a side wall of the bottom part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: August Braun
  • Patent number: 5125194
    Abstract: A sign post constructed of an upper channel section nested with a lower channel section at a frangible joint designed so when the sign post is struck by a vehicle, failure of the joint will occur in a predictable and consistent manner. The channel sections are preferably formed of stock channel material having a transverse cross-section in the general shape of a hat, including a longitudinally extending flat center web and outwardly divergent side walls. When the channel sections are nested together, the side walls of adjoining sections are in contact with one another, while the web portions remain spaced apart. In the present invention, the channel sections are connected together with a fastener in combination with a spacer that is engaged between the web portions to provide a reliable and strong breakaway connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Marion Steel Company
    Inventor: Mark S. Granger
  • Patent number: 5116439
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for permitting ready removal of a floor covering through the use of a two-component release web secured between the floor covering and the floor such that the floor covering may be peeled from the floor leaving one portion of the release web secured to the floor covering and the other portion of the release web secured to the floor, thus permitting reuse of the floor covering in another location and permitting ready installation of a new floor covering over the portion of the release web secured to the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Sponge-Cushion, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank J. Raus
  • Patent number: 5099887
    Abstract: A collar for a drain pipe riser is provided for maintaining an annular space about the periphery of the riser during the pouring of a floor about the riser. The collar includes inner and outer sleeves separated by a plurality of knock-out webs. The inner sleeve is adapted to fit over the riser while the outer sleeve insures an annular space will be maintained about the riser during pouring of the floor. The webs can then be knocked out, and the inner sleeve and webs removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Inventor: Oliver F. Hooper
  • Patent number: 5088683
    Abstract: The breakaway assembly includes a cast aluminum base having a collar for supporting a wrought aluminum standard and a base flange for securing the breakaway assembly to a plurality of anchor bolts projecting from a concrete foundation. The base flange includes a plurality of apertures for receiving the anchor bolts. Grooves are provided in the base flange adjacent the anchor bolt apertures. Upon impact, the standard creases and bends causing the heel of the base flange to lift. This lifting motion shears the base flange at the grooves to permit the base to lift away from the anchor bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: C. Richard Briden
  • Patent number: 5062244
    Abstract: A preformed insulating insert is disclosed, that fits into the cores of masonry building blocks. In the preferred embodiment, the insert is generally rectangular having an upper and lower face, front and back surfaces and sidewalls. Elongated internal cavities emanate downwardly from the upper face toward the lower face and compression slots extend upwardly from the lower face toward the upper face. The elongated interanl cavities and the compression slots terminate at or beyond a common horizontal plane within the body of the insert, thereby providing lateral compression over the full height of the insert while maintaining optimum thermal resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Inventor: Edgar R. Ducharme
  • Patent number: 5046777
    Abstract: An impact girder for a door or side wall of a motor vehicle body has a longitudinally extending hollow space. Along outer edge portions the compression flange overhangs the lateral webs and this overhanging portion is raised relative to the recessed portions between the lateral webs so that, upon impact, the edge portions buckle outwardly and tear away from the remainder of the compression flange which buckles inwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Assignee: Austria Metall Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Peter Garnweidner, Peter blacker
  • Patent number: 5036632
    Abstract: A pressure relief panel assembly including a single rupture panel is provided. The rupture panel includes a domed portion connected to a peripheral flat flange portion and has at least one slit formed therein defining a hinged blow-out part. The hinged blow-out part is connected to the remaining part of the rupture panel by an unslit hinge area and a plurality of rupture tabs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Assignee: BS&B Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward H. Short, III, Mitchel L. Rooker, E. Bernel Sawyer
  • Patent number: 5014471
    Abstract: An extruded molding configured to frame glass masonry block for building structures, particularly wood frame structures, the molding having a flat base portion on which the block is seated and raised side elements forming a channel with breakaway spacer elements to accommodate block of different width, the molding in an exterior embodiment having a weather flash and as nailing flange to prevent water seepage under the molding, and in an interior embodiment having coupling members for coupling a cap for finishing edges of exposed glass block structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1991
    Inventor: George Ballstadt
  • Patent number: 5010709
    Abstract: A soffit skeleton is constructed of a plurality of transverse frames mounted to a plurality of longitudinal spacer/cap tracks. Each frame is constructed of a metal channel having a U-shaped cross-section and bent into a plurality of end to end sections that are integrally connected at bend line joints. At some of these joints, the sections meeting thereat form interior angles and overlapping portions of each U-arm are secured together. The tracks are also U-shaped metal channels. Each of the latter is provided with equally spaced locating apertures in one arm thereof to receive an individual interior angle forming joint to thereby cap such joint and align said frames in a row in spaced parallel planes. The sections of each arm are separated by transverse notches. Prepunched fastener receiving apertures in the arms adjacent the notches are disposed so that when predetermined apertures are aligned there is a predetermined angle at the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Felix Paz
  • Patent number: 5005324
    Abstract: The casing of a file shipping and storage container incorporates a reinforcing member along a pair of opposite walls at an end opening in which an external leg portion forms a right angle with a flange portion at a juncture that is smooth and uninterrupted and in which an internal leg portion forms a juncture with the flange portion that includes a row of aligned, lengthwise, longitudinally spaced-apart slits forming a bending line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Gussco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Seymour Baum
  • Patent number: 5004366
    Abstract: A break-away coupling for mounting an elongated member, such as a roadside sign post, includes two opposingly fixed engagement members connected to one another end-to-end. The first engagement member is attached relative to the ground either by a plate or by a plate attached to a stake-like member. The second engagement member is attached to the elongated member. The engagement members have facing flange plates, each flange plate having an opening aligned with an opening in the other plate and a shear bolt projects through the openings to fix the flanges plates together. The shear bolt is either constructed of relatively easy-to-break material or includes a weakened area. When the elongated member is struck, the shear bolt breaks and the engagement members disconnect without damage. The bolt is easily replaced to quickly reassemble the sign post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Inventor: George H. Simmons
  • Patent number: 4939037
    Abstract: A composite fiber and resin sign post for displaying highway signs which provides great reduction in vehicle damage in the event a vehicle moving at high speed collides with the sign post. This potential is achieved by the controlling the mode and location of the structural failure of the post upon impact. The failure mode of the post is controlled by varying the configuration of the post in cross-section, in combination with varying the specific fibers and resins, and in further combination with varying the location and placement of the fibers. The composite post may be constructed by pultrusion, filament winding, or related processes. A preferred embodiment uses a ground anchor socket constructed either by processes and components similar to those used in manufacturing the post, or by stamping sheet steel and spot welding to form a socket. The anchor socket provides additional control over the post failure and makes replacement of damaged posts quicker and easier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Assignee: John E. Freeman
    Inventors: John E. Freeman, Earl M. Zion
  • Patent number: 4932174
    Abstract: A metal-reinforced polyurethane shoe protecting the lower end of a wood support system from shallow water or moisture on a floor, said shoe comprising a high-density polymer impregnating a rust-resistant metal mesh, and attached to the bottom surface of a wood support system by means of a wood screw or like fastener, thereby protecting the wood support system from the water and moisture accumulating on a potentially wet surface, thus preventing the occurrence of dry rot in the lower end of a wood support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Inventor: Dwayne B. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4928446
    Abstract: A break-away post is disclosed that has two channel members mounted together in mutually spaced alignment by a stud that is scored in its mid-portion that spans the two spaced channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Inventor: Walter A. Alexander, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4926592
    Abstract: A breakaway coupling to be interposed between a ground mounting post and a support post carrying a highway sign, barricade or similar highway appurtenance. The coupling has a horizontal plate on a pedestal which attaches to the mounting post and a horizontal plate on a support post mounting member which attaches to the support post. Bolts normally holding the plates together release upon vehicular impact. Use of a novel plate configuration, a gasket and roller cams enhance the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1990
    Assignee: Unistrut International Corp.
    Inventor: Charles O. Nehls
  • Patent number: 4920712
    Abstract: A specially constructed block for use in forming a mortarless retaining wall is disclosed, as is a retaining wall constructed therefrom and a method of constructing a retaining wall. Each block has a front face of a predetermined width and a rear wall having a substantially equal width. The block side walls provide a maximum block width at the front face and a minimum block width adjacent the rear wall. When such blocks are placed in a side-by-side relationship, a substantially closed cavity is formed between the blocks for receiving backfill material and thereby reinforcing the wall. A wall constructed from a plurality of such blocks utilizes an engagement clip disposed between blocks in upper and lower courses for preventing relative forward movement between the blocks. The clip is engageable with the upper surface of the rear web of the block for easy installation after the block is laid in a course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Stonewall Landscape Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Dean, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4916871
    Abstract: A wall construction which comprises a wall panel and a conduit in the wall behind the wall panel, a protector secured in the wall in the area in which the conduit is located, the protector comprisng an L-shaped one-piece sheet metal member defining a base portion and a vertical portion being from about two to about eighteen inches wide and from about two to about eight inches high extending vertically behind the wall panel upwardly covering the portion of a wall in which a conduit is located, the base portion being from about two to about eighteen inches wide and extending perpendicular from the vertical portion adjacent a floor or ceiling of the construction from about two to about eight inches, and an indicia portion formed on the base portion extending outwardly from the wall panel for marking the location of a conduit after installation of a wall with the protector therein is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Inventor: Dwayne B. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4912894
    Abstract: A fire-resistant suspended ceiling grid structure having cross tees interlocked to main beams, to support ceiling tiles. The structure has shear means to permit a cross tee to expand into a main beam during a fire. The interlock includes tongues held in an abutting relationship by open belt loops. The tongues slide to permit the cross tees to expand longitudinally during a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Assignee: National Rolling Mills, Inc.
    Inventor: William Platt
  • Patent number: 4899960
    Abstract: Decompression in a partition separating passenger from cargo compartments in aircraft, there being a particular opening in the partition, receiving a decompression blowout/in panel; a frame circumscribes the decompression panel and has an outer contour inserted into the panel opening, one side of the frame is provided with a flange, being sealed as against the decompression panel as well as against the partitions adjacent the opening, the other side of the frame is provided with a plurality of T-shaped holding springs engaging the partition as well as the decompression panel; each of the springs is provided with predetermined fracture points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1990
    Assignee: MBB GmbH
    Inventors: Mohamad Hararat-Tehrani, Frank Schwarz, Michael Taddiken
  • Patent number: 4889310
    Abstract: An concrete form system includes opposed polystryrene panels stacked to form a pair of parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of the walls having panels which are smooth on their inward surface. Tie slots are formed in the upper and lower edges of the panels and are spaced evenly such that slots in vertically abutting panels are aligned. The panels are horiziontally staggered to strengthen vertical joints. A single tie is utilized to interlock two vertically abutting panels in each wall. A special tie design is used with the smooth-faced panels to allow the panels to be removed after a concrete wall has been formed. Another embodiment of the tie design utilizes an enlarged outer paddle with a projecting rib which allows connection of vertical walers directly to the tie.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Inventor: Patrick E. Boeshart
  • Patent number: 4884377
    Abstract: In order to make a tension member (1) substantially removable from the ground or from a structure, a central element (2) thereof is completely severed. If the tension member is to be further weakened, at least one outer element (3) is also severed besides the central element. A supporting contrivance (5) is applied to the tension member either around the point of separation (4) of the central element or around both points of separation (4, 6) of the central element and of the outer element. By application of a load, the tension member is torn apart near the point or points of separation so that the major part of the tension member can be pulled out of the ground or structure and, if need be, reused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Assignee: VSL International AG.
    Inventor: Peter Matt
  • Patent number: 4873809
    Abstract: A ceiling tile hold down clip which clips over the top horizontal portion of cross supports in a suspended ceiling system. Retaining arms with extending lower portion bear against the upper portion of the ceiling tile. Locking arms with an inwardly directed lip portion prevent easy removal of the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1989
    Inventor: Harold J. Paul
  • Patent number: 4860505
    Abstract: A construction block adapted to interact with other like blocks comprises a body substantially in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped having a front face, a rear face, a top face, a bottom face and a pair of side faces. The bottom face has a plurality of substantially identical grooves formed therein, parallel with the front face, and extending across the bottom face from one side face to the other. These grooves are of generally constant cross-section and are spaced apart evenly between the front face and the rear face of the block. The top face of the block is provided with at least two ridges thereacross, parallel with the grooves, and each receivable within a groove of a like construction block. There are fewer ridges than grooves, and the outermost of the ridges are spaced from the front and rear faces of the block at least the distance between said faces and the second closest groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventor: David C. Bender
  • Patent number: 4858400
    Abstract: A multi-section shutter assembly constructed of plastic is provided and at least one section includes louver slats extending between the stiles thereof and connected therebetween in a manner enabling the opposite ends of one or more slats to be severed from the corresponding stiles and the stile ends are also severable from the remainder of the stiles, one pair of ends of the stiles being interconnected by an end mullion extending therebetween. The other section of the shutter includes stiles which may be lap engaged over the stiles of the one section and also includes an end mullion. By this construction, a purchased shutter may be shortened as desired and may be purchased in various different colors and styles from a relatively small inventory of different parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1989
    Inventor: Douglas C. Foyt
  • Patent number: 4856239
    Abstract: A window frame member formed as a hollow extrusion of rigid plastics material has a hollow space partly defined by a wall portion including two opposed, undercut lips and a web interconnecting the lips. Internal grooves are provided along the junctions of the web with the lips to provide lines of severance allowing the web to be readily removed so as to provide a slot between the edges of the lips. Preferably, the web and adjoining parts of the lips have a smooth, uninterrupted exterior surface. This invention allows the frame member to be used either with the web in place, in which case there is no slot or observable discontinuity in the exterior wall, or with the web removed where it is desired to provide a slot for weather stripping or attachment of adjacent pieces. The web may be readily removed with simple tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1989
    Assignee: Western Profiles Limited
    Inventor: Glenn R. Elsasser