Abstract: A morphing panel mechanism may include a central panel and a side panel, where a first edge of the side panel may be pivotally coupled to a first edge of the central panel. A morphing panel mechanism may further include a guide panel that may be coupled with a first corner of the central panel via a ball joint, where the guide panel may include a first slit. A morphing panel mechanism may further include a flexible panel, where a first edge of the flexible panel may be pivotally coupled with a second edge of the side panel, and a second edge of the flexible panel may be slidably disposed within the slit of the guide panel.
Abstract: A modular unit intended for use as an artificial reef, marine habitat and/or sea wall which can be placed in stacked structures along the floor of an ocean, bay, or other body of water comprises a top wall, bottom wall, opposed side walls and opposed end walls which are interconnected to form a hollow interior. Each of the walls is formed with one or more openings whose position and size is designed to allow access of marine life into the interior of the units, permit the passage of sunlight therein, direct the flow of sea water into and through the units in a way which increases stability of the units when placed on the ocean floor, and permit alignment of the holes of one unit with those of another when stacked together.
Abstract: Retaining wall blocks and the walls made from such blocks are disclosed, wherein curved landscapes (i.e. curved profiles and sloping embankments) are easily accommodated without the use of mortar. As well, a modular system of blocks and their manufacture are disclosed wherein some blocks are used in vertical orientations and some in horizontal orientations.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 9, 2002
Date of Patent:
February 15, 2005
Assignee:
Pacific Precast Products Ltd.
Inventors:
Vernon John Dueck, Richard Blair Crooks