Filling Preformed Cavity Patents (Class 52/742.1)
  • Patent number: 11754182
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for installing seals on support frames. The system comprises, generally, a seal supply system, a guiding mechanism and a sealing mechanism. The supply system comprises two bobbins around which are disposed the sealing elements. The guiding mechanism comprises a plurality of guiding drive wheels adapted to guide the support frames towards the sealing mechanism which is adapted to seal the sealing element to the support frame. The sealing mechanism is adapted to exert continuously a constant pressure on the sealing element allowing it to fit to the correspondent support frame once being introduced to the sealing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: 9320-2240 QUEBEC INC.
    Inventor: Rene Levesque
  • Patent number: 9027304
    Abstract: A wall system (110) is disclosed which is mounted onto girts (114) on a building. Rectangular foam blocks (126) are installed between the outer flange of the girts, and the inside surfaces of the wall panel (112). Some vertically spaced apart blocks are located behind the wall seams, and other blocks are located intermediate the seams. The spacing created by the blocks allows for a blanket of insulation (118) between the blocks and the support members to be expanded, improving the system's insulative properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard R. McClure
  • Patent number: 9003740
    Abstract: The invention comprises a product. The product comprises a foam insulating panel, the panel having a first primary surface and an opposite second primary surface, wherein the foam insulating panel defines at least one recessed channel in the first primary surface, the at least one recessed channel being sized and shaped to provide a mold for a structural reinforcing member. The product also comprises a concrete panel formed on the first primary surface and filling the at least one recessed channel so as to provide a structural reinforcing member for the concrete panel. The product further comprises an elongate anchor member in the foam insulating panel and extending from the first primary surface of the foam insulating panel into the concrete panel. A method of making a composite reinforced insulated concrete structure is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Romeo Ilarian Ciuperca
  • Publication number: 20150093535
    Abstract: A foam wall structure includes a frame, at least one primary support member, a slab of polyiso board and a foam layer. The frame can include: a first member, a second member spaced apart from the first member, and two side members extending between the first and second members. The frame defining a front frame surface and an opposite rear frame surface. The at least one primary support member can be positioned between the two side members and extend between the first and second member. The primary support member defines a front support surface and an opposite rear support surface. The slab of polyiso board may be attached to the front frame surface. The foam layer can be received within at least a portion of the frame and overlies the front surface of the primary support member. A method of making a foam wall structure and a pre-fabricated wall is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: James Lambach, William J. Nicola, Eric Giles, Anthony Grisolia, Bradley W. Oberg
  • Publication number: 20150082738
    Abstract: An improved joint and method for constructing a terrazzo surface are provided, including use of a joint strip, comprising opposing strip portions having upper wall surfaces that are joined by a solid upper joint strip channel wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Barry Austin
  • Patent number: 8955287
    Abstract: Replacement Expansion Joint for Cement is an expansion joint for use with concrete. The preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes an arrow shaped plastic expansion joint with two holes bored inside the expansion joint. To use the preferred embodiment of Replacement Expansion Joint For Cement, an individual would remove deteriorating wooden expansion joints located in grooves between concrete slabs. The length of the wooden expansion joints would be measured to permit the user to purchase and install the proper length of replacement expansion joint. The user would then insert the expansion joint of the present invention with the arrow side facing toward the ground into the groove from the wooden expansion joint. The newly installed expansion joint would be much more resistant to the weather elements than the wooden expansion joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventors: Mike Fortney, Jason Fortney
  • Patent number: 8943774
    Abstract: Methods are provided for repairing an existing structure to cover at least a portion of the existing structure with a repair structure. Such methods comprise mounting one or more standoff retainers to the existing structure; coupling one or more standoffs to the standoff retainers such that the standoffs extend away from the existing structure; coupling one or more cladding panels to the standoffs such that the panels are spaced apart from the structure to provide a space therebetween; and introducing a curable material to the space between the panels and the existing structure, the panels acting as at least a portion of a formwork for containing the curable material until the curable material cures to provide a repair structure cladded, at least in part, by the panels. Corresponding apparatus for effecting such methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: CFS Concrete Forming Systems Inc.
    Inventors: George David Richardson, Semion Krivulin, Jorge Ricardo Rosas-Gracida, Zi Li Fang
  • Patent number: 8925282
    Abstract: A bridge system is provided that utilizes foundation structures that are formed of the combination of precast and cast-in-place concrete. A method of constructing the combination precast and cast-in-place concrete foundation structures involves receiving at a construction site a precast concrete foundation unit having elongated upright wall members that define a channel therebetween, and multiple upright supports located within the channel; placing the precast concrete foundation unit at a desired use location; delivering concrete into the channel while the precast concrete foundation unit remains at the desired use location; and allowing the concrete to cure-in-place such that the elongated upright wall members are connected to the cured-in-place concrete by reinforcement embedded within both the cured-in-place concrete and the upright wall members. The bridge units may be placed before the pouring step to embed the bottoms of the bridge units in the cast-in-place concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Contech Engineered Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Scott D. Aston, Michael G. Carfagno, Philip A. Creamer
  • Patent number: 8898997
    Abstract: A system for installing tubing of hydronic thermal control systems in the walls, including ceilings, of buildings. It allows for the stable incorporation of the tubing in the walls while ensuring good thermal conductivity between the tubing and the building's room. The system features a wall including a hydronic thermal management system. The wall comprises a vertically-extending wall support structure, tubing panels secured to the wall support structure, the panels being constructed from wood material, tubing in the tubing panels for carrying a heat transfer fluid, and drywall panels secured over the tubing panels. A filling material is applied between the tubing and the drywall panels. Also a high thermally conductive layer, such as aluminum foil, is used between the filling material and the drywall panels or between the filling material and the tubing panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Joachim Fiedrich
  • Patent number: 8875472
    Abstract: Low rise, user friendly latex foams for sealing insulative cavities of a building are provided. The foams may be applied to the interface of the sheathing and the studs within the insulative cavities to reduce air leaks. The latex foams may also be applied to the face of the studs to obtain an additional seal against air infiltration. The foam can be used to affix fiberglass batts, batt flanges, and vapor barriers to the framing without mechanical fasteners. A tackifier may be added to impart an adhesive quality to the foam. The tacky nature of the foam permits the drywall or vapor barrier to be repositioned without damage. Drywall is held onto the face of the studs by the tacky foam while mechanical fasteners are inserted to permanently affix the drywall to the framing. The compressive nature of the foam permits drywall to be attached without significant bowing or detachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: Michelle L. Korwin-Edson, Fatemeh N. Olang, Robert J. O'Leary
  • Patent number: 8820027
    Abstract: The embodiments herein provide a prefabricated mineral composite panel and a method for producing the same for constructing the internal walls, the lateral walls and the corner walls in a building. The method comprising the steps of: preparing and assembling a cast, fixing a mesh in the cast, pouring a prefabricated mineral composite into the cast, smoothening and flattening a top surface of the cast, disassembling the cast to withdraw a semi-dried prefabricated mineral composite panel, placing the semi-dried prefabricated mineral composite panel in a drying room for drying the prefabricated mineral composite, removing the dried prefabricated mineral composite panel from the drying room and packaging the prefabricated mineral composite panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventors: Dawood Karimi Aqdam, Behzad Aqa Mohammadi
  • Patent number: 8789337
    Abstract: A bridge system is provided that utilizes foundation structures that are formed of the combination of precast and cast-in-place concrete. A method of constructing the combination precast and cast-in-place concrete foundation structures involves receiving at a construction site a precast concrete foundation unit having elongated upright wall members that define a channel therebetween, and multiple upright supports located within the channel; placing the precast concrete foundation unit at a desired use location; delivering concrete into the channel while the precast concrete foundation unit remains at the desired use location; and allowing the concrete to cure-in-place such that the elongated upright wall members are connected to the cured-in-place concrete by reinforcement embedded within both the cured-in-place concrete and the upright wall members. The bridge units may be placed before the pouring step to embed the bottoms of the bridge units in the cast-in-place concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Contech Engineered Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Scott D. Aston, Michael G. Carfagno, Philip A. Creamer
  • Patent number: 8756896
    Abstract: A roof protection system and a method for constructing the roof protection system for an enclosure provide protection for inhabitants and equipment in the enclosure against projectiles and other falling objects that could impact and penetrate the top of the enclosure. The roof protection system includes roof protection sections wherein each section includes a frame with a plurality of spaces between support beams. A flexible bag of woven para-aramid fiber (e.g., Kevlar® brand fiber) is positioned in each space. Each bag is filled with a selected material such as sand, gravel, cement or other high-strength fill material. First and second outer panels of a non-combustible board laminated to a metallic sheet enclose the flexible bags. The roof protection sections are mounted on support structures so that sections span the top of enclosure and are spaced apart from the top enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Specialty Hardware L.P.
    Inventor: A. Carleton Elliott
  • Patent number: 8752355
    Abstract: A system and method of stabilizing and strengthening wall structures constructed with hollow core cementitious blocks that have not been filled with concrete. Relatively small ports are drilled at the grout line every 4-6 courses along the vertical plain of one hollow core and this and every second core is then filled with a high density expanding resin thus filling the core there by providing sufficient strength and rigidity, yet flexibility to the wall structure to withstand significant seismic activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Casey Moroschan
  • Patent number: 8733062
    Abstract: The various embodiments herein provide a prefabricated mineral composite panel and a method for producing the prefabricated mineral composite panel for constructing the internal walls and the lateral walls in a building. The method comprising the steps of: preparing and assembling a cast, fixing a mesh in the cast, pouring a prefabricated mineral composite into the cast, smoothening and flattening a top surface of the cast, disassembling the cast to withdraw a semi-dried prefabricated mineral composite panel, placing the semi-dried prefabricated mineral composite panel in a drying room for drying the prefabricated mineral composite, removing the dried prefabricated mineral composite panel from the drying room and packaging the prefabricated mineral composite panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventors: Dawood Karimi Aqdam, Behzad Aqa Mohammadi
  • Patent number: 8726608
    Abstract: Apparatus for processing board insulation into granules of loosefill insulation are provided. The apparatus includes an upper unit having inlet and outlet ends. The inlet end is configured to receive board insulation. The upper unit is configured to break the board insulation into small pieces. A lower unit is connected to the upper unit. The lower unit is configured to receive the small pieces of board insulation exiting the upper unit. The lower unit includes a plurality of conditioning mechanisms configured to condition the small pieces thereby resulting in granules of loosefill insulation. The lower unit further includes a distribution mechanism configured to distribute the granules of loosefill insulation into an airstream. A distribution hose is connected to the lower unit and configured to convey the granules from the apparatus to a building insulation cavity. The granules are configured for use as loosefill insulation within the building cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. O'Leary, Michelle Korwin-Edson
  • Patent number: 8650831
    Abstract: A method and an article of manufacture are disclosed for externally reinforcing various solid structures, such as columns, poles, piles, beams, pipes and the like, constructed from various materials. Multiple sheets laminated together with resin and grout constitutes a structure reinforcement wrap (SRW) for the formation of an external reinforcement shell. The multiple layers include a spacer sheet, a reinforcement sheet, such as Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) saturated with resin. The spacer sheet creates a small, substantially planar space between the spacer sheet and the solid structure, which space may be filled with concrete, grout, epoxy, or other similar reinforcing material. In various embodiments, a surface groove is created in the solid structure and a reinforcing bar (rebar) is embedded in the groove to further structurally bond the solid structure to the reinforcing material poured in the planar space created by the spacer sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Mohammad R. Ehsani
  • Patent number: 8650832
    Abstract: A system for installing tubing of hydronic thermal control systems in the walls of buildings. It allows for the stable incorporation of the tubing in the walls while ensuring good thermal conductivity between the tubing and the building's room. The system features a wall including a hydronic thermal management system. The wall comprises a vertically-extending wall support structure, tubing panels secured to the wall support structure, the panels being constructed from wood material, tubing in the tubing panels for carrying a heat transfer fluid, and drywall panels secured over the tubing panels. A filling material is applied between the tubing and the drywall panels. Also a high thermally conductive layer, such as aluminum foil, is used between the filling material and the drywall panels or between the filling material and the tubing panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Joachim Fiedrich
  • Patent number: 8621817
    Abstract: This invention discloses a method of building concrete walls, columns and other vertical or sloped structures using a vertically oriented vibrating screed and utilization of the thixotropic properties of wet concrete. The vertical screed is a simple, inexpensive and highly flexible apparatus that may be used for a wide variety of applications that involve the applying of cementicious material in the construction of a vertical structure. By using highly thixotropic concrete, the vertical screed is able to place concrete and other cementicious materials in a vertical plane much like concrete is placed with vibrating screeds in the horizontal plane. The vertical screed's applications range from applying a thin cementicious coating to placing concrete in a vertical plane to construct a wall or column. The various configurations of the vertical screed range from a small hand held device to a much larger mechanically controlled apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth Robert Kreizinger
  • Publication number: 20130255912
    Abstract: A system for installing tubing of hydronic thermal control systems in the walls, including ceilings, of buildings. It allows for the stable incorporation of the tubing in the walls while ensuring good thermal conductivity between the tubing and the building's room. The system features a wall including a hydronic thermal management system. The wall comprises a vertically-extending wall support structure, tubing panels secured to the wall support structure, the panels being constructed from wood material, tubing in the tubing panels for carrying a heat transfer fluid, and drywall panels secured over the tubing panels. A filling material is applied between the tubing and the drywall panels. Also a high thermally conductive layer, such as aluminum foil, is used between the filling material and the drywall panels or between the filling material and the tubing panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Joachim Fiedrich
  • Patent number: 8534022
    Abstract: Techniques for reinforcing concrete using rebar are disclosed. Some example embodiments may include prestressed concrete structures reinforced by twisted, threaded reinforcing bars. An example reinforcing bar for a prestressed concrete structure may include an elongated, generally cylindrical rod; an external thread disposed on the generally cylindrical rod, the external thread formed from an elongated, generally nonlinear channel wrapped about a radial surface of the generally cylindrical rod in a generally helical fashion. A base portion of the nonlinear channel may be disposed substantially against the radial surface of the generally cylindrical rod and/or an upstanding portion of the nonlinear channel may extend generally orthogonally from the radial surface of the generally cylindrical rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development, LLC
    Inventor: Nicholas Sheppard Bromer
  • Publication number: 20130232891
    Abstract: A roof stilt for elevating flooring in a roof space comprising: a joist receptacle; a platform for affixing flooring to the stilt; and a support column extending between the joist receptacle and the platform for supporting the weight of elevated flooring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: LOFT STORAGE STILTS LTD
    Inventor: David Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8505251
    Abstract: An adapter with a female portion in connected to a conduit extension at a location within a barrier. The female portion can include female threads that extend beyond the barrier. Alternately, a modular adapter including an adapter element and elongated element can be releasably connected to the female portion with the elongated element extending beyond the barrier. Conduit damage proximate to the barrier is repaired by removing a damaged portion extending beyond the barrier and connecting a male adapter to the female portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony Keith Scruggs
  • Patent number: 8479473
    Abstract: In a method of constructing a supporting structure (e.g. of a bridge or the roof of a building) in arched form, an initially straight or pre-curved frame structure, having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, is pivotally supported at the first and second ends, whereupon the first and second ends are pushed towards one another to achieve a displacement of the first and second ends relative to one another, where the reduction of the distance between the first and second ends causes them to pivot and the frame structure to progressively and flexibly bend, against its resiliency, into a final arched form, the displacement of the first and second ends relative to one another is chosen to amount to at least 1% of the initial distance between the first and second ends, where the first and second ends are then fixed relative to one another in their displaced position so as to preserve the final arched form of the frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: The European Union, Represented by the European Commission
    Inventors: Eugenio Gutierrez, Martin Poljansek
  • Publication number: 20130167466
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for erecting a building structure with construction elements, wherein the construction elements comprise block-shaped bags filled with filling material and having an upper side, a lower side, a front side, a rear side, a right end surface and a left end surface, and wherein the block-shaped, bag-like construction elements of a first type are basic wall elements provided with connecting flaps at least close to the two end surfaces; the method comprising at least the steps of:—arranging at least two basic wall elements adjacently of each other on a ground surface, wherein the right end surface of the first basic wall element and the left end surface of the second basic wall element are placed close to each other;—placing against each other the connecting flaps of respectively the first and second basic wall elements situated close to the end surfaces placed closely together; and—mutually connecting the connecting flaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventors: Marlon Roger Philipp Kratz, Ricardus Josephus Johannus Maria van Oostrum
  • Publication number: 20130152485
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus facilitate the construction of a building using prefabricated building units, each having a horizontal upper exterior surface and a plurality of vertical wall surfaces, wherein at least some of the prefabricated building units have at least one hollow column formwork structure. The prefabricated building units are lowered onto a pre-existing base at a construction site. A first story of the building is created by arranging a plurality of the prefabricated building units adjacent to each other on the base. Structural bearing material is applied to fill the hollow column formwork structures to create structural columns connected to the structural deck. Structural bearing material is applied to the horizontal upper exterior surfaces of the adjacent prefabricated building units to create a single structural deck over the prefabricated building units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Douglas Austin, William Jencks
  • Publication number: 20130091793
    Abstract: Insulation spacer devices, methods and related construction techniques are provided. An exemplary device may include a body having a plurality of openings defining an openwork, to allow the passage of air therethrough when placed in contact with insulation material. The device may further include a plurality of spacer struts and/or spacing depressions fixedly attached to the body. The struts may be configured to maintain a predetermined distance between a first side of the insulation material and a building surface. The body and struts act together to define and maintain a space between the first side of the insulation material and the building surface, for example, for ventilation. The building surface can be the bottom face of a roof, an insulated attic floor, wall sheathing or a soundproofed demising wall, for example. The spacer device can be capable of being transported and stored together with, or as a separate item from, the insulation material, and can also be stored in nested layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Robert William Pollack
  • Publication number: 20130081353
    Abstract: A method of assembling a two-sided wall on, through and around a preinstalled structural grid, the method including the assembly of planar wall units, each having an outer side and an inner side, the inner side opposing an inner side of at least one other planar wall unit on an opposite side of the structural grid. Interlocking features extend through a space in the structural grid and span from at least an inner side of one planar wall unit to the inner side of another planar wall unit on a same course level so as to support and gauge opposing planar wall units with respect to the structural grid. When installed in courses around the structural grid, the wall units and the interlocking elements create a continuous void between planar wall units to enable structural fill material to be poured therein filling the continuous void from the top of the wall to its base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventor: David Jensen
  • Patent number: 8407957
    Abstract: Wall systems and methods for making such wall systems are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a wall system comprises a plurality of vertically displaced horizontal support members, and a wall panel having at least one inwardly-extending ridge. The wall system also includes at least two foam insulation blocks. Each block has a surface that is adapted to conform to the shape of the inwardly-extending ridge of the wall panel. The blocks are spaced apart along each of the horizontal support members and are fastened between the panel and the support member. The spacing created by the blocks allows for a blanket of insulation between the blocks and the support members to expand, improving the system's insulative properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard R. McClure
  • Patent number: 8337736
    Abstract: A method for automatically making conglomerated structures (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Enrico Dini
  • Patent number: 8329272
    Abstract: The present invention is a structural beam having at least one composite core within a hollow beam of metal or polymeric material, i.e. a jacket, and a layer of elastomeric material between the composite core and the inner walls of the metal or polymeric jacket. This structural beam also may be fitted with brackets or holes at its ends and points along its length to allow attachment to other structural elements. The present beam provides a synergism between the properties of its composite core and the metal or polymeric jacket, and is particularly useful where a high strength to weight ratio is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony John Cesternino
  • Patent number: 8291674
    Abstract: The present invention provides a window frame design that is adapted to receive at least two light-panels. The window frame comprises a stepped frame section that includes a lower step surface and an upper step surface. The lower step surface is adapted to receive a first light-panel so that a section of the first light-panel lies flush against the lower step surface. Similarly, the upper step surface is adapted to receive a second light-panel so that the second light-panel lies flush against the upper step surface. The window frame design of the invention can be either incorporated into a skylight frame that may be attached to a curb unit on a roof or it may be an integral part of a skylight frame-curb assembly that also contains a curb section. In another embodiment of the invention, a window frame design which directly incorporates one or more light-panels during molding is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: V-Tech Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Arthur J. Valentz, John E. Nemazi, James W. Proscia
  • Patent number: 8225577
    Abstract: A method of using liner-like cores or core assemblies for creating in-ground concrete spas or swim pools. For larger projects, that is for enlarged scale spas or swim pools, the inventive liner-like core comprises an assembly of sections. The cores or core assemblies are re-usable at least for several projects if reasonably maintained and cleaned. The core assembly comprises two long walls and two short wall defining the perimeter around a split level bottom with a shallow end, a deep end, and an intermediate transition slope. The liner-like core is constructed from a suitable rigid material like fiberglass for stiffening purposes and is an assembly of sections and also comprises: leveling blocks, transverse support beams, and hangers that attach to the walls of the core assembly and stiffens the long walls against being warped inward during the concrete pour.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Douglas L. Fender
  • Patent number: 8221856
    Abstract: An elastic underlayer for floorings, for instance, floorings for sports facilities such as synthetic-grass coverings, comprises a first laminar structure and a second laminar structure that enclose between them pouches filled with granular elastic material. The structures in question comprise a layer of non-woven fabric coupled with a polyolefin layer. The polyolefin layers enclose between them the pouches, which preferably have a parallelepiped shape with a square base, with sides having a length of 20-60 mm, typically 45 mm, and a height of between 20 and 40 mm, typically 30 mm. The pouches are filled with granular elastic material, such as granules of recycled tires having a size of between 0.5 and 7.0 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Mondo S.p.A.
    Inventor: Fernando Stroppiana
  • Patent number: 8191331
    Abstract: A demountable and remountable wall assembly for partitioning room space between an overhead and a floor, the major elements of which are reusable. The assembly provides one or two walls, at lease one of which has an outer fastener-free surface. Additionally, the fastener-free surface may be made substantially smooth and seamless. The walls are arranged in planar congruence, separated by internal spacers or studs, and vertically positioned between the overhead and floor of the room space to be partitioned. Removable tracks or spacers at the top and bottom of the wall assembly serves to interface the wall assembly with the floor and ceiling of the space. The walls are constructed of either finished or unfinished wall panels (e.g., fabric covered or sheet rock panels) which are incorporated into the assembly using a combination of removable fasteners and releasable adhesives. The finished or exposed area of a wall surface includes no fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: W. Frank Little, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8172040
    Abstract: Vibration or acoustic sound control is achieved using an elastic layer of thermal or insulation material in which a plurality of discrete masses are distributed throughout. The elastic layer may be installed as a pre-formed layer, or be blown into position within a structure where vibration or acoustic sound control is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher R. Fuller, Kathleen Kondylas
  • Patent number: 8141322
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus, and system to conserve resources, particularly rain water, by providing for water storage within building walls and other structural components. The building water storage allows reuse of water at that location that in the past has generally flowed to storm drains as runoff. Besides allowing reuse, another advantageous effect is that the structure may become a well insulated unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Jennifer Appel
  • Patent number: 8061037
    Abstract: A method for casting monitored pilings and a pour diverter used in connection with the method is provided. The method includes positioning a plurality of pile strands in a form, and then connecting a suspension assembly having at least one sensor to at least one of the pile strands so that the at least one sensor is located in a piling core area. A pour diverter, having a generally V-shaped configuration, is positioned over the suspension assembly. Concrete is poured into the form over the pour diverter so that a flow of the concrete into the form is split and flows down on either side of the suspension assembly until the at least one sensor is covered. The pour diverter is then removed to finish the casting. Preferably, provisions are provided on the pour diverter for holding or covering an antenna assembly during the pour, prior to it being placed into the concrete forming the piling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Smart Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt Hecht
  • Publication number: 20110131914
    Abstract: Methods are provided for repairing an existing structure to cover at least a portion of the existing structure with a repair structure. Such methods comprise mounting one or more standoff retainers to the existing structure; coupling one or more standoffs to the standoff retainers such that the standoffs extend away from the existing structure; coupling one or more cladding panels to the standoffs such that the panels are spaced apart from the structure to provide a space therebetween; and introducing a curable material to the space between the panels and the existing structure, the panels acting as at least a portion of a formwork for containing the curable material until the curable material cures to provide a repair structure cladded, at least in part, by the panels. Corresponding apparatus for effecting such methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventors: George David Richardson, Semion Krivulin, Jorge Ricardo Rosas-Gracida, Zi Li Fang
  • Patent number: 7921619
    Abstract: A method for insulating and ventilating a space between rafters for supporting a roof includes, an elongated insulation mat having an integral baffle, at least one channel on a roof facing side of the baffle for passage of ventilating air, and at least one vapor permeable membrane covering at least a portion of the insulation mat facing the channel, wherein each vapor permeable membrane transmits water vapor emanating from the insulation mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: R. Allan Snyder, Richard S. Duncan
  • Publication number: 20110036034
    Abstract: The apparatus for supporting insulation (5) comprising a base portion, at least one side wall (3?) and at least one supporting flange (2). In an in use position the at least one side wall is substantially perpendicular to the base portion and in a storage position the at least one side wall and the at least one supporting flange are substantially parallel to the base portion. An insulation system and a method of insulating a structure using such apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Raymond Robinson
  • Patent number: 7882678
    Abstract: Popcorn based composite construction material to be used as interior or exterior non-load bearing walls, partitions or roof sections for buildings comprising a plurality of popped kernels of popcorn, a hydrating liquid to moisten the popcorn kernels, a dry powder material applied to the moistened popcorn kernels through powder coating, and an impermeable and adhesive resin applied on the powder coated popcorn kernels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Mathias Burlet
  • Patent number: 7874123
    Abstract: A stop bead for mounting along a frame or jamb of a window or door of a building to separate the frame or jamb from plaster or stucco material during application of the plaster or stucco material to the building comprises a first side end portion and a second side end portion, the first side portion having a leading edge for engaging the frame or jamb when the stop bead is mounted adjacent to the frame or jamb, a base panel having a front face, a wall formed on the base panel and extending outwardly above the front face of the base panel, the wall having an engaging surface for engaging plaster or stucco and a frame/jamb facing surface that faces the frame or jamb when the stop bead is mounted adjacent to the frame or jamb, and a spacing member formed on the stop bead and extending outwardly away from the frame/jamb facing surface of the wall for spacing the wall a predetermined distance from the frame or jamb when the stop bead is mounted adjacent to the frame or jamb, the spacing member forming the leading
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: E-Z Bead LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Maziarz
  • Patent number: 7845138
    Abstract: A method for the production of a building construction with the aid of permanent formwork, comprising the steps of: placing formwork on a support, wherein the formwork includes a profiled formwork form with raised parts and lowered parts; applying a curable concrete mix on top of the formwork; curing the concrete mix; and placing reinforcement in at least one of the lowered parts of the formwork form, such that a reinforced beam is formed in said at least one lowered part of the formwork form. Such formwork is relatively lightweight and can provide certain physical building characteristics such as fire retardancy, thermal insulation and optionally acoustic insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Op-Deck Holdings B.V.
    Inventor: Peter Seine Maurits Groothuis
  • Patent number: 7841135
    Abstract: A fire assembly that can be used for installing recessed electrical fixtures into various structures such as wall assemblies is provided. The fire assembly includes an electrical fixture contained within a generally fire-resistant housing. The housing can enclose the electrical fixture in such a manner that the resulting fire assembly has an integral structure. In some instances, a support structure can be utilized to attach the housing to the electrical fixture. Furthermore, the housing can be a cube-shaped box have a variety of generally fire-resistant walls. These walls can be made from materials such as sheet rock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Ronald Newbold, Thomas T. White
  • Patent number: 7836659
    Abstract: A floor plug (40) is disclosed having an upper portion (41) with a top plate (44) and a neck (48), a lower portion (42) with a bottom plate (51), and post (32) which coupled the two portions together and draws them towards each other sandwiching the floor therebetween. The upper portion is positioned within the bore hole (20) and the lower portion is coupled to the post so as to be threadably drawn against the underside of the floor. Once the adhesive has cured a viscous smoothing compound or concrete floor leveler is poured over the floor plug upper portion and surrounding concrete floor area. If necessary, the concrete floor leveler material is smoothed to provide a generally smooth or level surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Inventor: Audrey Barnes
  • Patent number: 7827759
    Abstract: A floor plug (10) is disclosed having a top plate (11) and a neck (12), the neck defining a top plate lip (14). To repair a bore hole (20) in a concrete floor (21) an adhesive (19) is applied to the underside of the lip (14) and the neck (12) is positioned within the bore hole (20). Once the adhesive has cured a viscous smoothing compound or concrete floor leveler is poured over the floor plug (21) and surrounding concrete floor area. If necessary, the concrete floor leveler material is smoothed to provide a generally smooth or level surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Audrey Barnes
  • Patent number: 7810299
    Abstract: A floor tile for a raised floor. The floor tile is defined by a shallow upwardly-opening metal pan defining a shallow compartment in which a main preformed one-piece concrete block is secured. The main concrete block is preferably formed from a plurality of one-piece preformed concrete sub-blocks which are adhesively adhered in sideward abutting relationship to define a plan profile corresponding to the main concrete block. The main concrete block is then adhesively secured within the compartment of the metal pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald H. Brown, Bryan R. Gingrich, Anthony McConnell, Robert L. Tuttle, Randolph Woellper, X. Shawn Yu
  • Patent number: 7805908
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the formation of structures utilizing fill materials capable of hardening, such as concrete. The methods and apparatus may include the employment of enhanced load-bearing capabilities, which may yield substantial efficiencies in time, labor, materials and costs attendant to fill material formation. The methods and apparatus may be particularly suited for use with manufacturing and prefabrication processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: CorTek, Inc.
    Inventor: M. Douglas Rutledge
  • Patent number: 7797899
    Abstract: A temporary floor joint filler may include a base member having a cross-sectional profile including a first set of opposing sides and a second set of opposing sides, a cap coupled to the base member, a first fin coupled with a first side of the second set of opposing sides of the base member, and/or a second fin coupled with a second side of the second set of opposing sides of the base member. The base member may be configured for insertion into a floor joint, the first fin and the second fin may be configured for retaining the base member in the floor joint, and the cap may be configured for covering the floor joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Nox-Crete Products Group
    Inventors: Carl Jeffery Linn, Leszek Krochmal