Rafter To Vertical Support (e.g., Stud, Column, Post) Connection Patents (Class 52/93.1)
  • Patent number: 11560717
    Abstract: A metal canopy structure, including: arches arranged in parallel formation, equally spaced apart, the arches having a planar construction and disposed on a plane running along a first axis; a plurality of cross beams arranged in parallel formation and disposed on a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and mechanically coupled to the plurality of arches; a plurality of support poles, each of the arches mechanically coupled to a pair of support poles; a plurality of coupling poles, the coupling poles disposed along the second axis and mechanically coupled to the plurality of support poles, at least a portion of the coupling poles arranged in a parallel formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Inventors: Eliyahu Yaakov, Avraham Yaakov
  • Patent number: 10883264
    Abstract: A building assembly system that comprises thermoformed high density polyethylene molded components filled with high density polyurethane foam. The molded components are configured in a cube or triangle form and secured against a steel frame to provide a habitable constructed unit. The composition of the high density polyethylene molded components filled with high density polyurethane foam in combination with its connection with a steel frame meets standards for the American Society for Testing and Materials for a habitable structure used by humans. The habitable structure can be used on land or water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Inventor: Charles I. Wee
  • Patent number: 10686304
    Abstract: A method for erecting or assembling a frame includes the steps of: forming a joint with at least two frame members placed at an angle to one another, each frame members is a metal tube, no coping nor fittings are used to form the joint; welding the frame members together at the joint; wrapping the joint with a saddle, the saddle is a bent flat metal member with at least one hole overlaying each frame member; and fastening the saddle to each frame member by inserting a screw through each hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventor: Fred A. Wagner, III
  • Patent number: 10655327
    Abstract: Disclosed are a wall construction system with drywall composite columns and a method for constructing walls using thin sheet steel sections in concrete composite construction for erecting story-high walls with at least one-sided planking with building boards, in particular for residential buildings. Structural loads of solid ceilings and facade walls are absorbed via the composite columns arranged in a modular grid within the wall plane. The joining of the composite columns takes place at the column head over a concrete beam on which the ceiling rests. In-filling wall or facade elements may be arranged between the composite columns. The composite columns include a concrete composite column with a sheet metal reinforcement and a spatially offset thin-walled sheet steel section for mounting drywall thereto even after the metal reinforcement has been filled with concrete. The sheet metal reinforcement and the thin-walled sheet steel section may have different material qualities and thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Inventor: Burkhart Schurig
  • Patent number: 9335069
    Abstract: Solar energy shade structures and methods of designing and installing the same. These structures are capable of supporting a contiguous solar panel holding structure solar panel at heights greater than 18 feet above their mounting surface. The solar energy shade structure may comprise a retaining mechanism accessible and operable from underneath for attaching/detaching a solar panel, and may comprise openings through which the solar panel can be passed when installing or removing the solar panel from beneath the structure. The structure may comprise rows of first and second force lateral brace frames the rows respectively proximate first and second sides for respectively counteracting lateral forces, and a plurality of vertical column supports for providing dead load support. The solar energy shade structure may have an arrangement of the plurality of solar panels that is uninterrupted by service or access lanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Strategic Solar Energy, LLC
    Inventors: Jack DeBartolo, III, Robert L. Boscamp, Thomas Headley
  • Patent number: 9169631
    Abstract: A portable building kit, construction members, and method for building a portable building are presented. The portable building includes a plurality of upright members, a plurality of footing members adapted to be connected to one or more of the plurality of upright members, a plurality of angle truss members adapted to be connected to one of the plurality of upright members, a plurality of horizontal eave brace members adapted to be connected to one or more of the plurality of upright members and one or more of the plurality of angle truss members, and a plurality of horizontal ridge brace members adapted to be connected to one or more of the plurality of angle truss members. The portable building is made by selecting a predetermined number of upright members, footing members, angle truss members, horizontal eave brace members, and horizontal ridge brace members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Inventor: Gary Tate
  • Patent number: 9081538
    Abstract: The methods and apparatuses described herein include a data center having a three-level roof structure including an overarching rainfly roof to protect the data center from severe weather events. The three-level roof structure further includes a secondary roof structure below the rainfly roof structure as well as a lower redundant roof structure coupled together. A data hall within the data center has a ceiling below the lower redundant roof structure and is adapted to store a plurality of cabinets to hold electronic equipment. The lower redundant roof structure can be coupled with the secondary roof structure using an airtight seal such that the data center is airtight allowing for the data hall below to be positively pressurized to facilitate air flow through the electronic equipment. Heated air emitted from the electronic equipment is conducted through into a hot air return region above the data hall ceiling, while cold air is supplied to the electronic equipment below the data hall ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Switch LLC
    Inventors: Rob Roy, Richard James Grabmeier, Mark Kevin Smith
  • Patent number: 8991106
    Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are provided herein for spacing an outer skin of a roof from the supporting structure of the roof such that the roof shields against weather elements, admits light, and allows advantageous air circulation. In one embodiment, a wedge-shaped device for spacing panels on a roof includes a bottom surface, a top surface inclined at an angle relative to the bottom surface, and an integral support structure connecting the top surface and the bottom surface, the support structure including a plurality of ribs and a plurality of nail boxes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Formula Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Elias Mora
  • Patent number: 8959867
    Abstract: A post-and-beam type structure includes: a connector having four plate portions forming a cruciform cross-section for the connector, the cruciform cross-section extending in a vertical direction, wherein the four plate portions define four quadrants; a first column configured for detachably coupling to a bottom portion of the connector; and a first beam with a first end configured for detachably coupling to a first one of the plate portions; wherein the first beam comprises a first beam member and a second beam member that are coupled to each other, and wherein the first end of the first beam is configured for placement in a first quadrant of the four quadrants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: John A. Schold
  • Patent number: 8959844
    Abstract: A deck for positioning adjacent a structure may include a foundation configured for positioning relatively proximate to the structure, a frame extending from the foundation, and a deck system arranged about and supported by the frame, wherein the deck is adapted for positioning adjacent the structure and for cantilevering away from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Mike Ingalls
  • Patent number: 8943761
    Abstract: A building construction has a foundation, walls and a roof structure, the walls being wrapped by a reinforcement fabric, with the reinforcement fabric being connected to the foundation and the roof structure to tie the roof structure to the foundation for increased resistance to natural disasters. The connection of the reinforcement fabric to the roof structure includes a top rail having a connector plate attached to the roof structure and having an upwardly oriented opening, and a wrapping member about which the reinforcement fabric can be wrapped, the wrapping member having a geometry corresponding with the geometry of the upwardly oriented opening in such a manner that the wrapping member is prevented from rotating in the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Windwrap, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Carbonaro, Mark H. Smith, Haydn B. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8882073
    Abstract: A support arrangement for a solar module includes a post having a first surface section. A support structure includes a connecting element presenting a second surface section facing the first surface section in a direction of a joint surface normal of the first and second surface sections. A stop element is arranged in the surface normal direction offset to the first and second surface sections. A first form-fitting connection exists between the stop element and the post and a second form-fitting connection exists between the stop element and the connecting element, providing vertical support of the connecting element relative to the post. The first and second form-fitting connections are producible at different heights of the connecting element relative to the post. A fastening element holds in place the first surface section and the second surface section relative to each other in the direction of the joint surface normal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Habdank PV-Montagesysteme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Martin Habdank, Peter Habdank, Ralf Baumann
  • Patent number: 8763317
    Abstract: A concrete roof panel for constructing a peaked concrete roof on a building has a first planar member coupled to a second planar member at an angle other than 180 degrees. The roof panel includes at least one rib member coupled to the inside surface of the roof panel. The roof panel includes a flattened attachment portion at either end thereof for connecting the roof panel to a side wall of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Spancrete Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Clinton C. Krell
  • Patent number: 8646222
    Abstract: A building construction has a foundation, walls and a roof structure, the walls being wrapped by a reinforcement fabric, with the reinforcement fabric being connected to the foundation and the roof structure to tie the roof structure to the foundation for increased resistance to natural disasters. The connection of the reinforcement fabric to the roof structure includes a top rail having a connector plate attached to the roof structure and having an upwardly oriented opening, and a wrapping member about which the reinforcement fabric can be wrapped, the wrapping member having a geometry corresponding with the geometry of the upwardly oriented opening in such a manner that the wrapping member is prevented from rotating in the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Windwrap, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Carbonaro, Mark H. Smith, Haydn B. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8635830
    Abstract: A system having a beam having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the first end is offset relative to the longitudinal axis in a first direction, and wherein the second end is offset relative to the longitudinal axis in a second direction that is opposite of the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: John A. Schold
  • Publication number: 20140020309
    Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are provided herein for spacing an outer skin of a roof from the supporting structure of the roof such that the roof shields against weather elements, admits light, and allows advantageous air circulation. In one embodiment, a wedge-shaped device for spacing panels on a roof includes a bottom surface, a top surface inclined at an angle relative to the bottom surface, and an integral support structure connecting the top surface and the bottom surface, the support structure including a plurality of ribs and a plurality of nail boxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: Formula Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Elias Mora
  • Patent number: 8573545
    Abstract: A mounting bracket arrangement for fastening a solar array to a vertical support pipe, including a generally horizontal support disk seated transversely across the pipe end to close the interior thereof, and a pair of parallel vertical bracket plates having corresponding lower edge portions each containing pairs of parallel vertical slots that define a center section and a pair of side sections. The vertical bracket plates are arranged normal to the horizontal support plate such that the center sections extend into the pipe interior via horizontal linear openings contained in the horizontal plate, and the side sections extend longitudinally externally of the horizontal support plate for connection by external fastener devices. The solar array is pivotally connected between the upper portions of the vertical bracket plates for angular adjustment relative to the support pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Holm-quist Designs LLC
    Inventors: Steven D. Walquist, Sterling C. Holmes
  • Patent number: 8567151
    Abstract: A device for connecting an exterior deck structure to a contiguous building via a bore-hole through the deck ledger and building header retains the deck in place in the event of earthquake or similar stresses. A pair of tension members comprising interlocked tensile links, are encapsulated in a generally cylindrical plastic plug to maintain ½ to 2 inches separation, to provide a thermal barrier. A pivoting toggle pin on the end of one link pivots between a first position aligned with the axis of the link and a second position transverse to the axis. The plastic plug may have an extending lip supporting the pivot pin in axially alignment. The second link may be rigid or flexible, has a sealing member adapted to slide thereon to seal the bore-hole. The second link is adapted to be fastened securely to a joist or other appropriate member of the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: GRK Canada Ltd.
    Inventor: Bernd Walther
  • Patent number: 8528268
    Abstract: A building assembly for forming a frame of a building including at least two elongated column structures and a truss structure supported on the column structures. The truss structure has opposite end portions resting on the column structures at horizontally spaced locations. A trilateral bracing structure may be attached to the truss structure and one of the column structures to tie the truss structure to the column structure. The trilateral bracing structure may be separable from the truss structure and the column structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Component Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Tom Reaves
  • Patent number: 8511019
    Abstract: A building comprises foundation; a first stud wall; a second stud wall; the second stud wall is disposed above the second first stud wall; a tie rod operably attached to the foundation and extending within the first and second stud walls; a first nut connecting the tie rod to the second stud wall; a first spring urging the first nut and the tie rod upwardly; a second nut connecting the tie rod to one of the first stud wall and the second stud wall, the second nut being disposed below the first nut; a second spring urging the second nut and the tie rod upwardly; the first spring is configured to carry a load at least substantially equal to the weight of a portion of a length of the tie rod disposed between the first nut and the second nut; and the second spring is configured to carry a load disposed below the second nut, the portion extending to where the tie rod is attached to the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas M. Espinosa
  • Patent number: 8505260
    Abstract: A laterally restrained joint structure including a structural member, a gusset plate and at least one restraining member is disclosed. The gusset plate is connected to the structural member, and a two-force member is disposed opposite to the structural member and connected to the gusset plate. The restraining member is disposed over side or at edges of the gusset plate and connected to the structure member, so that the lateral deformation of the gusset plate can be controlled and the buckling strength of the gusset plate can be enhanced by the restraining member, and the laterally restrained joint structure is capable of reinforcing a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Ching-Chang Chang, Sheng-Jin Chen
  • Patent number: 8424250
    Abstract: An apparatus for retrofit connection of a roof frame to a support member therebelow includes a claw member having a load bearing flange to be driven into an interface between a roof sheathing and a top edge of the roof frame, and a tie-down member to be mounted to a vertical surface of the support member. The tie-down member is connected to the claw member to allow various angular positions of the load bearing flange depending on roof slopes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Building Performance Americas Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert E. Platts
  • Patent number: 8407947
    Abstract: A connector for securing a horizontally extending member of a sloped roof at a selected angle relative to an upright member of the sloped roof includes a first portion adapted for secure engagement with the upright member and a second portion adapted for secure engagement with the horizontally extending member. An angular measurement section extending from the first portion and having multiple visible features thereon is usable to secure the connector to the upright member at a selected angle by aligning a selected visible feature with a portion of the upright member. Each visible feature corresponds to a selected angular relationship, such that a desired angle between the horizontally extending member and the upright member can be provided through selective alignment of a corresponding visible feature of the connector with the upright member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventors: Fred C. Yaggi, Jr., David A. Fulton
  • Patent number: 8397470
    Abstract: An angled bracket having first and second opposing, generally planar sections is positioned so that protrusions extending from the first planar section engage a portion of roof sheathing and the second planar section is positioned against a rafter. Mechanical fasteners may secure the second planar section to the rafter. Adhesive is disposed through fill apertures in the first planar section until a layer of adhesive is formed between the bracket and the sheathing. A second angular section may extend from the opposite side of the bracket, enabling the bracket to sandwich the rafter. Gussets may be used to brace the first and second planar sections. Indicator apertures allow a user to ensure the layer of adhesive substantially covers the first planar section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sashco, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Summons, Elliot Summons
  • Patent number: 8281529
    Abstract: A building structure having a plurality of frame assemblies joined together to form an internal frame structure for a building. Each of the frame assemblies includes a truss, a pair of vertical wall members and a floor joist. The truss is attached to respective top ends the vertical wall members at each end of the truss with interlocking joints in which the truss and vertical wall members are in substantially the same plane. Each vertical wall member is attached to the floor joist with interlocking joints. Each interlocking joint has a puzzle-piece configuration. Cross-members interconnect the frame assemblies in a spaced-apart manner. A floor panel is attached to the floor joists and exterior wall panels are attached to an exterior of the internal frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Jacob Cluff
  • Patent number: 8261495
    Abstract: A system for connecting panels of framing members utilizes five types of monolithic, elongate connectors. A first connector has a cross-section defined by an L-shaped portion and a straight portion extending from a bottom tip of the foot of the L-shaped portion at an angle. A second connector has a cross-section defined by an L-shaped portion and a straight portion extending from a top tip of the leg of the L-shaped portion at the same angle as the first connector. A third connector has a cross-section defined by a U-shaped portion and two straight sections extending away from the U-shaped portion. A fourth connector has a cross-section defined by two equal-length straight portions meeting at a right angle, and a fifth connector has a cross-section defined by a single straight portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Alphonso Griffin
  • Patent number: 8176689
    Abstract: Retrofit hurricane and earthquake clips for connecting a roof to a wall. The connectors include a plate web and rafter web, connected by a modified right-angle bend. For added strength in the right angle bend, wavy edges add material into the bend. Multiple bends add strength and material to the right angle bends, and place the rafter web perpendicular to the plate web. A ledge allows the connector to clear frieze boards. The wide plate webs attach to the outside wall sheathing and underlying top plate to prevent bowing out of the wall and lateral movement. The rafter webs attach to the side of a rafter to prevent uplift, outward thrusting, and twisting. The material added to the connection between the rafter web and plate web strengthens a building against strong winds and seismic events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas C Thompson
  • Patent number: 8136318
    Abstract: A fastener assembly comprises a first cylindrical member disposed within a second cylindrical member. One of the first and second cylindrical members is movable relative to the other in a first direction. The other one of the first and second cylindrical members is locked relative to the one in a second direction opposite to the first direction. A spring is operably attached to the first and second cylindrical members to urge one of the first and second cylindrical members in the first direction. A removable member is operably associated with the first and second cylindrical members to prevent one of the first and second cylindrical members from moving in the first direction prior to removing the removable member. The removable member is configured to be pulled out to allow one of the first and second cylindrical members to move in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas M Espinosa
  • Patent number: 8091291
    Abstract: There is provided a structure which can reduce the lifting workload and the building workload at a high place. A structure 1 of the invention includes a rectangular frame 11 arranged horizontally, a rectangular main beam 12 arranged vertically on the frame 11, and a principal rafter 13 supporting the main beam 12 and can be built on the ground. The structure 1 is used as a greenhouse roof frame. The lifting workload and the building workload for building a greenhouse roof frame, a framework of the entire greenhouse and a greenhouse, can be greatly reduced as compared with those of the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Takehisa Ode
  • Patent number: 8051620
    Abstract: A hanger for supporting joists or beams in insulated concrete formwork (ICF) systems has two parallel side plates having inner and outer sections, plus an L-shaped support member comprising a horizontal leg extending between the lower edges of the outer sections of the side plates, and an upward-extending vertical leg which demarcates the inner and outer side plate sections. The inner sections of the side plates are passed through slits in one insulation panel of an ICF wall-forming system, until the support member's vertical leg abuts the outer face of the insulation panel, leaving the side plate inner sections extending partially into the formwork cavity. The joist or beam to be supported may be set on the horizontal leg of the support member either before or after the concrete wall is cast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Lavern Kittlitz, RubyAnn Kittlitz
  • Patent number: 8020347
    Abstract: A modular enclosure, such as a shed, may include sidewalls and a roof. The roof, for example, may include one or more roof panels. The roof may also include a truss that is sized and configured to support the roof panels. The shed may also include one or more support beams that may be connected to the truss and may be connected to one or more panels. The shed may include one or more brackets used to connect a pair of panels that are positioned at an angle to form a corner of the shed. The shed may also include a cover, which may include one or more receiving portions sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the brackets. A plurality of roof panels may be positioned within a shipping container to form storage areas or cavities sized and configured to receive all or at least a portion of one or more floor panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry D. Mower, Brent Steed, Jay Calkin, Neil Watson, Robert A. Astle, L. Curtis Strong, Rich Howe, David C. Winter, Kent Ashby
  • Publication number: 20110185643
    Abstract: A roofing structure kit including: (A) first and second angled frame members defining, respectively, a first and second plurality of recesses; and (B) a pre-assembled roof assembly defining a plurality of elongated tabs adjacent its bottom surface. The frame members and roof assembly are adapted to allow a user to form a supplemental roofing structure on a building by: (A) mounting the first frame member on an outer wall of the building so that the first angled frame member extends outwardly and downwardly from the outer wall; (B) mounting the second frame member on an outer wall of the building so that the second angled frame member extends outwardly and downwardly from the outer wall; and (C) positioning the roof assembly on top of the first and second frame members so that each of the elongated tabs extends downwardly into a respective one of the first and second plurality of recesses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas K. Dueker
  • Patent number: 7856786
    Abstract: Various floor and wall constructions are disclosed. One embodiment includes a second vertical wall supported over a first vertical wall. One or more joist rims may be attached to the first vertical wall and pluralities of joists may be attached to the joist rims. Decking material may be supported on the plurality of joists. The second vertical wall may be fabricated from spaced second studs that extend between a top track and a bottom track. The bottom track comprises a web and two upstanding legs. The ends of the second studs serve to define open areas within the bottom track between the respective stud ends. A cementitious material may be applied onto the decking material and into the open areas within the bottom track to form the floor surfaces and barriers within the open areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Beck, Michael D. Whitticar
  • Publication number: 20100300014
    Abstract: An RV roof frame and cover system protects an RV during storage. The system comprises a roof frame and a cover. The frame has a ridge pole member having two sets of rafter members extending downwardly therefrom. The rafter members are attached at their lower ends to one of two horizontal members which can be moved towards and apart from one another to adjust the width of the frame. The rafter members are rotatably attached to both the ridge pole member and the lower horizontal member. The horizontal members are tied to one another by tie beam members which have an adjustable length to accommodate the movement of the horizontal members towards and away from one another. The tie beam members may be provided on legs which extend downwardly from the horizontal members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: EASY RV STORAGE SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Harold A. Daumont, Wade H. Muchowski
  • Patent number: 7832171
    Abstract: A framing system for use in a building structure includes a track having a longitudinally-extending web and a pair of spaced apart legs which extend from the web to form a channel between the web and the legs. One or more longitudinally-extending studs are coupleable to the legs of the track. Each leg of the track comprises a deformable portion, the deformation of which is accompanied by movement of the one or more studs toward or away from the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Dennis Erickson, Keith Taylor
  • Publication number: 20100275526
    Abstract: The disclosure describes novel eco-friendly buildings and methods of building eco-friendly structures. Buildings constructed above land permit vegetation to grow below. Buildings which incorporate greenhouses are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Yijing Sun
  • Patent number: 7814722
    Abstract: A prefabricated roof truss which includes a bottom plate which attaches to the bottom chord of the roof truss in such a way that the bottom plate does not lift away from the top plate of an interior wall despite the vertical movement of the bottom chord of the roof truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventors: Larry Perrault, David R. Karroll
  • Patent number: 7814710
    Abstract: The instant invention relates to an infinitely adjustable anchoring system for attaching structural members to a support member. The system comprises a continuous, elongated, removable retaining track secured to the outer surface of a support member and configured to receive at least one adjustable connector plate therein. The adjustable connector plates are capable of attaching to structural members having various dimensions and pitches relative to the track. The invention includes a reusable centering bracket assembly used to install a retaining track assembly along an upper portion of a support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Silvino R. Foglia
  • Patent number: 7762030
    Abstract: A fastener assembly comprises a first cylindrical member disposed within a second cylindrical member. One of the first and second cylindrical members is movable relative to the other in a first direction. The other one of the first and second cylindrical members is locked relative to the one in a second direction opposite to the first direction. A spring is operably attached to the first and second cylindrical members to urge one of the first and second cylindrical members in the first direction. A removable member is operably associated with the first and second cylindrical members to prevent one of the first and second cylindrical members from moving in the first direction prior to removing the removable member. The removable member is configured to be pulled out to allow one of the first and second cylindrical members to move in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas M. Espinosa
  • Patent number: 7739841
    Abstract: The invention relates to framing for a ready to assemble building, which employs a novel connector for connection of a column to a rafter (“knee connector”) or a rafter to another rafter (“peak connector”). The connector includes a hub comprising multiple substantially planar hub portions. The hub portions include a first hub portion, a second hub portion integrally connected to the first hub portion so as to define an acute angle with respect thereto, and at least one other hub portion integrally connected between the first and second hub portions. The connector further includes first and second legs comprised of elongated plates. The first leg perpendicularly extends outwardly from the first hub portion, and the second leg perpendicularly extends outwardly from the second hub portion. Each leg has a plurality of holes therethrough for alignment with corresponding holes in a structural member, preferably light gauge C-channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Excel Metal Building Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas S. Puckett
  • Patent number: 7716899
    Abstract: Various building components and building construction techniques are disclosed. One embodiment comprises a joist end bearing condition wherein a joist rim is supported on a support structure adjacent to a bearing wall and attached thereto. Joists are attached to the joist rim and noncombustible board may be supported on the joists to form a floor surface. Other embodiments include metal joist rims that also function as headers for walls and headers for window and door openings in walls. Various methods of constructing walls from prefabricated panels formed from cold-formed steel components are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Beck, Michael D. Whitticar
  • Publication number: 20100031586
    Abstract: A roof joist for a roof section of a modular building having an interior ceiling with a length, having an upper chord, central chord, and lower chord. The lower chord comprises: (i) a top chord segment joined to, and parallel with, the central chord; (ii) a pair of sidewall chord segments that oppose one another and extend parallel to the top chord segment; and (iii) a pair of outer flanges that extend outwardly from the sidewall chord segments to support the interior ceiling. A pair of inner flanges can also extend inwardly from the sidewall chord segments to support fixtures in the interior of the building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: Project FROG, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Miller
  • Publication number: 20090307995
    Abstract: A roofing joint includes a union member that joins two sandwich panels. An edge portion of the sandwich panels is cut and removed, e.g., by a miter cut. The edge portion is generally cut based on the pitch of the roof for the structure. The roof joint is formed by aligning the union member between the edges of the panels. Thus, the panel cores are in contact with opposing surfaces of the union member, such that the cores of panels are in physical contact with the union member. In one embodiment, the union member extends above the surface of the roofing joint (e.g., extends above the first outer surface of the panels). In another embodiment, the union member extends below the surface of the second outer surface of the panels. A bonding material is injected or otherwise adhered to areas of intersection for the first and second panels and the union member to protect the joint from environmental elements (e.g., water penetration, snow, hail, etc.).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: INNOVIDA FACTORIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Ulrich Schwartau
  • Publication number: 20090277103
    Abstract: A building having a structure fastened to the ground comprises walls structured by means of facade and gable frames fastened between columns. The roof is formed by a structure comprising rafters and purlins. The purlins and the rafters respectively rest on a column and are held laterally in place between two vertical members each belonging to a frame. Prefabricated panels fastened to the frames and to the columns complete the closure of the walls and roof. The whole structure is self-stable and self-braced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Jean-Francois De Jaham
  • Patent number: 7610724
    Abstract: A building comprises a side wall defining a storage space within the sidewall confines, a roof supported above the storage space, and a pair of gables above the sidewall and at opposite ends of the roof. At least one truss is disposed between the gables and adapted to support the roof and has at least one tool handle opening. In a part of the building separate from the truss is disposed at least one additional receiver generally across from the tool handle opening. The tool handle opening and the receiver are spaced apart and adapted to each receive the handle of a long handled tool and support the long handled tool above the storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventor: David A. Houk, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7607272
    Abstract: A flanged nailing plate and a drywall nailing plate that work in conjunction with each other to provide an expansion joint. The flanged nailing plate is attached to the wall studs top plate with the interiorly extending flange forming a sill to support one end of the drywall nail flange with the other end nailed to the bottom chord of the truss with the length of the drywall nail flange variable, typically between one to three feet, depending on the installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Scot Woolworth
  • Publication number: 20090211177
    Abstract: Various novel roofing brackets and roofing systems are disclosed. A first embodiment can be considered a roofing bracket to be coupled to a vertical post and a horizontal purlin of a roofing system whereby the horizontal purlin is positioned to support roof panels at a requisite pitch. The roofing bracket includes a reference brace and a clip. The reference brace includes a first brace face positioned planarly parallel with the vertical post and a second brace face extending at an angle angle from the first brace face and positioned planarly parallel with the vertical post. The clip includes a first clip face positioned to be fastened generally flush with the horizontal purlin and a second clip face extending at an angle from the first clip face and positioned to be fastened planarly parallel with the vertical post. The second clip face is coupled to the first brace face at a pivot point such that the clip can be rotated a particular angle relative to the reference brace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Michael A. Grafton, Ernest G. Perry, JR.
  • Patent number: 7559175
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular construction system to be applied to buildings, comprising a steel structure composed by octagonal tubing that acts as external beams, octagonal tubing that acts as external beams, octagonal tubing that acts as internal beams, structural connections, cross members for the roof structure, a hollow roof ridge member, panels acting as structural walls and partitions, bracing plates to connect the panels, external finishing member and internal finishing member, whereas the whole structure is anchored to the floor. When creating an edge column to connect the panels to the steel structure, internal angular shaped bracing plates are used and external ones with a shape similar to letter “C”, provided with holes along the length for the bolts and connection slot to connect the external finishing member by means of internal clips with a rim for connection to the clamp through the recesses arranged in the interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Gilmar da Costa Lima
  • Patent number: 7444782
    Abstract: A modular building system wherein extruded, elongate, plastic building components can quickly, and with no special tools or skills, be snapped and slidably fit together to form a wide variety of different building structures. The proposed system produces frameless buildings wherein surface closure structures, like walls, windows, doors and roof panels are bound into stability through building-wrapping banding structures that include upright, perimeter stabilizer bars, roof trusses, and in most instances, the underlying ground. Within a finished building, the closure structures effectively float and react with relative motion responses to different applied building loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Inventor: James H. Crowell
  • Patent number: 7398621
    Abstract: A connector assembly for use in securely joining together elongated structural members, which extend angularly with respect to one another. The connector assembly is ideally suited for use in interconnecting wooden structural members that make up playground equipment for use by young children and includes specially designed connector plates that are uniquely designed to provide both longitudinal and transverse stability to the structure formed by the interconnected structural members. Each of the gripping plates is lanced out to form a plurality of penetrating tabs that are adapted to penetrate the structural members as the gripping plates are cinched down by through bolts so as to provide still further rigidity to the assembled structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Bradford C. Banta