Static structures (e.g. – buildings) – Means compensating earth-transmitted force – Relative motion means between a structure and its foundation
Reexamination Certificate
1999-05-26
2001-09-11
Redman, Jerry (Department: 3634)
Static structures (e.g., buildings)
Means compensating earth-transmitted force
Relative motion means between a structure and its foundation
Reexamination Certificate
active
06286271
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to load-bearing structures. More particularly, the present invention relates to a load-bearing structural member having a fluid chamber, which is capable of absorbing an applied load and, when the load is removed, returning the structure to its original configuration.
The types and varieties of load bearing structures are vast. Load bearing structures are commonly used in the framework and base construction of buildings, roads and bridges in order to not only support the weight of the structure and the loads placed thereon, but also to allow the structure to move somewhat due to thermal expansion, wind, earthquakes and other external forces. Load-bearing structures are also used in automobiles, submarines, and a myriad of other devices upon which load and pressure forces are applied.
In some devices, the use of flexible materials do not negatively affect the performance of the device. In others, strong, rigid materials must necessarily be used. The methods and materials used to create load bearing structures in buildings, roads and bridges have traditionally included the use of strong construction materials such as steel and reinforced concrete. As these materials allow limited flexibility, expansion spaces or members are typically employed. Oftentimes, resilient materials such as coils, elastomers and foams are used within the load-bearing structure. However, after a traumatic event, such as an earthquake, the resilient material may be crushed or otherwise damaged. These materials also tend to lose their resiliency due to the constant forces acting on them over time. The loss of resiliency causes the structure to remain in the displaced or compacted state instead of returning to its original configuration.
Therefore, what is needed is a load-bearing structural member which is capable of supporting a wide range of loads and then returning to its original state on removal of an applied load, even after a traumatic event. Such a load-bearing structural member is needed which will not lose its resiliency over time. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides other related advantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention resides in a load-bearing structural member disposed between a selected base and a load bearing element, and which is capable of bearing forces from loads of various magnitudes while granting flexibility and resiliency to a structure. Generally, the load-bearing structural member comprises a housing fixed to the selected base and having a resilient wall defining an inner cavity and a first open end, a flexible partition joined to a surface of the resilient wall adjacent to the first open end, a displaceable closure member fitting within the first open end to define an inner fluid containing chamber between the cavity and the flexible partition, and a shaft interconnected between the closure member and the load bearing element. The flexible partition preferably comprises a low-friction elastomer, and several load-bearing structural members may be interconnected as needed for specific applications.
A load transmitted to the shaft via the load bearing element displaces the closure member and acts on the fluid within the inner chamber. The closure member is replaced to its original position when the contents of the fluid chamber reach a state of equilibrium. A port is formed through the housing wall in order to access the inner chamber. The fluid in the inner chamber may be comprised of a compressible gas or a liquid. When a liquid is placed in the chamber, the walls of the housing are deformably resilient to absorb applied loads. The fluid contents of the inner chamber may be under a negative pressure to create a vacuum-effect when the closure member is displaced away from the chamber, acting to pull the closure member back to its original position.
In one alternative form of the present invention the displaceable closure member includes an aperture over which the flexible partition is stretched to create a deformably resilient diaphragm. The diaphragm temporarily deforms through the aperture in reaction to the displacement of the closure member. When the load is removed, the diaphragm and the closure member return to their original positions.
In another form, the housing has a second open end in addition to the first open end and is constricted about a mid-portion. A second flexible partition is joined to an inner surface of the housing adjacent the second open end and a second shaft is interconnected between a load transmitting element and a second displaceable closure member fitting within the second open end. The inner fluid chamber extends between the opposing flexible partitions.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.
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Kellu Bauersfeld Lowry & Kelley, LLP
Redman Jerry
LandOfFree
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