U.S. patent application number 10/056191 was filed with the patent office on 2002-12-05 for columnar jack concealing device and method.
Invention is credited to Eden, Scott A..
Application Number | 20020178687 10/056191 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46278728 |
Filed Date | 2002-12-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020178687 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Eden, Scott A. |
December 5, 2002 |
Columnar jack concealing device and method
Abstract
The present invention provides a device for concealing and
covering a jack for columnar supports and a method of concealing a
jack using a jack concealing kit with a columnar support. The
device comprises a strap member, a skirt sized and shaped for
covering the jack, and a band member for attaching the skirt to the
strap member. The strap member is sized and shaped for folding over
and enclosing the band member and a portion of the skirt. A further
embodiment provides a jack concealing kit for columnar supports.
The kit comprises a jack for supporting the columnar support, an
adjustable strap member, an adjustable shield member, and an
adjustable clamp member. The adjustable clamp member can attach the
adjustable shield member with the adjustable strap member to the
columnar support. The adjustable shield member can conceal and
shield the jack and the adjustable strap member can enclose the
adjustable clamp member. Further embodiments of the invention
provide adjustable shield members, a stiff skirt, that are
constructed of a malleable material that can attach to itself and
can be secured to the columnar support for concealing the jack.
Inventors: |
Eden, Scott A.; (Dunbar,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Charles F. Meroni, Jr.
Meroni & Meroni
A Professional corporation
P.O. Box 309
Barrington
IL
60011
US
|
Family ID: |
46278728 |
Appl. No.: |
10/056191 |
Filed: |
January 23, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10056191 |
Jan 23, 2002 |
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09872899 |
Jun 2, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/834 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 13/0733 20130101;
E04C 3/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/737.4 |
International
Class: |
E04C 003/30 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. In combination, a jack concealing structure for a columnar
support of a structure comprising: an adjustable jack; a stiff
skirt circumferentially adjustable about itself relative to the
columnar support for concealing the adjustable jack; and securement
means for securing the stiff skirt to the columnar support for
concealing the adjustable jack, the adjustable jack for supporting
and securing the columnar support.
2. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt is
constructed of a malleable material.
3. The combination of claim 2, wherein the stiff skirt is
constructed of copper.
4. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt has a tab
structure and an edge folded over upon itself for receiving the tab
structure for circumferentially adjusting the stiff skirt about
itself.
5. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt is
circumferentially adjusted about itself using a nail, a screw, a
machine screw and nut, or solder.
6. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt has a tab
structure and an edge folded over upon itself for receiving the tab
structure for circumferentially adjusting the stiff skirt about
itself and about the columnar support.
7. The combination of claim 6, wherein the stiff skirt is
circumferentially adjusted about itself and the columnar support
using a nail, a screw, a machine screw and nut, or solder.
8. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt is soldered
for circumferentially adjusting the stiff skirt about itself and
for subsequent slidable placement around and over the columnar
support.
9. The combination of claim 1, wherein the securement means is
selected from the group consisting of nails, screws, machine screw
and nut, and solder.
10. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt has a
square shape.
11. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt has a
circular shape.
12. The combination of claim 11, further comprising an adjustable
clamp member for temporarily holding the stiff skirt in
circumferential adjustment about itself in preparation for
adjustment and securement to the columnar support.
13. The combination of claim 12, wherein the adjustable clamp is
selected from the group consisting of an alligator clip and strap,
a screw band clamp, a rope, and a synthetic clamp.
14. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt is welded
for circumferentially adjusting the stiff skirt about itself and
for subsequent slidable placement around and over the columnar
support.
15. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt is secured
to an upper portion of the columnar support.
16. The combination of claim 1, wherein the stiff skirt is secured
to a lower portion of the columnar support.
17. A jack concealing kit for a columnar support comprising: a jack
for supporting the columnar support; and an adjustable shield
member for adjustment about itself, for conforming to the columnar
support, and for concealing and shielding the jack.
18. The jack concealing kit of claim 17, wherein the adjustable
shield member is a stiff skirt having a tab structure and an edge
folded over upon itself for receiving the tab structure for
circumferentially adjusting the stiff skirt about itself and about
the columnar support.
19. The jack concealing kit of claim 17, wherein the adjustable
shield member is soldered to itself to form a sleeve for slidable
placement along the columnar support for concealing the jack.
20. The jack concealing kit of claim 17, further comprising
securement means for attaching the adjustable shield member to the
columnar support.
21. The jack concealing kit of claim 20, wherein the securement
means is selected from the group consisting of nails, screws,
machine screw and nut, and solder.
22. The jack concealing kit of claim 17, further comprising an
adjustable clamp member for temporarily holding the adjustable
shield member in circumferential adjustment about itself in
preparation for adjustment and securement to the columnar
support.
23. The jack concealing kit of claim 22, wherein the adjustable
clamp is selected from the group consisting of an alligator clip
and strap, a screw band clamp, a rope, and a synthetic clamp.
24. The jack concealing kit of claim 17, wherein the adjustable
shield member has a square shape or a circular shape.
25. In combination, a jack concealing structure comprising: a
columnar support of a structure; an adjustable jack; and a stiff
skirt circumferentially adjustable about itself relative to the
columnar support for concealing the adjustable jack, the adjustable
jack for supporting and securing the columnar support to the
structure.
26. The combination of claim 25, further comprising securement
means for securing the stiff skirt to the columnar support for
concealing the adjustable jack.
27. The combination of claim 26, wherein the securement means is
selected from the group consisting of nails, screws, machine screw
and nut, and solder.
28. The combination of claim 26, further comprising an adjustable
clamp member for temporarily holding the stiff skirt in
circumferential adjustment about itself in preparation for
adjustment and securement to the columnar support.
29. The combination of claim 28, wherein the adjustable clamp is
selected from the group consisting of an alligator clip and strap,
a screw band clamp, a rope, and a synthetic clamp.
30. The combination of claim 25, wherein the stiff skirt is
soldered to itself for forming a sleeve for slidable placement over
and around the columnar support for concealing the adjustable
jack.
31. The combination of claim 25, wherein the stiff skirt is secured
to an upper portion of the columnar support.
32. The combination of claim 25, wherein the stiff skirt is secured
to a lower portion of the columnar support.
33. A jack concealing apparatus for a jack supporting a columnar
support of a structure comprising: a stiff skirt constructed of a
malleable material, the stiff skirt being circumferentially
adjustable about itself relative to the columnar support for
concealing the jack.
34. The jack concealing apparatus of claim 33, further comprising
securement means for securing the stiff skirt to the columnar
support for concealing the jack.
35. The jack concealing apparatus of claim 34, further comprising
an adjustable clamp member for temporarily holding the stiff skirt
in circumferential adjustment about itself in preparation for
adjustment and securement to the columnar support.
36. The jack concealing apparatus of claim 33, wherein the stiff
skirt is soldered to itself for forming a sleeve for slidable
placement over and around the columnar support for concealing the
jack.
37. A jack concealing device for concealing a jack supporting a
columnar support of a structure comprising: a stiff skirt
constructed of a malleable material and sized for wrapping about
itself and for concealing the jack supporting the columnar support;
a tie-down strap for temporarily clasping the stiff skirt about
itself and the columnar support; and securement means for securing
the stiff skirt to the columnar support.
38. The jack concealing device of claim 37, wherein the stiff skirt
has a circular shape.
39. The jack concealing device of claim 37, wherein the tie-down
strap is an alligator clip and strap.
40. The jack concealing device of claim 37, wherein the tie-down
strap is a screw band clamp.
41. The jack concealing device of claim 37, wherein the stiff skirt
is secured to an upper portion of the columnar support.
42. The jack concealing device of claim 37, wherein the stiff skirt
is secured to a lower portion of the columnar support.
43. The jack concealing device of claim 37, wherein securement
means is selected from the group consisting of nails, screws,
machine screw and nut, and solder.
44. A jack concealing device for a columnar support of a structure
comprising: a jack for supporting and securing the columnar support
to the structure; a stiff skirt constructed of a malleable material
and sized for wrapping about itself and for concealing the jack;
securement means for securing the stiff skirt to the columnar
support; and a flexible skirt constructed of a fabric-type material
and sized for wrapping about the columnar support for concealing
the securement means.
45. The jack concealing device of claim 44, wherein the stiff skirt
has a square shape and has a tab structure and an edge folded over
upon itself for receiving the tab structure for wrapping the stiff
skirt about itself.
46. The jack concealing device of claim 44, wherein securement
means is selected from the group consisting of nails, screws,
machine screw and nut, and solder.
47. The jack concealing device of claim 44, wherein the stiff skirt
is secured to an upper portion of the columnar support.
48. The jack concealing device of claim 44, wherein the stiff skirt
is secured to a lower portion of the columnar support.
49. A method of installing a jack concealing device comprising the
acts of: providing a jack, a columnar support, and the jack
concealing device; installing and securing the jack to the columnar
support; wrapping the jack concealing device around the jack and
the columnar support; wrapping the jack concealing device about
itself; wrapping a tie-down strap around the wrapped jack
concealing device; and adjusting and securing the wrapped tie-down
strap for securing the wrapped jack concealing device to the
columnar support.
50. The method of claim 49, further including securing the wrapped
jack concealing device to the columnar support with securement
means.
51. The method of claim 50, further including removing the wrapped
tie-down strap from secured jack concealing device.
52. The method of claim 51, further including removing the secured
jack concealing device for adjusting the jack and the columnar
support.
53. The method of claim 49, wherein wrapping the jack concealing
device about itself includes inserting a tab structure into an
opposing folded edge for securing the wrapped jack concealing
device about itself without the use of the tie-down strap.
54. The method of claim 53, further including bending an edge of
the jack concealing device upon itself for creating the folded edge
and bending the jack concealing device to conform to the shape of
the columnar support and for creating the tab structure.
55. The method of claim 49, wherein wrapping the jack concealing
device about itself includes conforming the jack concealing device
to the shape of the columnar support.
56. A method of installing a jack concealing device comprising the
acts of: providing a jack, a columnar support, and the jack
concealing device; wrapping and securing the jack concealing device
about itself; sliding the secured jack concealing device over the
columnar support; installing and securing the jack to the columnar
support; and sliding the secured jack concealing device over the
jack.
57. The method of claim 56, further including securing the secured
jack concealing device to the columnar support with securement
means.
58. The method of claim 57, further including removing the
securement means for adjusting the jack and the columnar
support.
59. A method of compensating for columnar shrinkage comprising the
acts of: providing a jack supporting a columnar support; providing
a jack concealing device wrapped around the jack and secured to the
columnar support for concealing the jack; removing the jack
concealing device for exposing the jack; adjusting the jack and the
columnar support; and re-wrapping and re-securing the jack
concealing device about the jack and to the columnar support.
60. The method of claim 59, wherein removing the jack concealing
device includes removing securement means from the jack concealing
device and the columnar support.
61. The method of claim 60, wherein removing the jack concealing
device includes sliding the jack concealing device over the
columnar support for exposing the jack thereunder.
62. The method of claim 60, wherein removing the jack concealing
device includes unwrapping the jack concealing device from itself
for exposing the jack thereunder.
63. The method of claim 62, wherein unwrapping the jack concealing
device includes removing a tab structure from a folded edge.
64. The method of claim 62, wherein unwrapping the jack concealing
device includes removing overlapping opposing edges.
65. The method of claim 62, wherein unwrapping the jack concealing
device includes removing securement means attaching the jack
concealing device to itself.
66. The method of claim 59, further including removing a flexible
skirt wrapped around the jack concealing device before removing the
jack concealing device.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a Continuation-in-Part Application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/872,899, filed Jun. 2,
2001.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to columnar concealing or
covering devices for jacks and a method of protectively concealing
column support jacks. More specifically, the present invention is
primarily intended as a shielding or concealing apparatus or device
and a method of installation for jacks that may be used for
leveling, supporting and securing structural support members on
structures such as cabins, homes, buildings, garages, signs, and
the like, where the structural support members can include columns,
posts, beams, joists and so forth.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Structural support members, such as columns, posts, beams,
joists, and so forth are an important structural aspect in
construction of homes, buildings, garages, signs, and the like.
Maintaining a structurally secure, level connection between the
structural support member and the member(s) it supports is critical
to the stability of the structure. Moreover, maintaining a level
surface, such as a level roof, is critical to the stability and
safety of a structure as well as to the aesthetics imparted to the
beholder. Jacks, including adjustable jacks, are often used to
maintain this secure connection, to adjust and to level a surface,
and to compensate for the disparity in the construction process,
materials, and so forth. Such disparities can be caused in timber
construction, for example, due to the swelling and shrinkage
characteristics of wood, to swelling and shrinkage of underlying
soils, or to the availability and usage of materials that are
shorter than the required material lengths.
[0006] When jacks are used for columnar support securement,
aesthetic, structural, and safety issues must be addressed.
Protection of the jack from slippage or movement, as well as
overall aesthetic appearance, become important objectives. These
issues can be addressed by concealing and shielding the jack from
outside view. In an effort to address these issues, devices have
been developed to conceal and shield jacks and columnar
members.
[0007] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,065,268, which issued to Gump,
discloses a plastic decorative and protective sheath designed to
cover jacks used to stabilize house beams, to lift and level mobile
homes and the like. The '268 jack cover comprises three
half-sectioned covering parts: a capital, a column, and a base and
requires adhesives and tongue and groove connections. However, in
the field of wood construction, such as in construction of a log
cabin, natural wood aesthetics are important and the '268 jack
cover would extend the full length of the column and would cover
the natural aesthetics of the wood columns used. Moreover, any
variation in the height of the column would require an additional
cutting operation of the '268 jack cover and subsequent material
waste. Once cut, the '268 jack cover would not fully cover the
column should the length increase or if a new, longer column were
used. Moreover, once cut, the '268 jack cover would not completely
compensate for the shrinking and swelling dimensions of the
underlying column and gaps or failure points in the parts could
weaken the strength and the aesthetics of the cover.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 3,049,195, which issued to J. H. Leat et al.,
discloses Demountable Partitions that utilize stanchions and small
screw jack devices. The small screw jacks are covered by molding or
skirting strips having ribs for insertion into the groove of a
channel strip as well as splayed edges (see FIGS. 1, 7, 10, 11, 12
and 14 of the '195 Patent). However, the '195 molding or skirting
strips are disclosed in panel construction and must be manufactured
for each wall-to-panel gap size and orientation. In addition, the
molding or skirting strips require the cooperation of specially cut
and placed channeling strip(s). This construction technique could
become onerous and would affect aesthetics in columnar
construction, particularly in wood construction where again, the
natural material aesthetics are required.
[0009] It is therefore important and necessary that a columnar
covering device for a jack be developed that has universal
application with varying columnar construction sizes, shapes, and
lengths, requires few working parts, reduces the likelihood of
material waste, accommodates near immediate access for jack and
material adjustments, due to such causes as shrinkage and swelling,
and is easy to use and manufacture.
[0010] Other objects of my invention, as well as particular
features, elements, and advantages thereof, will be elucidated in,
or apparent from, the following description and the accompanying
drawing figures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention provides a columnar covering device
for a jack and a method of installing a jack concealing kit for a
columnar support. According to the present invention a columnar
covering device for a jack is provided and comprises a strap
member, a skirt for circumferentially covering the jack, and a band
member for attaching the skirt to the strap member. The strap
member is sized and shaped for folding over upon itself and for
enclosing the band member and a portion of the skirt. The present
invention can allow quick access to the jack for adjusting purposes
and can be used, for example, on a columnar jack on a cabin
structure.
[0012] In another embodiment, the present invention provides an
apparatus for shielding a structure supporting device, such as a
jack. The apparatus comprises a first adjustable band member, a
second adjustable band member, and an adjustable shield member for
shielding the structure supporting device. The second adjustable
band member can couple the first adjustable band member with the
adjustable shield member and the first adjustable band member can
enclose the second adjustable band member.
[0013] In a further embodiment of the present invention, in
combination, an apparatus for shielding a structure supporting
device is provided. The combination comprises a first adjustable
band member, a second adjustable band member, an adjustable shield
member for shielding the structure supporting device, and a
structural support. The second adjustable band member can couple
the first adjustable band member with the adjustable shield member
and with the structural support. The first adjustable band member
can then enclose the second adjustable band member.
[0014] In another embodiment of the present invention, a jack
concealing kit for columnar supports is disclosed. The kit
comprises a jack for supporting the columnar support, an adjustable
strap member, an adjustable shield member, and an adjustable clamp
member. The adjustable clamp member can attach the adjustable
shield member with the adjustable strap member and then attach both
to the columnar support. The adjustable shield member can conceal
and shield the jack from view. Finally, the adjustable strap member
can enclose the adjustable clamp member and shield it from view for
presenting a uniform appearance blending with the columnar support
supported by the jack.
[0015] In still a further embodiment, in combination, a jack
concealing structure for a columnar support of a structure is
provided. The combination comprises an adjustable, flexible strap,
an adjustable, stiff skirt, a mechanically adjustable clamp, an
adjustable jack, and the columnar support. The adjustable jack can
support and secure the columnar support. The adjustable, flexible
strap can surround and engage a portion of the columnar support
adjacent the adjustable jack. The mechanically adjustable clamp can
attach the adjustable, stiff skirt to the adjustable, flexible
strap and to the columnar support. Then the adjustable, stiff skirt
can conceal the adjustable jack as the skirt is circumferentially
adjustable relative to the columnar support for concealing the
jack. Finally, the adjustable, flexible strap can fold over upon
itself and can encase and protect the mechanically adjustable
clamp.
[0016] The present invention also provides a method of concealing a
jack using a jack concealing kit with a columnar support. The
method comprises the acts of first, providing a jack, then
attaching the jack to the columnar support and adjusting the jack
for securing the columnar support. Next is wrapping an adjustable,
flexible strap about the secured columnar support and adjusting the
adjustable, flexible strap upon itself for securing the adjustable,
flexible strap to the secured columnar support. The next act is
wrapping an adjustable, stiff skirt about the secured adjustable,
flexible strap and the secured columnar support and adjusting and
securing the adjustable, stiff skirt to the secured adjustable,
flexible strap and the secured columnar support. Installation
continues by covering the attached jack with the secured
adjustable, stiff skirt and concealing the attached jack from view,
followed by mounting, adjusting, and securing a mechanically
adjustable clamp in assembled relation around and over the secured
adjustable, flexible strap, the secured adjustable, stiff skirt,
and the secured columnar support maintaining concealment of the
attached jack. The final act is folding the secured adjustable,
flexible strap over the secured adjustable, stiff skirt and the
secured mechanically adjustable clamp for concealing the secured
adjustable, stiff skirt, or at least a portion thereof, and for
concealing and protecting the secured mechanically adjustable
clamp.
[0017] In another embodiment, the present invention provides, in
combination, a jack concealing structure for a columnar support of
a structure. In this embodiment, the jack concealing structure
comprises an adjustable jack, a stiff skirt, and securement means.
The stiff skirt is circumferentially adjustable about itself
relative to the columnar support for concealing the adjustable
jack. The securement means can be used for securing the stiff skirt
to the columnar support for concealing the adjustable jack,
although in a variation of this embodiment the stiff skirt can be
soldered to itself for slidable placement over the columnar support
with or without securement means. Again, the adjustable jack is
used for supporting and securing the columnar support. Stiff
skirts, such as those constructed of malleable materials and shaped
as a square or circular shape, are presented and can have a folded
edge and a tab structure received in the folded edge for the
adjustment about itself. Other means of circumferential adjustment
include soldering, screws, machine nut and screw, nails, and the
like. Moreover, an adjustable clamp member can be used for
temporarily holding the stiff skirt when a folded edge and tab
structure are not used. The securement means and the adjustable
clamp find particular use when the stiff skirt is placed on an
upper or top portion of the columnar support, for example, when the
adjustable jack is placed on top of the columnar support and below
a roof frame and the like. The stiff skirt can also be placed at
the bottom of the columnar support for jacks used, for example, to
raise the columnar support up toward the roof frame and the
like.
[0018] A jack concealing kit for a columnar support is presented in
another embodiment and comprises a jack for supporting the columnar
support and an adjustable shield member. The adjustable shield
member can be adjusted about itself for conforming to the columnar
support and for concealing and shielding the jack.
[0019] In a still further embodiment, in another combination, a
jack concealing structure is provided. This combination comprises a
columnar support of a structure, an adjustable jack, and a stiff
skirt. The stiff skirt is circumferentially adjustable about itself
relative to the columnar support for concealing the adjustable jack
and the adjustable jack being for supporting and securing the
columnar support to the structure.
[0020] In another embodiment, a jack concealing apparatus is
provided for a jack that is used for supporting a columnar support
of a structure. The jack concealing apparatus comprises a stiff
skirt constructed of a malleable material. The stiff skirt can be
circumferentially adjustable about itself relative to the columnar
support for concealing the jack.
[0021] In a further embodiment, a jack concealing device for
concealing a jack supporting a columnar support of a structure
comprises a stiff skirt, a tie-down strap, and securement means.
The stiff skirt is constructed of a malleable material and is sized
for wrapping about itself and for concealing the jack supporting
the columnar support. The tie-down strap is used for temporarily
clasping the stiff skirt about itself and the columnar support.
Securement means secure the stiff skirt to the columnar
support.
[0022] Another embodiment discloses a jack concealing device for a
columnar support of a structure that comprises a jack, a stiff
skirt, securement means, and a flexible skirt. The jack is used for
supporting and securing the columnar support to the structure while
the stiff skirt is constructed of a malleable material and is sized
for wrapping about itself and for concealing the jack. Securement
means secure the stiff skirt to the columnar support and the
flexible skirt is constructed of a fabric-type material and is
sized for wrapping about the columnar support for concealing the
securement means.
[0023] The present invention also discloses various methods. One
method of installing a jack concealing device comprises the acts of
providing a jack, a columnar support, and the jack concealing
device and then installing and securing the jack to the columnar
support. The next act is wrapping the jack concealing device around
the jack and the columnar support followed by wrapping the jack
concealing device about itself. The following act is wrapping a
tie-down strap around the wrapped jack concealing device and then
adjusting and securing the wrapped tie-down strap for securing the
wrapped jack concealing device to the columnar support.
[0024] Another method of installing a jack concealing device
comprises the acts of providing a jack, a columnar support, and the
jack concealing device followed by wrapping and securing the jack
concealing device about itself and sliding the secured jack
concealing device over the columnar support. The next act is
installing and securing the jack to the columnar support and then
sliding the secured jack concealing device over the jack.
[0025] The final method is a method of compensating for columnar
shrinkage comprising the acts of providing a jack supporting a
columnar support and providing a jack concealing device wrapped
around the jack and secured to the columnar support for concealing
the jack. The next act is removing the jack concealing device for
exposing the jack and then adjusting the jack and the columnar
support. Finally, the act concludes with re-wrapping and
re-securing the jack concealing device about the jack and to the
columnar support.
[0026] The present invention, therefore provides a columnar
covering device for a jack that has universal application with
varying columnar construction sizes, shapes, and lengths, requires
few working parts, reduces the likelihood of material waste,
accommodates near immediate access for jack and material
adjustments, due to such causes as shrinkage and swelling, and is
easy to use and manufacture.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] Other features of my invention will become more evident from
a consideration of the following detailed description of my patent
drawings, as follows:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present
invention showing an application of the columnar covering device
for a jack as applied to a column of a log cabin-type
structure;
[0029] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the present
invention showing a strap member, a skirt member, and a band
member;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a top sectional view of the band member of the
embodiment of FIG. 2 showing one type of adjustment means, a
mechanical-type mechanism;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a jack of the present
invention supporting a columnar member, the jack having adjustable
capability;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a plan and cross-sectional view of a support plate
of the jack of FIG. 4;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a plan and cross-sectional view of a base plate of
the jack of FIG. 4;
[0034] FIG. 7 is a side view of an incremental adjustable support
mechanism of the jack of FIG. 4;
[0035] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the
present invention showing installation and adjustment of the jack
and columnar covering device to the columnar member wherein the
jack is placed under the columnar covering at a bottom end of the
columnar member;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the installation and
adjustment of FIG. 8 showing a downward fold over a strap member
and subsequent enclosure of a band member and a portion of a skirt
member concealing the jack therein;
[0037] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the
present invention showing installation and adjustment of the jack
and columnar covering device to the columnar member wherein the
jack is placed over the columnar covering at a top end of the
columnar member;
[0038] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the installation and
adjustment of FIG. 8 showing an upward fold over a strap member and
subsequent enclosure of a band member and a portion of a skirt
member concealing the jack therein;
[0039] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
present invention showing a stiff skirt and its folded edge and tab
structure;
[0040] FIG. 12a is a perspective view of the stiff skirt of FIG. 12
showing the various means for circumferentially adjusting the stiff
skirt about itself;
[0041] FIG. 13 is a side view of the folded edge of FIG. 12;
[0042] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 12
showing application for concealing an adjustable jack and placement
about a columnar support near its bottom portion after either
circumferential adjustment about itself or slideable placement over
the columnar support;
[0043] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 12
showing securement of the stiff skirt to the columnar support
following placement around or over the columnar support for
concealing the adjustable jack;
[0044] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
present invention showing another stiff skirt;
[0045] FIG. 16a is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 16
showing slideable placement of the stiff skirt over the columnar
support for concealing the adjustable jack following secure
connection of the stiff skirt to itself using solder or other
welding means;
[0046] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the stiff skirt of FIG. 16
showing application for concealing an adjustable jack and placement
about a columnar support near its bottom portion after either
circumferential adjustment about itself or slideable placement over
the columnar support;
[0047] FIG. 18 is perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 16
showing securement of the stiff skirt to the columnar support using
an adjustable clamp member and following placement around or over
the columnar support for concealing the adjustable jack;
[0048] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 18
showing completed placement and securement of the stiff skirt to
the columnar support;
[0049] FIG. 19a is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 16
showing slideable placement of the stiff skirt over the columnar
support for concealing the adjustable jack following secure
connection of the stiff skirt to itself using solder or other
welding means;
[0050] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing usage of the
embodiment of FIG. 12 on an upper portion of the columnar
support;
[0051] FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing usage of the
embodiment of FIG. 16 on an upper portion of the columnar
support;
[0052] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment showing
securement of the stiff skirt to the columnar support using an
alligator-type adjustable clamp member and following placement
around or over the columnar support for concealing the adjustable
jack; and
[0053] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another embodiment of FIG.
12 showing concealment of at least a portion of the stiff skirt and
securement means following securement of the stiff skirt to the
columnar support and placement around or over the columnar support
for concealing the adjustable jack.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0054] Referring now to the drawings, the present invention
concerns a columnar covering device for a jack, illustrated by way
of example in FIGS. 1-1 1. As discussed above in the Background of
the Invention, it is very important to home and building
construction and maintenance to maintain a level roof surface as
well as other surfaces. In particular, in the construction and
maintenance of log cabins and other wood homes, wood shrinkage must
be compensated for in order to maintain a level roof surface, level
deck surface, and so forth. In order to maintain the level surface,
jacks and other devices can be used, as described below, for
adjusting the columnar supports for leveling roofs and the like and
for compensating for shrinkage of the wood material. Concealment of
the jack and quick access and adjustment of the jack to level the
cabin structures is therefore of paramount importance to the
functionality, safety, and aesthetics of the cabin, home or
structure. The present invention can provide these key features and
can satisfy these needs.
[0055] It is not intended that the present invention be limited
solely to columns and wood construction nor to concealment of
jacks, rather it is intended that the scope of the present
invention also includes other structural supports, such as posts,
beams, joists and the like, other materials, such as metals,
synthetics, etc., and concealment of any item used to secure the
structural supports including jacks, blocks, other structural
members, and so forth.
[0056] As is illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, one embodiment of the
present invention discloses, a columnar covering device 10, or
apparatus, for shielding a structure supporting device 12, such as
a jack, that can be securing a columnar support 14, such as a
column, a post, a beam, a joist, and so forth. The columnar support
14 can provide structural support to a structure 16, such as the
log cabin shown in FIG. 1. Other structures, including buildings,
shops, signs, and the like are also included within the scope of
this invention.
[0057] The columnar covering device 10, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3,
comprises a first adjustable band member 18, a second adjustable
band member 20, and an adjustable shield member 22 for covering the
jack 12. In a preferred embodiment, the first adjustable band
member 18 is a strap, belt-like member, or vinyl clamp cover as it
is known in other embodiments. The clamp 18 has adjustment means 24
for wrapping (Arrow A-A in FIG. 9 and Arrow B-B in FIG. 11) the
strap 18 around the columnar support 14, shown in FIGS. 1 and 8-1
1, and then over itself to secure it to the columnar support and to
account for the variety of sizes, shapes, and dimensions of the
columnar supports, including any circular, square, and irregularly
shaped columns (i.e. knotted) and the like. In this way, the clamp
18 (and the columnar covering device 10 as a whole) can fit and
adjust to any surface dimension, shape, and texture. The adjustment
means 24 can include Velcro, adhesive, nails, screws, nuts, bolts,
rivets, and mechanical mechanisms. In addition, the strap 18 is
preferably an annular band member that has ends that can be
disposed in lapped relation to adjust and secure the strap around
the columnar support 14.
[0058] An important feature of the strap 18, described in detail
below, is that it be constructed of a flexible material that is
strong and resistant to degradation, such as from weathering
elements and the like, but that can adsorb moisture and protect the
underlying and adjacent wood members and other members. Materials
could include synthetics (i.e. soft plastics), rubberized
compounds, vinyl, cloth materials, and elastic materials. Excellent
results are attainable where a soft easily foldable cloth material
is used of any suitable type. In addition, the material could be
manufactured to look like the material of the columnar support 14
that it will attach to for blending into the structure. As the
strap 18 performs a concealing function by preferably folding
radially outwards and over itself (Arrows A-A in FIG. 9 and Arrows
B-B in FIG. 11) for reasons heretofore discussed, the material used
must allow the strap 18 to "reverse bend", or bend over upon
itself. In this way, the strap can shield the second adjustable
band member 20 underneath and protect people from injuring
themselves on it. The strap 18 can also provide a moisture
absorption barrier, if constructed from such a material, that can
prevent moisture from traveling down the columnar support 14 and
contacting the entire columnar support and the underlying floor
surfaces.
[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable shield member 22
is a skirt, shielding member, jack cover, or adjustable sleeve, as
it is known in other embodiments. The skirt 22 can be wrapped
around the strap 18 and the columnar support 14 and then overlap
itself, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 8-11, to secure it to the strap and
columnar support and to also account for the variety of sizes,
shapes, and dimensions of the columnar supports and jacks 12. The
skirt 22 can also be sized lengthwise to accommodate different gap
and jack heights to account for axial shifting (i.e. swelling,
shrinking, etc.) as the jack 12 secures the columnar support 14 and
while maintaining concealment and protection of the jack.
[0060] The skirt 22 is preferably constructed of a stiff material
that will hold its shape in any orientation (i.e. right-side up,
upside-down, sideways, or at any angle), will shield and conceal
the jack 12 from view and from weathering elements and the like, is
strong, will be resistant to degradation due to the weathering
elements and other factors, but which still allows quick access to
the concealed jack with little effort followed by easy closing of
the skirt. In addition, the skirt 22 must also be flexible so as to
allow easy entrance into the jack for leveling adjustments and the
like. Materials can also include synthetics, rubberized compounds,
paper products, stiff cloth materials, elastic materials, and so
forth. Like the strap 18, the skirt 22 could be manufactured to
look like the material of the columnar support 14 that it will
attach to so as to blend into the structure and provide a uniform
appearance. Adjustment and securement of the skirt 22 can include
skirt adjustment means 26, such as overlap upon itself, Velcro or
adhesive attachment, or mechanical mechanism.
[0061] The second adjustable band member 20 is a clamp, a screw
band clamp, or other similar clasping device as it is known in
other embodiments. The clamp 20 can be wrapped around the skirt 22,
the strap 18, and the columnar support 14, and then overlap itself,
as shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 8-11. The clamp 20 can thereby function
to secure the skirt to the strap and to the columnar support while
accounting for the variety of sizes, shapes, and dimension of the
columnar support. The clamp, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, can be
constructed of a metal, synthetic, rubberized compound, rope
material, and any other material within the scope of this
invention. A metal clamp having a clamp adjustment means 28, as
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, is preferred.
[0062] Once clamped and adjusted, the strap 18 can be folded
radially outwards and over itself (Arrows A-A in FIG. 9 and Arrows
B-B in FIG. 11), the clamp 20, the skirt 22, and at least a portion
of the columnar support 14, as shown in FIGS. 8-11. In this manner,
the clamp 20 can be hidden from view and protected and the columnar
covering device 10 can blend into the columnar support 14, or at
least provide an aesthetically pleasing addition to the columnar
support while protecting and concealing the jack 12, as illustrated
in FIG. 1.
[0063] The structure supporting device 12, such as the jack, can
include adjustable jacks, as illustrated in FIGS. 4-7. In a
preferred embodiment, the jack 12 is an adjustable jack that
comprises a base plate 30 (FIG. 6), an incremental adjustable
support mechanism 32 (FIG. 7), such as a nut and bolt system, and a
support plate 34 (FIG. 5). As shown in FIGS. 4 and 8-11, the
columnar support 14 can have a hole 35 drilled into an end 36, be
it a bottom end 38 (FIGS. 8 and 9), a top end 40 (FIGS. 10 and 11),
a side, or at any angle or orientation that the columnar support
may be angled at and to which is attached the jack 12 or other
support device. The hole 35 is preferably sized to fit the
particular incremental adjustable support mechanism 32 in such a
way as to provide a secure fit. The support plate 34 should have a
hole 42 drilled through it for passage and adjustment of the
incremental adjustable support mechanism. The base plate 30 can
also have a hole 44 at least partially drilled into it to secure
the incremental adjustable support mechanism from slippage.
[0064] An important feature of the present invention is that it can
be provided, manufactured, and sold as a kit, a jack concealing kit
for columnar supports and the like. The kit could include the jack
12, the strap 18, the clamp 20, and the skirt 22 or any permutation
of these items, including the columnar support 14. The kit could
also be part of a larger package, such as a log cabin construction
kit.
[0065] As mentioned above, the columnar covering device 10 is
intended to be placed at any orientation required by the columnar
support 14. In particular, the columnar covering device 10 can be
positioned at both or either of the bottom end 38 (FIGS. 8 and 9)
or the top end 40 (FIGS. 10 and 11) of the columnar support 14 as
needed or by design. When positioned at the bottom end 38, the
strap 18 can be folded downwards (Arrows A-A in FIG. 9) to cover
itself, the clamp 20, the skirt 22, and at least a portion of the
columnar support 14. When positioned at the top end 40, the strap
18 can be folded upwards (Arrows B-B in FIG. 11) to cover itself,
the clamp 20, the skirt 22, and at least a portion of the columnar
support 14. Therefore, the materials chosen for the strap and the
skirt should be stiff enough to hold their form and to conceal the
jack 12 no matter what the directional orientation is.
[0066] In another embodiment of the present invention shown in
FIGS. 12-23, a jack concealing structure 110 is provided for
concealing the adjustable jack 12, jack, and the like (referred to
as an adjustable jack, as discussed above, although even
replacement of a non adjustable device is intended to be within the
scope of the present invention) that is supporting and securing the
columnar support 14 of a structure 16, such as the cabin-type
structure shown in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the jack concealing
structure 110 comprises a stiff skirt 112 (also known as an
adjustable shield member) that can be circumferentially adjusted
about itself for adjustment about or around the columnar support 14
that is supported by the adjustable jack 12, as illustrated in
FIGS. 12-23. The stiff skirt 112 is preferably constructed of a
malleable material, such as soft copper, that will conform around
and to the columnar support and its various shapes. The stiffness
of the material also protects the underlying jack, holds its shape
in any orientation, and provides many, if not all of the features
of the adjustable shield member 22 discussed above, in addition to
added rigidity and weather resistance.
[0067] In a manner similar to the adjustable shield member 22, the
stiff skirt 112 is designed for being wrapped around the columnar
support, as shown in FIGS. 12-23 by being wrapped about and secured
to itself. In various embodiments, the stiff skirt can then be
secured to itself by a variety of means, some providing easier
access than others to the adjustable jack 12 while installed to the
columnar support 14. For example, the stiff skirt can be
circumferentially adjusted to itself by inserting a tab structure
114 into a folded edge 116 (FIGS. 12 and 13) whereby an edge of the
stiff skirt is folded inside upon itself, arrow A, to create an
opening or seam for receiving the tab structure 116 when the stiff
skirt is closed in upon itself. In other examples, nails, screws,
machine screws and nuts and the like (collectively identified as
118 in FIGS. 12a and 16) and solder and welds (collectively
identified as 120 in FIGS. 16a and 19a) can be used for securing
the stiff skirt 112 to itself. The stiff skirt can also be sized
(i.e. lengthwise) as needed to cover the space required for the
jack 12.
[0068] In practice, usage of the nails, screws, and the like 118
provide easier in-use access to the adjustable jack 12 than do the
solder and weld connections 120 (FIG. 16a) which provide a more
constant bond. Usage of the parts 118 assist in a more immediate
access to the jack by opening the stiff skirt to view and work with
the jack therein. The constant bond of the stiff skirt 112 enables
the stiff skirt to be placed about the columnar support 14 by
slidable placement like a sleeve 121 over the bottom end 38 or the
top end 40 as shown in FIGS. 14, 15, 17, and 19a-21, during
installation and construction of the columnar support. Usage of the
nails, screws, and the like 118, on the other hand, allow the user
to install the jack concealing structure 110 after the jack and
columnar support have been installed and before, during, or after
adjustment of the same and as needed, as illustrated in FIGS. 12a
and 16.
[0069] Moreover, the stiff skirt 112 can have a number of different
shapes and sizes or can be made to fit a number of different shaped
columnar supports 14. The two most common shapes are square 122
(FIGS. 12-15, and 20) and circular 124 (FIGS. 16-19a and 21).
Unlike the tab structure 114 and the folded edge 116 (FIGS. 12 and
13) securement mechanism shown with the square shape 122, the
circular shape 124 has free floating opposite ends 125 which are
can be circumferentially adjusted by usage of the various means 118
and 120 discussed above, including creation of the sleeve 121 for
slidable placement over the columnar support 14. To this end, the
circular-shaped stiff skirt can require temporary use of an
adjustable clamp member 126 (or cinching member as it is known in
other embodiments) for temporarily holding the stiff skirt in
circumferential adjustment about itself in preparation for
adjustment to itself and adjustment and/or securement to the
columnar support 14, as illustrated in FIG. 18. For example, if the
stiff skirt 112 is to be placed near the top end 40 of the columnar
support (FIG. 21), then the adjustable clamp member 126 will hold
the stiff skirt over the adjustable jack 12 and to the columnar
support 14 while the user secures the stiff skirt in that location.
Once secured, the adjustable clamp member 126 can be removed (FIG.
19) and placed on another stiff skirt and columnar support and the
process repeated. Various types of adjustable clamp members 126 are
contemplated including, a screw band clamp, an alligator clip and
strap (FIG. 22), a rope, a synthetic clamp, and so forth.
[0070] In terms of securement to the columnar support 14 itself,
the jack concealing structure 110 also comprises securement means
128, such as nails, screws, machine screws and nuts, solder, and
welds. The securement means can be used to secure the stiff skirt
to the columnar support 14 when it is deemed necessary, such as
when the stiff skirt is placed near the bottom end 38 (FIGS. 15,
18, and 19) or up near the top end 40 of the columnar support
(FIGS. 20 and 21). In FIG. 15, lapped edges of the skirt 112 can be
secured by welds or other welding means in the same manner shown in
FIG. 1 6a where lapped skirt edges 125 are secured together by
welds 120. In some cases, securement means may not be needed, in
which case, a stiff skirt, such as that shown in FIGS. 15 and 19a,
can be held in place due to its own securement about itself or
because it is resting on a floor surface or the like.
[0071] In addition, the jack concealing structure 110 can combine
with the jack 12 to form a jack concealing kit or can be combined
with the columnar support 14, and/or the structure 16.
[0072] Moreover, FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of the
present invention wherein the jack concealing structure 110
includes the jack, the stiff skirt 112, securement means 128, and a
flexible skirt 129, such as discussed above in previous
embodiments, that can fold upon itself in a secure fashion (i.e.
overlapped with velcro or the like). In this embodiment, the
addition of the flexible skirt, or fabric wrap, is included for
covering the securement means and for filling any gaps or spaces
that are inherent between the stiff skirt and the columnar support
14. This embodiment finds particular usage with the square shaped
columnar supports and square-shaped stiff skirts.
[0073] Hence, the columnar covering device 10 and the jack
concealing structure 110 can each provide an apparatus and means
for concealing columnar supporting devices, such as the jack 12.
The adjustability of the individual elements and parts discussed
above allow the user to adjust, remove, replace, etc. each part to
address each columnar support 14 and its movement, dimensions,
shapes, and physical characteristics. These adjustments can be made
quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively and can be made during
the life of the columnar support 14 as the material ages, shrinks,
swells, and so forth or if replacement columnar supports have
different length measurements. The simplicity of the device should
also result in lower manufacture costs.
[0074] Finally, in usage the present invention provides various
methods. One method is a method of installing a jack concealing kit
10 for a columnar support 14, as shown in FIGS. 8-11. The method
comprises the acts of first, providing a jack 12 and then attaching
the jack to the columnar support 14 and adjusting the jack for
securing the columnar support. The next act is wrapping an
adjustable, flexible strap 18 about the secured columnar support 14
and adjusting the adjustable, flexible strap 18 upon itself for
securing the adjustable, flexible strap 18 to the secured columnar
support 14. What can follow is wrapping an adjustable, stiff skirt
22 about the secured adjustable, flexible strap 18 and the secured
columnar support 14 and adjusting and securing the adjustable,
stiff skirt 22 to the secured adjustable, flexible strap and the
secured columnar support.
[0075] The next act is covering the attached jack 12 with the
secured adjustable, stiff skirt 22 and concealing the attached jack
from view followed by mounting, adjusting, and securing a
mechanically adjustable clamp 20 around and over the secured
adjustable, flexible strap 18, the secured adjustable, stiff skirt
22, and the secured columnar support 14 for maintaining concealment
of the attached jack 12. Finally, the installation is completed by
folding the secured adjustable, flexible strap 18 over the secured
adjustable, stiff skirt 22, or at least a part of it, and over the
secured mechanically adjustable clamp 20 for concealing the secured
adjustable, stiff skirt 22 and the secured mechanically adjustable
clamp 20. In this way the present invention can protect the clamp
20 and the columnar support from moisture and users or other
people, such as kids, from sharp edges on the clamp 20. Moreover,
the strap 18 can conform to a variety of columnar support surfaces,
be they circular, square, irregular, etc. so that the device 10 can
be universally used.
[0076] As discussed above, this installation can be performed
right-side up (FIG. 8 and 9), upside-down (FIGS. 10 and 11) or at
any orientation. The installation is quick and easy and if
adjustments or removal are needed to the jack 12 or columnar
support 14, then the a jack concealing kit 10 can be uninstalled
quickly and easily and can be reused later on the same or any other
columnar support 14. To uninstall the kit 10, the procedure can
include the following acts: unfolding the secured adjustable,
flexible strap 18, loosening and removing the mechanically
adjustable clamp 20, uncovering the attached jack 12, unwrapping
and removing the adjustable, stiff skirt 22, unwrapping and
removing the adjustable, flexible strap 18, and loosening and
detaching the jack 12 from the columnar support 14.
[0077] Moreover, the acts discussed above are preferably performed
sequentially as disclosed, although the acts can be performed in
any order that satisfies the scope and intent of the invention. For
example, the skirt 22 could be placed on the columnar support 14
before the strap 18 and then both could be bound by the clamp 20
before the strap is folded over itself and the other parts.
[0078] Another method is illustrated in FIGS. 16-19, 21 and 22 is a
method of installing a jack concealing device that comprises the
acts of providing the jack 12, the columnar support 14, and the
jack concealing device 110 and then installing and securing the
jack to the columnar support. The next act is wrapping the jack
concealing device around the jack and the columnar support followed
by wrapping the jack concealing device about itself. The following
act is wrapping a tie-down strap 126 around the wrapped jack
concealing device and then adjusting and securing the wrapped
tie-down strap for securing the wrapped jack concealing device to
the columnar support. Securement using securement means 128 can
follow thereafter.
[0079] Another method of installing a jack concealing device,
illustrated in FIGS. 14, 15, 17, and 19a-21, comprises the acts of
providing the jack 12, the columnar support 14, and the jack
concealing device 110 followed by wrapping and securing the jack
concealing device about itself and sliding the secured jack
concealing device over the columnar support, as a sleeve 121. The
next act is installing and securing the jack to the columnar
support and then sliding the secured jack concealing device over
the jack.
[0080] Finally, a method of compensating for columnar shrinkage is
illustrated in FIGS. 12-23 and comprises the acts of providing the
jack 12 for supporting the columnar support 14 and providing the
jack concealing device 110 wrapped around the jack and secured to
the columnar support for concealing the jack. The next act is
removing the jack concealing device for exposing the jack and then
adjusting the jack and the columnar support as required to
compensate for shrinkage and other typical factors. Finally, the
acts conclude with re-wrapping and re-securing the jack concealing
device about the jack and to the columnar support.
[0081] In construction and in usage the present invention therefore
provides a columnar covering device for a jack that has universal
application with varying columnar construction sizes, shapes, and
lengths, requires few working parts, reduces the likelihood of
material waste, accommodates near immediate access for jack and
material adjustments, due to such causes as shrinkage and swelling,
and is easy to use and manufacture.
[0082] As various possible embodiments may be made in the above
invention for use for different purposes and as various changes
might be made in the embodiments and methods above set forth, it is
understood that all of the above matters here set forth or shown in
the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative and
not in a limiting sense.
* * * * *