GRATING HAVING BEARING BARS WITH UNIQUE CROSS SECTION

Abstract

A grating including a bar assembly having bearing bars with a unique cross section connected to one another with crossbars. The bearing bars are generally hourglass-shaped in cross section and include a first region, a second region, and a third region interposed therebetween. The first and second regions flare outwardly away from opposite ends of the third region. The ends of the first and second regions are of a first width and the third region is of a smaller second width. First and second side sections of the third region connect to each of the first and second regions at an angle of greater than 90 degrees. Channels for the crossbars are defined in a first end of the first region of the bearing bar or form a hole extending from a first side section to a second side section of the third region of the bearing bar.

Claims

1. A grating comprising: a frame; a bar assembly operatively engaged with the frame; wherein the bar assembly comprises: a plurality of bearing bars; a plurality of crossbars, wherein the plurality of crossbars is oriented orthogonal to the plurality of bearing bars; wherein each bearing bar of the plurality of bearing bars comprises: a rolled member having: a first region and a second region located opposite one another; a third region extending between the first region and the second region; a first corner and a second corner provided where the first region transitions to the third region; a third corner and a fourth corner provided where the second region transitions to the third region; and wherein the first corner, the second corner, the third corner, and the fourth corner are greater than 90 degrees.

2. The grating according to claim 1, wherein the rolled member is symmetrical about a midline located equidistant between a first end of the first region and a second end of the second region.

3. The grating according to claim 1, wherein the first region and the second region are mirror images of one another.

4. The grating according to claim 1, wherein the first region and the second region each comprises: an end; a first side section and a second side section opposite one another and extending outwardly from opposite sides of the end; and a third side section and a fourth side section opposite one another and extending outwardly at an angle from a respective one of the first side section and the second side section.

5. The grating according to claim 4, wherein the angle is less than ninety degrees.

6. The grating according to claim 4, wherein the first side section and the second side section are substantially equal in length with one another, and wherein the third side section and the fourth side section are substantially equal in length with one another.

7. The grating according to claim 4, wherein the first side section and the second side section are substantially perpendicular to the end.

8. The grating according to claim 1, wherein the third region comprises: a first side section and a second side section opposite one another and extending between the first region and the second region; and wherein the first side section and the second side section of the third region are substantially parallel and equal in length to one another.

9. The grating according to claim 1, wherein: an end of the first region and an end of the second region are of a first width; wherein the first width is measured between a first side section and a second side section of the respective first region and second region; wherein the third region is of a second width measured between a first side section and a second side section of the third region; and wherein the second width is smaller than the first width.

10. The grating according to claim 1, further comprising at least one channel defined in the rolled member, wherein each of the at least one channel receives a crossbar of the plurality of crossbars therein.

11. The grating according to claim 10, wherein the at least one channel is defined in a first end of the first region and extends for a distance inwardly into the first region and towards the second region.

12. The grating according to claim 10, wherein the at least one channel extends from a first side section of the first region through to a second side section of the first region.

13. The grating according to claim 10, wherein the at least one channel comprises a hole extending from a first side section of the third region to a second side section of the third region.

14. The grating according to claim 10, wherein the at least one channel is a hole located substantially equidistant between an end of the first region and an end of the second region.

15. The grating according to claim 11, wherein an uppermost section of the crossbar extends outwardly beyond a first end of the first region of the bearing bar.

16. A grating comprising: a frame; a bar assembly operatively engaged with the frame; wherein the bar assembly comprises: a plurality of bearing bars; a plurality of crossbars, wherein the plurality of crossbars is oriented orthogonal to the plurality of bearing bars; wherein each bearing bar of the plurality of bearing bars comprises: a rolled member having a first end and a second end opposite one another and spaced a distance apart substantially equal to a first length; a third region extending between the first end and the second end; wherein the first end and the second end are substantially equal in width to one another and are of a first width; wherein the third region is spaced substantially equidistant from the first end and the second end; wherein the third region is of a second width, and the second width is less than the first width; wherein the third region is connected to the first end via a side section which is oriented at an angle of more than 90 degrees relative to the third region; and wherein the third region is connected to the second end via another side section that is oriented at an angle of more than 90 degrees relative to the third region.

17. The grating according to claim 16, further comprising: a first side and a second side opposite and substantially equal in length to one another and extending between the first end and the third region; and a third side and a fourth side opposite and substantially equal in length to one another and extending between the second end and the third region.

18. The grating according to claim 16, further comprising a plurality of channels defined in the rolled member, wherein each crossbar of the plurality of crossbars is received within a channel of the plurality of channels.

19. The grating according to claim 18, wherein the channel is defined in the first end.

20. The grating according to claim 18, wherein the channel comprises a hole extending from a first side section of the third region to a second side section of the third region.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Sample embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the following description, are shown in the drawings, and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

[0015] FIG. 1 is front, left, top isometric perspective view of a grating installed within a surface such as a sidewalk or road, wherein the grating includes a bar assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2 is an enlarged front, left, top isometric perspective view of a portion of a first embodiment of the bar assembly of the grating shown in FIG. 1, where the portion of the bar assembly includes a plurality of bearing bars and a plurality of crossbars which are operatively engaged with one another to form a grid.

[0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded front, left top isometric perspective view of the portion of the bar assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the portion of the bar assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a first side elevation view of the portion of the bar assembly shown in FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a second side elevation view of the portion of the bar assembly with one crossbar removed therefrom.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a cross section of the bar assembly taken along and looking in the direction of line 7-7 of FIG. 2.

[0022] FIG. 8A is a cross section of a first example of a bearing bar used in the first embodiment of the bar assembly in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, where the bearing bar is shown in isolation.

[0023] FIG. 8B is a cross section of a second example of a bearing bar used in the first embodiment of the bar assembly in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, where the bearing bar is shown in isolation.

[0024] FIG. 8C is a cross section of a third example of a bearing bar used in the first embodiment of the bar assembly in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, where the bearing bar is shown in isolation.

[0025] FIG. 9A is a first example of a PRIOR ART industry standard bearing bar shown in isolation.

[0026] FIG. 9B is a second example of a PRIOR ART industry standard bearing bar shown in isolation.

[0027] FIG. 9C is a third example of a PRIOR ART industry standard bearing bar shown in isolation.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a front, left, top isometric perspective view of a second embodiment of a portion of a bar assembly for use in a grating in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0029] Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] FIG. 1 shows a sidewalk (or road) S into which a grating 1 has been installed. In accordance with the present disclosure the grating 1 comprises a frame 2 and a bar assembly 3. The bar assembly 3 is installed within the frame 2 and will be discussed in detail later herein.

[0031] The frame 2 includes a first frame member 2A, a second frame member 2B, a third frame member 2C, and a fourth frame member 2D. First frame member 2A and third frame member 2C are opposed to one another and are arranged parallel to one another. First frame member 2A and third frame member 2C are spaced apart a first distance D1. Second frame member 2B and fourth frame member 2D are opposed to one another and are arranged parallel to one another. Second frame member 2B and fourth frame member 2D are spaced apart a second distance D2. Each of the first frame member 2A, second frame member 2B, third frame member 2C, and fourth frame member 2D comprises a rolled metal component which is welded or otherwise secured at each end to an end of an adjacent frame member to form an integral component. The configuration of each frame member 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D may vary depending on the particular application and location for grating 1.

[0032] It will be understood that the overall heights of the first frame member 2A, second frame member 2B, third frame member 2C, and fourth frame member 2D will vary based on the desired overall size of grating 1. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, first frame member 2A and third frame member 2C will be of the same height as one another and second frame member 2B and fourth frame member 2D will be of the same height as one another.

[0033] Grating 1 as illustrated in FIG. 1 is generally rectangular in shape but it will be understood that in other embodiments, grating 1 may, alternatively be square in shape or of any other desired shaped. The frame 2 of grating 1 is permanently installed into sidewalk or road S with a compound material CM. The compound material CM may be any suitable material used to construct sidewalk or road S. Suitable materials for use as the compound material CM include concrete and asphalt. It should be understood, however, that any compound material, which dries and hardens, may be used instead of concrete or asphalt. The compound material CM may be any concrete or similar material that can achieve the strength necessary for pedestrians and/or vehicles to move across the installed grating 1. Additionally, while the grating 1 depicted herein is illustrated as installed within sidewalk or road W, the grating 1 may be utilized in any application where there is a need for a grating to be permanently installed within a compound material.

[0034] FIGS. 2 through 7 show an enlarged portion of the bar assembly 3 utilized in grating 1. Bar assembly 3 comprises a plurality of rolled bearing bars 10 and a plurality of rolled crossbars 11 engaged with bearing bars 10. Bearing bars 10 are parallel to one another and laterally spaced apart from one another. Crossbars 11 are arranged orthogonal to bearing bars 10, i.e., at ninety degrees relative thereto. Crossbars 11 are furthermore arranged parallel to one another and are laterally spaced apart from one another. Bearing bars 10 and crossbars 11 when engaged with one another form a grid pattern. Because of the lateral spacing between adjacent bearing bars 10 and the lateral spacing between adjacent crossbars 11, bar assembly 3 defines a plurality of apertures (not numbered) therein.

[0035] In grating 1, bearing bars 10 extend between first frame member 2A and third frame member 2C and crossbars 11 extend between second frame member 2B and fourth frame member 2D. The ends of bearing bars 10 may be welded to first frame member 2A and third frame member 2C while the ends of crossbars 11 may be welded to second frame member 2B and fourth frame member 2D.

[0036] It will be understood that grating 1 may include any number of bearing bars 10 and crossbars 11. It will further be understood that each bearing bar 10 of the plurality of bearing bars 10 in grating 1 is substantially identical in structure and function. Similarly, each crossbar 11 of the plurality of crossbars 11 of grating 1 is substantially identical in structure and function. Consequently, the following descriptions of bearing bar 10 and crossbar 11 applies equally to all other respective bearing bars 10 and crossbars 11.

[0037] Crossbars 11 are rolled metal members that may be of any desired configuration. As illustrated in the attached drawings, the crossbars 11 utilized in grating 1 may comprise rolled hot rolled twisted members made of suitable materials such as aluminum, carbon steel etc. It will be understood, however, that any other type or configuration of crossbar 11 may be utilized in bar assembly 3.

[0038] Referring still to FIGS. 2 through 7, bearing bar 10 comprises a rolled member having a first end 10a and an opposed second end 10b. As illustrated in the attached drawings, bearing bars 10 utilized in grating 1 may comprise rolled metal members made of suitable materials such as aluminum, carbon steel etc. Bearing bar 10, as best seen in FIG. 4 is configured to have a cross section that is generally of an hourglass shape. As such, bearing bar 10 includes a first region 12 and a second region 14 which are arranged as mirror images of one another with a third region 16 extending between the first region 12 and the second region 14. Each of the first region 12 and the second region 14 is of a wider configuration than is the third region 16. This arrangement gives the bearing bar 10 the general hourglass-shaped cross section. It should be understood that the hourglass-shaped cross section of bearing bar 10 is substantially constant from first end 10a of bearing bar 10 to the second end 10b thereof, except for particular areas of bearing bar 10 which are configured to receive crossbars 11 therein. This will be described later herein.

[0039] FIGS. 4 to 7 show that first region 12 includes a first end 12a and second region 14 includes a second end 14a. Bearing bar 10 is symmetrical about a midline ML located equidistant between a first end 12a of first region 12 and a second end 14a of the second region 14. Bearing bar 10 is of a first height measured between first end 12a and second end 14a, with the first height being indicated in FIG. 4 by the reference character H1. First region 12 further includes a first side section 12b, a second side section 12c, a third side section 12d, and a fourth side section 12e. First side section 12b and third side section 12d comprise a first side of the first region 12, wherein the first side extends between the first end 12a and third region 16. Second side section 12c and fourth side section 12e comprise a second side of the first region 12 that extends between the first end 12a and third region 16. First side section 12b and second side section 12c are arranged opposite and substantially parallel to one another. First side section 12b and second side section 12c are continuous with and extend outwardly from opposite sides of the first end 12a and towards the third region 16 and second region 14. The first side section 12b and the second side section 12c are oriented substantially perpendicular to first end 12a. First side section 12b and second side section 12c are substantially equal in height to one another, with the height being indicated as second height H2 in FIG. 4. First end 12a of first region 12 is of a first width W1 (FIG. 4) where the first width W1 is measured from first side section 12b to second side section 12c. First width W1 comprises the maximum width of bearing bar 10.

[0040] Third side section 12d and fourth side section 12e of first region 12 are arranged opposite to one another. The third side section 12d is continuous with first side section 12b and extends outwardly and downwardly at a first angle a relative to first side section 12b. The fourth side section 12e is continuous with the second side section 12c and extends outwardly and downwardly at a second angle p relative to second side section 12c. Third side section 12d and fourth side section 12e are substantially equal in height to one another. The first angle a and second angle p are less than 90 degrees. Additionally, first angle a and second angle p are substantially equal to one another. Third side section 12d and fourth side section 12e are angled relative to the respective one of the first side section 12b and second side section 12c, first region 12 of bearing bar 10. The portion of first region 12 between third side section 12d and fourth section 12e and proximate third region 16 therefore tapers in width moving in a direction away from first end 12a and towards third region 16.

[0041] Still referring to FIGS. 2 through 7 and as mentioned earlier herein, second region 14 is arranged on bearing bar 10 as a mirror image of the first region 12. Second region 14 includes a second end 14a which is arranged on bearing bar 10 opposite and parallel to first end 12a of the first region 12. Second region 14 includes a first side section 14b, a second side section 14c, and a third side section 14d, and a fourth side section 14e. First side section 14b and third side section 14d comprise a third side of the second region 14, wherein the third side extends between the second end 14a and third region 16. Second side section 14c and fourth side section 14e comprise a fourth side of the second region 14 that extends between the second end 14a and third region 16. First side section 14b and second side section 14c are located opposite and substantially parallel to one another. Additionally, first side section 14b of second region 14 is parallel to first side section 12b of first region 12, and second side section 14c of second region 14 is parallel to second side section 12c of first region 12. First side section 14b and second side section 14c are continuous with and extend outwardly from opposite sides of the second end 14a and towards the first region 12. First side section 14b and second side section 14c are substantially perpendicular to second end 14a. First side section 14b and second side section 14c are furthermore substantially equal in height to one another and are additionally of a height substantially equal to the second height H2 of the first region 12. Second end 14a is also substantially equal in width to the first end 12a of first region. First end 12a is therefore of the first width W1 which is the maximum width of the bearing bar 10.

[0042] Second region 14 also includes a third side section 14d and a fourth side section 14e arranged opposite to one another. Third side section 14d is continuous with first side section 14b and extends outwardly therefrom at a third angle relative to first side section 14b. Fourth side section 14e is continuous with second side section 14c and extends outwardly therefrom at a fourth angle relative to second side section 14c. Third angle and fourth angle are less than 90 degrees and are substantially equal to first angle and second angle . Third side section 14d and fourth side section 14e are substantially equal in height and the height thereof is substantially equal in magnitude to third side section 12d and fourth side section 12e.

[0043] As indicated earlier herein, third region 16 is continuous with and extends between first region 12 and second region 14. Third region 16 generally includes a first side section 16a and a second side section 16b arranged opposite and substantially parallel to one another. First side section 16a is continuous with third side section 12d and third side section 14d. Second side section 16b is continuous with fourth side section 12e and fourth side section 14e. The third region 16 defines a first corner 16c at the junction between third side section 12d and the first side section 16a. The third region 16 defines a second corner 16d at the junction between fourth side section 12e and the second side section 16b. The third region 16 defines a third corner 16e at the junction between third side section 14d and the first side section 16a. The third region 16 defines a fourth corner 16f at the junction between fourth side section 14e and the second side section 16b.

[0044] First side section 16a and second side section 16b are oriented substantially parallel to first side sections 12b, 14b and second side sections 12c, 14c. In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a first corner 16c is defined where first region 12 transitions to third region 16. In particular, first corner 16c is defined between an outer surface of third side section 12d and an outer surface of first side section 16a. Additionally, a second corner 16d is provided where the first region 12 transitions to the third region 16. In particular, second corner 16d is defined between an outer surface of fourth side section 12e and an outer surface of second side section 16b. Similarly, a third corner 16e and a fourth corner 16f are defined where second region 14 transitions to third region 16. In particular, third corner 16e is defined between an outer surface of third side section 14d and an outer surface of first side section 16a. Fourth corner 16f is defined between an outer surface of fourth side section 12e and an outer surface of second side section 16b. In accordance with a further aspect of the disclosure, each of first corner 16c, second corner 16d, third corner 16e, and fourth corner 16f is greater than 90 degrees. In other words, third side sections 12d, 14d are oriented at greater than ninety degrees relative to first side section 16a. Additionally, fourth side sections 12e, 14e are oriented at greater than ninety degrees relative to second side section 16b.

[0045] First side section 16a and second side section 16b are substantially equal in height to one another and are of a third height H3 (FIG. 4) measured between the corners 16c and 16e (or between the corners 16d and 16f). Third region 16 is of a second width W2 measured between first side section 16a and second side section 16b. The second width W2 of third region 16 is substantially constant between first region 12 and second region 14. As indicated earlier herein the first region 12 and second region 14 are of a maximum first width W1 from the associate first end 12a and second end 14a up to where the associated third and fourth side sections extend outwardly from the associated first and second side sections. The portions of each of first region 12 and second region 14 that include the third and fourth side sections 12d, 12e and 14c, 14d taper in width from the maximum first width W1 to the second width W2 where the first region 12 and second region 14 meet third region 16.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 3, the bearing bar 10 further defines one or more channels 20 therein with each channel being configured to receive one of the crossbars 11 therein. Each channel 20 extends from an opening defined in first side section 12b of first region 12 to an opening defined in second side section 12c of first region 12. Channel 20 further includes an opening defined in first end 12a of first region 12 and extends for a distance downwardly from first end 12a and towards second end 14a. In one embodiment, channels 20 are of a depth that is generally less than H2. FIG. 3 shows the channels 20 are substantially square or rectangular in configuration. Each crossbar 11 may positioned for installation in channel 20 by orienting the cross-bar at ninety degrees to a longitudinal axis of bearing bar 10 (where the longitudinal axis extends from first end 10a to second end 10b), and then lowering the crossbar 11 into the channel 20 through the opening defined in first end 12a. In other instances, one or the other of the free ends of the crossbar 11 may be inserted through the aligned openings in first side section 12b and second side section 12c. Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, once each crossbar 11 is received within an associated channel 20; a portion of the crossbar 11 may project for a small distance beyond first end 12a of first region 12. Crossbars 11 may be welded to bearing bars 10 or may be press-fitted therein or may be secured by any known means to bearing bars 10.

[0047] It should be understood that instead of channels 20 being substantially square or rectangular in cross section as illustrated in the attached figures, the channels may be of cross sectional shape, design, or size necessary to allow a crossbar 11 of any complementary or desired cross-sectional shape to be received within channel 20.

[0048] FIGS. 8A to 8C show a number of different examples of a bearing bar used in the first embodiment of the portion of the bar assembly illustrated in FIG. 1-7. It should be understood that the set of illustrated examples is not exhaustive, i.e., configurations of the bearing bar used in the first embodiment bar assembly may be different from the examples illustrated in FIGS. 8A to 8C.

[0049] FIG. 8A shows a first example of the bearing bar of bar assembly, generally indicated as bearing bar 10A. Bearing bar 10A is identical in all respects to bearing bar 10. In this first embodiment, the first height H1 defined as the distance between the first end 12a and second end 14a is equal to about 1.0550-1.0700 inches. More specifically, the first height H1 is equal to about 1.0550-1.065 inches. Even more specifically, first height H1 is equal to about 1.0550-1.060 inches. Most specifically, first height H1 is equal to 1.0550 inches. In bearing bar 10A the second height H2, defined as the height of the first side section 12b and second side section 12c of first region 12, and the first side section 14b and second side section 14c of second region 14, where height H2 is equal to about 0.075-0.175 inches. More specifically, second height H2 is equal to about 0.09-0.16 inches. Even more specifically, second height H2 is equal to about 0.1-0.15 inches. Most specifically, second height H2 is equal to about 0.125 inches. bearing bar 10A also includes a third height H3 defined as a height of first side section 16a and second side section 16b from first corner 16c to third corner 16e, and from second corner 16d to fourth corner 16e. Third height H3 is equal to the about 0.295-0.335 inches. More specifically, third height H3 is equal to about 0.3-0.33 inches. Even more specifically, third height H3 is equal to about 0.31-0.32 inches. Most specifically, third height H3 is equal to 0.315 inches.

[0050] Bar 10A has a first width W1 defined as the width of first end 12a measured between first side section 12b and second side section 12c; and the width of second end 14a measured between first side section 14b and second side section 14c. Width W1 is equal to about 0.13-0.23 inches. More specifically, first width W1 is equal to about 0.15-0.21 inches. Even more specifically, first width W1 is equal to about 0.17-0.19. Most specifically, first width W1 is equal to 0.1838 inches. Finally, in this first example, bearing bar 10A, second width W2, defined as the distance between the first side section 16a and the second side section 16b, is equal to the about 0.05-0.075 inches. More specifically, second width W2 is equal to about 0.055-0.07 inches. Even more specifically, second width W2 is equal to about 0.06-0.065 inches. Most specifically, second width W2 is equal to 0.0625 inches.

[0051] Bar 10A has a first angle a defined as the angle between the first side section 12b and third side section 12d of the first region 12. First angle a is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, first angle a is equal to 12 degrees. Bar 10A has a second angle p defined as the angle between the second side section 12c and fourth side section 12e of the first region 12. Second angle p is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, second angle p is equal to 12 degrees. Bar 10A has a third angle A defined as the angle between the first side section 14b and third side section 14d of the second region 14. Third angle A is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, third angle A is equal to 12 degrees. Bar 10A has a fourth angle 0 defined as the angle between the second side section 14c and fourth side section 14e of the second region 14. Fourth angle 0 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, fourth angle 0 is equal to 12 degrees.

[0052] Bar 10A has a cross section having a first area equal to from about 0.1161 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.1752 inches.sup.2. Bar 10A has a first area moment of inertia equal to at least 0.0154 inches.sup.4. (The area moment of inertia is an indicator of the stiffness of a bar related to or defined by the cross sectional shape of that bar. In other words, the area moment of inertia is a measurement of the resistance of a cross section to bending due to its shape.). Bar 10A has a first section modulus equal to at least 0.0292 inches.sup.3. (Section modulus is a measurement of the area moment of inertia of the bar divided by the maximum distance measured from a centroid of the cross section of the bar to an outermost edge of the bar.) Bar 10A has a first weight equal to from about 0.3944 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.5951 pounds per linear foot. More specifically, the first weight of bar 10A is equal to from about 0.3944 pounds per linear foot to about 0.5 pounds per linear foot. Even more specifically, the first weight of bar 10A is equal to from about 0.3944 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.4 pounds per linear foot. Most specifically, the first weight of bar 10A is equal to about 0.3944 pounds per linear foot.

[0053] FIG. 8B shows a second embodiment of the bearing bar, generally indicated as bearing bar 10B. Bearing bar 10B is substantially similar in shape to bearing bar 10A and is identical in function to bearing bar 10A. Bearing bar 10B differs from bearing bar 10A only in the size of the various heights and widths of the bearing bar. bearing bar 10B has a fourth height H4, defined as the distance between the first end 12a and the second end 14a thereof, which is equal to about 1.1-1.5 inches. More specifically, the fourth height H4 is equal to about 1.2-1.4 inches. Even more specifically, fourth height H4 is equal to about 1.3-1.45. Most specifically, fourth height H4 is equal to 1.305 inches. bearing bar 10B has a fifth height H5, defined as the height of the first side section 12b and second side section 12c of first region 12, and the first side section 14b and second side section 14c of second region 14, where height H5 is equal to about 0.075-0.175 inches. More specifically, fifth height H5 is equal to about 0.09-0.16 inches. Even more specifically, fifth height H5 is equal to about 0.1-0.15 inches. Most specifically, fifth height H5 is equal to about 0.125 inches. bearing bar 10B further has a sixth height H6 defined as the height of first side section 16a and second side section 16b measured from first corner 16c to third corner 16e, and from second corner 16d to fourth corner 16e, and this sixth height H6 is equal to the about 0.31-0.37 inches. More specifically, sixth height H6 is equal to about 0.32-0.36 inches. Even more specifically, sixth height H6 is equal to about 0.33-0.35 inches. Most specifically, sixth height H6 is equal to 0.34 inches.

[0054] Bar 10B has a third width W3 defined as the width of first end 12a of first region 12 from first side section 12b to second side section 12c, and of second end 14a measured between first side section 14b to second side section 14c, where the third width W3 is equal to the about 0.13-0.23 inches. More specifically, third width W3 is equal to about 0.15-0.21 inches. Even more specifically, third width W3 is equal to about 0.17-0.19 inches. Most specifically, third width W3 is equal to 0.1838 inches. Finally, bearing bar 10B has a fourth width W4 defined as the distance between the first side section 16a and the second side section 16b of third region 16. Fourth width W4 is equal to about 0.065-0.095 inches. More specifically, fourth width W4 is equal to about 0.07-0.085 inches. Even more specifically, fourth width W4 is equal to about 0.075-0.080 inches. Most specifically, fourth width W4 is equal to 0.0781 inches.

[0055] Bar 10B has a fifth angle 1 defined as the angle between the first side section 12b and third side section 12d of the first region 12. Fifth angle 1 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, fifth angle 1 is equal to 8 degrees. Bar 10B has a sixth angle 1 defined as the angle between the second side section 12c and fourth side section 12e of the first region 12. Sixth angle 1 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, sixth angle 1 is equal to 8 degrees. Bar 10B has a seventh angle 1 defined as the angle between the first side section 14b and third side section 14d of the second region 14. Seventh angle 1 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, seventh angle 1 is equal to 8 degrees. Bar 10B has an eighth angle 61 defined as the angle between the second side section 14c and fourth side section 14e of the second region 14. Eighth angle 61 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, eighth angle 61 is equal to 8 degrees.

[0056] Bar 10B has a cross section of a second area equal to from about 0.1595 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.2136 inches.sup.2. Bar 10B has a second area moment of inertia equal to at least 0.0303 inches.sup.4. Bar 10B has a second section modulus equal to at least 0.046 inches.sup.3. Bar 10B has a second weight equal to from about 0.5417 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.7255 pounds per linear foot. More specifically, the second weight of bar 10B is equal to from about 0.5417 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.65 pounds per linear foot. Even more specifically, the second weight of bar 10B is equal to from about 0.5417 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.6 pounds per linear foot. Most specifically, the second weight of bar 10B is equal to about 0.5417 pounds per linear foot.

[0057] FIG. 8C shows a third example of the bearing bar of the first embodiment bar assembly, generally indicated as bearing bar 10C. Bearing bar 10C is substantially similar in shape to bearing bar 10A and is identical in function relative to bearing bar 10A. The various widths and heights of the components of bearing bar 10C differ only in size relative to the widths and heights of the components of bearing bar 10A. Bearing bar 10C has a seventh height H7, defined as the distance between the first end 12a and the second end 14a, which is equal to about 1.3-1.8 inches. More specifically, the seventh height H7 is equal to about 1.4-1.7 inches. Even more specifically, seventh height H7 is equal to about 1.5-1.6. Most specifically, seventh height H7 is equal to 1.555 inches. bearing bar 10C has an eighth height H8 defined as the height of first side section 12b, second side section 12c, first side section 14b and second side section 14c. Eighth height H8 is equal to about 0.075-0.175 inches. More specifically, eighth height H8 is equal to about 0.09-0.16 inches. Even more specifically, eighth height H8 is equal to about 0.1-0.15 inches. Most specifically, eighth height H8 is equal to about 0.125 inches. bearing bar 10C has a ninth height H9, defined as the height of first side section 16a and second side section 16b, which is equal to the about 0.31-0.37 inches. More specifically, ninth height H9 is equal to about 0.32-0.36 inches. Even more specifically, ninth height H9 is equal to about 0.33-0.35 inches. Most specifically, ninth height H9 is equal to 0.34 inches.

[0058] Bar 10C has a fifth width W5, defined as the width of first end 12a and second end 14a measured between first side section 12b, 14b and second side section 12c, 14c, respectively. Fifth width W5 is equal to the about 0.13-0.23 inches. More specifically, fifth width W5 is equal to about 0.15-0.21 inches. Even more specifically, fifth width W5 is equal to about 0.17-0.19 inches. Most specifically, fifth width W5 is equal to 0.1838 inches. bearing bar 10C has a sixth width W6, defined as the distance between the first side section 16a and the second side section 16b, which is equal to about 0.08-0.11 inches. More specifically, sixth width W6 is equal to about 0.085-0.1 inches. Even more specifically, sixth width W6 is equal to about 0.09-0.095 inches. Most specifically, sixth width W6 is equal to 0.0938 inches.

[0059] Bar 10C has a ninth angle 2 defined as the angle between the first side section 12b and third side section 12d of the first region 12. Ninth angle 2 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, ninth angle 2 is equal to 5 degrees. Bar 10C has a tenth angle 2 defined as the angle between the second side section 12c and fourth side section 12e of the first region 12. Tenth angle 2 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, tenth angle 2 is equal to 5 degrees. Bar 10C has an eleventh angle 2 defined as the angle between the first side section 14b and third side section 14d of the second region 14. Eleventh angle 2 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, eleventh angle 2 is equal to 5 degrees. Bar 10C has a twelfth angle 62 defined as the angle between the second side section 14c and fourth side section 14e of the second region 14. Twelfth angle 62 is equal to about 0.5 degrees up to about 12 degrees. Preferably, twelfth angle 62 is equal to 5 degrees.

[0060] Bar 10C has a cross section of a third area equal to from about 0.2005 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.2628 inches.sup.2. Bar 10C has a third area moment of inertia equal to at least 0.0516 inches.sup.4. Bar 10C has a third section modulus equal to at least 0.066 inches.sup.3. Bar 10C has a third weight equal to from about 0.6807 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.8926 pounds per linear foot. More specifically, the third weight of bar 10C is equal to from about 0.6807 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.8 pounds per linear foot. Even more specifically, the third weight of bar 10C is equal to from about 0.6807 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.7 pounds per linear foot. Most specifically, the third weight of bar 10C is equal to about 0.6807 pounds per linear foot.

[0061] FIGS. 9A, 9B, & 9C show three examples of PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, and 500C. The metal bar grating industry fabricates metal bar gratings (MBG) in accordance with specifications mandated in the United States by the National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers (NAAMM). The three examples of the PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, and 500C shown in FIGS. 9A through 9C illustrate industry standard metal grating bearing bars of rectangular cross section for gratings in accordance with NAAMM MBG specifications.

[0062] FIG. 9A shows a first example of an industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A. This industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A will be referred to herein as NAAMM Min. 1 bar. PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A is generally rectangular in cross section and is of a tenth height H10, defined as the distance between a top end 502 and a bottom end 504 of the bar 500 and of a seventh width W7, defined as the distance between a first end 506 and a second end 508. Height H10 is required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.984 inches long and a maximum of 1.016 inches long. Width W7 is required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide.

[0063] The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A has a cross section of a fourth area equal to from about 0.1756 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.1996 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A has a fourth area moment of inertia equal to at least 0.0142 inches.sup.4. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A has a fourth section modulus equal to at least 0.289 inches.sup.3. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A has a fourth weight equal to from about 0.5965 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.6780 pounds per linear foot. As indicated earlier herein, the disclosed bar 10A, which corresponds to the PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A, has a first weight of from about 0.3944 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.5951 pounds per linear foot. This means that the bar 10A is from about 12.23% up to about 33.88% lighter than the PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A.

[0064] FIG. 9B shows a second example of an industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A. This industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B will be referred to herein as a NAAMM Min. 1 bar. PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B is substantially similar in cross section to PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A and is identical in function relative to PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A. The various widths and heights of PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B differ only in size relative to the widths and heights of PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A. PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B has an eleventh height H11 defined as the distance between top end 502 and bottom end 504, and an eighth width W8 defined as the distance between first end 506 and second end 508. Height H11 is required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 1.235 inches long and a maximum of 1.266 inches long. Width W8 is required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide.

[0065] The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B has a cross section of a fifth area equal to about 0.2203 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.2488 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B has a fifth area moment of inertia equal to at least 0.0280 inches.sup.4. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B has a fifth section modulus equal to at least 0.045 inches.sup.3. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B has a fifth weight equal to from about 0.7480 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.8448 pounds per linear foot. As indicated earlier herein, the disclosed bar 10B, which corresponds to the PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B, has a first weight of from about 0.5417 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.65 pounds per linear foot. This means that the bar 10B is from about 23.06% up to about 27.58% lighter than the PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B.

[0066] FIG. 9C shows a third example of an industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C. This industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C will be referred to herein as a NAAMM Min. 1 bar. PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C is substantially similar in cross section to PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A and is identical in function relative to PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A. The various widths and heights of the components of PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C differ only in size relative to the widths and heights of the components of PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A. PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C has a twelfth height H12 defined as the distance between top end 502 and bottom end 504, and a ninth width W9 defined as the distance between first end 506 and second end 508. Height H12 is required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 1.484 inches long and a maximum of 1.516 inches long. Width W9 is required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide.

[0067] The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C has a cross section having a sixth area equal to from about 0.2649 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.2979 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C has a sixth area moment of inertia equal to at least 0.0486 inches.sup.4. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C has a sixth section modulus equal to at least 0.066 inches.sup.3. The PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C has a sixth weight equal to from about 0.8996 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.0116 pounds per linear foot. As indicated earlier herein, the disclosed bar 10C, which corresponds to the PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C, has a first weight of from about 0.6807 pounds per linear foot up to about 0.7 pounds per linear foot. This means that the bar 10C is from about 23.31% up to about 30.80% lighter than the PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C.

[0068] PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, and 500C typically used in gratings are all generally rectangular in cross section. By contrast, bearing bars 10, 10A, 10B, and 10C (FIGS. 8A-8C) in accordance with the present disclosure are cold-rolled from an initial rectangular shape to the desired substantially hourglass-shaped cross section shown in FIG. 4. The hourglass cross sectional shape substantially reduces the overall weight of the bearing bars 10A, 10B, 10C relative to the industry standard PRIOR ART rectangular cross sectional bearing bars of similar dimensions, i.e., PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, and 500C. The hourglass cross sectional shape enables the bearing bars 10A, 10B, 10C to maintain substantially the same structural strength and deflection as the comparable industry standard PRIOR ART rectangular cross sectional bearing bars 500A, 500B, 500C even though there is a substantial reduction in the overall weight of the bearing bars 10A, 10B, 10C relative to the similarly dimensioned PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, 500C. Additionally the hourglass-shaped bearing bars 10, 10A, 10B, 10C disclosed herein meet all NAAMM MBG specifications and are therefore suitable for use in metal grating systems. Specifically, the hourglass-shaped bearing bars 10, 10A, 10B, 10C disclosed herein have equivalent load-carrying capacity and equivalent deflection when placed under equivalent loads to those of the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, and 500C of substantially similar dimensions to the hourglass-shaped bearing bars 10A, 10B, and 10C, respectively.

[0069] Bar 10 may be of any width and height where bar 10 corresponds to at least one industry standard bar in accordance with specifications mandated by the NAAMM.

[0070] In one specific embodiment, a further bar (not shown) in accordance with the present disclosure may correspond to another industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar referred to herein as a PRIOR ART NAAMM Min. 1 bar. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a width required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a height required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 1.7340 inches long and a maximum of 1.7660 inches long. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a cross section of an area equal to about 0.3095 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.3470 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar is of a weight equal to from about 1.0511 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.1785 pounds per linear foot.

[0071] The further bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a width equal to from about 0.13 inches up to about 0.23 inches. The further bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a height equal to from about 1.6 inches up to about 2.0 inches. The further bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a cross section of an area equal to from about 0.2365 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.3056 inches.sup.2. The further bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar has a weight equal to from about 0.8033 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.0379 pounds per linear foot. This means that the further bar in accordance with the present disclosure is from about 11.93% up to about 23.58% lighter than the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 1 bar.

[0072] In another specific embodiment, another bar (not shown) in accordance with the present disclosure may correspond to an industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar referred to herein as a PRIOR ART NAAMM Min. 2 bar. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a width required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a height required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 1.9760 inches long and a maximum of 2.0240 inches long. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a cross section of an area equal to about 0.3527 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.3977 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar a weight equal to from about 1.1978 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.3506 pounds per linear foot.

[0073] The bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a width equal to from about 0.13 inches up to about 0.23 inches. The bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a height equal to from about 1.8 inches up to about 2.2 inches. The bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a cross section of an area equal to from about 0.2709 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.3495 inches.sup.2. The bar in accordance with the present disclosure corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a weight equal to from about 0.9201 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.1868 pounds per linear foot. This means that the further bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar is from about 12.13% up to about 23.18% lighter than the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar.

[0074] In yet another specific embodiment, a bar (not shown) in accordance with the present disclosure may correspond to yet another industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar referred to herein as a PRIOR ART NAAMM Min. 2 bar. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a width required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a height required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 2.2260 inches long and a maximum of 2.2740 inches long. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a cross section of an area equal to from about 0.3973 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.4468 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar a weight equal to from about 1.3494 pounds per linear foot to about 1.5175 pounds per linear foot.

[0075] The bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a width equal to from about 0.13 inches up to about 0.23 inches. The disclosed bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a height equal to from about 2.1 inches up to about 2.5 inches. The bar 10 corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a cross section of an area equal to from about 0.3056 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.3937 inches.sup.2. The bar 10 corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a weight equal to from about 1.0379 pounds per linear foot to about 1.3370 pounds per linear foot. This means that the further bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar is from about 11.89% up to about 23.08% lighter than the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar.

[0076] In yet another specific embodiment, yet another bar (not shown) in accordance with the present disclosure may correspond to another industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar referred to herein as a PRIOR ART NAAMM Min. 2 bar. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a width required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 0.1785 inches wide and a maximum of 0.1965 inches wide. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a height required under NAAMM MBG specifications to be a minimum of 2.4760 inches long and a maximum of 2.5240 inches long. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a cross section of an area equal to from about 0.4420 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.4960 inches.sup.2. The PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a weight equal to from about 1.5009 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.6843 pounds per linear foot.

[0077] The bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a width equal to from about 0.13 inches up to about 0.23 inches. The disclosed bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar a height equal to from about 2.3 inches up to about 2.9 inches. The disclosed bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a cross section of an area equal to from about 0.3403 inches.sup.2 up to about 0.4362 inches.sup.2. The disclosed bar corresponding to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar has a weight equal to from about 1.1557 pounds per linear foot up to about 1.4813 pounds per linear foot. This means that the further bar in accordance with the present disclosure which corresponds to the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar is from about 12.05% up to about 23.00% lighter than the PRIOR ART NAAMM Min 2 bar.

[0078] Cold-rolling bearing bars 10 produces a better surface finish on the bearing bars, with tighter tolerances and higher strength steel. As indicated above, the hourglass-shaped bearing bars 10A, 10B, and 10C of the present disclosure have a substantial overall weight reduction compared to industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bars 500A, 500B, 500c of similar height and width. Specifically, hourglass-shaped bearing bar 10A may have around a 30.4% reduction in overall weight compared to the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500A without any substantial loss of structural strength or deflection. Furthermore, bearing bar 10B may have around a 24.6% overall weight reduction compared to the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500B of a similar height and width without any substantial loss of structural strength or deflection. Even further, bearing bar 10C may have around a 20.6% overall weight reduction compared to the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar 500C of a similar height and width without any substantial loss of structural strength and deflection. The retention of structural strength and deflection of bearing bars 10A, 101B, 10C, even though overall weight decreases, is attributed to the overall geometry of bearing bars 10A, 101B, 10C as shown in the attached figures, particularly, FIGS. 8A through 8C.

[0079] Having now described the grating 1 and the bearing bar 10, two methods of manufacturing bearing bar 10 will now be described in greater detail. A first method of manufacturing comprises the step of providing a flat bearing bar made of a material with a rectangular cross section. The first method of manufacturing further comprises the step of cold rolling the flat bearing bar with a rectangular cross section into an hourglass shape, wherein the hourglass shape is bearing bar 10. In one specific embodiment, the material of the flat bearing bar with a rectangular cross section may be steel, but it should be understood any material which would allow for the flat bearing bar with a rectangular cross section to be cold rolled and maintain strength can be used. One advantage of the first method of manufacturing is the strength of the material of the flat bearing bar with rectangular cross section is increased when cold rolled into the bearing bar 10. Another advantage of the first method of manufacturing the bearing bar 10 has tighter dimensional tolerances than the flat bearing bar with rectangular cross section. Even another advantage of the first method of manufacturing is that the bearing bar 10 with the hourglass shape exhibits a greater section modulus and greater area mass moment of inertia than the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar of similar dimensions while utilizing less material. Thus, the bearing bar 10 in accordance with the present disclosure exhibits a substantially similar strength to weight ratio as the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar of similar dimensions even though less material is required for the fabrication of the bearing bar 10 relative to the industry standard PRIOR ART bearing bar.

[0080] A second method of the first method of manufacturing comprises the steps of providing a rod shape made of a material with a round cross section. The second method of manufacturing further comprises the steps of either cold rolling or hot rolling the round shape with a round cross section into the hourglass shape, wherein the hourglass shape is bearing bar 10. In one specific embodiment, the round shape with a round cross section may be a wire. In another specific embodiment, the round shape with a round cross section may be a rod. In yet another specific embodiment, the material of the round shape with a round cross section may be steel, but it should be understood that any material that will allow for the round shape with a round cross section to be cold-rolled or hot rolled and maintain strength could be used.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 10, there is shown a second embodiment of a bearing bar for use in a bar assembly of a grating in accordance with the present disclosure. The second embodiment bearing bar is generally indicated at 110. The structure and function of bearing bar 110 is substantially identical to bearing bar 10 except for the aspects discussed hereafter. Bearing bar 110, like bearing bar 10 comprises a first region 12, a second region 14 and a third region 16 interposed between the first region 12 and the second region 14. bearing bar 110 may be configured substantially identically to any of bearing bars 10, 10A, 10B, 10C described earlier herein and therefore will not be described in any particular hereafter.

[0082] Bar 110 differs from bearing bar 10 in the location and configuration of channels 120 for receiving crossbars 11 therethrough. Bearing bar 10 includes a plurality of channels 20 defined in the first end 12a of first region 12. By contrast, bearing bar 110 defines a plurality of holes 120 that are defined at intervals apart from each other along the bearing bar 110. Each hole 120 extends from an opening defined in first side section 16a of third region 16 to an opening defined in second side section 16b of third region 16. The substantially flat first and second side sections 16a, 16b of third region 16 are provided to enable holes 120 to be punched therein if the bearing bars 110 are used in swage grating.

[0083] In particular, each hole 120 is located generally centrally within third region 16, i.e., the holes 120 are arranged along midline ML and are therefore equidistant from each of the first end 12a of first region 12 and second end 14a of second region 14. hole 120 is configured to be sufficiently complementary in shape and size to the exterior surface of crossbar 11. Holes 120 illustrated in FIG. 10 are generally square when bearing bar 110 is viewed from a right side for example. It should, however, be understood that holes 120 may be of any desired shape, design, or size necessary for any desired cross section shape of crossbar 11 to be received therethrough.

[0084] Unless explicitly stated that a particular shape or configuration of a component is mandatory. Any of the elements, components, or structures discussed herein may take the form of any shape. Thus, although the figures depict the various elements, components, or structures of the present disclosure according to one or more exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that any other geometric configuration of that element, component or structure is entirely possible.

[0085] Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an embodiment has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different from that illustrated herein, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

[0086] While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein. Each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of embodiment only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto; inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

[0087] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0088] The articles a and an, as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean at least one. The phrase and/or, as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean either or both of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with and/or should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., one or more of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the and/or clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting embodiment, a reference to A and/or B, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as comprising can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, or should be understood to have the same meaning as and/or as defined above. For embodiment, when separating items in a list, or or and/or shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as only one of or exactly one of, or, when used in the claims, consisting of, will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term or as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. one or the other but not both) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as either, one of, only one of, or exactly one of. Consisting essentially of, when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0089] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase at least one, in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase at least one refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting embodiment, at least one of A and B (or, equivalently, at least one of A or B, or, equivalently at least one of A and/or B) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

[0090] While components of the present disclosure are described herein in relation to each other, it is possible for one of the components disclosed herein to include inventive subject matter, if claimed alone or used alone. In keeping with the above embodiment, if the disclosed embodiments teach the features of A and B, then there may be inventive subject matter in the combination of A and B, A alone, or B alone, unless otherwise stated herein.

[0091] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the term effecting or a phrase or claim element beginning with the term effecting should be understood to mean to cause something to happen or to bring something about. For embodiment, effecting an event to occur may be caused by actions of a first party even though a second party actually performed the event or had the event occur to the second party. Stated otherwise, effecting refers to one party giving another party the tools, objects, or resources to cause an event to occur. Thus, in this embodiment, a claim element of effecting an event to occur would mean that a first party is giving a second party the tools or resources needed for the second party to perform the event, however the affirmative single action is the responsibility of the first party to provide the tools or resources to cause said event to occur.

[0092] When a feature or element is herein referred to as being on another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being directly on another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being connected, attached or coupled to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being directly connected, directly attached or directly coupled to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed adjacent another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

[0093] Spatially relative terms, such as under, below, lower, over, upper, above, behind, in front of, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For embodiment, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as under or beneath other elements or features would then be oriented over the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term under can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms upwardly, downwardly, vertical, horizontal, lateral, transverse, longitudinal, and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0094] Although the terms first and second may be used herein to describe various features/elements, these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed herein could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed herein could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0095] An embodiment is an implementation or embodiment of the present disclosure. Reference in the specification to an embodiment, one embodiment, some embodiments, one particular embodiment, an exemplary embodiment, or other embodiments, or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the invention. The various appearances an embodiment, one embodiment, some embodiments, one particular embodiment, an exemplary embodiment, or other embodiments, or the like, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments.

[0096] If this specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic may, might, or could be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to a or an element, that does not mean there is only one of the element. If the specification or claims refer to an additional element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element.

[0097] As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the embodiments and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word about or approximately, even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase about or approximately may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For embodiment, a numeric value may have a value that is +/0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein.

[0098] Additionally, the method of performing the present disclosure may occur in a sequence different than those described herein. Accordingly, no sequence of the method should be read as a limitation unless explicitly stated. It is recognizable that performing some of the steps of the method in a different order could achieve a similar result.

[0099] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as comprising, including, carrying, having, containing, involving, holding, composed of, and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases consisting of and consisting essentially of shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

[0100] To the extent that the present disclosure has utilized the term invention in various titles or sections of this specification, this term was included as required by the formatting requirements of word document submissions pursuant the guidelines/requirements of the United States Patent and Trademark Office and shall not, in any manner, be considered a disavowal of any subject matter.

[0101] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

[0102] Moreover, the description and illustration of various embodiments of the disclosure are embodiments and the disclosure is not limited to the exact details shown or described.