Patent ID: 6539679
Filing Date: 2003-04-01
Classification: E04C

Abstract:
A load-bearing structural member, comprising:(a) a structure body having a first and second opposing sides, and first and second opposing ends; (b) a strength-reinforcing flat steel strap extending along the length of said structure body from one end to the other, and adapted for transferring an intermediate load acting on said structure body outwardly to the opposing ends of said structure body; and (c) first and second anchors located at opposite ends of said structure body for engaging and anchoring said strap at respective opposite ends of said structure body and holding said strap in tension at the first side of said structure body, each of said anchors comprising first and second complementary anchor plates having a series of mating, spaced-apart, lateral crimps; and (d) means located between the ends of said structure body for engaging and holding said strap adjacent the second side of said structure body, thereby creating an increased supporting reaction force between the ends of said structure body at the location of said means.