Abstract:
An insulative, lightweight building panel is provided with a lightweight, insulative foam core and which includes one or more carbon fiber or steel reinforcements and an exterior concrete face which are manufactured in a controlled environment and can be easily transported and erected at a building site.

Description:
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/423,286, filed Apr. 24, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,898,908, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/150,465 filed May 17, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,090, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/093,292, filed Mar. 6, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,701,683, each of the applications or issued patents being incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to building components, and more specifically composite lightweight building panels which can be selectively interconnected to fabricate structures such as modular buildings, load bearing with wall panels, or applied as cladding to building frames. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Due to the high cost of traditional concrete components and the extensive transportation and labor costs associated therein, there is a significant need in the construction industry to provide a lightweight, precast, composite building panel which may be transported to a building site and assembled to provide a structure with superior strength and insulative properties. Previous attempts to provide these types of materials have failed due to the extensive transportation costs, low insulative values and thermal conductivity associated with prefabricated concrete wire reinforced products. Further, due to the brittle nature of concrete, many of these types of building panels become cracked and damaged during transportation. 
   More specifically, the relatively large weight per square foot of previous building panels has resulted in high expenses arising not only from the amount of materials needed for fabrication, but also the cost of transporting and erecting the modules. Module weight also placed effective limits on the height of structures, such as stacked modules, e.g. due to limitations on the total weight carried by the foundations, footings and lowermost modules. Furthermore, there is substantial fabrication labor expense that can arise from efforts needed to design reinforcement, and the materials and labor costs involved in providing and placing reinforcement materials. Accordingly, it would be useful to provide a system for modular construction which is relatively light, can be readily stacked to heights greater than in previous configurations and, preferably, inexpensive to design and manufacture. 
   Further, in many situations panels or modules are situated in locations where it is desirable to have openings therethrough to accommodate doorways, windows, cables, pipes and the like. In some previous approaches, panels were required to be specially designed and cast so as to include any necessary openings, requiring careful planning and design and increasing costs due to the special, non-standard configuration of such panels. In other approaches, panels were cast without such openings and the openings were formed after casting, e.g. by sawing or similar procedures. Such post-casting procedures as cutting, particularly through the thick and/or steel-reinforced panels as described above, is a relatively labor-intensive and expensive process. In many processes for creating openings, there was a relatively high potential for cracking or splitting of a panel or module. Accordingly, it would be useful to provide panels and modules which can be post-fitted with openings such as doors and windows in desired locations and with a reduced potential for cracking or splitting. 
   One further problem associated with metallic wire materials used in conjunction with concrete is the varying rates of expansion and contraction. Thus with extreme heating and cooling the metallic wire tends to separate from the concrete, thus creating cracks, exposure to moisture and the eventual degradation of both the concrete and wire reinforcement due to corrosion. 
   One example of a composite building panel which attempts to resolve these problems with modular panel construction is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,202,375 to Kleinschmidt (the &#39;375 patent). In this invention, a building system is provided which utilizes an insulative core with an interior and exterior sheet of concrete and which is held together with a metallic wire mesh positioned on both sides of an insulative core. The wire mesh is embedded in concrete, and held together by a plurality of metallic wires extending through said insulative core at a right angle to the longitudinal plane of the insulative core and concrete panels. Although providing an advantage over homogenous concrete panels, the composite panel disclosed in the &#39;375 patent does not provide the necessary strength and flexure properties required during transportation and high wind applications. Further, the metallic wire mesh materials are susceptible to corrosion when exposed to water during fabrication, and have poor insulative qualities due to the high heat transfer qualities of metallic wire. Thus, the panels disclosed in the &#39;375 patent may eventually fail when various stresses are applied to the building panel during transportation, assembly or subsequent use. Furthermore, these panels have poor insulative qualities in cold climates due to the high heat transfer associated with the metallic wires. 
   Other attempts have been made to use improved building materials that incorporate carbon fiber. One example is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,230,465 to Messenger, et al. which utilizes carbon fiber in combination with a steel reinforced precast frame with concrete. Unfortunately, the insulative properties are relatively poor due to the physical nature of the concrete and steel, as well as the excessive weight and inherent problems associated with transportation, stacking, etc. Further, previously known prefabricated building panels have not been found to have sufficient tensile and compressive strength when utilizing only concrete and insulative foam materials or wire mesh. Thus, there is a significant need for a lightweight concrete building panel which has increased tensile and compressive strength, and which utilizes one or more commonly known building materials to achieve this purpose. 
   Accordingly, there is a significant need in the construction and building industry to provide a composite building panel which may be used in modular construction and which is lightweight, provides superior strength and has high insulative values. Further, a method of making these types of building panels is needed which is inexpensive, utilizes commonly known manufacturing equipment, and which can be used to mass produce building panels for use in the modular construction of warehouses, low cost permanent housing, hotels, and other buildings. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a composite wall panel which has superior strength, high insulating properties, is lightweight for transportation and stacking purposes and is cost effective to manufacture. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, a substantially planar insulative core with interior and exterior surfaces is positioned between concrete panels which are reinforced with carbon fiber grids positioned substantially adjacent to the insulative core and which is interconnected to a plurality of diagonal carbon fiber strands. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the interior layer of concrete is comprised of a low-density concrete. Furthermore, as used herein, insulative core may comprise any type of material which is thermally efficient and has a low heat transfer coefficient. These materials may include, but are not limited to, Styrofoam®-type materials such as expanded polystyrenes, extruded polystyrenes, extruded polypropylene, polyisocyanurate, combinations therein and other materials, including wood materials, rubbers, and other materials well known in the construction industry. 
   It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a superior strength composite wall panel which utilizes carbon fiber materials which are oriented in a novel geometric configuration which interconnects the insulative core and both the interior and exterior concrete panels. In one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of carbon fibers are oriented in a substantially diagonal orientation through the insulative core and which may be operably interconnected to carbon fiber mesh grids positioned proximate to the interior and exterior surfaces of the insulative core and which operably interconnect both the interior and exterior concrete panels to the insulative core. Preferably, the carbon fiber mesh grid is comprised of a plurality of first carbon fiber strands extending in a first direction which are operably interconnected to a plurality of second carbon fiber strands oriented in a second direction. Preferably, the carbon fiber mesh grids are embedded within the interior and exterior concrete panels. 
   It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a lightweight, composite concrete building panel which is adapted to be selectively interconnected to a structural steel frame. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention attachment hardware is selectively positioned within the building panel during fabrication which is used to quickly and efficiently interconnect the panel to a structural frame. 
   It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a low density concrete building panel which has sufficient compressive strength to allow a s second building panel to be stacked in a vertical relationship, on which can support a vertical load in the form of a floor truss or other structural member. Alternately, it is another aspect of the present invention to provide a composite lightweight building panel which can be utilized in a corner adjacent to a second building panel, or aligned horizontally with a plurality of building panels in a side by side relationship. 
   It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a composite wall panel with an insulative core which has superior compressive strength than typical composite materials comprised of Styrofoam® and other similar materials. Thus, in another aspect of the present invention, a plurality of anti-compression pins are placed throughout the insulative core and which extend substantially between the interior and exterior surfaces of the insulative core. Preferably, these pins are comprised of ceramic, fiberglass, carbon-fiber or other materials which are resistant to compression and do not readily transfer heat. 
   It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a composite wall panel which can be easily modified to accept any number of exterior textures, surfaces or cladding materials for use in a plurality of applications. Thus, the present invention is capable of being finished with a brick surface, stucco, siding and any other type of exterior surface. In one embodiment of the present invention, a paraffin protective covering is provided on the exterior surface for protection of the exterior surface during manufacturing. The paraffin additionally prevents an excessive bond between the individual bricks and exterior concrete wall to allow the removal of a cracked or damaged brick and additionally has been found to reduce cracking in the bricks due to the differential shrinkage of the exterior concrete layer and clay brick. Furthermore, other types of materials such as drywall and other interior finishes can be applied to the interior concrete panel as necessary for any given application. 
   It is yet a further aspect of the present invention to provide a novel exterior cladding configuration which allows broken or cracked bricks to be quickly and effectively replaced. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention a beveled brick design is provided wherein a rear portion of the brick has a greater diameter than a front end, and is embedded into the exterior concrete layer during the forming process. This design provides superior strength, and allows a damaged brick to be chiseled free and quickly replaced with a new brick by applying a glue or epoxy material. 
   It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a composite modular wall panel which can be used to quickly and efficiently construct modular buildings and temporary shelters and is designed to be completely functional with regard to electrical wiring and other utilities such as telephone lines, etc. Thus, the present invention in one embodiment includes at least one utility line which may be positioned at least partially within the composite wall panel and which accepts substantially any type of utility line which may be required in residential or commercial construction, and which can be quickly interconnected to exterior service lines. This utility line may be oriented in one or more directions and positioned either near the interior concrete panel, exterior concrete panel, or both. 
   It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a novel surface configuration of the insulative core which assures a preferred spacing between the surface of the insulative core and the carbon fiber grid. This surface configuration is applicable for a front surface, a rear surface, or both depending on the application. More specifically, the spacing is designed to provide a gap between the interior and/or the exterior surface of the insulative core and the carbon fiber grids to assure that concrete or other facing materials become positioned between the surface of the insulative core and the carbon fiber grid. This improved and consistent spacing enhances the strength and durability of the insulative panel when interconnected to the facing material, carbon fiber grids and transverse fibers and/or steel pre-stressing strands. 
   Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention the insulative core may have an interior and/or an exterior surface which is undulating, i.e., wavy alternative embodiments may have channels or protruding rails, spacer “buttons”, a “waffleboard” configuration, or other shapes which create a preferred spacing between the surface of the insulative material and the fiber grids. Preferably, the spacing apparatus, channels, rails or other spacers are integrally molded with the insulative core to reduce labor and expenses. Alternatively, these spacing apparatus may be interconnected to the insulative foam after manufacturing, and may be attached with adhesives, screws, nails, staples or other interconnection means well known by one skilled in the art. 
   Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, a low density, substantially planar carbon reinforced concrete building panel is provided, and which comprises: 
   a foam core having an inner surface, an outer surface, an upper end, a lower end, and a plurality of perimeter edges, said foam core comprising at least one cut-out portion extending substantially between at least two of said plurality of perimeter edges; 
   a first concrete material positioned adjacent said outer surface of said foam core; 
   a first carbon fiber material positioned within said first concrete material; 
   a second carbon fiber material positioned within said at least one cut-out portion of said foam core and extending through said foam core beyond said outer surface and in operable contact with said first carbon fiber material; 
   at least one first reinforcing bar positioned proximate to said at least one carbon fiber material within said cut-out portion, and extending substantially between said upper end and said lower end of said foam core; and 
   a second concrete material positioned within said cut-out portion of said foam core, and extending substantially from said upper end to a lower end of said foam core. 
   It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a lightweight, durable building panel which utilizes concrete and expanded polystyrene materials, along with a unique geometry of carbon fiber, steel reinforcing rods, and wire mesh to create a building panel with superior strength and durability. The building may utilize one or more reinforcing materials such as carbon fiber, wire mesh or steel reinforcing bars positioned along 1) a perimeter edge; 2) an interior portion within the perimeter edge; or 3) both along the perimeter edges and within a predetermined interior portion of the building panel. Thus, in another embodiment of the present invention a lightweight, durable concrete building panel is provided, comprising: 
   a substantially planar concrete panel comprising an inner surface, an outer surface, an upper end and a lower end, and a substantially longitudinal axis defined between said upper end and said lower end; 
   a first carbon fiber grid positioned within said substantially planar concrete panel between said upper end and said lower end and positioned proximate to said inner surface; 
   a foam core having an inner surface and an outer surface positioned within said substantially planar concrete panel and extending substantially between said upper end and said lower ends of said substantially planar concrete panel; 
   at least one carbon fiber shear strip extending through said foam and oriented in a substantially linear direction between said upper end and said lower ends of said substantially planar concrete panel; 
   at least one first reinforcing bar positioned proximate to said at least one carbon fiber shear strip, and extending substantially between said upper end and said lower end of said substantially planar concrete panel; and 
   a wire mesh material positioned above said upper surface of said foam core and proximate to said outer surface of said substantially planar concrete panel. 
   In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the insulative core is comprised of a plurality of individual insulative panels. The seam of the insulative panels preferably has a cut-out portion which is used to support reinforcing materials such as rebar, carbon fiber or other material. 
   It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a method of fabricating an insulative concrete building panel in a controlled manufacturing facility which is cost effective, utilizes commonly known building materials and produces a superior product. It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a manufacturing process which can be custom tailored to produce a building panel with custom sizes, allows modifications for windows and doors, and which utilizes a variety of commonly known materials without significantly altering the fabrication protocol. 
   Thus, in one aspect of the present invention, a method for fabricating a lightweight, durable concrete building panel is provided, comprising the steps of: 
   a) providing a form having an upper end, a lower end, and lateral edges extending therebetween; 
   b) positioning a first concrete material into a lower portion of said form; 
   c) positioning a first grid of carbon fiber material into said first layer of concrete material; 
   d) positioning a foam core onto said first layer of concrete material, said layer of foam core having a plurality of cut-out reinforced sections, said reinforced sections comprising a second grid of carbon fiber material extending into said first layer of concrete material and a reinforcing bar extending substantially along an entire length of said reinforced section and positioned proximate to said second grid of carbon fiber material. 
   e) positioning a second layer of concrete within said plurality of reinforced sections; and 
   f) removing said lightweight, concrete building panel from said form. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel end section which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel end return section which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel window return section, which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel bottom section, which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel bottom section, which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building wall panel section, which represents one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite architectural panel with a three-sided rib cut out portion and further including expansion joints; 
       FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite architectural panel and including a four-sided mid rib cut out section; 
       FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional front elevation view of an architectural building panel shown at a bearing pocket seat and operably interconnected to a steel girder; 
       FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a first architectural building panel positioned adjacent a second architectural building panel, and further disclosing a thermally broken closed end rib joint; 
       FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional elevation view taken at line AA of  FIG. 9 , and identifying the carbon fiber web material and other internal components of the architectural panel; 
       FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional front elevation view of an architectural composite building panel and depicting a floor to floor fire barrier positioned adjacent a horizontal floor section; 
       FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional front elevation view of a hardwall panel taken at amid rib section; 
       FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional top plan view of two adjoining composite building panels shown interconnected to a structural steel support member, and the associated hardware; 
       FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional front elevation view showing one composite building panel operably positioned above a second composite building panel; 
       FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel used in one embodiment to support a vertical load; 
       FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a load bearing composite wall building panel with a reinforced pilaster portion; 
       FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional top plan view of an alternative composite wall panel; 
       FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional front elevation view depicting the carbon fiber grid and other internal components taken at section BB of  FIG. 17 ; 
       FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional top plan view showing a residential composite wall panel with a substantially square shaped cut out portion; 
       FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a residential composite wall panel shown at an end rib; 
       FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional top plan view of a residential composite building panel shown at a corner rib; 
       FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional front elevation view of a residential composite building panel shown at a top rib; and 
       FIG. 25  is a cross-sectional front elevation view of a residential composite building panel shown at a bottom rib. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   Referring now to the drawings,  FIG. 1  is a cross-sectional top plan view of one embodiment of the present invention which depicts a novel composite building panel  2 . More specifically, the building panel  2  is generally comprised of an insulative core  4  which has an interior surface  36  and exterior surface  38  and a substantially longitudinal plane extending from a lower portion to an upper portion of said insulative core  4 . Positioned within the insulated core  4  are one or more cut-outs  34  extending from the interior surface  36  and oriented toward an exterior surface  38 . In a preferred embodiment, a thermal break  82  is provided at the apex of the cut-out and which has a dimension of at least about ½ inch and more preferably 1.0–2.0 inches and which separates the interior concrete layer  14  from the exterior concrete layer  16 . The thermal break  82  provides a layer of insulation core  4 , and hence improves the thermal efficiency and heat transfer characteristics of the building panel  2 . 
   Positioned within each of the insulative core cutout portions  34  is an interior carbon fiber grid  6  which extends through the insulative core cutout  34  and is positioned adjacent to and more preferably operably connected to the exterior carbon fiber grid  8 . The exterior carbon fiber grid  8  is further embedded within an exterior concrete layer  16 , and which represents in one embodiment an exterior face of the composite building panel  2 . As appreciated by one skilled in the art, the exterior concrete layer  16  may additionally include various types of exterior cladding  20  such as bricks, stucco, and other similar materials depending on the application. As further depicted in  FIG. 1 , the overall strength of the composite building panel  2  is increased by utilizing one or more reinforcing bars  24  within each of the insulative core cut-outs  34 , or alternatively using prestressed cable  22 . Although the total panel thickness  52  is preferably between about 6 and 10 inches, depending on the application the panel thickness may vary between about 4 and 16 inches as appreciated by one skilled in the art. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel end section is depicted herein. More specifically, the end section has components similar to the panel section shown in  FIG. 1 , but which has an additional insulative core cut-out portion  34  positioned near the panel end. The insulative core cut-out portion  34  further comprises a plurality of reinforcing bars  24  positioned adjacent an interior carbon fiber grid  6 , and further includes an optional thermal/vapor barrier  12  which is utilized to increase the panel thermal efficiency, and thus prevent excessive heat loss. The thermal/vapor barrier  12  may be comprised of foam materials, polypropylenes, polyethylenes, rubbers, and other thermal/vapor barrier materials well known in the construction industry. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel end return section is depicted herein. More specifically, the architectural panel end return section is designed for use on the end of a wall panel and includes an insulated cut-out portion  34  which further comprises additional thermal/vapor barrier materials  12  to further improve the heat transfer characteristics of the panel. Notwithstanding these differences, the remaining portion of the composite building panel  2  is similar to the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , and includes an insulation core  4  with at least one interior carbon fiber grid  6  and an exterior carbon fiber grid  8 , the exterior carbon fiber grid  8  being embedded in an exterior concrete layer  16 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel window return section is provided herein. More specifically, the panel return section is used in applications adjacent to window and door openings, and which includes an interior insulative core  4  positioned between two insulative core cut-out portions  34  anc having a total diameter  52  of preferably about 6–8 inches. Each of the insulative core cut-out portions  34  are comprised of an interior carbon fiber grid  6 , one or more reinforcing bars  24 , and thermal/vapor barriers  12  positioned within the insulative core cutout  34  and covered with an interior concrete layer  14 . The exterior face of the composite building panel  2  further comprises an exterior carbon fiber grid  8  which is embedded within the exterior concrete layer  16 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building panel bottom section is provided herein, and which further depicts an insulative core cut-out portion  34  which is used in conjunction with an interior concrete layer  14 , and an interior carbon fiber grid  6 . As further depicted in  FIG. 5 , both reinforcing bars  24  and prestress cable  22  are used to increase the structural integrity of the building panel bottom section. Furthermore, a weep tube  44  is provided to allow drainage of any moisture which may accumulate within the architectural panel bottom section. As further shown, a thermal/vapor barrier material  12  is also utilized to improve the thermal efficiency of the building panel  2 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 6 , an alternative embodiment of the architectural panel bottom section shown in  FIG. 5  is provided herein, and which generally comprises the same internal componentry with the exception of a thermal vapor barrier  12  positioned along the interior face of the architectural panel bottom section. The thermal/vapor barrier  12  as previously mentioned could be comprised of foams, plastic materials, concrete, wood, drywall or other commonly used materials which are well known in the construction industry. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 7 , an alternative embodiment of a wall panel section is provided herein, and more specifically comprises a wall panel composite building panel  2  which includes an additional layer of interior carbon fiber grids  6  positioned in close proximity to an interior surface, and within an interior concrete layer  14 . As used herein, both the interior carbon fiber grid  6  and exterior carbon fiber grid  8  may be comprised of alternative materials such as wire mesh, fiberglass, and other construction materials to provide increased strength in structural integrity of the composite building panel. Preferably, however, the materials utilize a material known as “MeC-GRID™” which is a carbon composite comprised of a plurality of individual carbon fibers held together with an adhesive or epoxy. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite architectural building panel  2  of the present invention is provided herein, and which depicts a triangular shaped cut-out portion  34  which includes a interior carbon fiber grid  6 , one or more reinforcing bars  24 , and an interior concrete layer  14  positioned within the cut-out portion  34 . Furthermore, a plurality of expansion joints  58  are provided within the insulative core  4  which are utilized to prevent excessive compression of the concrete building panel during manufacturing, transportation, and installation, and thus substantially eliminates hairline fractures of the concrete. The expansion joints are preferably cutout portions of the insulative core material  4 , but other compressible materials may be positioned within the expansion joints  58  as appreciated by one skilled in the art. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a cross-sectional top plan view of an architectural panel with a four-sided mid rib is shown herein. More specifically, this embodiment is similar to the other architectural panels with the exception that the reinforcing rib cut-out portion  34  is four-sided as opposed to the triangular configurations shown in other embodiments. As appreciated by one skilled in the art, the cut-out portion  34  may have  9  cross-sectional geometric shapes which are triangular, rectangular, square, cylindrical, oblong or any other theoretical shape. As further depicted in  FIG. 9 , a plurality of expansion joints  58  are also utilized in this embodiment to help prevent cracking and the ultimate failure of the concrete materials. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 10 , an alternative embodiment of the present invention is provided herein and which depicts a cross-sectional front elevation view of a composite building panel  2  operably connected to a steel structural column  60 . As provided herein, the composite building panel  2  further utilizes a thermal/vapor barrier  12 , and is interconnected by the use of a slotted lateral connector hardware  64  configuration which has a plurality of bolts or other attachment hardware embedded in the interior concrete layer  14 , and which is operably interconnected to the steel structural column  60 . As further shown in  FIG. 10 , an interconnection stud  80  is embedded in the interior concrete layer  14  on a lower portion of the building panel  2 , and which rests on a bearing angle with gussets  62  for vertical support. To provide horizontal adjustments between the structural column  60  and the composite building panel  2 , a threaded fastener  74  may be rotated. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a cross-sectional top plan view of two architectural panels positioned adjacent one another are provided herein, and which further include a thermally broken closed-end rib joint. More specifically,  FIG. 11  depicts a first composite building panel  2  positioned adjacent a second composite building panel, and which includes a insulative core  4  with a insulative core cut-out portion  34  positioned substantially adjacent to one another. Each of the insulative core cut-out portions  34  may include one or more reinforcing bars  24 , an interior carbon fiber grid  6 , as well as a thermal vapor barrier  12 . The exterior face comprises a exterior concrete layer  16  which includes an embedded exterior carbon figure grid  8 . Positioned between the first composite building panel  2  and the second composite building panel is a foam rope  54  which is generally compressible and which impedes heat transfer between an interior and exterior structure of the composite building panels  2 . Furthermore, a caulking material  56  may be positioned around the foam rope  54  to further improve the seal between the two building panels and improve the thermal efficiency. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 12 , a cross-sectional front elevation view taken at line “AA” of  FIG. 8  is provided herein. More specifically, the cross-sectional view identifies an architectural panel at the rib joint, and depicts the insulative core  4 , the interior carbon fiber grid  6 , the exterior carbon fiber grid  8 , and the reinforcing bar  24  materials which are embedded within the composite building panel  2  for structural integrity. Furthermore, an interior concrete layer  14  may be positioned along an interior face of the composite building panel  2 , or other materials such as wood, dry-wall, and other known construction materials. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 13 , a cross-sectional front elevation view of an architectural composite building panel  2  which depicts a floor to floor fire barrier is provided herein. More specifically, a concrete floor slab  68  is positioned in a horizontal orientation and positioned adjacent to a vertical composite building panel  2  of the present invention. To provide a floor to floor fire barrier, a mineral wall board  66  may be provided in one or more locations in association with non interior concrete layer  14  to prevent the heat transfer between two adjacent floors in a building structure. As further depicted in  FIG. 13 , the insulative core cut-out  34  is shown within the insulative core  4 , and further includes a plurality of interior carbon fiber grids  6 , as well as an exterior carbon fiber grid  8  which is embedded in a exterior concrete layer  16 . Furthermore, a plurality of reinforcing bars  24  may be provided as shown to provide additional structural integrity to the building panel  2 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 14 , a cross-sectional front elevation view of a hardwall panel taken at a mid rib section is provided herein, and which generally depicts an insulative core  4  positioned between an exterior concrete layer  16 , an interior concrete layer  14 , and a interior carbon fiber grid  6  and exterior carbon fiber grid  8 . The insulative core cut-out portion  34  further includes one or more reinforcing bars  24  or prestressed cables  22 , and which also includes an interior carbon fiber grid  6  which extends substantially from the exterior concrete layer  16  to the interior concrete layer  14  for strength. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 15 , an alternative embodiment of the present invention is provided herein, and which depicts two composite building panels  2  operably interconnected to a steel structural column  60 . More specifically, a unistrut channel with posts  70  is shown interconnected to an interior surface of each of the composite building panels  2 , and are embedded into the insulative core  4  and into an interior concrete layer  14 . These unistrut channels with parts  70  are further used in combination with a column clip  72  and threaded fasteners  74  to interconnect each of the composite building panels  2  to a steel structural column  60 . By utilizing this type of attachment hardware, steel structural buildings may be quickly assembled utilizing the lightweight composite building panels of the present invention. As further depicted in  FIG. 15 , a foam rope  54  and caulking material  56  may be utilized for sealing and heat transfer purposes between each of the composite building panels  2 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 16 , a cross-sectional front elevation view showing one composite building panel operably positioned below a second composite building panel  2  is provided herein. More specifically, a compressible gasket seal  76  is positioned between the first composite building panel  2  and a second composite building panel positioned vertically on top of the first composite building panel  2 . At the location where the composite building panels  2  are stacked, a insulative core cut-out portion  34  is provided, which includes one or more interior carbon fiber grid  6  which are interconnected to an exterior carbon fiber grid  8 , and which are embedded in concrete along with either prestressed cable  22  or steel  5  reinforcing bars  24 . By utilizing an insulative core  4  and interior and exterior carbon fiber grids,  6  and  8 , respectively, it has been found that the composite building panels  2  of the present invention may be stacked vertically for lengths up to about 40 to 60 feet in an economical and safe manner. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a composite building  10  wall panel  2  used in one embodiment to support a vertical load is provided herein. As shown in this embodiment, both the exterior carbon fiber grids  8  and interior carbon fiber grids  6  are positioned within a exterior concrete layer  16  and into concrete layer  14 , respectively, and which are interconnected with either prestressed cable  22  and another layer of interior carbon fiber grid  6  material. By providing the additional structural integrity with the interior and exterior carbon fiber grids, it has been found that the wall panels may be used to vertically support other panel walls, or can be load bearing to support trusses and other structural frame work. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 18 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a load bearing composite wall building panel  12  with a reinforced “pilaster” portion  78  is provided herein. More specifically, the insulative core cut-out portion  34  comprises a plurality of prestressed cable  22 , or alternatively reinforcing bars  24 , and are used in combination with an interior carbon fiber grid  6  and interior concrete layers  14  to provide a reinforced load bearing panel wall which is capable of compressive structural loads of at least about 3500 psi. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 19 , a cross-sectional of plan view of an alternative composite wall panel  2  is provided herein, and which further identifies a insulative core cut-out  34  which is used in combination with prestressed cable  22 , and interior carbon fiber grid  6  and exterior carbon fiber grid  8 . The carbon fiber grids are further embedded in an exterior concrete layer  16 , an interior concrete layer  14 , and which provide a strong wall panel for numerous construction applications. As further depicted in this drawing, the wall panel  2  has a width of about 6 inches, which includes a 2 inch layer of exterior concrete  16 , a 2 inch layer of interior concrete  14 , and a 4 inch layer of insulation core  4 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 20 , a cross-sectional front elevation view depicting the carbon fiber grid and other internal components taken at section BB of  FIG. 17  is provided herein. More specifically, the interior carbon fiber grid  6  is shown extending substantially between an exterior concrete layer  16  to an interior concrete layer  14 , and further interconnected to a exterior carbon fiber grid  8  and an interior carbon fiber grid  6 . By utilizing these materials in combination with the lightweight insulated core  4 , a lightweight, structurally reinforced wall panel can be constructed and transported in a cost effective manner. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 21 , a cross-sectional top plan view is provided which depicts a multi-unit residential wall panel, and depicting a middle rib cut-out  34  provided herein. 
   More specifically, the insulative cut-out  34  in this embodiment includes a substantially square shaped cut-out portion  34  which includes a interior concrete layer  14 , a interior is carbon fiber grid  6 , and one or more reinforcing bars  24  or pre-stressed cable. Preferably, the width of the insulative core cut-out  34  is about 4 inches, but as appreciated by one skilled in the art may be between about 2 and 10 inches as necessary. Furthermore, a plurality of expansion joint  58  may be provided herein to help maintain the structural integrity of the interior concrete layer  14  and the exterior concrete layer  16 . Furthermore, the residential wall panel shown in  FIG. 21  is designed to be less load bearing than some other embodiments of the present invention, and would generally be utilized for exterior or interior wall applications. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 22 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a residential composite wall panel shown at an rib is provided herein. More specifically, a substantially square end rib is shown adjacent to an end portion of the wall panel  2 , and which includes an interior carbon fiber grid  6 , at least one reinforcing bar  24 , and a small layer of an insulative core material  34  which serves as a thermal break  82  between the interior concrete layer  14  and the exterior concrete layer  16 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 23 , a cross-sectional top plan view of a residential composite building panel as shown at a corner rib is provided herein. More specifically, the interconnection of two composite building panels  2  are shown at a corner section, and which utilizes a foam rope  54  and caulking material for insulative purposes. The end sections utilize a insulative cut-out  34  which includes one or more interior carbon fiber grid  6 , one or more reinforcing bars  24  or prestressed cable  22 , and a thermal/vapor barrier  12 . By utilizing the combination of these materials, additional structural integrity can be achieved at the corner sections between two composite building panels  2 . 
   Referring now to  FIG. 24 , a cross-sectional front elevation view of a residential composite building panel shown at a top rib is provided herein. More specifically, the insulative core cut-out portion  34  includes one or more reinforcing bars  24  and a plurality of interior carbon fiber grids  6  which are interconnected to an exterior carbon fiber grid  8 . As further depicted in  FIG. 24 , a thermal break  82  is provided with a one to two inch layer of insulated core material  4 , and which is positioned between the exterior concrete layer  16  and the interior concrete layer  14 . The notch created from the top of the building panel upper end  36  and the upper portion of the insulative core cut-out  34  may be utilized to support structural beams, floor joists or other structural members comprised of wood, concrete, steel or other well known materials used in residential or commercial construction. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 25 , a cross-sectional front elevation view of a residential composite building panel shown at a bottom rib is provided herein. More specifically, the bottom rib comprises a insulative core cutout  34  which utilizes one or more reinforcing bars  24  or prestressed cables  22 , and which are positioned within an interior concrete layer  14  and extending outwardly toward an exterior face and into an exterior concrete layer  16 . As further shown, the exterior concrete layer  16  further comprises an exterior carbon fiber grid  8 . By utilizing the insulative core cut-out  34  and other structural components described herein, structural integrity and strength is provided to the bottom rib of the residential panel, and which is capable of withstanding the loading requirements necessary in a residential wall panel and capable of compressive strengths of at least about 3500 psi. 
   In many of the embodiment of the present invention, the insulative core  4  is manufactured in a unique process with a plurality of carbon fibers strands  10  positioned in a ribbon/tape pattern  30  which extends through the insulative core  4  and which protrudes beyond both the interior and exterior surfaces to accommodate interconnection to the interior and exterior carbon fiber grids. Alternatively, metallic materials such as wire and mesh comprised of steel or other similar materials may also be used as appreciated by one skilled in the art. 
   A depiction of one embodiment of the carbon fiber strands  10  and their orientation and interconnection may be seen in  FIG. 12 . These carbon fiber strands  10  generally have a thickness of between about 0.05 inches to 0.4 inch, and more preferably a diameter of about 0.15 inches. As more typically referred to in the art, the carbon fiber strands  10  have a given “tow” size. The tow is the number of carbon strands, and may be in the example between about 12,000–48,000 individual strands, i.e., 12K to 48K tow. The intersection points of the carbon fiber strands which are required to make the tape pattern are interconnected with a strong resin such as a thermoset which is applied under a predetermined heat and pressure. In another embodiment, the individual strands of carbon fiber may be “woven” with other strands to create a stronger ribbon/tape material  30 . 
   The carbon fiber strands  10  are interconnected to the interior carbon fiber grid  6  positioned substantially adjacent to the interior surface of the insulative core and with the exterior carbon fiber grid  8  positioned substantially adjacent the exterior surface of the insulative core  4 . One example of a carbon fiber grid ribbon  30  which may be used in the present invention is the “MeC-GRID™” carbon fiber material which is manufactured by Hexcel Clark-Schwebel. The interior and exterior carbon grid tape is comprised generally of looped or crossed weft and warped strands, that run substantially perpendicular to each other and are machine placed on several main tape “stabilizing strands” that run parallel to the running/rolling direction of the tape. The carbon fiber tape is then used in a totally separate process by casting it transversely through the insulating core  4 , to produce an insulated structural core panel that links together compositively the interior concrete layer  14  and exterior concrete layer  16  of the composite wall panel  2 . 
   With regard to the concrete utilized in various embodiments of the present application, the interior wall may be comprised of a low density concrete such as Cret-o-Lite™, which is manufactured by Advanced Materials Company of Hamburg, N.Y. This is an air dried cellular concrete which is nailable, drillable, screwable, sawable and very fire resistant. In a preferred embodiment, the exterior concrete layer  16  is comprised of a dense concrete material to resist moisture penetration and in one embodiment is created using VISCO CRETE™ or equal product which is a chemical that enables the high slumped short pot life liquification of concrete to enable the concrete to be placed in narrow wall cavities with minimum vibration and thus create a high density substantially impermeable concrete layer. VISCO-CRETE™ is manufactured by the Sika Corporation, located in Lyndhurst, N.J. The exterior concrete layer  16  is preferably about ¾ to 2 inches thick, and more preferably about 1.25 inches thick. This concrete layer has a compression strength of approximately 5000 psi after 28 days of curing, and is thus extremely weather resistant. 
   In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a vapor barrier material  12  may be positioned next to or on to the exterior surface of the insulative core  4 , or alternatively on the interior surface of the insulative foam core  4 . The vapor barrier  12  impedes the penetration of moisture and thus protects the foam core from harsh environmental conditions caused by temperature changes. Preferably, the vapor barrier  12  is comprised of a plastic sheet material, or other substantially impermeable materials that may be applied to the insulative core  4  during manufacturing of the foam core, or alternatively applied after manufacturing and prior to the pouring of the exterior concrete layer  16 . 
   Positioned proximate to the carbon fiber sheer strip  30  is one or more reinforcing bar  36 , which are generally “rebar” materials manufactured from carbon steel or other similar metallic materials. Preferably, the reinforcing bar  36  has a diameter of at least about 0.5 inches, and more preferably about 0.75–1.00 inches. As appreciated by one skilled in the art, the reinforcing bars  36  may be any variety of dimensions or lengths depending on the length and width of the building panel  2 , and the strength requirements necessary for any given project. As additionally seen in  FIG. 11 , a third reinforcing bar  36  may additionally be positioned proximate to the wire mesh  38  adjacent the building panel interior surface  14  to provide additional strength and durability. 
   To assist in the understanding of the present invention, the following is a list of the components identified in the drawings and the numbering associated therewith: 
   
     
       
             
             
           
             
             
           
         
             
                 
             
             
               # 
               Component 
             
             
                 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               2 
               Composite building panel 
             
             
               4 
               Insulative core 
             
             
               6 
               Interior carbon fiber grid 
             
             
               8 
               Exterior carbon fiber grid 
             
             
               10 
               Carbon fiber strands 
             
             
               12 
               Thermal/vapor barrier 
             
             
               14 
               Interior concrete layer 
             
             
               16 
               Exterior concrete layer 
             
             
               18 
               Utility conduit 
             
             
               20 
               Exterior cladding 
             
             
               22 
               Pre-stressed cable 
             
             
               24 
               Reinforcing bar 
             
             
               26 
               Wire mesh 
             
             
               28 
               Lifting anchor 
             
             
               30 
               Reinforced window/door frame 
             
             
               32 
               Lifting anchor reinforcing mesh material 
             
             
               34 
               Insulative core cut-out 
             
             
               36 
               Insulative core inner surface 
             
             
               38 
               Insulative core outer surface 
             
             
               40 
               Insulative core upper end 
             
             
               42 
               Insulative core lower end 
             
             
               44 
               Weep tube 
             
             
               46 
               Building panel upper end 
             
             
               48 
               Building panel lower end 
             
             
               50 
               Fabrication form 
             
             
               52 
               Panel thickness 
             
             
               54 
               Foam rope 
             
             
               56 
               Caulking 
             
             
               58 
               Expansion joint 
             
             
               60 
               Steel structural column 
             
             
               62 
               Bearing angle with gussets 
             
             
               64 
               Slotted lateral connector hardware 
             
             
               66 
               Mineral wool board 
             
             
               68 
               Concrete floor slab 
             
             
               70 
               Unistrut channel with posts 
             
             
               72 
               Column clip 
             
             
               74 
               Threaded fastener 
             
             
               76 
               Compressible gasketlseal 
             
             
               78 
               Pilaster 
             
             
               80 
               Interconnection stud 
             
             
               82 
               Thermal Break 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   The foregoing description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. Furthermore, the description is not intended to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein. Consequently, variations and modifications commenced here with the above teachings and the skill or knowledge of the relevant art are within the scope in the present invention. The embodiments described herein above are further extended to explain best modes known for practicing the invention and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in such, or other, embodiments or various modifications required by the particular applications or uses of present invention. It is intended that the dependent claims be construed to include all possible embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.