Patent Publication Number: US-10781584-B2

Title: Post and beam system

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This Application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/943,510, filed Apr. 2, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/480,919, filed Apr. 3, 2017, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Typical construction requires materials such as structural I-beams or wood studs. Problems exist with both materials since wood is susceptible to rot or insects and may not support the required load, while steel I-beams are excessively heavy and only have the single configuration. In addition, neither material has inherent aesthetics qualities without additional cost to cover the material. As such, there remains a demand for a structural material that is structurally sound, provides configuration flexibility, and provides aesthetic qualities. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical items. 
         FIG. 1  depicts an example configuration of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 2  depicts an example configuration of an inline convergence of the multiple components of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 3  depicts an example configuration of a corner convergence of the multiple components of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 4  depicts an example configuration of the post and beam system from above. 
         FIG. 5  depicts an example configuration of the post and beam system from above. 
         FIGS. 6-13  illustrate example views of a formed beam of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 14-21  illustrate example views of a formed corner post of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 22-29  illustrate example views of a corner post base plate of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 30-37  illustrate example views of a corner post support gusset of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 38-45  illustrate example views of a formed corner post top cap of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 46-53  illustrate example views of a formed inline post of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 54-61  illustrate example views of an inline post base plate of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 62-69  illustrate example views of an inline post support gusset of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 70-77  illustrate example views of a formed inline post top cap of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 78-85  illustrate example views of a formed knee brace of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 86-91  illustrate example views of another embodiment of a formed beam of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 92-99  illustrate example views of a first formed member of a formed cross beam assembly of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 100-107  illustrate example views of a second formed member of the formed cross beam assembly of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 108  illustrates example dimensions of an example formed inline post of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 109  illustrates example dimensions of an example formed beam of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 110  illustrates example dimensions of an example formed cross beam of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 111-113  illustrate example stress distributions of embodiments of formed cross beams of the post and beam system. 
         FIGS. 114-116  illustrate example stress distributions of embodiments of formed beams of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 117  illustrates an example axial loading of an embodiment of a formed inline post of the post and beam system. 
         FIG. 118  illustrates an example lateral and axial loading of an embodiment of a formed inline post of the post and beam system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Overview 
     This disclosure describes a beam and post system that may provide a structurally sound building frame assembly. In some examples, the beam and post system may be constructed to create a canopy, an entry structure, an arbor, a sunshade, a pergola, a trellis, or an awning. The disclosure describes that the beam and post system may comprise several uniquely designed elements or components that are attached to one another to create the frame assembly. In some examples, the beam and post system may be able to withstand a load that meets or exceeds the load that typical frames constructed of wood and/or steel I-beams are able to withstand. 
     The components of the beam and post system may also be configured to allow another item to attach to the frame. For instance, the beams and post may include a slot (vertical and/or horizontal) configured to allow a panel (metal, wood, etc.) to securely attach. In other examples, the system may allow for a plant hanger, light hanger, cable lights, speaker hangers, television hanger, shelfing, rack units (e.g., pot/pan packs), a t-bar system, exercise equipment, irrigation systems (e.g., mist system and/or drip systems), plant support systems, doors, sunshade (i.e., metal or cloth), tables, signs, banners, wind stops/breaks, bungee systems, bird feeders, and/or other brackets (hinge bracket, or slide brackets). 
     In some instances, the beam and post system may allow for attachment of roofing (structure and other material). For instance, the system can accommodate a shed, a gable, a flat, a cloth, and an open roof design. 
     In some examples, the post and beam system may include corner posts, inline posts, post top caps (both corner and inline), beams (straight end, single-miter, double-miter), knee bracing to support the attachment of the posts and beams, support gussets (both corner and inline), base plates (both corner and inline). In some examples, each component of the post and beam system may be comprised of at least ¼-inch steel. In other examples, each component of the post and beam system may be comprised of at least ⅜ to about ¾-inch steel. In some examples, each component of the system comprises the same thickness. However, in other examples, the components of the system may comprise varying thicknesses. 
     The beams and posts of the system may be constructed with standard sizing. For instance, the beams and post may be constructed at eight (8) feet, ten (10) feet, and/or twelve (12) feet. However, in other examples, the beams and posts can be constructed from at least two (2) feet to about fourteen (14) feet. 
     In some examples, each component of the system may be coated (e.g. painted, power-coated, etc.) to protect and resist weathering. As such, each component may have any possible color as requested by a user. In some examples, each component may be composed of Corten® or other weathering steel. Weathering steel may allow each component to patina naturally to establish a protective coating over the surface without an additional coating finish (e.g. paint, powder-coat, etc) 
     Example Configuration of the Post and Beam System 
       FIG. 1  depicts an example configuration of sample components of the post and beam system. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the components of the beam and post system are attached to one another to create a pergola structure  100 . 
     In some instances, a corner post base plate  102  may be secured to a substrate (e.g., an existing floor, earth, concrete, footings, etc). In other instances, the corner post base plate  102  may be placed on the substrate without attachment. The corner post base plate  102  may be secured to one of the formed corner posts  104 ( a )-( d ) to create the vertical corners of the structure  100 . In some implementations, the formed corner posts  104 ( a )-( d ) may be eight (8) feet, ten (10) feet, or twelve (12) feet long. As described in this disclosure, the formed corner post may be formed of powder-coated ¼ inch steel (unfinished, finished (e.g., painted or powder-coated) and/or weathered) which has a unique squared-off “a” shape. In some implementations, the formed corner post includes large rectangular openings along the long axis of two sides of the post. The unique squared-off “a” shape and the large openings (as shown in  FIGS. 14 and 21 ) allow for minimal bulk while retaining maximum structural load integrity. The unique shape also provides a unique aesthetic appeal. 
     In some implementations, the large openings of the corner post or any portion thereof (or any other post or beams described herein) may be filled with a decorative pattern. For instance, a decorative pattern, such as the examples shown below, may be formed from or cut directly into the material of corner post. 
     Each formed corner post  104 ( a )-( d ) includes vertical slots (as described further below in  FIG. 15 ). The vertical slots also reduce unneeded bulk or weight of each beam. In addition, the vertical slots allow for the attachment of materials to connect two formed corner posts or connect a formed corner post with a formed inline post. For instance, the vertical slots may allow a user easy access to attach a panel (e.g., a metal decorative panel, a fabric sun and/or wind block, etc) or a rail system using standard hardware, thus connecting two formed posts (corner and/or inline). 
     As shown on structure  100 , an inline post base plate  106  may be located between the substrate and one of the formed inline posts  108 ( a )-( d ). The inline post base plate  106  may have a similar function to the corner post base plate  102 . Similar to the formed corner post  104 ( a )-( d ), each of the formed inline posts  108 ( a )-( d ) includes large rectangular opening and vertical slots. Each of the formed inline posts  108 ( a )-( d ) include a squared-off “c” shape. In some implementations, the squared-off “c” shape and the rectangular openings combined to reduce weight of the post without a significant reduction in structural integrity. For instance, the structure  100  may withstand a snow load at or about 50 pounds per square foot. Additionally, the structure  100  would achieve at least a Seismic Design Category D, which corresponds to buildings and structures in areas expected to experience severe and destructive ground shaking. 
     Structure  100  may include multiple formed beams  110 ( a )-( h ). Each formed beam  110 ( a )-( h ) may be constructed of ¼ steel in any form described above. As shown, each formed beam  110 ( a )-( h ) includes a unique “s” shape when viewed from each end. The “s” shape allows for structural strength and also positions the long slots to be facing the substrate or ground. In some instances, the position of the long slots would allow a user to easily attach hardware and any of the afore-mentioned attachments. 
     The formed steel beams  110 ( a )-( h ) may have one of multiple end configurations. For instance, both ends of formed beam  110 ( a ) are mitered to create the top corner of structure  100 . Formed beam  110 ( c ) has a single mitered end and a straight-cut end. The straight-cut end of formed beam  110 ( c ) allows for a clean transition to formed beam  110 ( d ). Formed beam  110 ( d ) includes a straight-cut end on both side of the beam. 
     In some implementations, the system may include one or more formed horizontal or cross beams  112 ( a )-( b ). As shown on structure  100 , the cross beams  112 ( a )-( b ) may connect multiple formed beams  110 ( a )-( h ) at one of the formed inline posts  108 ( a )-( d ). The cross beams  112 ( a )-( b ) may be constructed in a “t” shape and provide rigidity to the structure  100 . As with other beams and post described in this system, the cross beams  112 ( a )-( b ) may be eight (8) feet, ten (10) feet, or twelve (12) feet long. In other implementations, each cross beam may be from at least two (2) feet to about fourteen (14) feet long. In some implementations, one or more of the cross-beams  112 ( a )-( b ) may be a formed cross beam assembly including two or more formed members. For example, one or more of the cross-beams  112 ( a )-( b ) may be formed of a first formed member attached to a second formed member. For example, the first formed member may be constructed in a first “L” shape and the second formed member may be constructed in a second “L” shape, and when constructed the attached first and second “L” shaped members form a “t” shape providing rigidity to the structure  100 . 
     In some implementations, the structure  100  may also include one or more formed knee brace  114 . Each formed knee brace may be located at a confluence of an inline beam  108 ( a )-( d ) and a formed steel beams  110 ( a )-( h ) to provide additional structural support. In addition, each formed knee brace  114  may also help square the attachment of the inline beam  108 ( a )-( d ) and a formed steel beams  110 ( a )-( h ). 
       FIG. 2  shows an expanded view  200  of the area of the structure  100  where the knee brace  114  is attached to the formed inline post  108  and formed beam  110 .  FIG. 2  also shows the formed cross beams  112  as attached to the formed beam  110 . 
     In addition,  FIG. 2  shows a formed inline post top cap  202 . In some implementations, the inline post top cap  202  may secure two formed beams  110 . In some instances, the formed beams  110  may be any configuration (i.e., straight-end, single-miter, or double-miter). The inline post top cap  202  may also secure the two formed beams  110  to the formed inline post  108 . 
     An inline post support gusset  204  is also shown within the formed inline post  108 . In some instance, inline post support gusset  204  may be welded into the formed inline post  108 . In other instances, the formed inline post  108  may be constructed with groove and/or other support to hold the inline post support gusset  204  in place without hardware. However, in other implementations, the inline post support gusset  204  may be held in place with a clip or other hardware. The inline post support gusset  204  may strengthen the rigidity of the formed inline post  108 . For instance, the inline post support gusset  204  may help the inline post  108  from rotational forces such as torsion. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the attachment of select components of the system may be attached with known hardware (e.g., bolts, washers, and nuts). However, the components may be attached with any known methods, such as rivets, welds, and/or clips. 
       FIG. 2  also illustrates that several components, such as the inline post top cap  202 , include a long groove for placement of the hardware. In some implementations, the long groove may allow for easier assembly of the structure  100 . 
       FIG. 3  shows an expanded inner view  300  of the component of a corner of structure  100 . As shown, the knee braces  114  attached the corner post  104  to the formed beams  110 .  FIG. 3  shows a formed bracket  302  to attach the mitered end of the formed beams  110  to form a corner of structure  100 . 
     In addition,  FIG. 3  shows a formed corner post top cap  304 . The formed corner post top cap  304  may be configured to match the shape of the corner post. In some implementations, the corner post top cap  304  may secure two formed beams  110 . In some instances, the formed beams  110  may be any mitered configuration (i.e., single-miter, or double-miter). The corner post top cap  304  may also secure the two formed beams  110  to the formed corner post  104 . 
     A corner post support gusset  306  is also shown within the formed corner post  104 . In some instance, corner post support gusset  306  may be welded into the formed corner post  104  at predetermined locations. In other instances, the formed corner post  104  may be constructed with groove and/or other support to hold the corner post support gusset  306  in place without hardware. However, in other implementations, the corner post support gusset  306  may be held in place with a clip or other hardware. The corner post support gusset  306  may strengthen the rigidity of the formed corner post  104 . For instance, the corner post support gusset  306  may help the corner post  104  from rotational forces such as torsion. The number of corner post support gussets  306  placed with the corner post  104  may be directly proportional to the length of the corner post  104 . For instance, a longer corner post  104  may have more support gussets than a shorter corner post  104 . As described below, a support gusset (either inline or corner) may be located on the inner portion of a post (either inline or corner) at an area between the large rectangular openings. In this instance, the support gusset may not be completely visible from outside a structure. 
       FIG. 4  shows a top perspective view  400  of a portion of structure  100 .  FIG. 4  illustrates the slots  402 ,  404 ,  406 , and  408  on each of the formed beam  110 , cross beam  112 , formed corner post  104 , and inline post  108 . 
     As described above, the slots provide may benefits to the structure  100 . For instance, they reduce structural weight and bulk without compromising strength of the structure. As show in slot  402 , the slot allows for easy attachment of the components (e.g., a knee brace, and/or post top cap (inline or corner)) of the system. In some instances, the slots  406  on a corner post and slot  408  on an inline post (and/or slot  402  of beam  110 ) allow for attachment of a panel to create a wall, barrier, or enclosure feature of structure  100 . In some instances, slots  402  of the formed beam  110  and/or slot  404  of the cross beam  112  may allow for attachment of any number of system accessories such as those described above. Since the slots  402  and  404  are parallel to the substrate they allow one or more accessories to be easily hung from the structure  100 . In some instances, an accessory may be secured to any combination of the slots of the post and beam described as part of this system. 
       FIG. 5  shows another top perspective view  500  of a portion of structure  100 .  FIG. 5  illustrates the single-miter beam  110 ( c ) and a—straight-cut beam  110 ( d ) of the system. 
     The system may also include a post extender component or vertical post coupler (not shown) to attach to an end of a first post (e.g., corner post or inline post) and an end of a second post. In some instance, the post extender component may provide a solution when the height of a structure requires longer posts. For instance, the post extender component may be used to attach a first eight (8) foot post with a second eight (8) foot post to create a structure that has an overall post length of sixteen (16) feet. 
     In some implementations, a post extender component or a horizontal beam coupler may secure a cross beam to provide structural support of the structure. In addition, the cross beam can be used to attach one or more accessories to the structure as described above. 
     In some implementations, the post extender components may be used where the system or structure has an asymmetrical shape. For instance, one or more post extender component may be applied to a corner post on a first side of the structure when a sloped roof configuration is desired. 
     Example Components of the Post and Beam System 
       FIGS. 6-85  illustrate example views of non-limiting components of the beam and post system. The figures shown select features of each component in broken or dashed lines. The broken lines represent features of each components which may or may not form part of any claimed design. 
     Each component of the system is constructed on a single piece of material (e.g., 1-4-inch steel) which is bent, formed, and/or cut into the particular shape of the component. Therefore, each component does not have any extra locations for stress failure, tearing, shearing, ripping, etc. 
     In some implementations, the system of this disclosure may include all of the components described herein. In some instances, the system may include only a sub-set of components described herein. Further, in other instances, the system may include other components (e.g., the post extender) not shown in this disclosure. 
     In some implementations, the system of this disclosure may withstand at least 5 pounds per square foot (PSF) dead load for an additional structure (e.g., a wood or other material roof structure) on top of the structure. 
       FIGS. 6-13  illustrate example views of a formed beam of the post and beam system. As described above, the formed beam may have a “s” shape to provide strength and rigidity to the beam. Furthermore, in some instances, the beam may have a straight end (as illustrated), a single-mitered end and a straight end, or two mitered ends. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the beam may have multiple large opened areas  600 ( a )-( b ). As shown, the opened areas are a rectangle. However, other shapes are envisioned. For instance, each opened area may be an oval, a triangle, a rectangle with rounded corners, etc. In some embodiments, the dimensions of each opened area may be 42½ inches by 4 inches for an eight (8) foot beam, from about 31¼ inches to about 43¼ inches by 4 inches for a ten (10) foot beam, or from about 43¼ inches to about 45¼ inches by 4 inches for a twelve (12) foot beam. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates the slots  700 ( a )-( b ) which may substantially run the length of the beam. The dimensions of each slot may be 44½ inches by ½ inch for an eight (8) foot beam, from about 33¼ inches to about 43¼ inches by ½ inch for a ten (10) foot beam, or from about 45¼ inches to about 43¼ inches by ½ inch for a twelve (12) foot beam. As described above, the slots  700 ( a )-( b ) may allow for attachment hardware, braces, brackets, system accessories, panels, etc. In some embodiments the slots  700 ( a )-( b ) may be smaller slotted holes each having smaller dimensions than the dimensions described above. 
       FIGS. 14-21  illustrate example views of a formed corner post of the post and beam system. Similar to the beams, the corner post includes several large opened areas  1400 ( a )-( b ). These opened areas may reduce the bulk and weight of the system without sacrificing strength. In some embodiments, the dimensions of each opened area may be 25⅛ inches, 26½ inches, and 26 inches by 4 inches for an eight (8) foot post, 33⅛ inches, 34½ inches, and 34 inches by 4 inches for a ten (10) foot post, or 41⅛ inches, 42½ inches, and 42 inches by 4 inches for a twelve (12) foot post. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates the slots  1500 ( a )-( b ) on the example corner post. As described above, the slots may allow for attachments of hardware, braces, brackets, system accessories, panels, railing, etc. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates a top view of the example corner post. As shown, the corner post has a squared off “A” shape. In some implementations, the shape of the corner post (and inline post) may allow for efficient thru fastener connection. For instance, there may be no need to worry about drilling and tapping holes into tube steel or stripped threads. For instance, there may be no need to worry about drilling holes through wood posts. As described, herein a fastener may be located along the slotted opening in post flanges with ease of access at front and reverse side of flange. In addition, the shapes of the posts reduce weight while maintaining structural ability to support system, as well as provide an aesthetic value to component unique from common steel shapes and wood posts. 
       FIGS. 22-29  illustrate example views of a corner post base plate of the post and beam system. As with other components of the beam and post system, the corner post base plate may be constructed of ⅜ inch steel that has been powder-coated to resist weather. In other implementation, the corner post base plate (or any other component of the beam and post system) may be constructed of materials other than steel. For instance, the components may be constructed of laminated wood products, composite laminates (e.g. carbon fiber), plastic, or other metals. 
       FIGS. 30-37  illustrate example views of a corner post support gusset of the post and beam system. As described above, the corner post support gusset may be located on an inner portion of each corner post between the location of the large opened areas. Each corner post support gusset may have a shape corresponding to the inner portion of the corner post. 
       FIGS. 38-45  illustrate example views of a formed corner post top cap of the post and beam system. As shown, the corner post top cap includes four openings on the top surface. These openings may allow for the hardware to be placed thought the top cap to secure the beams to the top cap. 
     In some instances, the corner top cap includes two flanges that extend perpendicular to the top surface. Each flange may include a groove to allow hardware (e.g., a mechanical fastener) to secure the top cap, corner post, beam, and knee brace together. 
       FIGS. 46-53  illustrate example views of a formed inline post of the post and beam system. Similar to the beams and corner posts described above, the inline post includes the large opened areas. These opened areas may reduce the bulk and weight of the system without sacrificing strength. In some embodiments, the dimensions of each opened areas may be 25⅛ inches, 26½ inches, and 26 inches by 4 inches for an eight (8) foot post, 25⅛ inches, 26½ inches, and 26 inches by 4 inches for a ten (10) foot post, or 41⅛ inches, 42½ inches, and 42 inches by 4 inches for a twelve (12) foot post. 
       FIGS. 54-61  illustrate example views of an inline post base plate of the post and beam system. As shown, the base plate may have multiple openings to allow for hardware to secure the base plate and inline post to a substrate. 
       FIGS. 62-69  illustrate example views of an inline post support gusset of the post and beam system. As described above, the inline post support gusset may be located on an inner portion of each inline post between the location of the large opened areas. Each inline post support gusset may have a shape corresponding to the inner portion of the inline post. 
       FIGS. 70-77  illustrate example views of a formed inline post top cap of the post and beam system. As shown, the inline post top cap includes four openings on the top surface. These openings may allow for the hardware to be placed through the inline top cap to secure the straight end of the formed beams to the top cap. 
     In some instances, the inline top cap includes two flanges that extend perpendicular to the top surface. Each flange may include a groove to allow hardware to secure the top cap, inline post, and one or more knee braces together. 
       FIGS. 78-85  illustrate example views of a formed knee brace of the post and beam system. The knee brace includes a triangular opening. However, in other implementations, the opening may include a different shape. In other implementations, the opening on the knee brace may include a decorative pattern as described above. 
       FIGS. 86-91  illustrate example views of another embodiment of a formed beam of the post and beam system. As described above, the formed beam may have a “s” shape to provide strength and rigidity to the beam. Furthermore, in some instances, the beam may have a straight end (as illustrated), a single-mitered end and a straight end, or two mitered ends. 
     As shown in  FIG. 86 , the beam may have multiple large opened areas  8600 ( a )-( f ). As shown, the opened areas are a rectangle. However, other shapes are envisioned. For instance, each opened area may be an oval, a triangle, a rectangle with rounded corners, etc. In some embodiments, the dimensions of each opened area may vary in length. For example, the dimensions of each opened area may range from a shortest length at the ends of the beam to a longest length at the middle of the beam. 
       FIG. 87  illustrates the slots  8700 ( a )-( f ) which may substantially run the length of the beam in a first flange, and the slots  8700 ( g )-( l ) which may substantially run the length of the beam in a second flange. Similar to the open areas  8600 ( a )- 8600 ( f ), the dimensions of each slot may vary in length. For example, the dimensions of each slot may range from a shortest length at the ends of the beam to a longest length at the middle of the beam. As described above, the slots  8600 ( a )-( l ) may allow for attachment hardware, braces, brackets, system accessories, panels, etc. 
       FIGS. 92-99  illustrate example views of a first formed member of a formed cross beam assembly of the post and beam system. As illustrated, the first formed member may have a “L” shape to provide strength and rigidity to the beam. Furthermore, in some instances, the beam may have a straight end (as illustrated), a single-mitered end and a straight end, or two mitered ends. 
     As shown in  FIG. 92 , the beam may have multiple large opened areas  9200 ( a )-( f ). As shown, the opened areas are a rectangle. However, other shapes are envisioned. For instance, each opened area may be an oval, a triangle, a rectangle with rounded corners, etc. In some embodiments, the dimensions of each opened area may vary in length. For example, the dimensions of each opened area may range from a shortest length at the ends of the beam to a longest length at the middle of the beam. 
       FIG. 96  illustrates the slots  9600 ( a )-( f ) which may substantially run the length of the beam. Similar to the open areas  8600 ( a )- 8600 ( f ), the dimensions of each slot may vary in length. For example, the dimensions of each slot may range from a shortest length at the ends of the beam to a longest length at the middle of the beam. As described above, the slots  9600 ( a )-( f ) may allow for attachment hardware, braces, brackets, system accessories, panels, etc. 
       FIGS. 100-107  illustrate example views of a second formed member of the formed cross beam assembly of the post and beam system. As illustrated, the second formed member may have a “L” shape to provide strength and rigidity to the member. Furthermore, in some instances, the member may have a straight end (as illustrated), a single-mitered end and a straight end, or two mitered ends. When the first formed member is attached to the second formed member, the assembled first and second formed members construct the formed cross beam assembly having a “t” shape providing rigidity to the structure  100 . 
       FIG. 100  illustrates the slots  10000 ( a )-( e ) which may substantially run the length of the member. As described above, the slots  10000 ( a )-( e ) may allow for attachment hardware, braces, brackets, system accessories, panels, etc. 
       FIG. 104  illustrates the slots  10400 ( a )-( f ) which may substantially run the length of the member. As shown, the dimensions of each slot may range from a shortest length at the ends of the beam to a longest length at the middle of the beam. As described above, the slots  10400 ( a )-( f ) may allow for attachment hardware, braces, brackets, system accessories, panels, etc. 
       FIG. 108  illustrates example dimensions of embodiments of formed inline posts of the post and beam system. As shown, the formed inline posts may have a length ranging from about 8 feet to about 12 feet. However, in other examples, the posts can be constructed from at least two (2) feet to about fourteen (14) feet. 
       FIG. 109  illustrates example dimensions of embodiments of formed beams of the post and beam system. As shown, the formed beams may have a length ranging from about 8 feet to about 12 feet. However, in other examples, the beams can be constructed from at least two (2) feet to about fourteen (14) feet. 
       FIG. 110  illustrates example dimensions of embodiments of formed horizontal or cross beams of the post and beam system. As shown, the formed cross beams may have a length ranging from about 8 feet to about 12 feet. However, in other examples, the beams can be constructed from at least two (2) feet to about fourteen (14) feet. 
       FIGS. 111-113  illustrate example stress distributions of embodiments of formed cross beams of the post and beam system.  FIG. 111  illustrates a force “A” of about 5504 lbf applied on a formed cross beam having a length of about 8 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed cross beam ranges from about 18 to about 32000. 
       FIG. 112  illustrates a force “A” of about 8600 lbf applied on a formed cross beam having a length of about 10 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed cross beam ranges from about 4 to about 32000. 
       FIG. 113  illustrates a force “A” of about 12384 lbf applied on a formed cross beam having a length of about 12 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed cross beam ranges from about 8 to about 32000. 
       FIG. 114  illustrate example stress distributions of embodiments of formed beams of the post and beam system.  FIG. 114  illustrates a force “A” of about 2752 lbf applied on a formed beam having a length of about 8 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed beam ranges from about 16 to about 25000. 
       FIG. 115  illustrates a force “A” of about 4300 lbf applied on a formed beam having a length of about 10 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed beam ranges from about 51 to about 31000. 
       FIG. 116  illustrates a force “A” of about 6192 lbf applied on a formed beam having a length of about 12 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed beam ranges from about 27 to about 22000. 
       FIG. 117  illustrates an example axial loading of an embodiment of a formed inline post of the post and beam system.  FIG. 117  illustrates a force “A” of about 6192 lbf applied on a formed inline post having a vertical height of about 10 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed inline post ranges from about 42 to 3900. 
       FIG. 118  illustrates an example lateral and axial loading of an embodiment of a formed inline post of the post and beam system.  FIG. 118  illustrates a force “E” of about 500 lbf and a force “F” of about 500 lbf applied on a formed inline post having a vertical height of about 10 feet. As shown, the max stress distribution on the formed inline post ranges from about 43 to 6600. 
     CONCLUSION 
     Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the claims. For example, the methodological acts need not be performed in the order or combinations described herein, and may be performed in any combination of one or more acts.